2.5 Ton 13 SEER 96% AFUE 30,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furnace and Air Conditioner System - Upflow Review 2026

// Bottom Line

This 2.5 ton system is ideal for contractors and homeowners upgrading small to mid-sized homes in moderate climates who prioritize energy savings and straightforward installation. The 96% AFUE furnace paired with 13 SEER cooling makes it a solid performer for homes where efficiency matters but budget constraints exist.

Review

The ACiQ 2.5 ton gas furnace and air conditioning system, branded as Goodman equipment, sits squarely in the mainstream efficiency segment. Rated at 96% AFUE for heating and 13 SEER for cooling, this upflow A-coil configuration targets homeowners and contractors balancing performance with realistic budget constraints. The system qualifies as Energy Star certified, which opens doors to utility rebates in many regions. At 30,000 BTU for both heating and cooling, it suits homes in the 1,500 to 2,500 square foot range in moderate climates.

The furnace delivers solid heating efficiency at 96% AFUE with dual-stage burners for modulated output, reducing energy waste during milder weather. Cooling performance hits 13 SEER using R454B refrigerant with a single-stage reciprocating compressor. The ECM multi-speed blower motor runs at maximum 1,200 CFM, responding dynamically to thermostat demand. Electrical requirements are minimal, requiring only 115V single-phase 60Hz power with a 16.7 to 25 amp breaker. The 73 dB noise level during operation is moderate for this tonnage.

Pros & Cons

Pros

96% AFUE gas furnace efficiency reduces heating costs significantly compared to 80-90% units
13 SEER cooling rating earns Energy Star certification and qualifies for utility rebates in most regions
ECM multi-speed blower motor adapts airflow for comfort and efficiency across heating and cooling cycles
Lifetime heat exchanger warranty provides long-term protection against major component failure
R454B refrigerant with sweat valve connections simplifies installation for experienced technicians
PVC flue compatibility reduces venting installation costs compared to metal alternatives

Cons

Single-stage compressor lacks modulation for advanced humidity control in humid climates
73 dB noise level runs moderately loud during peak operation, noticeable in quiet spaces
13 SEER is solid but not premium, SEER2 equivalent likely 10-11, behind high-efficiency units targeting 14+ SEER1

Who Should Buy

Best For

Homeowners in temperate regions with homes under 3,000 sq ft who want reliable comfort without premium pricing. Contractors seeking dependable mid-range equipment for residential replacements where rebate qualification and efficient operation justify the investment.

Consider Alternatives If

Buyers in extremely hot or humid climates requiring two-stage or variable-capacity compressors for superior dehumidification and modulation should explore higher-efficiency alternatives.

2.5 Ton 13 SEER 96% AFUE 30,000 BTU Goodman Gas Fu

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Installation

Installation complexity is straightforward for licensed HVAC technicians. The upflow configuration with right-side flue location fits standard closet or utility room layouts. Suction line insulation comes pre-installed at 3/4 inch thickness. Sweat valve connections on 3/8 inch liquid and 3/4 inch suction lines require basic soldering skills. PVC flue venting eliminates expensive metal ductwork. Total unit weight of 120 pounds allows single-technician handling during positioning.

Warranty & Reliability

Coverage includes lifetime protection on the heat exchanger, 10 years full unit replacement, and 10 years parts coverage with online registration. Lifetime heat exchanger coverage is substantial protection against the costliest potential failure. The 10-year windows align with industry standards for mid-range equipment, providing meaningful peace of mind beyond the initial 5-year premium period.

Specifications

SKU	ACIQ-30-EHPD-UPG
Brand/Manufacturer	ACiQ
Cooling BTU	30,000
Heating BTU	30,000
Refrigerant	R454B
Electrical	115 V. 1 Phase 60 Hz
Warranty	Lifetime Heat Exchanger, 10 Years Unit Replacement, and 10 Years Parts with Online Registration
Decibel Level (dBA)	73
Weight (in lbs)	120.000000
Feature	Spec
Energy Star	Yes
SEER1 (Efficiency)	13
Condenser Stages	Single Stage
Compressor Type	Reciprocating
Liquid Line	3/8"
Suction Line	3/4"
Liquid Valve Size	3/8"
Max Breaker Size	25 amps
Min. Breaker Size	16.7 amps
Tonnage	2.5 Ton
Valve Type	Sweat
Height	34.5"
Width	14"
Depth	28.75"
Resources	GMEC96 Installation Manual GMEC96 Specifications Sheet GMEC96 Owner's Manual GMEC96 Service Manual GMEC96 Replacement Parts Manual GMEC96 Brochure Goodman Furnace Warranty You will need Adobe® Acrobat® Reader to view PDF documents.
Safety Information	PROPOSITION 65 WARNING This product and many products on our site may contain a chemical know to the state of California to cause cancer or birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information about Proposition 65 please Click Here.
Configuration	Upflow/Horizontal
Style	A-Coil
Airflow Direction	Upflow/Horizontal
Exhaust Flue Requirement	Plastic / PVC
Furnace Efficiency / AFUE	96%
Blower Motor	Multi-Speed - ECM
Maximum CFM	1200
Flue Location	Right
Burner Stages	Two
Fuel Type	Gas
Suction Line Insulation Thickness	3/4"
Length	50 feet

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this system Energy Star certified and does it qualify for rebates? +

Yes, the 13 SEER cooling and 96% AFUE furnace certification makes it Energy Star qualified. Most utility companies offer $150 to $500 rebates for systems meeting these efficiency thresholds. Check your local provider to confirm eligibility before purchase.

What are the refrigerant and electrical requirements for installation? +

The system uses R454B refrigerant with 3/8 inch liquid and 3/4 inch suction lines requiring sweat connections. It needs only 115V single-phase 60Hz power with 16.7 to 25 amp breaker capacity, making it compatible with standard residential electrical panels without upgrades.

How does 13 SEER compare to newer systems, and what's the SEER2 equivalent? +

13 SEER is solid mid-range efficiency. The newer SEER2 rating standard typically yields 20-30% lower scores, so 13 SEER roughly equals 10-11 SEER2. High-efficiency systems target 14+ SEER1, which would translate to 11+ SEER2, making them noticeably more expensive.

Is this system suitable for humid climates or hot regions? +

The single-stage compressor limits dehumidification capability, making it adequate for moderate climates but not ideal for consistently humid regions like the Southeast. Two-stage or variable-capacity units perform better in high-humidity applications where moisture control matters.

Does the warranty cover parts and labor, or only equipment? +

The warranty covers equipment and parts only, not labor costs. Online registration activates the 10-year parts and unit coverage. Labor costs for repairs or replacement fall on the homeowner or their service provider.

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