Independent Review · Updated June 2026

2.5 Ton 13 SEER 96% AFUE 60,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furnace and Air Conditioner System - Upflow

Budget-friendly 2.5 ton system with solid 96% AFUE and modern refrigerant

8.2
IndustrialRank Score
Efficiency
8.5
Reliability
7.8
Value
8.0
Installation
8.5
Warranty
8.0
2.5 Ton 13 SEER 96% AFUE 60,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furnace and Air Conditioner System - Upflow
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// Bottom Line
This ACiQ system is ideal for homeowners upgrading from older equipment who want proven Goodman/Daikin reliability without premium pricing. The 96% AFUE furnace and 13 SEER cooling make it a solid all-around performer for moderate climates, especially in homes where upflow installation is feasible.

Review

The ACiQ 2.5 ton upflow system combines Goodman's proven manufacturing heritage with sensible efficiency standards for mid-market HVAC replacement jobs. At 2.5 tons, 60,000 BTU heating, and 30,000 BTU cooling capacity, it's sized for typical 1,200-1,600 square foot homes. This is genuinely honest equipment, not stripped-down, and it carries full Goodman backing without the brand premium you'd pay elsewhere.

The furnace delivers 96% AFUE with a two-stage burner and ECM motor that actually responds to demand rather than cycling on and off. Cooling lands at 13 SEER1 with R454B refrigerant, a modern choice that avoids upcoming refrigerant restrictions. At 1,200 CFM maximum airflow with a multi-speed blower, the system modulates output reasonably well, though the single-stage condenser compressor limits cooling part-load efficiency compared to variable-speed models.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • 96% AFUE furnace efficiency delivers measurable heating cost savings, particularly in colder regions
  • Two-stage burner and ECM multi-speed blower reduce short-cycling and improve comfort consistency
  • 13 SEER cooling with R454B refrigerant meets current EPA standards without future phase-out risk
  • PVC exhaust flue compatibility simplifies venting in tight installations or retrofit scenarios
  • 10-year warranty with online registration provides solid long-term protection at this price point

Cons

  • 13 SEER1 efficiency trails higher-end units like 16-18 SEER systems by 20-30% in cooling performance
  • Single-stage compressor limits modulation, so it runs at full capacity rather than ramping output smoothly
  • 73 dB noise level is moderately loud, comparable to standard units but noisier than variable-speed models

Who Should Buy

Best For

Homeowners replacing 15-20 year old equipment who prioritize upfront savings and proven durability over premium efficiency. This system fits well in moderate climates where the furnace runs 4-6 months annually, making the 96% AFUE investment pay back faster.

Consider Alternatives If

Buyers in extreme climates, homes requiring maximum comfort modulation, or those who plan to stay 15+ years and can leverage premium efficiency rebates should explore 16+ SEER and variable-capacity alternatives.

2.5 Ton 13 SEER 96% AFUE 60,000 BTU Goodman Gas Fu
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Installation

Installation is straightforward for certified contractors. The 22-inch height, 17.5-inch width, and 21-inch depth fit standard utility closets and basement locations. PVC flue compatibility eliminates costly metal ductwork, and the right-side flue location provides flexibility in placement. Electrical requirements are 208/230 V single-phase 60 Hz with 16.7-25 amp breaker sizing, standard residential service.

Warranty & Reliability

The 10-year parts warranty activates with online registration and covers compressor, heat exchanger, and component failures. This is competitive at the price point, though it lacks the extended labor coverage some higher-tier units offer. Registration is non-negotiable to receive the full term, so document it immediately after installation.

Specifications

SKUACIQ-30-EHPD-UPG
Brand/ManufacturerACiQ
Cooling BTU30,000
Heating BTU60,000
RefrigerantR454B
Electrical208 / 230 V. 1 Phase 60 Hz
Warranty10 Years with Online Registration
Decibel Level (dBA)73
Weight (in lbs)120.000000
FeatureSpec
Airflow DirectionUpflow/Horizontal
Exhaust Flue RequirementPlastic / PVC
Furnace Efficiency / AFUE96%
Blower MotorMulti-Speed - ECM
Maximum CFM1200
ConfigurationUpflow / Downflow
Flue LocationRight
Energy StarNo
Burner StagesTwo
Fuel TypeGas
Height22"
Width17.5"
Depth21"
ResourcesCAPF Installation Manual CAPF Specifications Sheet Goodman Evaporator Coil Warranty You will need Adobe® Acrobat® Reader to view PDF documents.
Safety InformationPROPOSITION 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.
SEER1 (Efficiency)13
Condenser StagesSingle Stage
Compressor TypeReciprocating
Liquid Line3/8"
Suction Line3/4"
Liquid Valve Size3/8"
Max Breaker Size25 amps
Min. Breaker Size16.7 amps
Tonnage2.5 Ton
Valve TypeSweat
StyleA-Coil
Suction Line Insulation Thickness3/4"
Length50 feet

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 13 SEER enough cooling efficiency for my area? +
13 SEER1 is adequate for moderate climates where peak summer temperatures stay below 95°F regularly. In hot, humid regions, upgrading to 16-18 SEER cuts cooling costs 20-30% over 15 years. This unit shines in northern and central U.S. climates where furnace efficiency matters more than cooling.
Can I install this in a downflow or horizontal configuration? +
Yes, the unit supports downflow configuration despite being marketed as upflow. However, verify your home's existing ductwork orientation with the installer first. The flue location and condensate drain positioning may need adapter modifications for non-upflow installations.
How much will this reduce my heating bills compared to an 80% AFUE furnace? +
The 16-point AFUE gain (96% versus 80%) translates to roughly 15-18% annual heating savings. In climate zone 5 (midwest), expect $200-400 annual savings on gas costs. Payback typically occurs within 8-12 years, factoring in equipment cost differences.
How does this compare to Carrier or Lennox at similar price points? +
ACiQ and Goodman deliver comparable efficiency and reliability to Carrier Performance and Lennox XC equipment at 15-25% lower cost. You sacrifice integrated smart controls and premium warranty length, but core heating and cooling performance is equivalent for most residential applications.
What happens if I don't register for the warranty? +
Without online registration, you forfeit the full 10-year coverage period. Goodman typically defaults to a shorter limited warranty instead. Register immediately after installation with the installer's help to ensure full protection.

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