Review
The Goodman 2.5 ton dual-fuel system represents accessible efficiency for contractors and homeowners unwilling to stretch into premium brands. At $3,309, it positions itself between budget box-store equipment and high-end inverter-drive systems. The upflow A-coil configuration suits attics and utility closets in existing homes, while ACiQ's engineering focus on reliability makes this a trusted specification among HVAC professionals who value straightforward serviceability over cutting-edge technology.
Performance data shows practical strengths in moderate climates. The furnace achieves 96% AFUE via condensing technology, meaning 96 cents of every heating dollar converts to usable warmth, significantly lower than 78-80% units still operating in many older homes. The air conditioning side delivers 13 SEER1 efficiency, translating roughly to $0.12 per thousand cooling BTU in many regions. Two-stage heating and variable-speed blower operation reduce on-off cycling, stabilizing indoor temperatures and improving humidity management during shoulder seasons.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 96% AFUE furnace efficiency exceeds most mid-market competitors and reduces heating costs measurably
- 13 SEER rating qualifies as Energy Star certified, meeting modern efficiency standards
- Variable-speed ECM blower motor improves comfort and reduces electricity draw during partial-load operation
- Two-stage burner allows the furnace to run at reduced capacity during mild weather, conserving fuel
- 10-year warranty with online registration provides solid coverage at this price point
- PVC exhaust compatibility simplifies installation in retrofit applications
Cons
- Single-stage air conditioning compressor cannot modulate capacity, reducing cooling efficiency on partial-load days
- 3 ton cooling capacity paired with 80,000 BTU heating creates potential mismatch for homes with extreme heating or cooling demands
- 73 dB noise level during operation is audible, though typical for reciprocating compressors at this tier
- R454B refrigerant requires certified technicians and complicates future service compared to R410A systems
Who Should Buy
Best For
Homeowners in transitional climates (Northern Midwest, Mid-Atlantic, upstate Northeast) who heat and cool roughly equally benefit most from this dual-fuel approach. Contractors upgrading homes under 2,500 square feet where budget constraints favor paying $3,309 over $5,000-plus premium units will find reliable performance here.
Consider Alternatives If
Buyers in hot climates prioritizing cooling efficiency alone should choose single-stage air conditioning only. Those in extreme cold climates needing 100,000+ BTU heating or those seeking variable-capacity compressors for maximum seasonal efficiency should budget for premium equipment.
Installation
Installation demands standard skill for equipped technicians. The reciprocating compressor and sweat-connection valve type require proper brazing and evacuation procedures. Electrical needs are modest at 115V single-phase 60 Hz with 16.7 to 25 amp breaker sizing. PVC exhaust compatibility eliminates expensive flue modifications in retrofit applications. Overall, this system installs faster than premium inverter units, typically completing within 4-6 hours for experienced crews.
Warranty & Reliability
The 10-year parts warranty with online registration provides legitimate coverage for component failures including compressor, heat exchanger, and blower motor. Registration is straightforward and required to activate coverage. This warranty period exceeds budget brands but trails some premium manufacturers offering 12-15 year terms. Actual claims experience remains solid given Goodman's established service network and parts availability.
Specifications
| SKU | ACIQ-30-EHPD-UPG |
| Brand/Manufacturer | ACiQ |
| Cooling BTU | 30,000 |
| Heating BTU | 80,000 |
| Refrigerant | R454B |
| Electrical | 115 V. 1 Phase 60 Hz |
| Warranty | 10 Years 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 | 3 Ton |
| Valve Type | Sweat |
| Height | 34.5" |
| Width | 17.5" |
| Depth | 28.75" |
| Resources | Goodman Brochure Goodman Install Instructions Goodman Parts Manual Goodman Service Manual Goodman Specifications Goodman Technical Information Goodman User Information Goodman 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 |
| AHRI Certificate Number | 7368834 |
| Airflow Direction | Upflow/Horizontal |
| Exhaust Flue Requirement | Plastic / PVC |
| Product Features | Rebate Available |
| Furnace Efficiency / AFUE | 96% |
| Blower Motor | Variable Speed - ECM |
| Maximum CFM | 1200 |
| Burner Stages | Two |
| Fuel Type | Propane, Natural Gas |
| Suction Line Insulation Thickness | 3/4" |
| Length | 50 feet |
Frequently Asked Questions
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