2.5 Ton 13 SEER Goodman Air Conditioner with Vertical 21" Cased Coil Review 2026

// Bottom Line

This ACiQ unit is ideal for homeowners and contractors seeking a cost-effective cooling solution without sacrificing performance. At $448, it delivers 30,000 BTU capacity with 13 SEER efficiency and uses the environmentally responsible R454B refrigerant, making it a smart choice for mid-range residential replacements.

Review

The ACiQ ACIQ-30-EHPD-UPG is a straightforward, no-frills 2.5-ton air conditioning condenser aimed at contractors and homeowners needing reliable cooling without premium pricing. Positioned in the mid-market segment, this unit competes against other entry-level residential AC systems while incorporating modern refrigerant standards. At $448, it represents solid value for replacement jobs in established homes where existing ductwork supports vertical coil mounting.

Performance specs are transparent and adequate for typical residential cooling loads. The unit delivers 30,000 BTU cooling capacity with a 13 SEER rating, placing it above minimum federal standards but below premium efficiency tiers. It operates on 208/230V single-phase power, requiring circuit breakers between 16.7 and 25 amps, typical for most residential electrical panels. The reciprocating compressor runs single-stage, meaning it cycles on and off rather than modulating capacity, a standard approach at this price point.

Pros & Cons

Pros

Excellent price-to-performance ratio at $448 for a 2.5-ton, 13 SEER unit
Uses R454B refrigerant, a low-GWP alternative that future-proofs against refrigerant phase-downs
Vertical 21-inch cased coil fits upflow and downflow configurations for flexible installation
10-year warranty with online registration covers manufacturing defects comprehensively
208/230V single-phase compatibility covers most residential electrical panels without upgrades

Cons

Single-stage compressor limits part-load efficiency compared to two-stage or variable-capacity models
73 dB noise level is moderately loud for window-unit sensitive applications
Not ENERGY STAR certified, so it misses the highest efficiency tier despite solid 13 SEER rating

Who Should Buy

Best For

Contractors and homeowners replacing aging AC systems on a moderate budget. This unit works well for homes in moderate climates where 13 SEER efficiency balances cooling needs with affordability, especially in upflow or downflow configurations with existing ductwork.

Consider Alternatives If

Buyers seeking premium efficiency (15+ SEER), quieter operation, or ENERGY STAR certification should explore variable-capacity alternatives despite higher upfront costs.

2.5 Ton 13 SEER Goodman Air Conditioner with Verti

$448

Buy at HVACDirect →

Installation

Installation flexibility is a strength here. The vertical 21-inch cased A-coil accommodates both upflow and downflow configurations, simplifying retrofit work. Standard 3/8-inch and 3/4-inch line sets connect via sweat valves. Pre-insulated suction line (3/4-inch thickness) reduces field insulation work. Most contractors will complete installation in 4 to 6 hours, assuming existing ductwork and electrical are code-compliant.

Warranty & Reliability

ACiQ backs this unit with a 10-year full parts warranty when you register online, a solid middle-ground coverage period. This covers manufacturing defects in the compressor, coil, and electrical components. Warranty claims typically require proof of professional installation and maintenance records. Online registration is straightforward and adds no cost or complexity.

Specifications

SKU	ACIQ-30-EHPD-UPG
Brand/Manufacturer	ACiQ
Cooling BTU	30,000
Refrigerant	R454B
Electrical	208 / 230 V. 1 Phase 60 Hz
Warranty	10 Years with Online Registration
Decibel Level (dBA)	73
Weight (in lbs)	120.000000
Feature	Spec
Energy Star	No
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	22"
Width	21"
Depth	21"
Resources	CAPF Installation Manual CAPF Specifications Sheet Goodman Evaporator Coil 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 / Downflow
Style	A-Coil
Suction Line Insulation Thickness	3/4"
Length	50 feet

Frequently Asked Questions

What is R454B and why does this unit use it? +

R454B is a low-global-warming-potential (GWP) refrigerant replacing R410A across the industry. It reduces environmental impact while maintaining performance equivalent to R410A. Using R454B ensures this unit remains compliant with tightening EPA regulations and protects your investment against future refrigerant restrictions affecting older systems.

Will this condenser work with my existing 20-year-old evaporator coil? +

Compatibility depends on your coil's line sizes and refrigerant charge. This unit has 3/8-inch and 3/4-inch connections, standard for residential systems. However, mixing R454B with older R410A systems is not recommended. A professional HVAC technician must evaluate your coil and refrigerant type before pairing with this condenser.

How does 13 SEER compare to other units in this price range? +

13 SEER meets 2023 federal minimums for most regions and represents entry-level efficiency. Budget units often score 13 to 14 SEER. Mid-tier alternatives reach 15 to 16 SEER but cost 50% to 100% more. This unit balances affordability with reasonable efficiency for moderate climates with average cooling demands.

Is single-stage compressor operation a limitation? +

Single-stage compressors run at full output or off, consuming more energy during partial-load conditions than two-stage or variable models. For homeowners in mild to moderate climates with good insulation, the difference in utility bills is modest, roughly 10% to 15% higher than two-stage alternatives in similar configurations.

Do I need professional installation or can a contractor install this themselves? +

Professional EPA-certified installation is required by law for refrigerant-handling systems. Unlicensed installation voids warranty and violates Clean Air Act regulations. Budget $500 to $1,500 for labor, varying by region and existing ductwork complexity.

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