Independent Review · Updated June 2026

2.5 Ton 13 SEER 96% AFUE 40,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furnace and Air Conditioner System - Horizontal

High-efficiency 2.5-ton system combining 96% AFUE furnace with 13 SEER cooling

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 40,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furnace and Air Conditioner System - Horizontal
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// Bottom Line
This horizontal 2.5-ton combo system is ideal for homeowners in moderate climates seeking dependable heating and cooling without premium pricing. The 96% AFUE furnace and 13 SEER air conditioner balance operational costs with straightforward installation, making it particularly well-suited for retrofit projects in basements or tight crawl spaces.

Review

The ACiQ 2.5-ton horizontal system bundles a 40,000 BTU Goodman gas furnace with a matching 30,000 BTU air conditioning condenser into one competent package. Horizontal configuration makes this unit particularly useful in basements, crawl spaces, and tight attics where traditional upflow furnaces cannot fit. The A-coil style integrates cleanly into existing ductwork, and the system carries AHRI certification number 7368841, confirming matched performance ratings.

This system delivers strong efficiency across both heating and cooling. The furnace achieves 96% AFUE, converting nearly all fuel into usable heat, while the condenser reaches 13 SEER1 with R454B refrigerant. The variable-speed ECM blower motor adjusts to actual heating and cooling demand, avoiding the inefficient on-off cycling of basic models. Electrical requirements are modest at 115 volts, 1 phase, 60 Hz with breaker sizing between 16.7 and 25 amps, simplifying installation in most homes.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • 96% AFUE furnace efficiency ranks among the best gas furnaces available, translating to lower heating bills
  • Variable-speed ECM blower motor provides more consistent comfort and quieter operation than fixed-speed alternatives
  • 13 SEER cooling efficiency qualifies for ENERGY STAR, reducing summer cooling costs
  • Horizontal configuration with A-coil design fits tight spaces where traditional upflow units won't fit
  • 10-year warranty with online registration offers solid long-term protection at this price point

Cons

  • Single-stage compressor lacks the efficiency gains of two-stage or modulating designs in milder weather
  • 73 dB noise level is moderate, slightly louder than premium variable-capacity units during operation
  • Two-stage burner does not match the efficiency potential of modulating furnaces in partial-load scenarios

Who Should Buy

Best For

Homeowners replacing aging equipment in moderate climate zones who need a system fitting horizontal installation constraints, such as basement, attic, or utility closet applications. Budget-conscious buyers wanting solid efficiency without stepping up to premium modulating models will find strong value here.

Consider Alternatives If

Those in extreme cold climates should consider higher AFUE models, and anyone needing ultra-quiet operation should audition variable-capacity competitors before committing.

2.5 Ton 13 SEER 96% AFUE 40,000 BTU Goodman Gas Fu
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Installation

Installation demands moderate skill and access. The system uses sweat-type valve connections with 3/8 inch liquid and 3/4 inch suction lines, standard refrigerant sizing for 2.5-ton units. Horizontal orientation requires careful ductwork planning to ensure proper airflow and drainage. PVC or plastic exhaust flue is required for the furnace. The 50-foot suction line with 3/4 inch insulation accommodates typical indoor-outdoor spacing without performance loss.

Warranty & Reliability

Goodman backs this system with a 10-year warranty when you register online after installation. This coverage protects against manufacturing defects in compressor, coil, and heat exchanger components. Registration takes 10 minutes and ensures you capture the full warranty term. Coverage is strong for the price range but shorter than some premium competitors offering 15-year terms.

Specifications

SKUACIQ-30-EHPD-UPG
Brand/ManufacturerACiQ
Cooling BTU30,000
Heating BTU40,000
RefrigerantR454B
Electrical115 V. 1 Phase 60 Hz
Warranty10 Years with Online Registration
Decibel Level (dBA)73
Weight (in lbs)120.000000
FeatureSpec
Energy StarYes
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
Height17.5"
Width21.125"
Depth26"
ResourcesCHPF Installation Manual CHPF 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.
AHRI Certificate Number7368841
Airflow DirectionUpflow/Horizontal
Exhaust Flue RequirementPlastic / PVC
Product FeaturesRebate Available
Furnace Efficiency / AFUE96%
Blower MotorVariable Speed - ECM
Maximum CFM1200
ConfigurationHorizontal
Burner StagesTwo
Fuel TypePropane, Natural Gas
StyleA-Coil
Suction Line Insulation Thickness3/4"
Length50 feet

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the 96% AFUE rating mean for my heating bills? +
AFUE measures how much fuel converts to heat. At 96%, this furnace wastes only 4% of gas as exhaust, among the highest efficiency available. Compared to older 80% AFUE models, you'll save roughly 16% on heating costs over time, recovering equipment cost premium within 5 to 7 years.
Can I install this in my basement if space is extremely tight? +
Yes, the horizontal 26-inch depth, 21.125-inch width, and 17.5-inch height fit most basement utility closets. The A-coil configuration allows vertical ductwork above the unit. Ensure adequate clearance for airflow around the condenser section and plan PVC venting carefully to avoid condensation backup.
Is 13 SEER cooling adequate, or should I upgrade? +
13 SEER is solid mid-range performance and ENERGY STAR certified. Upgrading to 16+ SEER units costs significantly more but saves only 15 to 20% additional cooling costs. For moderate climates, 13 SEER delivers excellent value. Hot climates may justify higher SEER ratings.
How does this compare to Lennox or Carrier equivalents? +
Goodman offers similar efficiency at lower cost than premium brands. Lennox and Carrier 2.5-ton 96% AFUE and 13 SEER models run 20 to 30% higher. Performance differences are minimal. Choose Goodman for value and Lennox or Carrier if brand reputation justifies added expense.
What if something fails during the warranty period? +
Register online after installation to activate 10-year coverage. Contact your installer or Goodman directly with documentation. Compressor, coil, and heat exchanger failures are covered. Normal wear items like filters and fuses are not included.

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