Independent Review · Updated June 2026

2.5 Ton 14 SEER 96% AFUE 100,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furnace and Air Conditioner System - Upflow

Budget-friendly 96% AFUE furnace with modern R454B cooling efficiency

7.8
IndustrialRank Score
Efficiency
8.2
Reliability
7.5
Value
8.4
Installation
8.1
Warranty
7.8
2.5 Ton 14 SEER 96% AFUE 100,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furnace and Air Conditioner System - Upflow
Current Price
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// Bottom Line
This ACiQ system delivers solid heating efficiency at an aggressive price point, making it ideal for cost-conscious homeowners replacing aging equipment. It's particularly attractive for upflow installations in modest homes where the 2.5-ton cooling capacity matches typical residential loads.

Review

The ACiQ ACIQ-30-EHPD-UPG represents a practical middle ground in the competitive furnace market. This 2.5-ton upflow system combines Goodman's proven reliability with aggressive pricing that appeals to budget-conscious contractors and homeowners. The 100,000 BTU furnace delivers solid heating output, while the 96% AFUE rating positions it well above minimum efficiency standards. It's designed for straightforward installation in homes with standard utility spaces and standard electrical service.

Performance specs tell a balanced story. The 96% AFUE furnace with two-stage burners modulates heat delivery efficiently across winter conditions. Cooling arrives via a 30,000 BTU, 14 SEER condenser using newer R454B refrigerant, though the single-stage compressor cannot vary capacity. The multi-speed ECM blower motor manages airflow up to 1600 CFM, allowing it to balance comfort against runtime efficiency. On paper, 14 SEER meets current standards without premium pricing.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • 96% AFUE furnace efficiency reduces heating costs year-round with two-stage burner control
  • 14 SEER rating meets modern efficiency standards using R454B refrigerant
  • Multi-speed ECM blower motor adjusts airflow from 0-1600 CFM for better comfort and efficiency
  • PVC flue compatibility simplifies venting and reduces installation costs in many homes
  • 10-year warranty with online registration provides solid protection for the investment
  • Compact dimensions (30 x 21 x 21 inches) fit tight utility closets and basement installations

Cons

  • 3.5-ton condenser pairs with 2.5-ton heating capacity, creating a mismatch that reduces efficiency and increases cycling
  • Single-stage condenser cannot modulate cooling capacity, limiting part-load efficiency on mild days
  • 72 dB noise level runs slightly louder than premium variable-capacity competitors
  • No Energy Star certification despite respectable efficiency ratings
  • Limited documentation available online compared to major brands

Who Should Buy

Best For

Homeowners in moderate climates replacing 15-plus-year-old systems who prioritize upfront savings over premium features. This works well for 1200-1500 square foot homes in zones 4-5 where heating demand is substantial but cooling needs remain moderate.

Consider Alternatives If

Anyone installing this in a hot climate should look at single-stage systems with matching tonnage, and buyers seeking variable capacity cooling should consider competitors with modulating condensers.

2.5 Ton 14 SEER 96% AFUE 100,000 BTU Goodman Gas F
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Installation

Installation complexity rates as moderate to straightforward. The 120-pound unit fits upflow and horizontal configurations, with flue venting through standard PVC pipe rather than masonry. Electrical demands are light, requiring 208/230V single-phase service with breaker sizing between 17.1 and 25 amps. Right-side flue location matters for ductwork planning. Most experienced HVAC contractors complete installation in one day.

Warranty & Reliability

Coverage includes 10 years on parts and labor with online registration, a respectable commitment that requires documentation retention. This warranty matches mid-tier competitors but trails extended plans from premium manufacturers. Real-world reliability depends heavily on proper installation and maintenance. Registration is essential, as warranty defaults to shorter periods without proof of enrollment.

Specifications

SKUACIQ-30-EHPD-UPG
Brand/ManufacturerACiQ
Cooling BTU30,000
Heating BTU100,000
RefrigerantR454B
Electrical208 / 230 V. 1 Phase 60 Hz
Warranty10 Years with Online Registration
Decibel Level (dBA)72
Weight (in lbs)120.000000
FeatureSpec
Airflow DirectionUpflow/Horizontal
Exhaust Flue RequirementPlastic / PVC
Furnace Efficiency / AFUE96%
Blower MotorMulti-Speed - ECM
Maximum CFM1600
ConfigurationUpflow / Downflow
Flue LocationRight
Energy StarNo
Burner StagesTwo
Fuel TypeGas
Height30"
Width21"
Depth21"
ResourcesCAPT Installation Manual CAPT 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)14
Condenser StagesSingle Stage
Compressor TypeRotary
Liquid Valve Size3/8"
Suction Valve Size3/4"
Max Breaker Size25 amps
Min. Breaker Size17.1 amps
Tonnage3.5 Ton
Liquid Line3/8"
Suction Line3/4"
StyleA-Coil
Suction Line Insulation Thickness3/4"
Length50 feet

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does a 2.5-ton furnace pair with a 3.5-ton condenser? +
This mismatch is common in budget systems but creates inefficiency. The oversized condenser cycles more frequently during mild weather, increasing wear and reducing part-load performance. Matched tonnage would deliver better overall efficiency, though cost constraints sometimes drive this design choice.
Does this system work in cold climates? +
The 96% AFUE furnace performs well in zones 4-5, efficiently heating modest homes through winter. In zone 6 or colder, consider models with higher BTU output. The single-stage condenser works fine year-round, though efficiency drops in extreme cold without supplemental heating.
What's the actual cooling efficiency in real conditions? +
14 SEER is AHRI rating under ideal conditions. Real-world performance depends on ductwork sealing, thermostat programming, and outdoor temperature. Expect 12-13 SEER in typical residential installations, which remains solid without being premium.
How does this compare to Lennox and Carrier budget models? +
ACiQ undercuts both on price while matching their efficiency ratings. Lennox and Carrier offer better variable-capacity options at higher cost. For upflow budget systems, this represents competitive value, though service availability varies by region.
Is online registration required for warranty coverage? +
Yes, the 10-year coverage requires online registration. Without it, warranty reverts to shorter manufacturer terms. Keep proof of registration and purchase receipt accessible for any future claims.

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