Review
Goodman's 2.5 ton split system pairs an 80,000 BTU furnace with 30,000 BTU cooling capacity, hitting the sweet spot for mid-size homes and small commercial spaces. The downflow A-coil configuration proves invaluable for installations where supply ducts run below the equipment, common in basements and slab foundations. At this price point, the system competes directly with entry-to-mid-tier brands offering similar tonnage ratings.
The 97% AFUE furnace delivers exceptional heating efficiency, meaning 97 cents of every energy dollar converts to usable heat. Modulating burner stages maintain precise temperature control without short-cycling waste. On the cooling side, 14 SEER1 rating provides respectable efficiency but trails 16-18 SEER units that deploy variable-capacity compressors. The variable speed ECM blower motor adjusts CFM between 300 and 1600 to match heating and cooling loads, reducing unnecessary runtime energy consumption compared to fixed-speed alternatives.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 97% AFUE furnace efficiency cuts heating costs significantly compared to 80-90% models
- Modulating burner stages reduce energy waste by adjusting flame to actual heating demand
- Variable speed ECM blower motor optimizes airflow and reduces runtime electricity consumption
- Energy Star certified system qualifies for utility rebates, reducing out-of-pocket cost
- Compact 21 inch by 21 inch footprint fits confined basement and utility closet installations
- R454B refrigerant with 10-year warranty protects against obsolescence from future regulations
Cons
- 14 SEER cooling trails high-efficiency systems at 16-18 SEER, limiting AC savings potential
- Single stage compressor cannot modulate cooling capacity, cycling on and off rather than ramping smoothly
- 72 dB noise level ranks slightly above whisper-quiet alternatives, noticeable during compressor cycles
- Requires PVC flue venting, limiting installation flexibility in homes with masonry chimneys
Who Should Buy
Best For
Contractors installing replacement systems in homes with basement utility spaces or those upgrading from 80-90% AFUE furnaces want this unit. Homeowners in moderate climates prioritizing heating efficiency and accepting adequate (not premium) cooling performance will see strong ROI within 5-7 years.
Consider Alternatives If
Skip this if you need maximum cooling efficiency in hot climates, want variable-capacity air conditioning, or cannot accommodate PVC venting near the unit.
Installation
This downflow unit requires 115V single-phase power with 17.1 to 25 amp breaker capacity, standard for most homes. Installation demands proper R454B refrigerant handling certification and PVC flue venting materials. The 120-pound weight permits single-technician handling. Lineset runs up to 50 feet accommodate moderate distances from outdoor condenser to indoor furnace, though longer runs require pressure drop calculations and additional refrigerant charges.
Warranty & Reliability
Goodman backs this system with 10-year parts coverage upon online registration, protecting against compressor failures and component defects. This extended warranty positions it above budget brands offering 5-year terms. Registration requirement means you must complete paperwork within 30 days of installation to activate full coverage. Labor costs fall on the homeowner's service provider.
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) | 72 |
| Weight (in lbs) | 120.000000 |
| Feature | Spec |
| Energy Star | Yes |
| SEER1 (Efficiency) | 14 |
| Condenser Stages | Single Stage |
| Compressor Type | Rotary |
| Liquid Valve Size | 3/8" |
| Suction Valve Size | 3/4" |
| Max Breaker Size | 25 amps |
| Min. Breaker Size | 17.1 amps |
| Tonnage | 3.5 Ton |
| Height | 30" |
| Width | 21" |
| Depth | 21" |
| Resources | CAPT Installation Manual CAPT 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. |
| AHRI Certificate Number | 7424271 |
| Airflow Direction | Downflow/Horizontal |
| Exhaust Flue Requirement | Plastic / PVC |
| Product Features | Rebate Available |
| Furnace Efficiency / AFUE | 97% |
| Blower Motor | Variable Speed - ECM |
| Maximum CFM | 1600 |
| Configuration | Upflow / Downflow |
| Flue Location | Right |
| Burner Stages | Modulating |
| Fuel Type | Propane, Natural Gas |
| Liquid Line | 3/8" |
| Suction Line | 3/4" |
| Style | A-Coil |
| Suction Line Insulation Thickness | 3/4" |
| Length | 50 feet |
Frequently Asked Questions
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