Review
The ACiQ 2.5-ton air conditioner with 21-inch vertical uncased coil occupies a practical middle ground in the residential HVAC market. Rated at 30,000 BTU cooling capacity with 14 SEER efficiency, it targets contractors and homeowners seeking dependable performance without premium pricing. The unit uses modern R454B refrigerant, aligning with environmental regulations that are phasing out older refrigerants. At this price point, it competes directly with basic Goodman and Carrier models, making it relevant for budget-conscious system replacements.
Performance specifications are straightforward and honest. The single-stage rotary compressor delivers full-load cooling at 30,000 BTU, while the 14 SEER rating indicates moderate efficiency. The unit operates on 208/230V single-phase power with a 17.1-25 amp breaker window, making it compatible with most residential electrical panels. At 72 dB, noise output is acceptable for outdoor condenser installations but notably higher than variable-speed alternatives. The 3/8-inch liquid and 3/4-inch suction line sizing is standard for this tonnage class.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 14 SEER efficiency delivers solid performance for 30,000 BTU cooling capacity
- R454B refrigerant future-proofs the system against upcoming EPA phase-outs
- Compact dimensions (20 inches wide, 19.5 inches tall) fit tight installation spaces
- Single-stage rotary compressor is simple, reliable, and easy for technicians to service
- 10-year warranty with online registration provides meaningful coverage at this price point
Cons
- 72 dB noise level is louder than premium variable-speed models (typically 65-68 dB)
- Single-stage operation means no efficiency modulation on partial-load days
- Not Energy Star certified, so homeowners miss potential rebates in some regions
Who Should Buy
Best For
Contractors replacing 15-20 year old systems for cost-conscious residential customers, and homeowners in moderate climates who run their AC 4-6 months per year. This unit balances acceptable efficiency with lower upfront cost.
Consider Alternatives If
Anyone prioritizing quiet operation should look at variable-speed units instead, and homeowners in hot climates demanding peak efficiency may want to step up to 16 SEER models.
Installation
Installation is straightforward for experienced HVAC technicians. The uncased A-coil configuration requires matching with compatible indoor air handler units, so verify equipment compatibility before purchasing. Line set connections use standard 3/8-inch and 3/4-inch fittings. The unit dimensions (20 inches wide, 19.5 inches tall, 20.125 inches deep) fit typical residential concrete pad installations. Proper refrigerant charging and evacuation procedures apply, as with all systems.
Warranty & Reliability
ACiQ provides 10 years of parts coverage when you register the unit online after installation. This is competitive at this price level and covers compressor failures, coil leaks, and component defects. Registration is straightforward and documented in the CAUF installation manual. Note that warranty terms vary by region, so verify coverage details before purchase.
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) | 72 |
| Weight (in lbs) | 120.000000 |
| Feature | Spec |
| Energy Star | No |
| 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 Ton to 3.5 Ton |
| Height | 19.5" |
| Width | 20" |
| Depth | 20 1/8" |
| Resources | CAUF Installation Manual CAUF 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 |
| 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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