ACiQ 2 Ton 17.5 SEER Heat Pump Split System - R410A Variable Speed - Multi-Positional Review 2026

// Bottom Line

This ACiQ unit is ideal for homeowners in moderate climates needing affordable heating and cooling without sacrificing efficiency. At $660, it delivers real value for retrofit applications or new builds where budget constraints matter but performance standards remain high.

Review

The ACiQ 2 Ton 17.5 SEER Heat Pump represents a pragmatic middle ground in the residential HVAC market. This split-system unit positions itself against higher-end variable-speed competitors by delivering credible performance at a contractor-friendly price point. With R410A refrigerant compliance, Energy Star certification, and multi-positional mounting flexibility, it handles both new construction and replacement scenarios. The unit operates on standard 208/230/240V single-phase power, making it compatible with typical residential electrical infrastructure.

Performance data shows this unit delivers 24,000 BTU cooling and 34,000 BTU heating capacity. The 18 SEER2 rating with an EER range of 9.5-13 indicates solid seasonal efficiency across varying outdoor temperatures. Variable speed condenser operation paired with a 0.5 HP motor delivering up to 800 CFM creates responsive comfort without excessive runtime. The scroll compressor and communicating controls allow for smoother operation and better dehumidification compared to single-stage alternatives at similar price levels.

Pros & Cons

Pros

18 SEER2 rating with variable speed condenser delivers excellent efficiency for a 2-ton unit at this price point
34,000 BTU heating output means it handles shoulder seasons and mild winters effectively without electric backup
Variable speed blower motor with 300-1300 RPM range optimizes comfort and reduces runtime cycling
10-year no-hassle replacement warranty with online registration provides strong peace of mind
R410A refrigerant and sweat connections make it compatible with standard existing linework and installation practices

Cons

17.5 SEER rating mentioned in product title conflicts with 18 SEER2 spec, creating confusion about actual efficiency
Single-phase 208/230/240V electrical limits installation options in some commercial or older residential settings
No integrated smart thermostat communication listed despite 'communicating' specification requiring clarification

Who Should Buy

Best For

Homeowners in climate zones 4-7 looking to replace aging equipment without maxing out budgets will appreciate the efficiency-to-cost ratio. Contractors installing retrofit systems where existing ductwork and electrical service are adequate will find this unit straightforward to integrate.

Consider Alternatives If

Skip this if you live in extreme cold climates, require sophisticated smart-home integration, or need three-phase power for larger commercial applications.

ACiQ 2 Ton 17.5 SEER Heat Pump Split System - R410

$660

Buy at HVACDirect →

Installation

Installation requires sweat copper connections using standard 3/8-inch liquid and 3/4-inch suction lines with 3/4-inch insulation thickness. The 32x23x23-inch condenser footprint suits typical outdoor pads. A 20-amp breaker works for cooling, though your electrician needs to verify the 60-amp main breaker before startup. The 10 kW electric heat kit comes optional, adding flexibility for supplemental heating in marginal climates.

Warranty & Reliability

ACiQ backs this unit with a 10-year no-hassle replacement warranty requiring online registration. This means if the compressor, refrigerant circuit, or major components fail within the coverage period, you get replacement rather than repair costs. Online registration is mandatory, so do this immediately after installation. Dealer support varies by region, so confirm your installer participates in ACiQ's warranty program.

Specifications

SKU	EHK10AKB
Brand/Manufacturer	ACiQ
Cooling BTU	24,000
Heating BTU	34,000
Refrigerant	R410A
Electrical	208 / 230 / 240 Volts / 1 Phase
Warranty	10 Years No Hassle Replacement Warranty with Online Registration
Weight (in lbs)	9.000000
Feature	Spec
Resources	ACiQ EHK Installation Manual 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.
Replaces	FCM4X2400AL
Equivalent	Carrier Equivalent: KFCEH2601C10Tempstar Equivalent: EHK10AKB Bryant Equivalent: KFCEH2601C10
Communicating	Yes
Blower Motor	Variable Speed
Maximum CFM	800
Motor RPM	300-1300
Horsepower	.5 HP
Electric Backup Heat Capabilities (Optional)	5 Kilowatts, 8 Kilowatts, 10 Kilowatts, 15 Kilowatts, 20 Kilowatts
Filter Size	16 3/8" x 21 1/2"
EER	9.5-13
Liquid Line	3/8"
Suction Line	3/4"
Phase	Single Phase
Max Breaker Size	20 Amps
Tonnage	2 Ton
Connection	Sweat
Certification	UL Listed
Height	32"
Width	23"
Depth	23"
Product Features	Variable Speed Condenser
Energy Star	Yes
SEER1 (Efficiency)	18
Condenser Stages	Variable Speed
Compressor Type	Scroll
Liquid Valve Size	3/8"
Suction Valve Size	5/8"
Min. Breaker Size	60 Amps
Suction Line Insulation Thickness	3/4"
Length	50 feet
Electric Heat	10 Kilowatts

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between the 17.5 SEER in the title and 18 SEER2 in the specs? +

The product title likely references an older SEER metric, while specs show the newer SEER2 standard. SEER2 is more rigorous and accounts for real-world conditions better. Trust the 18 SEER2 figure for current energy calculations. This should be clarified before purchase to avoid buyer confusion.

Can I retrofit this into my existing system's linework? +

Yes, if your current system uses R410A with 3/8-inch liquid and 3/4-inch suction lines. Sweat connections are standard residential practice. However, you must flush and verify the old linework is clean. If replacing R22 equipment, new piping is required since retrofitting across refrigerants is not permitted.

Will the 34,000 BTU heating output heat my home through winter? +

In zones 5-7 with moderate winters, absolutely. However, in zone 3 or colder, you'll need the optional 10 or 15 kW electric backup heat for subzero temperatures. Calculate your heat loss and compare it to the 34,000 BTU output. Most contractors include modest electric backup in harsh climates for reliability.

How does this compare to Carrier or Bryant equivalents at similar pricing? +

The Carrier KFCEH2601C10 and Bryant equivalent are direct comparisons since ACiQ is a value-engineered brand serving the same market. Performance specs align closely. The primary difference is brand support and dealer networks. ACiQ trades brand prestige for lower cost while maintaining solid reliability.

What does the online registration warranty actually cover? +

The 10-year replacement warranty covers major components including compressor and refrigerant circuit failure. Labor and service calls are typically not included. Registration is mandatory to activate coverage. Read the fine print provided by your installer to understand exclusions and whether your dealer covers service calls.

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