Independent Review · Updated June 2026

ACiQ 5 Ton 17 SEER2 Heat Pump Split System - R410A Variable Speed - Multi-Positional

17 SEER2 variable-speed heat pump at contractor pricing with decade-long warranty

8.2
IndustrialRank Score
Efficiency
8.5
Reliability
7.8
Value
8.0
Installation
8.5
Warranty
8.0
ACiQ 5 Ton 17 SEER2 Heat Pump Split System - R410A Variable Speed - Multi-Positional
Current Price
$3166
Check Price at HVACDirect → Shop Now at HVACDirect
Authorized dealer · Full manufacturer warranty
// Bottom Line
This ACiQ unit is ideal for budget-conscious contractors and homeowners seeking solid efficiency without premium brand markup. The 17 SEER2 rating and 10-year warranty make it competitive for residential applications in moderate climates, especially where variable-speed operation justifies the investment.

Review

The ACiQ 5 ton 17 SEER2 heat pump represents strong value in the mid-market residential split system category. Manufactured to Carrier and Bryant equivalent specifications, this unit delivers modern variable-speed efficiency without the brand premium. At $3,166 fully installed cost, it positions well against OEM-branded competitors while meeting Energy Star certification requirements and maintaining communicating system compatibility with contemporary thermostats.

Performance specs show a unit built for moderate climates. The 60,000 BTU cooling capacity handles typical 5-ton residential loads, while 17 SEER2 efficiency translates to measurable utility bill reductions compared to 13-14 SEER equipment. Variable-speed scroll compressor and matching condenser provide EER ratings between 9.5-13 depending on conditions. The 0.75 HP variable-speed blower modulates 300-1300 RPM, preventing overshooting and reducing cycling losses that plague fixed-speed equipment.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • 17 SEER2 rating with variable-speed compressor delivers strong seasonal efficiency and lower operating costs
  • 5 ton capacity handles 60,000 BTU cooling and 34,000 BTU heating for typical residential homes
  • Variable-speed blower motor ranges 300-1300 RPM, optimizing comfort and reducing energy waste
  • 10-year no-hassle replacement warranty with online registration provides genuine peace of mind
  • Priced at $3,166 for complete unit, substantially undercuts equivalent Carrier and Bryant models
  • Energy Star certified and communicating system compatible with modern thermostats

Cons

  • Limited heating output at 34,000 BTU means 10 kW electric backup required in cold climates
  • EER range of 9.5-13 shows variable performance depending on installation and operating conditions
  • R410A refrigerant phase-out timeline may affect long-term service availability and future regulations
  • Single-phase 208/230/240V limits application in three-phase commercial installations

Who Should Buy

Best For

Contractors building out spec homes and homeowners in zones 5-7 where heating demands remain moderate should seriously consider this unit. The variable-speed operation and 17 SEER2 rating justify selection for customers prioritizing lifetime operating costs over premium brand recognition.

Consider Alternatives If

Homeowners in harsh northern climates with extended heating seasons should look elsewhere, as the 34,000 BTU heat output requires substantial electric backup and increases operating expenses significantly.

ACiQ 5 Ton 17 SEER2 Heat Pump Split System - R410A
$3166
Buy at HVACDirect →

Installation

Installation follows standard split-system protocols with 50-foot line set length and standard sweat connections. The 3/8 inch liquid and 7/8 inch suction lines accommodate most standard linesets. Single-phase 208-240V input requires standard residential service, though 60-amp dedicated breaker is mandatory. Outdoor unit dimensions (31 x 31 x 42 inches) fit typical side-yard locations. ACiQ provides detailed installation manual, though contractor experience with variable-speed systems recommended.

Warranty & Reliability

The 10-year no-hassle replacement warranty with online registration provides substantial coverage, matching or exceeding many mid-tier competitors. Registration is straightforward and required to activate full protection. This warranty reflects manufacturer confidence in component reliability and simplifies claims processing without typical coverage limitations or deductibles.

Specifications

SKULS38783850
Brand/ManufacturerOnline Supply
Cooling BTU60,000
Heating BTU34,000
RefrigerantR410A
Electrical208 / 230 / 240 Volts / 1 Phase
Warranty10 Years No Hassle Replacement Warranty with Online Registration
Weight (in lbs)30.000000
FeatureSpec
ResourcesACiQ EHK Installation Manual 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.
ReplacesFCM4X6000AL
EquivalentCarrier Equivalent: KFCEH2601C10Tempstar Equivalent: EHK10AKB Bryant Equivalent: KFCEH2601C10
CommunicatingYes
Blower MotorVariable Speed
Maximum CFM1750
Motor RPM300-1300
Horsepower.75 HP
Electric Backup Heat Capabilities (Optional)5 Kilowatts, 8 Kilowatts, 10 Kilowatts, 15 Kilowatts, 20 Kilowatts, 25 Kilowatts, 30 Kilowatts
Filter Size23 5/16" x 21 1/2"
EER9.5-13
Liquid Line3/8"
Suction Line7/8"
PhaseSingle Phase
Max Breaker Size60 amps
Tonnage5 Ton
ConnectionSweat
CertificationUL Listed
Height42"
Width31"
Depth31"
Product FeaturesVariable Speed Condenser
Energy StarYes
SEER1 (Efficiency)18
Condenser StagesVariable Speed
Compressor TypeScroll
Liquid Valve Size3/8"
Suction Valve Size7/8"
Min. Breaker Size60 Amps
Suction Line Insulation Thickness3/4"
Length50 feet
Electric Heat10 Kilowatts

Frequently Asked Questions

How does 17 SEER2 compare to older SEER1 ratings on this unit? +
This unit carries an 18 SEER1 rating, which roughly converts to 17 SEER2 using EPA's newer testing standard. SEER2 uses more rigorous conditions including lower outdoor temperatures, making the 17 rating genuinely strong for heat pump performance. Real-world efficiency typically tracks within 5-10 percent of rated values.
What electric backup heat options exist for cold climates? +
Auxiliary heat strips available in 5, 8, 10, 15, 20, 25, or 30 kW configurations. The 10 kW option balances cost and performance for most installations. Larger capacities increase first cost but reduce auxiliary runtime in heating-dominated climates, improving overall system efficiency.
Is this unit compatible with existing Carrier or Bryant installations? +
Yes. The ACiQ replaces FCM4X6000AL and matches Carrier KFCEH2601C10, Tempstar EHK10AKB, and Bryant KFCEH2601C10 specifications. Existing lineset connections, electrical sizing, and mounting requirements align with these equivalents for straightforward replacement scenarios.
How does the variable-speed operation affect homeowner comfort? +
Variable-speed compressors and blowers operate more often at lower capacity, maintaining temperature setpoints with fewer temperature swings compared to fixed-speed units. This produces steadier comfort and reduced thermostat hunting. Most homeowners notice quieter operation and more consistent conditioning.
What does the 10-year warranty actually cover? +
No-hassle replacement warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship. Registration requirement is simple online process. Coverage typically excludes installation labor and damage from improper service or environmental factors, but parts replacement under warranty is straightforward.

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