Review
The Goodman 2.5-ton hybrid gas furnace and heat pump system positions itself as a practical middle-ground option for homeowners balancing upfront cost with operational efficiency. This combination unit handles both heating and cooling from a single outdoor condenser and indoor furnace, simplifying the installation footprint. ACiQ's upgrade to this platform, replacing the older GSZ140311 model, brings modern refrigerant handling and solid Energy Star certification to the market segment where most contractors work.
Performance numbers tell a competent but unremarkable story. The furnace delivers 60,000 BTU heating capacity at 96% AFUE, among the best you'll find in fossil fuel heating, while the outdoor unit provides 30,000 BTU cooling at 14 SEER1. The two-stage gas burner modulates output during partial heating loads, improving comfort and reducing cycling losses. However, the single-stage scroll compressor on the cooling side means the system runs at full capacity or not at all, eliminating the efficiency gains of variable-speed cooling common in higher-tier heat pumps.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 96% AFUE furnace efficiency means minimal wasted fuel, translating to lower heating bills even in cold climates
- 14 SEER cooling rating meets Energy Star standards and qualifies for many utility rebates and tax credits
- Two-stage burner on furnace allows modulation for better comfort and efficiency during partial-load conditions
- Multi-speed ECM blower motor automatically adjusts airflow, reducing energy waste compared to single-speed designs
- Lifetime heat exchanger warranty covers the most expensive component, plus 10 years parts and unit replacement coverage
- R454B refrigerant is modern and environmentally responsible with lower global warming potential than older alternatives
Cons
- Single-stage compressor cannot modulate cooling output, leading to more on-off cycling and less precise temperature control
- 74 dB noise level is moderately loud and may be noticeable in quieter neighborhoods or during evening operation
- 3-ton cooling capacity paired with 60,000 BTU heating creates an odd sizing mismatch for many applications and limits flexibility
- Requires 18.7 to 30-amp electrical service, necessitating potential panel upgrades in older homes
Who Should Buy
Best For
Homeowners in HVAC zones 3-5 who need both heating and cooling and prioritize operating costs over premium features should consider this unit. Contractors installing complete systems for price-conscious customers will find the Goodman reliability and mid-tier efficiency strike an attractive balance.
Consider Alternatives If
Buyers in extremely cold climates, those seeking variable-capacity cooling, or homeowners unwilling to handle moderate electrical work should explore alternatives.
Installation
This A-coil furnace ships as an upflow horizontal unit with sweat connections, 3/8 inch liquid line, and 3/4 inch suction line, all standard sizes for residential work. The unit weighs 120 pounds and measures 34.5 inches tall by 17.5 inches wide, fitting most existing closets. PVC flue piping required with right-side flue location is straightforward, and the 115V, 60Hz single-phase electrical requirement is typical but confirm your breaker capacity ranges from 18.7 to 30 amps.
Warranty & Reliability
Goodman's warranty structure protects your investment meaningfully. The lifetime coverage on the heat exchanger guards against the costliest potential failure, while 10 years of parts and unit replacement coverage provides security through the system's peak years. Online registration is required to activate full coverage, a common practice that ensures manufacturers track units for recalls.
Specifications
| SKU | ACIQ-30-EHPD-UPG |
| Brand/Manufacturer | ACiQ |
| Cooling BTU | 30,000 |
| Heating BTU | 60,000 |
| Refrigerant | R454B |
| Electrical | 115 V. 1 Phase 60 Hz |
| Warranty | Lifetime Heat Exchanger, 10 Years Unit Replacement, and 10 Years Parts with Online Registration |
| Decibel Level (dBA) | 74 |
| Weight (in lbs) | 120.000000 |
| Feature | Spec |
| Replaces | GSZ140311 |
| Product Features | Rebate Available |
| Energy Star | Yes |
| SEER1 (Efficiency) | 14 |
| Condenser Stages | Single Stage |
| Compressor Type | Scroll |
| Liquid Valve Size | 3/8" |
| Suction Valve Size | 3/4" |
| Max Breaker Size | 30 amps |
| Min. Breaker Size | 18.7 amps |
| Tonnage | 3 Ton |
| Valve Type | Sweat |
| Height | 34.5" |
| Width | 17.5" |
| Depth | 28.75" |
| Resources | GMEC96 Installation Manual GMEC96 Specifications Sheet GMEC96 Owner's Manual GMEC96 Service Manual GMEC96 Replacement Parts Manual GMEC96 Brochure Goodman Furnace 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/Horizontal |
| Liquid Line | 3/8" |
| Suction Line | 3/4" |
| Style | A-Coil |
| Airflow Direction | Upflow/Horizontal |
| Exhaust Flue Requirement | Plastic / PVC |
| Furnace Efficiency / AFUE | 96% |
| Blower Motor | Multi-Speed - ECM |
| Maximum CFM | 1200 |
| Flue Location | Right |
| Burner Stages | Two |
| Fuel Type | Gas |
| Suction Line Insulation Thickness | 3/4" |
| Length | 50 feet |
Frequently Asked Questions
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