2.5 Ton 14 SEER 96% AFUE 40,000 BTU Goodman Gas Furnace and Heat Pump System - Horizontal Review 2026

// Bottom Line

This ACiQ 2.5-ton hybrid system works best for homeowners in moderate climates who need both heating and cooling without extensive ductwork modifications. The 96% AFUE furnace and 14 SEER1 heat pump deliver strong efficiency in horizontal configurations, making it ideal for attics or basements with tight clearance.

Review

The ACiQ ACIQ-30-EHPD-UPG combines a 40,000 BTU gas furnace with a 30,000 BTU heat pump into one horizontal unit, targeting contractors who need flexible zoning on retrofit jobs. This isn't a premium system, but it occupies the honest middle tier where efficiency meets affordability. The unit replaces legacy Goodman GSZ140311 equipment and carries AHRI certification 7368837, meaning matched components perform as rated in real-world conditions.

The heating side delivers 96% AFUE through two-stage burner staging, meaning minimal fuel waste during winter operation. On cooling, the 14 SEER1 rating and R454B refrigerant meet current EPA standards without obsolete R410A. The variable-speed ECM blower caps out at 1,200 CFM and adjusts to room demand, cutting energy consumption compared to fixed-speed motors. However, the single-stage compressor cycles completely on or off, so it won't provide the comfort granularity of variable-capacity competitors in moderate weather.

Pros & Cons

Pros

96% AFUE furnace efficiency means nearly 4 dollars of every 5 fuel dollars converts to heat
14 SEER1 rating qualifies as ENERGY STAR, lowering cooling costs in shoulder seasons
Two-stage burner with variable-speed ECM blower reduces short-cycling and improves comfort
R454B refrigerant is newer low-GWP option required in modern systems
10-year warranty with online registration covers most failures contractors encounter
Plastic PVC exhaust flue requirement simplifies venting compared to metal ductwork

Cons

Single-stage compressor limits modulation capability, cycling on and off rather than ramping smoothly
74 dBA sound level runs louder than variable-capacity competitors, noticeable from 20 feet away
3-ton cooling capacity exceeds the stated 2.5-ton rating, creating sizing mismatches on some properties

Who Should Buy

Best For

Contractors specifying equipment for split-ducted homes or retrofit projects where horizontal A-coil installation is necessary. Homeowners in moderate heating/cooling climates who prioritize upfront savings and want solid efficiency without premium pricing.

Consider Alternatives If

Anyone in high-humidity coastal regions should look at variable-capacity heat pumps instead, as this single-stage compressor cannot modulate capacity to manage moisture effectively.

2.5 Ton 14 SEER 96% AFUE 40,000 BTU Goodman Gas Fu

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Installation

This horizontal unit requires 18.7 to 30 amp breaker sizing on 115V single-phase power, well within standard residential panels. Suction line diameter of 3/4 inch and liquid line of 3/8 inch use standard sweat fittings, familiar to most HVAC techs. The 50-foot line set comes pre-charged, simplifying field work. Plastic PVC exhaust venting is straightforward and cheaper than stainless steel alternatives. Downflow configuration fits attics, crawlspaces, and basements where height clearance is 34.5 inches minimum.

Warranty & Reliability

Ten-year comprehensive coverage activates upon online registration, covering compressor, parts, and labor at participating contractors. This matches most market competitors but falls short of premium brands offering 12-year terms. Registration is non-negotiable to claim the full term, so emphasize this step to homeowners immediately after installation.

Specifications

SKU	ACIQ-30-EHPD-UPG
Brand/Manufacturer	ACiQ
Cooling BTU	30,000
Heating BTU	40,000
Refrigerant	R454B
Electrical	115 V. 1 Phase 60 Hz
Warranty	10 Years 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	Goodman Brochure Goodman Installation Instructions Goodman Parts Manual Goodman Service Manual Goodman Specifications Goodman Technical Information Goodman User Information Goodman Warranty You will need AdobeÂ® AcrobatÂ® 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	Downflow/Horizontal
Liquid Line	3/8"
Suction Line	3/4"
Style	A-Coil
AHRI Certificate Number	7368837
Airflow Direction	Downflow/Horizontal
Exhaust Flue Requirement	Plastic / PVC
Furnace Efficiency / AFUE	96%
Blower Motor	Variable Speed - ECM
Maximum CFM	1200
Burner Stages	Two
Fuel Type	Propane, Natural Gas
Suction Line Insulation Thickness	3/4"
Length	50 feet

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between this 2.5-ton system and the 3-ton cooling capacity listed? +

The tonnage designation refers to heating output (40,000 BTU divided by 12,000), not cooling. Cooling rates 30,000 BTU, which is 2.5 tons, but the spec sheet labels overall tonnage as 3. This discrepancy occurs when manufacturers size the furnace and heat pump separately. Verify AHRI certification 7368837 confirms your exact heating and cooling needs match.

Can I install this in an existing 2.5-ton ductwork system? +

Yes, if your current ductwork is sized for 2.5 tons at 1,200 CFM maximum, the ECM blower will adapt automatically. However, if your old system was oversized, you may notice better comfort since this unit has proper tonnage matching. Have a tech measure existing static pressure to ensure ductwork isn't restrictive.

How much will this system cost to run monthly during heating season? +

At 96% AFUE, a 40,000 BTU furnace running continuously costs roughly $8 to $12 daily at current natural gas prices, depending on your region and rate. Two-stage operation reduces cycling losses, saving about 5 percent annually compared to single-stage competitors in moderate climates.

Should I choose this or a higher SEER variable-capacity heat pump? +

Variable-capacity systems (18-20 SEER2) cost 40 to 60 percent more but excel in extreme climates and high-humidity zones where modulation matters. This single-stage unit works fine in moderate climates where temperature swings are gradual. Compare your heating degree days and cooling degree days against local contractor recommendations before upgrading.

What happens to my warranty if I use a non-ACiQ installer? +

Coverage remains valid as long as the unit is registered online and installed according to Goodman guidelines. Non-factory service voids coverage only if installation defects cause failure. Always request the installer provide written verification of proper setup and refrigerant charge.

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