Independent Review · Updated June 2026

5 Ton 14.5 SEER Goodman Heat Pump Variable Speed Air Conditioner System - Upflow/Downflow

Solid mid-tier heat pump with variable-speed efficiency and flexible backup heat options.

8.2
IndustrialRank Score
Efficiency
8.5
Reliability
7.8
Value
8.0
Installation
8.5
Warranty
8.0
5 Ton 14.5 SEER Goodman Heat Pump Variable Speed Air Conditioner System - Upflow/Downflow
Current Price
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// Bottom Line
This ACiQ unit is ideal for contractors and homeowners upgrading to a modern heat pump system without breaking budget. The 14.5 SEER1 rating, variable-speed ECM blower, and flexible electric backup heat (3kW to 20kW options) make it practical for mixed climates where occasional supplemental heating is needed.

Review

The ACiQ 5-ton heat pump represents a practical middle ground in today's HVAC market. Built on Goodman's proven platform, this unit delivers solid baseline efficiency without premium pricing. The 14.5 SEER1 rating positions it as a mainstream choice for contractors needing reliable equipment that performs well enough for most residential applications. The variable-speed ECM blower distinguishes it from budget single-speed alternatives, offering better comfort and efficiency during partial-load conditions that dominate most heating and cooling seasons.

Performance specs show 57,000 BTU cooling capacity and 58,000 BTU heating capacity, handling moderate 5-ton loads efficiently. The variable-speed motor adjusts from minimum to 2,000 CFM depending on actual load, reducing runtime waste and noise during mild weather. Single-stage compressor operation means the unit runs at full capacity or off, which is straightforward but less efficient than modulating designs. The scroll compressor technology is field-proven and supported widely by technicians, and R454B refrigerant ensures compatibility with current EPA regulations without mid-life retrofit requirements.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • 14.5 SEER1 efficiency with variable-speed ECM blower motor delivers quieter operation and better part-load performance than single-stage competitors
  • Delivers 57,000 BTU cooling and 58,000 BTU heating in a compact A-coil design suitable for upflow or downflow installations
  • R454B refrigerant meets current EPA standards without requiring immediate system replacements for contractors with existing infrastructure
  • Seven electric backup heat options, from 3kW to 20kW, let you right-size for regional heating demands and budget constraints
  • 10-year warranty with online registration provides solid protection and demonstrates manufacturer confidence in long-term reliability

Cons

  • 14.5 SEER1 is respectable but trails premium units hitting 16+ SEER2 ratings, meaning higher operating costs over the system's life
  • Single-stage compressor cannot modulate capacity, so it cycles on-off rather than matching load continuously like two-stage alternatives
  • 77 dBA noise level is standard for this class but noticeably louder than inverter-based heat pumps during full-load operation
  • Not Energy Star certified, which disqualifies it from some utility rebate programs that increasingly favor higher-efficiency equipment

Who Should Buy

Best For

Contractors installing systems in moderate climates where heating loads don't justify high-efficiency equipment and homeowners replacing aging units on tight budgets. This unit works especially well in applications requiring flexible backup heat staging and upflow/downflow flexibility.

Consider Alternatives If

Buyers in extremely cold climates seeking maximum heating efficiency, or homeowners prioritizing lowest noise levels and maximum energy savings should explore inverter-driven units or systems with 16+ SEER2 ratings.

5 Ton 14.5 SEER Goodman Heat Pump Variable Speed A
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Installation

The upflow/downflow A-coil configuration fits both traditional basement and attic installations. At 120 pounds with dimensions of 38.25 inches high by 35.5 inches square, it requires standard rough-in space. Liquid and suction line sizes (3/8 inch and 1 1/8 inch respectively) are common, and the 50-foot pre-insulated suction line simplifies field installation. Electrical requirements are 208/230V single phase, needing a 34.6 to 60-amp breaker depending on backup heat configuration.

Warranty & Reliability

ACiQ provides a 10-year warranty on parts when you register the unit online, which is straightforward and typically completed during commissioning. This covers defects in manufacturing and materials across all components, though labor costs remain the buyer's responsibility. Ten years is solid coverage for this equipment class, reflecting reasonable durability expectations for a mid-tier product.

Specifications

SKUACIQ-60-EHPD-UPG
Brand/ManufacturerACiQ
Cooling BTU57,000
Heating BTU58,000
RefrigerantR454B
Electrical208 / 230 V. 1 Phase 60 Hz
Warranty10 Years with Online Registration
Decibel Level (dBA)77
Weight (in lbs)120.000000
FeatureSpec
Blower MotorVariable Speed - ECM
Maximum CFM2,000
Electric Backup Heat Capabilities (Optional)3 Kilowatts, 5 Kilowatts, 6 Kilowatts, 8 Kilowatts, 10 Kilowatts, 15 Kilowatts, 20 Kilowatts
Max Breaker Size60 amps
Tonnage5 Ton
Height38.25"
Width35.5"
Depth35.5"
ResourcesGoodman Specifications Goodman Customer Brochure Goodman Installation Instructions Goodman Kit Instructions Goodman Parts Manual Goodman Service Manual Goodman Warranty 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.
ConfigurationUpflow / Downflow
Liquid Line3/8"
Suction Line1 1/8"
StyleA-Coil
ReplacesGSZ140611
Energy StarNo
SEER1 (Efficiency)14
Condenser StagesSingle Stage
Compressor TypeScroll
Liquid Valve Size3/8"
Suction Valve Size7/8"
Min. Breaker Size34.6 amps
Valve TypeSweat
Suction Line Insulation Thickness1/2"
Length50 feet

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this heat pump work in cold climates? +
Yes, within limits. The 58,000 BTU heating output handles moderate winters, but its single-stage operation becomes less efficient below freezing. Optional electric backup heat (3kW to 20kW) supplements heating, but true cold-climate performance requires units specifically rated for sub-zero operation or inverter technology.
Can I install this in my attic or basement? +
Both work. The upflow/downflow A-coil configuration accommodates either installation direction. Verify your space accommodates the 38.25-inch height and 35.5-inch width, and confirm your existing ductwork connections match the suction and liquid line sizes before ordering.
How much will this cost to operate compared to higher SEER units? +
14.5 SEER1 is about 15-20% less efficient than 16+ SEER2 units. On a typical $150 monthly cooling bill, you'd spend roughly $20-30 more annually. Over 15 years, that gap grows significantly, so higher-efficiency models offer better long-term value despite higher upfront cost.
How does this unit compare to competitor 5-ton heat pumps? +
Goodman/ACiQ positions this as reliable, not cutting-edge. Lennox and Carrier offer comparable SEER ratings at similar prices, but this unit's variable-speed blower and flexible backup heat sizing are genuine advantages. Premium brands cost more but offer inverter compressors and higher efficiency ratings.
What does the 10-year warranty actually cover? +
Parts and manufacturing defects in all components. You must register online to activate it. Warranty excludes labor, refrigerant, and damage from improper installation or maintenance. Read the Goodman warranty document carefully before purchase.

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