You may plan to invest in a reliable air conditioner and probably come across Goodman. It’s a well-known name in the split system HVAC industry. Goodman specializes in handling central air systems. But is it the best fit for your home, or is something better suited for your space, lifestyle, or budget? 

In this article, we have reviewed the real Goodman AC review, comprehensively discussed the pros and cons of their split system units, and explored a compelling alternative that enables you to control the entire air conditioner system more smartly. Let’s get into it.

Pros and Cons of Goodman Split System AC

Traditional split system air conditioners are one of the main product lines of Goodman. These systems have two main components, an outdoor condenser and an indoor air handler, connected by pre-buried refrigerant lines. They’re often used for whole-home cooling, and work well in larger houses or multi-room spaces.

Goodman has won consumers' attention with its great value for money and decent performance. However, the real user experience and review also reflect some problems. Below, we will analyze its advantages and disadvantages to give you a deeper understanding. 

Pros of Goodman Split Systems

• Solid performance: Goodman units cool fast and handle large spaces well.
• Balanced cooling: Distributes air evenly across large areas for consistent comfort.
• Competitive pricing: They're generally more affordable upfront than some premium brands.
• Durable build: Goodman units are known for their long service life. They usually last more than 10 years.

Cons of Goodman Split Systems

Requires ductwork: If your home doesn’t already have ducts, installation can be invasive and expensive.

• No zone control: You can’t cool one room and leave another off. It’s all or nothing.
• Potential energy waste: No zoning means cooling unused areas, leading to higher energy use.
• Needs proper install: A poorly done install can ruin efficiency and comfort.
• Less energy flexibility: While newer Goodman models are more efficient than before, they still can’t match the versatility of modern mini splits.

When a Traditional System Doesn't Make Sense

A traditional central AC system isn’t always the best fit. Not everyone needs to cool an entire house all at once. Maybe you’ve got one or two rooms that get unbearably hot. Or you live in an older home where installing ductwork sounds like a nightmare. This is where ductless mini-splits come in. They’re ideal for targeted cooling and heating. Choose a mini-split if you:

Don’t have ducts or want to avoid major renovation.

Want room-by-room temperature control.

Have hot/cold spots, additions, garages, or home offices.

Care about quiet operation and high efficiency (inverter).

DELLA has become one of the standout brands in this category. Unlike Goodman’s systems, DELLA mini splits don’t need ducts at all. Each indoor unit mounts directly in the room it cools (or heats), and you can control them independently. You can crank up the AC in the bedroom, but leave the living room alone easily. In this way, you can truly achieve targeted temperature control.

Best Alternatives to Goodman AC: DELLA Mini Split

If you want to control your AC systems more smartly, the best alternatives to Goodman split systems are DELLA’s mini splits. The high-quality products from DELLA offer more precise multi-zone cooling control and are capable of providing up to five zones. Here are mini split units with various zoning options.

1. DELLA Vario Series Tri-Zone Mini Split AC

The DELLA Vario Series 27,000 BTU Tri-Zone Mini Split might just be the solution you need. With three indoor units and one efficient outdoor compressor, it delivers quiet, targeted climate control for up to 1,200 square feet, no bulky ductwork required. Unlike traditional central systems, this setup allows you to set different temperatures in different areas. So the bedroom can stay cool while the living room stays cozy, all running off one system.

Features:

• Three-Zone Control
  Comes with three 9,000 BTU indoor units, each running independently. You can adjust the temperature in each room to suit your needs; no more thermostat battles.
• Quiet, Consistent Performance
  Operates as low as 27 dB indoors. Great for bedrooms, nurseries, or anywhere silence matters. 
• Energy Efficiency Built-In
  With a 19 SEER2 rating and advanced heat pump technology, this system is designed to reduce energy use without cutting corners on comfort.
• Durability You Can Count On
  It can protect against corrosion and improve heat transfer. Plus, the auto-defrost function keeps things running smoothly in colder weather.

2. DELLA Vario Series Quad Zone Mini Split AC

If you're managing a larger space with multiple rooms, and you're tired of uneven temperatures or noisy window units, the DELLA 36,000 BTU Quad-Zone Mini Split is worth serious consideration. With four independently controlled 9,000 BTU indoor units and a single powerful outdoor compressor, this system is built to handle up to 1,600 sq. ft. of total coverage.

Key Features:

• True Four-Zone Climate Control
  Includes four 9K BTU indoor air handlers, letting you customize the temperature in each room. One space can be cooled while another stays warmer.
• High Efficiency, Lower Bills
  With a 19 SEER2 rating, the system is designed to use less power over time. You get reliable performance and a noticeable drop in monthly energy costs.
• Smart Wi-Fi Compatibility
  Control all four zones directly from your phone with the DELLA app. You can adjust temperatures, set timers, and check performance remotely.
• Quiet Operation
  Each indoor unit runs whisper-quiet, down to 26 dB. Great for sleeping areas, home offices, or any room where peace matters.
• All-Weather Heat Pump
  Provides both cooling and heating, making it a year-round solution. 

3. DELLA Vario Series Five Zone Mini Split AC

The DELLA Vario Series 45,000 BTU Five-Zone Mini Split AC is designed to meet the cooling and heating needs of larger spaces. With its 5-zone functionality, this system offers precise control over different areas of your home. This system uses R-454B refrigerant, which helps reduce the carbon footprint. The unit is engineered for high efficiency, ensuring that your home stays comfortable year-round without excessive energy consumption.

Key Features:

• Five-Zone Flexibility: Independently control the temperature in five different areas of your home.
• High Energy Efficiency: With R-454B refrigerant and a 19 SEER2 rating, this system minimizes energy usage while maximizing comfort.
• Cooling and Heating: Whether you need to cool in the summer or heat in the winter, this unit has you covered year-round.
• Quiet Operation: The advanced design ensures minimal noise, running at only 29dB.

A Comparison of Split System and Mini Split

Here’s a quick comparison of the two systems:

Feature	Goodman Split System	DELLA Mini Split
Ductwork	Yes	No
Zone Temperature Control	No	Yes
Installation Complexity	High	Low
Energy Efficiency	Good	Excellent (especially inverter models)
Best For	Whole-house cooling	Individual or flexible zone cooling

If you want whole-home uniform temperature and already have ducts, Goodman might still make sense. But if your top priority is efficiency, control, or avoiding major installation work, a mini split is hard to beat.

Tips for Choosing the Right Mini Split

Before you buy, think about:

• Zones: How many zones do you need? DELLA offers systems for 1 to 5 rooms.
• Room sizes: Match the BTU rating to your room's square footage.
• Climate: Live in a hot or humid area? Go for higher SEER ratings and inverter tech.
• DIY or Pro Install: Some DELLA models come pre-charged for easier installation, but if in doubt, hire a certified HVAC tech.

Conclusion

Choosing a suitable air conditioner comes down to what you need from your system. Goodman’s traditional split systems are sturdy, reliable, and work well for homes with existing ducts. But they lack the flexibility today’s homeowners often want.

If you’re after room-by-room control, lower utility bills, or easier installation, DELLA’s mini split systems are a strong alternative. With multiple zone options and energy-smart features, they offer a more personalized cooling experience without the ductwork.

FAQ

What’s the difference between Goodman split systems and ductless mini splits?
Goodman split systems need ducts and cool the whole house at once. Mini splits like DELLA work without ducts and let you control each room separately.

Can you control temperatures separately with DELLA?
Yes! That’s one of the biggest advantages. Each indoor unit has its remote or is set on the app.

Are DELLA mini splits easy to install?
Many models are pre-charged and designed for simpler installation, but professional help is still recommended for the best results.

How much energy can I save with a Della mini split compared to Goodman?
It depends on your usage, but thanks to zone control and inverter technology, many users report 20–40% energy savings after switching.

Related reading:

Why Is My AC Unit Making a Loud Noise

Do Mini Splits Turn Off When the Temperature Is Reached