Choosing Between a Split System and a Package Unit: Mark Callahan Weighs In on What Works Best

You’ve Got Options—But Let’s Make the Right Call

I’ve spent the better part of 25 years crawling through attics, sweating in rooftops, and walking customers through HVAC decisions that impact their comfort and their wallet. One of the biggest questions I still get is:
“Should I go with a split system or a package unit?”

It’s a fair question. Both types of systems have their place, and what’s best for your home depends on your layout, location, and how you want to manage your heating and cooling. Whether you’re eyeing a 3-ton SEER2 split system or sizing up a 5 ton package unit, this article breaks it all down—plain and simple.

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The Basics: What’s the Difference Between a Split System and a Package Unit?

Let’s get some definitions out of the way.

Split System

• Has two separate components: an outdoor condenser and an indoor air handler or furnace.

• Common in residential homes, especially those with a basement, crawlspace, or attic for ductwork.

• Offers more flexibility and higher efficiency ratings.

Package Unit (aka “Packaged System” or A C Package Unit)

• Combines all heating and cooling components into one single outdoor unit.

• Usually installed on rooftops or concrete slabs outside the house.

• Popular in mobile homes, small commercial buildings, or ranch-style homes without basements.

If you’ve ever looked at a rooftop AC unit on a school or office building, that’s likely a package unit.

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When a Split System Makes More Sense

Let me tell you right now—if you’ve got a home with a dedicated furnace, or if you’re trying to maximize energy efficiency and indoor comfort, a split system is still king in residential HVAC.

Systems like the Goodman 3 Ton 14.5 SEER2 R-32 Split System Bundle are engineered for:

• Zoned cooling

• Quiet operation

• Easy coil and filter access

• Long-term serviceability

What sets this system apart is the use of R-32 refrigerant, a newer, environmentally friendly alternative to R-410A. It’s got a lower Global Warming Potential (GWP) and higher heat transfer efficiency, meaning you get faster cooling with less energy usage.

If you want to dive into why R-32 is becoming the standard, Daikin has a deep technical breakdown worth checking out.

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When a Package Unit Is the Better Fit

Now, if you’re working with a tight footprint, or need a system for a garage apartment, modular home, or commercial space, a package unit—particularly a 5 ton package unit—starts to make a lot of sense.

Here’s why:

• No indoor components: You don’t need to run refrigerant lines inside or find space for a furnace or air handler.

• Faster installation: Especially if the ductwork is already designed for rooftop or exterior connection.

• All-in-one simplicity: A 5 ton self-contained AC unit is fully housed and pre-assembled. This reduces installation labor and potential system mismatches.

For light commercial buildings or large, single-level homes, a package unit can be a smart solution. Just know that they’re generally noisier, less efficient, and can be harder to service if roof-mounted.

If you want an overview of what’s involved in rooftop or exterior packaged units, Trane’s commercial HVAC guide is worth reading.

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Let’s Talk Tonage: 3 Ton vs. 5 Ton Units

Here’s a rule of thumb I give all my clients:

A 3 ton split system is perfect for homeowners who want:

• Lower operating costs

• Zoning flexibility

• Quiet, efficient performance

A 5 ton package unit, on the other hand, is ideal if:

• You need to replace rooftop or exterior-mounted equipment

• You’re cooling large square footage with limited installation access

• You want a plug-and-play commercial solution

Need a hand figuring out the right size? Check out Energy Vanguard’s detailed load calculation overview. It explains why Manual J calculations are non-negotiable.

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Pros and Cons Recap

Let’s put this into a side-by-side chart:

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The Future Is Split (In Most Homes)

Let me tell you a little story. A client of mine in Phoenix had an old 5 ton rooftop package unit on his one-story house. It worked fine—until it didn’t. When it went out in July, he called me in a panic. We debated replacing it with another 5 ton self-contained AC unit, but his attic was clean, his ductwork was accessible, and he was tired of the noise.

We installed a split system with zoning, and not only did his bills drop by 25%, but he finally got rid of those hot and cold spots in different rooms. He told me, “Mark, I should’ve done this years ago.”

Now, are package units still relevant? Absolutely. But in new residential construction, especially in climates with big seasonal swings, the split system layout gives you more control, more options, and better efficiency.

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What About Heating?

A big reason people choose split systems is flexibility. Want a heat pump instead of a furnace? Done. Want gas heat and electric AC? Easy. Want variable-speed technology and modulating airflow? Totally doable.

With a package unit, especially a 5 ton package unit, you’re often locked into one specific heating configuration. Changing that later means ripping out and replacing the whole box.

If your climate dips below freezing regularly, I recommend pairing your split system with a high-efficiency natural gas furnace. Want to go electric-only? A heat pump matched with an air handler does the trick.

Not sure about your options? HVAC.com has a helpful guide on whether to go electric, gas, or hybrid.

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Installation Tips from the Field

Whether you go with a split system or a package unit, there are a few things that’ll make or break your system performance:

1. Ductwork must be sized and sealed properly.

2. Thermostat should match your system’s capabilities (don’t pair a single-stage stat with a variable-speed system).

3. Coil, condenser, and blower must be matched for SEER ratings to hold true.

4. Refrigerant charge has to be spot-on. Too much or too little kills efficiency and voids warranties.

I’ve lost count of how many installs I’ve had to redo because someone tried to cut corners. Don’t let that be you.

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Final Take from Mark

So, should you go with a 3 ton split system or a 5 ton package unit?

Here’s how I boil it down:

• Go split system if you want control, efficiency, zoning, and flexibility.

• Go package unit if you’re limited on space, need a fast replacement, or are in a commercial/light-industrial setup.

If you’ve got the infrastructure and are upgrading an old system, a split system like the Goodman 3 Ton 14.5 SEER2 R-32 Split Bundle offers the best blend of performance, affordability, and future-proof refrigerant tech.

Whichever route you take, do it smart. Choose equipment that’s matched, sized right, and installed by a pro who knows what they’re doing. Your comfort—and utility bill—will thank you.

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Mark Callahan
HVAC Installer | System Optimizer | 25+ Years of Real-World Know-How
“Every home deserves a system that just works. Comfort shouldn't be complicated.”