Section 1: Why Consider a Goodman Mini Split?
Even after decades in the HVAC trenches, I’m asked daily:
“Should I get a Goodman mini split?”
Short answer: yes—especially if you're cooling a workshop, bonus room, or an area without ductwork. Here’s how their entry-level E Series stacks up:
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Compact wall units that can run 9,000 or 12,000 BTU.
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Affordable enough without sacrificing reliability.
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Great for spaces from 300 to 700 sq ft depending on insulation and climate.
If you're focused on the Goodman 12,000 BTU mini split, know that you’re looking at a unit that can deliver comfortable whole-room cooling (and heating) at a low cost. Same goes for the Goodman 9,000 BTU mini split, ideal for smaller rooms.
Goodman’s E Series may not have all the bells and whistles of top-tier ductless brands, but they get the job done—and they come with Goodman’s peace-of-mind warranty and nationwide service footprint.
Section 2: Sizing Right—9,000 vs. 12,000 BTU
Let’s talk about what those numbers mean:
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A Goodman 9,000 BTU mini split typically cools 300–450 sq ft. Perfect for small offices or bedrooms.
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A Goodman 12,000 BTU mini split covers 450–700 sq ft—think garages, bonus rooms, workshops.
Want more background on mini split sizing and how insulation plays into load calculations? I recommend checking out Energy Star’s guide to ductless heat pumps.
Section 3: Choosing the Goodman E Series Mini Split Kit
Here’s exactly what’s included:
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Outdoor condenser
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Indoor wall-mounted unit (9k or 12k model)
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Line set, condensate drain pan, remote control
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A built-in heat pump with reverse-cycle heating
It’s a plug-and-play setup—just mount it through a 3-inch hole in the wall, wire it, flash it with refrigerant, and you’re set. But if you're unfamiliar, hire a licensed tech to handle the gas brazing and electrical wiring.
Section 4: Real-World Benefits and Use Cases
✅ Ideal: Garages, Workshops, and Sunrooms
No ducts? No problem. A Goodman mini split cools and heats without ripping drywall or repositioning vents.
✅ Variable Control
You can run a 12,000 BTU unit without turning on the whole-house HVAC or affecting other zones. Great for zoned efficiency.
✅ Low Operating Cost
Since many of us only run mini splits in summer (or cooler nights), the seasonal energy cost is modest. Plus, your utility won't penalize you for duct leakage or bypass.
Want to see how ductless systems perform in real-world scenarios? Consumer Reports’ mini-split buying guide is a solid resource.
Section 5: What Are the Drawbacks?
No system is perfect:
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Shared remote control—no voice commands (unless you add Wi-Fi adaptors).
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Only single-zone cooling, unless you buy a multi-zone model—E Series doesn’t support that.
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Limited dehumidification vs. multi-stage central systems.
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Cooler efficiency compared to two-stage or variable-speed central AC systems.
If you're looking to condition larger, connected spaces—or want features like humidity control—then a larger central system might be smarter.
Section 6: When Goodman Mini Splits Make Sense—And When They Don’t
Do Buy if:
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You’re cooling a detached garage, studio, or shed.
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You prefer a quieter system than window units or window‑mounted ACs.
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You don’t want ductwork, drilling, or major remodeling.
Don’t Buy if:
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You need multi-zone or synchronized cooling across multiple rooms.
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You require ultra-precise humidity control.
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You plan to heat or cool multiple connected living spaces year-round.
For those larger needs, a ducted system (like a small split system or packaged AC) may offer better overall comfort—even if the upfront price is a bit higher.
Section 7: What You Gamble On DIY Installation
If you drill the wall and install without proper refrigerant charge or vacuum testing, you'll reduce lifespan and efficiency. I’ve seen poorly soldered fittings leak within a month.
Mini splits need a certified tech to handle nitrogen purging, brazing, and a vacuum-rated manifold. Angie’s List and HVAC forums consistently show stories of tiny mistakes turning into massive headaches.
Here’s a great overview on proper mini-split installation practices to help you vet your installer.
Section 8: Efficiency and Performance Comparison
Let’s put the E Series toit-to-toit against conventional systems:
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3 ton Goodman R‑32 system – ideal for whole-house cooling up to ~2,000 sq ft (depending on house layout). Great for central comfort and single-zone control.
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Goodman mini split 9k or 12k – perfect for single-room comfort, lower install cost, zero ducting.
But if you plug two or three mini splits across adjoining spaces, the cost easily surpasses a single 3-ton split system in both installation and energy usage.
Section 9: Pricing Comparison — Mini Splits vs. Whole House
Equipment:
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9,000 BTU E Series mini split: ~$800–$1,200
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12,000 BTU model: ~$1,000–$1,500
Installation:
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Basic install for a mini split: $1,000–$2,000 per unit
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Whole-house Goodman 3 ton R-32 install: $3,500–$6,000 installed (covers 1,500–2,200 sq ft)
Sources like Angi’s HVAC pricing guide show that multiple mini splits quickly escalate in cost compared to a central unit.
Section 10: Maintenance and Longevity Tips
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Clean indoor air filters monthly
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Dust and rinse outdoor coils to prevent buildup
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Ensure condensate drain lines are free
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Schedule inspections if you use them for heating in winter
Mini splits require less routine preventive maintenance than ducted systems—they lack air filters that get thrown on and forgotten, and they’re self-contained.
Section 11: Real-World Install Scenarios
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Mike’s Workshop in Boise: Added 9k mini split for $1,800 and cut summer run time on his central AC by 25%.
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Susan’s Sunroom in Seattle: Used a 12k model to gain year-round comfort and save money vs. extending ductwork.
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Jorge’s Garage Office in Atlanta: Combined a 12k mini split with zoning dampers on his main system for smarter HVAC control across living spaces.
Testimony after testimony shows that for targeted zones, Goodman’s mini splits nail the spec for value and reliability.
Section 12: When to Steer Toward the Goodman 3 Ton R-32 System Instead
If even two mini splits aren’t enough—or you want a uniform system for the whole house—a Goodman 3 Ton 14.5 SEER2 R‑32 bundle delivers more powerful performance, easier maintenance, and better overall value.
It’s worth considering if you:
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Have multiple rooms to cool
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Want integrated heating/cooling
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Value long-term support and lower energy bills
I’ve installed that system hundreds of times, and it’s one of my go-to recommendations for balanced efficiency and long-term reliability.
Final Word from Tony Marino
Here’s what I tell everyone:
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Need spot cooling? Go with a Goodman 9k or 12k mini split.
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Want to heat and cool just one room without ductwork? Sure—E Series will work fine.
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Thinking bigger—multiple zones or whole house? Consider stepping up to split system like the Goodman 3 Ton R‑32 bundle.
No, Goodman E Series mini splits won’t give you smart thermostat integration or premium humidity control—but they’re honest machines that do a solid job for smaller spaces.
And yeah—if you ever want help sizing or pricing options, I’m happy to walk through the best fit for your home or project.
Stay cool (and smart).
— Tony Marino
