Ducted Heat Pumps: Which One to Buy, by Size

The pick at every size

The ducted heat pump to buy at each size: home size, certified SEER2, heat at 5°F and price

Buy this	Size	Home size (rule of thumb)	SEER2	Heat at 5°F	Price	Buy
Goodman GLZS4BA1810 + AMST24BU1300	1.5 tons	600 to 750 sq ft	15.2	8,700 BTU	$3,222.70	Buy
Goodman GLZS4BA2410 + AMST24BU1300	2 tons	800 to 1,000 sq ft	15.2	10,000 BTU	$3,240	Buy
Goodman GLZS4BA3010 + AMST30BU1300	2.5 tons	1,000 to 1,250 sq ft	14.5	14,400 BTU	$3,664	Buy
Goodman GLZS4BA3610 + AMST36CU1300	3 tons	1,200 to 1,500 sq ft	15	17,400 BTU	$4,310.14	Buy
Goodman GLZS4BA4210 + AMST42CU1300	3.5 tons	1,400 to 1,750 sq ft	15.2	20,000 BTU	$4,333	Buy
Goodman GLZS4BA4810 + AMST48CU1300	4 tons	1,600 to 2,000 sq ft	15.2	20,000 BTU	$4,910.07	Buy
Goodman GLZS4BA6010 + AMST60DU1300	5 tons	2,000 to 2,500 sq ft	14.5	27,600 BTU	$5,643.27	Buy

Each pick is the cheapest Goodman outdoor unit + air handler system Amazon sells at that size today, matched to its AHRI rating (SEER2 and heat at 5°F are the certified figures). Goodman makes no 4.5-ton unit. The rule of thumb is a starting point: the U.S. Department of Energy recommends a contractor's load calculation (Manual J). More on the larger ducted sizes: 3.5 tons · 4 tons · 5 tons.

Ducted or ductless?

Ducted fits a house that already has ducts, usually from a furnace or central AC. The heat pump replaces the outdoor AC unit, and an air handler replaces or joins the furnace.

Ductless (a mini-split) fits rooms with no ducts. One indoor head heats and cools the room it is in. Some are sold as DIY kits. See mini-split heat pumps.

Before you order one online

1. Book the installer first. Goodman says it gives no warranty on equipment a homeowner buys online unless the unit is installed by a dealer who follows all federal, state and local codes and licensing rules. Charging the refrigerant needs EPA Section 608 certification.
2. Match the air handler. The rating is for the outdoor unit and air handler together. Buy them as a system.
3. Plan backup heat. In a cold climate, ask about an electric heat strip for the air handler, or keep your furnace as backup.

Questions buyers ask

What is a ducted heat pump?

A heat pump that heats and cools the whole house through air ducts, like central AC that also heats. The outdoor unit sits where an AC condenser would; an air handler inside blows the air.

How much does a ducted heat pump cost?

On Amazon, a Goodman outdoor unit + air handler runs $3,222.70 to $5,643.27 from 1.5 to 5 tons. Installed by a contractor, a ducted heat pump typically runs $6,000 to $22,000, depending on size and efficiency.

Can I install a ducted heat pump myself?

No. The refrigerant lines must be connected and charged by a licensed installer with EPA Section 608 certification, and Goodman's warranty depends on a licensed install.

Can I buy one online and keep the warranty?

Yes, if a licensed dealer installs it. Goodman says it gives no warranty on equipment a homeowner buys online unless the unit is installed by a dealer who follows all federal, state and local codes and licensing rules.