The shift to all-electric HVAC isn’t about following a trend—it’s about ditching the gas bill, simplifying your mechanical room, and running a single heat pump that handles both sweltering summers and freezing winters. The problem is that most homeowners get stuck comparing mismatched specs: SEER2 ratings, BTU capacities, zone counts, and refrigerant types all blur together until every system looks the same. That stops here.
I’m Mohammad Maruf — the founder and writer behind Gardening Beyond. I’ve spent years analyzing aggregated owner feedback, studying energy-efficiency data, and comparing the real-world electrical load of ductless mini-splits against packaged central units to separate genuine performance from marketing noise.
After combing through thousands of verified owner reports and cross-referencing technical specs, I’ve compiled the definitive guide to finding the best all electric hvac systems for your home’s unique layout and climate demands.
How To Choose The Best All Electric HVAC Systems
All-electric HVAC means every joule of heating and cooling comes from a heat pump, not a gas furnace or oil burner. The three metrics that define a good system are efficiency (SEER2/HSPF2), zone flexibility, and cold-weather performance. Understanding these prevents the most common mistake: buying a unit that works fine in mild weather but struggles when the thermometer drops or the summer sun peaks.
SEER2 and HSPF2 — The Real Efficiency Numbers
SEER2 measures cooling efficiency under new M1 testing standards that better reflect duct losses. HSPF2 does the same for heating. A 20 SEER2 unit saves roughly 25-30% more electricity than a 14 SEER2 unit over a year. For a 36,000 BTU system running 2,000 hours annually, that difference can exceed 2,000 kWh per year. Always compare SEER2/HSPF2 across identical tonnages.
Zone Count vs. Square Footage
A multi-zone ductless system (two or three indoor heads) lets you heat or cool individual rooms independently, but each zone must have its own line set. A single-zone central packaged unit covers large open areas with one thermostat. Over-zoning an 800 sq. ft. house adds unnecessary cost; under-zoning a 2,500 sq. ft. split-level leaves rooms uncomfortable. Map your floorplan before choosing.
Cold-Climate Operation and Inverter Technology
Standard heat pumps lose capacity below freezing. Inverter-driven variable-speed compressors maintain full output down to -22°F, delivering warmth without backup electric resistance strips. Single-stage scroll units cycle on and off, causing temperature swings and higher peak current draws. If you live in a climate where winter lows drop below 10°F, prioritize an inverter-based system with a published low-ambient rating.
Quick Comparison
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| Model | Category | Best For | Key Spec | Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cooper & Hunter 36K Tri-Zone | Mini-Split | Multi-room independent control | 24 SEER2 / 36,000 BTU | Amazon |
| Senville 3 Ton Central | Central Split | Whole-home ducted replacement | 16 SEER2 / Variable Speed | Amazon |
| TOSOT 30K 3-Zone | Mini-Split | Extreme climate (-22°F to 118°F) | 21 SEER2 / 10 HSPF2 | Amazon |
| DELLA 28K 2-Zone | Mini-Split | Budget-friendly multi-zone setup | 20 SEER2 / R454B Refrigerant | Amazon |
| Goodman 2 Ton Heat Pump System | Central Split | Ducted install with air handler | 15.2 SEER2 / R-32 Refrigerant | Amazon |
| Goodman 3.5 Ton Package Heat Pump | Packaged | Mobile homes / slab installation | 14 SEER / R-410A | Amazon |
| Goodman 3 Ton Packaged Unit | Packaged | Simple drop-in AC replacement | 14 SEER / 13.4 SEER2 | Amazon |
In‑Depth Reviews
1. Cooper & Hunter 36,000 BTU Tri 3 Zone (12K+12K+12K)
The Cooper & Hunter tri-zone system delivers a staggering 24 SEER2 efficiency, making it one of the most electrically frugal multi-zone setups available. Each of the three 12,000 BTU wall-mounted units operates independently, so you can cool a sun-baked living room to 68°F while the bedroom sits comfortably at 74°F. The outdoor condenser uses an inverter compressor that modulates speed rather than cycling on and off, which eliminates the abrupt temperature swings common with older single-stage equipment.
Every kit ships with three 25-foot insulated copper line sets, communication cables, drainage extensions, and smart control modules — enough hardware to cover a typical 2,500 sq. ft. home without sourcing additional parts. Owners consistently report whisper-quiet operation from both the indoor heads (barely audible on low fan) and the outdoor unit. The pre-charged condenser holds enough R-410A for the included line lengths, though professional installation is required to vacuum and release the charge.
Freight delivery brings the condenser to your driveway, so plan for two people or a hand truck to move the 200+ pound outdoor unit into position. The included WiFi smart kits work with voice assistants, and U.S.-based technical support has been praised for actually picking up the phone. After three years of use, multiple verified owners describe it as their third or fourth system — they keep buying the same brand because the reliability speaks for itself.
What works
- Inverter compressor holds exact set temp without cycling
- Full 25ft line sets included for all three zones
- Quiet operation — indoor heads nearly silent on low
What doesn’t
- Freight delivery to curb only — heavy unit requires extra help
- Professional installation mandatory; no DIY shortcut
2. Senville 3 Ton Central Air Conditioner Heat Pump Split System
The Senville 36,000 BTU unit is essentially a ducted mini-split disguised as a central air conditioner. It uses a variable-speed scroll compressor — the same inverter technology found in premium mini-splits — but connects to your existing ductwork, making it an ideal upgrade for homes with forced-air systems. The 16 SEER2 rating isn’t the highest on this list, but the real-world advantage is the compressor’s ability to run at partial capacity, holding a steady temperature rather than blasting cold air then letting the room drift.
Cold-climate performance is a standout feature: the heat pump delivers full heating output down to -22°F without needing auxiliary electric strips. That makes it a genuine gas-furnace replacement for homes in northern states. Owners report that their monthly power bills dropped by roughly 1,700 kWh after replacing old 10 SEER split systems, and the indoor noise level is dramatically lower than traditional central units — the refrigerant hiss is gone, replaced by a gentle airflow sound.
Installation complexity is the trade-off. The unit requires two separate 230V circuits, a dedicated S1/S2 communication wire between the indoor and outdoor sections, and a line set that many experienced installers consider too short at 16 feet. The manual has been described as confusing even by HVAC pros, though the company’s technical support team responds quickly.
What works
- Inverter scroll compressor never fully shuts off; holds temp perfectly
- Full heat output at -22°F — no backup strips needed
- 10-year compressor and 5-year parts warranty
What doesn’t
- Manual is poorly organized even for licensed technicians
- 16ft line set may be too short; sourcing 3/4″ flare adapters is difficult
3. TOSOT 30,000 BTU 3 Zone (9K+9K+12K) Cosmo Series
TOSOT is a subsidiary of Gree, one of the world’s largest air-conditioner manufacturers, and the Cosmo series inherits that engineering DNA. The 21 SEER2 and 10 HSPF2 ratings mean this tri-zone system qualifies for federal energy tax credits and will cut annual heating and cooling costs by roughly 24% compared to a standard 16 SEER2 unit. The outdoor unit drives two 9,000 BTU and one 12,000 BTU indoor heads, covering up to 1,650 sq. ft. across three separate rooms.
The compressor’s ability to operate from -22°F to 118°F is what sets this system apart. Owners in Michigan and Arizona alike report consistent performance through extreme seasons — the intelligent defrost cycle prevents ice buildup on the outdoor coil during winter heating, and the variable-speed fan maintains stable airflow even during triple-digit summer afternoons. Each indoor unit can be set to a different mode simultaneously (one room cooling, another heating) without errors, though some users have noted that running heat in one zone while another calls for cool can cause a communication error that requires a reset.
DIY installation is possible for those with basic HVAC experience — several verified owners successfully installed the system using a vacuum pump and torque wrench. The included 16.4-foot copper line set is adequate for typical wall-mounted placements, though you will need to supply your own disconnect and power whip. The Gree+ app works reliably for remote temperature adjustments, and the five-year warranty backs the compressor against premature failure.
What works
- Certified for extreme temps from -22°F to 118°F
- Qualifies for federal energy tax rebates
- Gree+ app and voice control work without dropouts
What doesn’t
- Mixed-mode (heat + cool simultaneously) can trigger error codes
- Power cord not included — must be sourced separately
4. DELLA 28K BTU 2 Zone (9K+18K) 20 SEER2
The DELLA 28K dual-zone system packs a 20 SEER2 rating and R454B refrigerant — a more environmentally friendly alternative to R-410A — into a package that undercuts most multi-zone competitors. The outdoor condenser serves a 9,000 BTU head for a smaller room (roughly 400 sq. ft.) and an 18,000 BTU head for a larger space (up to 1,000 sq. ft.), giving you zone flexibility without over-spending on three heads you might not need. The DC inverter compressor claims up to 30% power savings over conventional fixed-speed units.
Owners consistently highlight the 32 dBa indoor noise level — roughly the sound of a quiet library — and the fact that the system includes two 16-foot copper line sets with installation kits. The app and Alexa voice control work seamlessly for changing modes and temperatures from anywhere. After one year of continuous use, one owner reported a monthly drop in their electric bill and confirmed the heat pump delivered warmth during a 6°F winter night without auxiliary heaters.
The drawbacks are installation-related: the indoor unit bracket holes didn’t align perfectly with the mounting plate for some users, and the instruction manual omits the step about opening the main service valve (a critical step that caused one owner 24 hours of troubleshooting). Professional installation is strongly recommended, and line-set vacuuming is mandatory. If you have HVAC experience, the DIY path is manageable, but the learning curve exists.
What works
- Very low 32 dBa indoor noise — library-quiet operation
- R454B refrigerant has lower global warming potential than R-410A
- Real-world /month reduction in electric bills reported
What doesn’t
- Bracket alignment issues on indoor unit mounting plate
- Manual skips critical valve-opening step; support responds but delay is frustrating
5. Goodman 2 Ton Heat Pump System with Multi Position Air Handler
The Goodman 2-ton system pairs the GLZS4BA2410 heat pump with the AMST24BU1300 multi-position air handler, creating a complete ducted solution for homes with existing forced-air ductwork. The 15.2 SEER2 rating is modest compared to the mini-splits on this list, but the system uses R-32 refrigerant — a lower-GWP option that many future codes will mandate — and the horizontal coil design improves airflow efficiency across the evaporator. The air handler can be configured for upflow, downflow, or horizontal left/right installation, making it versatile for tight attics or crawlspaces.
This is a single-stage system, meaning the compressor runs at 100% capacity until the thermostat is satisfied and then shuts off completely. It does not modulate like inverter-based units, so you will notice temperature swings of a few degrees before the system kicks back on. The trade-off is simplicity: fewer electronic components to fail, easier troubleshooting, and a proven scroll compressor that Goodman has been manufacturing for decades. Owners who have replaced 15-year-old units report immediate comfort improvement and lower utility bills.
Shipping damage is a recurring theme in owner feedback — several units arrived with dented casings or bent coil fins despite being shrink-wrapped on pallets. Goodman’s warranty covers the parts, but the installer may charge extra labor to straighten fins or replace cosmetic panels. The 10-year parts warranty is solid provided you register within 60 days of installation, and the R-32 charge eliminates the need for future retrofits when R-410A eventually phases down.
What works
- Multi-position air handler fits tight attic spaces
- R-32 refrigerant is future-proof against upcoming regs
- Simple scroll compressor — fewer electronics to fail
What doesn’t
- Single-stage operation causes noticeable temp swings
- Frequent cosmetic shipping damage reported
6. Goodman 3.5 Ton 14 SEER Package Heat Pump (GPH1442H41)
The GPH1442H41 is a packaged heat pump — everything (compressor, condenser, evaporator, and blower) sits in a single cabinet designed for slab or rooftop installation. This all-in-one form factor is ideal for mobile homes, manufactured houses, and properties without indoor mechanical space. The 14 SEER rating is entry-level for modern electric systems, but the real selling point is the 42,000 BTU heating capacity (3.5 tons), which provides ample warmth for homes up to roughly 2,100 sq. ft.
Installation simplicity is the standout feature here: there is no brazing, no running copper lines between indoor and outdoor units, and no refrigerant charging required — the unit ships fully sealed and pre-charged. The installer only needs to connect the ductwork, electrical supply, and thermostat wiring. Owners with tractors or boom lifts found the 400-pound weight manageable, but homes without equipment access will need a crane or a crew to maneuver the cabinet onto its curb.
Long-term reliability is the defining narrative. One verified owner reports owning three Goodman packaged units over 41 years, with the original two still running in a barn and workshop. However, a single critical review describes a unit that developed a fan wobble immediately after install, and the manufacturer’s warranty excludes labor. The lack of a 30-day return policy for installed units means any defect becomes a fight with the installer, not the manufacturer. Vet your contractor before ordering.
What works
- All-in-one packaged design — no line set or brazing needed
- Proven long-term reliability; owners report 15+ year lifespans
- Pre-charged and sealed — no field refrigerant work
What doesn’t
- 14 SEER is low compared to modern inverter systems
- No return policy for installed units; labor warranty gaps
7. Goodman 3 Ton 13.4 SEER2 Packaged Unit (GPCH33631)
The GPCH33631 is a cooling-only packaged unit — no heat pump, no heating function. This makes it a niche option for homes in climates where heating is handled by a separate furnace or where the unit supplements an existing heat source. The 13.4 SEER2 rating is the lowest on this list, which translates to higher operating costs per cooling hour compared to the 20+ SEER2 mini-splits above. However, the trade-off is a very straightforward installation: the packaged cabinet sits on a slab or rooftop and connects directly to your existing duct drop.
Installation requires no refrigerant handling, no line-set brazing, and no flushing of old copper lines — the unit arrives factory-charged and sealed. One owner installed it on a doublewide mobile home using a tractor and front-loader in a single afternoon. The 36,000 BTU cooling output covers up to 2,000 sq. ft. according to Goodman’s specifications, and the scroll compressor delivers the standard 10-year parts warranty when registered. In Florida, one owner reports three years of trouble-free operation through punishing heat and humidity.
The obvious limitation is the lack of heating — this unit cannot replace a heat pump or furnace. It also uses R-410A refrigerant, which faces a phasedown starting in 2025, meaning future service charges could become expensive. For homeowners who need a low-complexity AC replacement in a region where winter heating is already covered by gas, this packaged unit is a fast, reliable drop-in choice with minimal installation risk.
What works
- Simplest possible installation — no line set, no charging
- Heavy-duty scroll compressor with 10-year warranty
- Great for mobile homes with existing duct drops
What doesn’t
- Cooling only — no heating function; separate furnace required
- 13.4 SEER2 means higher electricity use per cooling hour
- R-410A refrigerant faces future availability restrictions
Hardware & Specs Guide
SEER2 vs. SEER — What Changed
SEER2 uses the M1 testing standard that accounts for static pressure losses in real duct systems, not just perfect lab conditions. A system rated 16 SEER under the old test often scores 14-15 SEER2 when retested. Always compare SEER2 numbers between units; mixing old SEER and new SEER2 figures inflates one side of the comparison. For all-electric systems, every full point of SEER2 difference represents roughly 7-10% annual energy savings.
HSPF2 — The Heating Efficiency Number
HSPF2 measures how efficiently a heat pump converts electricity into heat over an entire heating season. A rating of 10 HSPF2 or higher qualifies for federal tax credits under the Inflation Reduction Act. For cold climates, prioritize units with HSPF2 above 9.5 — anything lower means the system will rely heavily on expensive electric resistance backup strips when outdoor temps drop below 20°F.
Inverter vs. Single-Stage Compressors
Inverter (variable-speed) compressors ramp up and down to match the exact load, running continuously at partial capacity. This holds room temperature within 1°F of the setpoint and eliminates the rush of cold air followed by a warm drift. Single-stage scroll compressors run at full power until the thermostat clicks off, then restart minutes later. Inverter systems cost more upfront but pay back in comfort and lower peak electrical demand.
R-32 vs. R-410A Refrigerant
R-32 has a Global Warming Potential (GWP) of 675, roughly one-third that of R-410A (GWP 2,088). Newer systems like the Goodman 2-ton split system and DELLA mini-split are already shipping with R-32 or R454B. The EPA’s AIM Act phases down HFC production, meaning R-410A service charges will become more expensive over the next decade. Choosing an R-32 or R454B system now future-proofs your equipment against refrigerant shortages.
FAQ
Can an all-electric HVAC system heat my home when it’s below freezing outside?
How do I choose between a ductless mini-split and a central ducted system?
What does a 20+ SEER2 rating actually save me in dollars per year?
Can I install an all-electric HVAC system myself?
Final Thoughts: The Verdict
For most homeowners building a new system from scratch, the best all electric hvac systems winner is the Cooper & Hunter 36K Tri-Zone because its 24 SEER2 efficiency, genuine zone independence across three rooms, and included 25-foot line sets deliver the best balance of energy savings and whole-home comfort without requiring existing ductwork. If you need to connect to existing ducts and want variable-speed performance, grab the Senville 3 Ton Central — its -22°F heating capability makes it a true gas-furnace replacement. And for a budget-friendly multi-zone setup that still hits 20 SEER2, the DELLA 28K 2-Zone is the smartest value pick for smaller homes.