Lennox Air Conditioner Review

This review will cover Lennox’s strengths and weaknesses, compare all their air conditioner models, explain their special features, review their warranty coverage, talk about their HVAC accessories, and tell you what real Canadians and actual HVAC experts have to say about the brand.

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A new air conditioner is a big investment for your house, so it’s important to do plenty of research, brand comparisons, and price shopping before you settle on a specific model from a particular manufacturer.

To make that job easier for you, we’ve put together this handy guide that will tell you everything you need to know about Lennox air conditioners and the different models, features, and efficiency ratings the company offers.

Also Read: The Best Central Air Conditioners for Canadians

The Bottom Line

Lennox has over 100 years of experience in the HVAC industry, and they focus on quality-made air conditioners that boast great efficiency ratings and provide dependable comfort during the hot summer months.

They have plenty of models to choose from, and as long as you have the budget for a premium brand, then you’re sure to find a cooling solution from Lennox that suits your needs.

Even if you have a smaller budget but still want the prestige of the Lennox name, you might still be able to find a more affordable entry-level model that offers excellent efficiency and performance, and rebates could help to make the unit more within your means.

Lennox Customer Reviews

Homeowners are generally pleased with their Lennox air conditioning units. The majority report that their units operate quietly, efficiently, and reliably, with many highlighting the great features available across different models.

The units' quiet operation and energy efficiency are particularly praised, which stand out across various comments. For example, the Lennox Merit 13ACX, priced at $3,500, has been described as a solid choice for those new to the brand.

A few homeowners have encountered issues, notably with the reliability of certain models or inconsistent cooling performance. However, these instances seem to be outliers rather than the norm.

 

➤ Get the BEST Prices on Lennox air conditioners: Fill out a free quote request here

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Lennox Air Conditioner Model Series Overview

Good: Merit Series

The more affordable air conditioners in the Lennox line are from the Merit series, which features single- and two-stage air conditioners for reliable cooling in the summer.

Units in this series have a SEER rating between 13 and 17, including two with ENERGY STAR certification.

As these are the lower-end models in the Lennox product offering, these air conditioners aren’t compatible with many of the technologies and features available with the mid-range and premium models. However, one model does boast the Lennox Quantum Coil, which has been specifically designed for durable performance and corrosion-resistance.

Nonetheless, they have many of the same design elements to ensure quality, longevity, and quiet operation, and they have the same warranty terms as the premium units.

Better: Elite Series

The next step up in terms of price point, efficiency ratings, and features is the Lennox Elite Series models, and those include several ENERGY STAR certified air conditioners with SEER ratings between 15.5 and 20. Some even boast the ENERGY STAR Most Efficient in 2022 designation.

There are still single-stage models in this tier, but also more powerful and efficient variable-speed air conditioners that can give you the most cooling capacity for every dollar you spend on energy.

Certain models in this series are also compatible with great Lennox technologies like the Humiditrol dehumidification system and the iComfort smart thermostat, they all have noise-reducing features, and some are equipped with the Quantum Coil.

One thing these models don’t have, however, is warranty coverage that exceeds what's offered in the Merit line.

Best: Dave Lennox Signature Collection

Lennox’s top-of-the-line series is the Dave Lennox Signature Collection. The models in this tier are ENERGY STAR certified, have SEER ratings between 21 and 26, and won the ENERGY STAR Most Efficient of 2022 award.

There are two-stage and variable-capacity air conditioners in this series, and they boast very quiet operation, a standard 10-year parts warranty that doesn’t require registration, and compatibility with the iComfort smart thermostat.

The top-of-the-line model from Lennox comes standard with all the brand’s additional features and technologies, including the Precise Comfort design and Quantum Coil. It’s also part of the Ultimate Comfort System, which means it can be integrated with Lennox’s other premium HVAC products and accessories for optimized comfort and efficiency.

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Model Breakdown and Comparison

What are Warranty and Overall Grades? These grades are calculated using FurnacePrices.ca's own proprietary algorithm which weighs a range of criteria to generate an easy-to-compare score.

Warranty Grades take into account several warranty terms & exclusions found in the fine print to make it easier for ordinary homeowners to compare warranty coverage without having to tediously dig through dense warranty documents.

Overall Grades weigh general factors like efficiency and features, as well as the warranty grade. Note that a model with a low grade is not necessarily a bad choice (more affordable models will usually always score lower). The grades are meant more to make it easier to compare the relative strength of different models. A high end model will score better but also cost a lot more and not necessarily be the ideal option for everyone, just like a sports car will score higher than a minivan in many aspects but isn't necessarily the ideal choice for the average family (despite what your significant other may try to argue!)

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Comparison of Lennox’s Top Models

Get a quick estimate on the cost of a Lennox air conditioner with our calculator.

 

Dave Lennox Signature Collection SL28XCV

Read Full Dave Lennox Signature Collection SL28XCV Review

The SL28XCV is Lennox’s state-of-the-art air conditioner. It comes with all the technological compatibilities that Lennox offers and all the features that make the brand unique, including Precise Comfort, the operating system that controls the system’s automatic airflow adjustments. This is a variable-speed inverter air conditioner with a SEER of 28. It’s Lennox’s most powerful and efficient air conditioner, and also their most expensive. The thing about this model is that the ultra-high SEER means it’s going to cost a lot more than most homeowners want to spend on an air conditioner. Further, the SL28XCV is actually much more powerful than most Canadians will need to stay comfortable in the summer. Air conditioners like this are generally built for places like the Southern States, which have much longer and hotter summers and require super-efficient cooling systems. Here are the important details:

• Compressor: Variable-Speed
• SEER: Up to 28
• ENERGY STAR® certified? Yes
• Decibel rating: As low as 56
• Tier: Premium
• Ideal for: People who live in extremely hot climates with long summers and who need a very efficient air conditioner to combat the heat without costing too much to run all the time. That said, if you have the budget and just want the best A/C from a premium brand with all the bells and whistles, then the SL28XCV could be great for your home.

 

Dave Lennox Signature Collection XC21

Read Full Dave Lennox Signature Collection XC21 Review

This is a two-stage cooling system (though Lennox calls it multi-stage) that provides more reliable and even cooling than its single-stage counterparts, though it’s not as powerful as variable-speed alternatives. It has a SEER of 21 and was awarded the ENERGY STAR Most Efficient of 2022 designation. It’s also compatible with many of Lennox’s great technologies, such as Humiditrol and the iComfort smart thermostat, plus it’s equipped with SilentComfort technology for quiet operation. Two things it lacks are the Precise Comfort technology and Quantum Coil that the SL28XCV has, but this is still a very efficient and high-performing air conditioner. Let’s look at the specifications:

• Compressor: Two-stage
• SEER: 21
• ENERGY STAR certified? Yes
• Decibel rating: 69
• Tier: Premium
• Ideal for: Homeowners that have to contend with longer and hotter summers, such as in the Southern United States. This air conditioner is more efficient than what most Canadians will need to beat the heat, and it’s going to require a very large investment. But if it’s in your budget and you want a very efficient air conditioner, then this model will be powerful enough to cool any home in Canada.

 

Lennox Elite XC20

Read Full Lennox Elite XC20 Review

The best things about the XC20 include its variable-speed inverter compressor for even and precise temperature control, its quiet operation, and its energy efficiency. It operates as quietly as 65 decibels and has a SEER rating of 20, making it a little more powerful than you might need in Canada, but it will be more affordable than Lennox’s top-tier products. Thanks to its energy performance, the XC20 was awarded the ENERGY STAR Most Efficient of 2022 designation. It’s also compatible with the iComfort smart thermostat, which can give you access to some cool extra features.

• Compressor: Variable-speed
• SEER: 20
• ENERGY STAR certified? Yes
• Decibel rating: As low as 65
• Tier: Mid
• Ideal for: Canadians who want a highly-efficient air conditioner with variable-speed capacity, excellent humidity control, and quiet operation. This is a mid-range Lennox product, so it’s still going to require a substantial investment. If you're looking for something more affordable, then you might want to look at the two-stage model from the entry-level Merit series.

 

Elite EL18XCV

Read Full Elite EL18XCV Review

The EL18XCV is also a mid-range, variable-speed air conditioner with an inverter compressor, but it has a slightly lower SEER of 18, so it’s going to be a little more affordable. It’s worthwhile noting that this air conditioner falls into the 16 to 18 SEER range that’s ideal for most of Canada. Cooling systems in this range offer the best balance of purchase price, efficiency, and energy savings. The EL18XCV has some other appealing features as well, including the Quantum Coil and iComfort smart thermostat compatibility.

• Compressor: Variable-speed
• SEER: Up to 18
• ENERGY STAR® certified? Yes
• Decibel rating: As low as 70
• Tier: Mid
• Ideal for: Homeowners who want a powerful and efficient air conditioner that offers excellent moisture management and that can eliminate hot and cold spots around the house. The high-efficiency rating and variable-speed compressor make this air conditioner great for larger homes and parts of the country with warmer summers, but it will still require a decent investment.

 

Elite EL16XC1

Read Full Elite EL16XC1 Review

The mid-range Elite EL16XC1 is a single-stage air conditioner with a high-efficiency SEER of 17 and ENERGY STAR certification. It has noise-reducing design elements and Lennox’s Quantum Coil, but it’s not compatible with the iComfort smart thermostat, so it doesn’t have as many potential features as some other Lennox models. This will be a more affordable air conditioner, however, because it has a more basic single-stage compressor that can only operate at 100 percent capacity.

• Compressor: Single-stage
• SEER: Up to 17
• ENERGY STAR® certified? Yes
• Decibel rating: As low as 71
• Tier: Mid
• Ideal for: People who don’t have huge cooling demands and don’t need a super-powerful air conditioner, but who still want a reliable high-efficiency unit that will keep them comfortable and reduce energy costs. This is a more basic Lennox model, so it won’t cost quite as much as their more advanced units, but it also doesn’t have a few of the bells and whistles that some homeowners might want.

 

Elite XC13

Read Full Elite XC13 Review

This is the most basic and most affordable mid-range air conditioner that Lennox makes. The Elite XC13 is single-stage with a SEER of 15.5, and it’s one of the only models from the brand that isn't ENERGY STAR certified. Furthermore, this model doesn’t have any of Lennox’s special features or technological compatibilities. Although this air conditioner will still save you money compared to an older and less efficient model, it won’t produce the same energy savings as a higher-efficiency model, and it might not be eligible for certain rebates.

• Compressor: Single-stage
• SEER: Up to 15.5
• ENERGY STAR® certified? No
• Decibel rating: As low as 74
• Tier: Mid
• Ideal for: Canadians who love the Lennox name and want a reliable, high-quality air conditioner that doesn’t have any special features or cutting-edge technologies. The XC13 is a fairly standard model without any extras, and it also has a marginally lower efficiency rating that could make it better suited for slightly smaller spaces or milder climates.

 

Merit 16ACX

Read Full Merit 16ACX Review

The top-end model in Lennox’s lower-end series is the Merit 16ACX, a two-speed air conditioner with ENERGY STAR certification and great SEER rating. This model can also be paired with a furnace or air handler to provide enhanced humidity and temperature control. While the 16ACX doesn’t come with any additional features or special Lennox technologies, it’s a great option for people with a smaller budget who want a high-quality and high-efficiency air conditioner that has a little more to offer than a standard entry-level unit. Even though it’s entry-level, the Merit 16ACX’s high-efficiency rating and two-stage compressor make it well-equipped to keep any home in Canada cool through the summer months.

• Compressor: Two-stage
• SEER: 17
• ENERGY STAR certified? Yes
• Tier: Low
• Ideal for: Anybody looking for a premium furnace from a reputable brand that’s a little more affordable, but that doesn’t make you sacrifice efficiency and performance. The 16ACX is entry-level, but it has a more advanced two-stage compressor and a perfect SEER rating for Canadian summers, so it will keep any home cool through many heat waves over the years.

 

Merit ML14XC1

Read Full Merit ML14XC1 Review

Another model from the entry-level Merit tier, the ML14XC1 is a high-efficiency air conditioner with an ENERGY STAR qualifying 17 SEER rating. It has a single-stage compressor paired with Lennox’s proprietary Quantum Coil, so it’s built to withstand corrosion and rust from sources inside and outside your home. This is one of Lennox’s most affordable air conditioners, but it could still qualify for high-efficiency rebates, and it will help to cut your cooling bills throughout the summer months.

• Compressor: Single-stage
• SEER: Up to 17
• ENERGY STAR® certified? Yes
• Decibel rating: 73
• Tier: Low
• Ideal for: People who love the Lennox name and Lennox quality without having to invest a fortune for a premium high-efficiency air conditioner. This model should be powerful and efficient enough to cool just about any home in Canada, and you'll see energy savings month after month on your summer electricity bills.

 

Merit 13ACX

Read Full Merit 13ACX Review

Lennox’s Merit 13ACX is their most affordable, most basic, and least efficient air conditioner. It has a single-stage compressor, SEER of 13, and no ENERGY STAR certification. While this air conditioner will cost less than other Lennox products, it won’t save you as much on your cooling bills compared to the high-efficiency models. It also might not qualify for the same rebates, and it will likely operate best in smaller homes or parts of Canada that experience milder summers. Finally, the Merit 13ACX doesn’t have any of Lennox’s special features or technologies, though it does have all the same design elements for quality and longevity.

• Compressor: Single-stage
• SEER: Up to 13
• ENERGY STAR® certified? No
• Decibel rating: As low as 76
• Tier: Low
• Ideal for: Canadians who live in smaller spaces and who have lower cooling requirements, or people in parts of Canada that don’t experience long heat waves and high-humidity days. The Merit 13ACX is a comparatively affordable option if you want a premium Lennox air conditioner, but just know you won’t reduce your electricity bills the way you could with a high-efficiency model.

 

Discontinued Lennox Air Conditioners

Discontinued models are no longer being made by the manufacturer, but they may still be available through your local HVAC dealers for some time.

Discontinued Dave Lennox Signature Collection XC25:

Read Full Lennox XC25 Review

SEER – 26
Air conditioner type – Variable-capacity
ENERGY STAR rated? Yes
Tier – Premium

Discontinued Dave Lennox Signature Collection SL18XC1:

Read Full Lennox SL18XC1 Review

SEER – 18.5
Air conditioner type – Single-stage
ENERGY STAR rated? Yes
Tier – Premium

Discontinued Lennox Elite XC16:

Read Full Lennox XC16 Review

SEER – 17.2
Air conditioner type – Multi-stage
ENERGY STAR rated? Yes
Tier – Mid

Lennox’s Quietest Air Conditioners

Lennox knows that part of having a comfortable home means having a quiet home. That’s why they focus attention on making air conditioners with quiet operation, and they do quite a good job, especially with their top-of-the-line unit.

Lennox achieves noise-reduction through a few means. For one thing, variable-speed compressors are naturally quieter than other types of compressors because they operate at lower speeds, and also because the speed changes are gradual.

Beyond that, their premium-tier Dave Lennox Signature Collection air conditioners are equipped with SilentComfort technology. That includes components that resist vibration, a specially shaped fan blade that increases airflow and reduces noise, and thick insulation to dampen operational sounds.

Here are some examples of Lennox’s quietest air conditioners:

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Exclusive Features from Lennox

 

Feature 1: Humiditrol

How Lennox describes it: Home comfort and air quality that you can actually feel. A whole-home dehumidification system that makes a difference.

What it is in plain language: Humiditrol is a whole-home dehumidification system that has been specifically engineered to pair with Lennox cooling systems. That means it integrates with the HVAC system to provide dehumidification to the entire house at the same time. In fact, the system can remove up to 150 liters of moisture from the air each day.

Is it more than just hype? High humidity levels inside the home can make the air harder to cool, and that means your air conditioner will have to work harder to make the space comfortable. Not only will this put additional strain on your A/C, but it will also mean your energy bills go up. Furthermore, too much moisture in the air can damage wood and lead to mold and mildew problems. In other words, if excess moisture is a problem in your home in the summer, then the Humiditrol system could be a great solution. That being said, Lennox is far from the only brand to make a whole-home humidification system. In fact, just about every HVAC manufacturer makes them, including premium-tier brands like Carrier and Trane, as well as entry-level and mid-range brands like Amana, Goodman, and York. One thing to be said about Humiditrol, however, is that when you integrate it with the right components, it can remove more moisture each day than a lot of competitor systems.

Feature 2: SilentComfort Technology

How Lennox describes it: For peace, quiet, and comfort, SilentComfort reduces operating noise so that you can rest peacefully, even if the air conditioner is installed outside your bedroom window.

What it is in plain language: SilentComfort is a special feature offered by Lennox that allows for the quieter operation of their air conditioners so your home will be the right temperature without any of the distracting noise often associated with conventional cooling systems.

SilentComfort is actually a collection of design features that includes:

• A special fan motor that’s equipped with an electronic sensor
• Vibration-resistant components
• A specially designed fan blade
• Thicker insulation

Is it more than just hype? The air conditioners of old were notoriously loud, so it’s important that manufacturers like Lennox have taken steps to make their products quieter. In fact, Lennox is doing a great job, especially with their higher-end models, and they have a few air conditioners that are contenders for some of the quietest on the market. However, many other brands are taking similar steps to tackle operational noise, and some are even doing a better job. For example, Carrier’s state-of-the-art premium unit has similar noise-reducing features, called the Silencer System II, and it operates as quietly as 51 decibels. Beyond that, there are many other HVAC brands that have similar noise-reducing design elements, including Carrier, York, Amana, Napoleon, Coleman, and more.

Feature 3: iComfort Smart Thermostat

How Lennox describes it: A smart thermostat that’s flexible and adaptable and that can optimize the efficiency and performance of your furnace and air conditioner.

What it is in plain language: iComfort smart thermostats (there are several models) are smart thermostats built by Lennox and designed to work with Lennox furnaces and air conditioners. These are Wi-Fi enabled programmable thermostats that can give you remote access to the system’s settings through a computer or mobile device.

Is it more than just hype? Lennox’s iComfort ultra-smart thermostat really does have some great features, including geofencing, learning capabilities, automatic adjustments to fan settings based on air quality and pollen levels, integration with smart home devices, and automatic maintenance reminders and updates. Furthermore, smart thermostats have been proven to reduce energy costs. While the iComfort smart thermostat can in fact improve performance, comfort, and efficiency, most HVAC brands these days have their own proprietary smart thermostats, some with similar features to the iComfort, including Trane, Daikin, Carrier, Comfortmaker, Rheem, Coleman, and more.

Feature 4: Ultimate Comfort System

How Lennox describes it: An intelligent whole-home comfort system that seamlessly integrates Dave Lennox Signature Collection equipment to deliver consistent, clean air.

What it is in plain language: The Ultimate Comfort System is a collection of Lennox products that combines their top-tier variable-speed furnace, the SL28XCV air conditioner, the iComfort S30 thermostat, the iHarmony zoning system, and the PureAir S air purification system.

Is it more than just hype? Buying all the components of the Ultimate Comfort System would require a very hefty investment that would be prohibitive for a lot of homeowners. Furthermore, some of the components, such as the SL28XCV air conditioner, are more powerful than a lot of Canadians need. While the Ultimate Comfort System includes high-performing HVAC equipment, you could also purchase more affordable components and pair them with a smart thermostat and a whole-home air purifier.

Feature 5: Quantum Coil

How Lennox describes it: An exclusive coil with a rigorous design that delivers superior performance and energy savings.

What it is in plain language: An air conditioner coil is the component where the refrigerant inside the system absorbs heat, thereby cooling your home. Lennox’s Quantum Coil is made from a proprietary aluminum alloy that only Lennox uses. It’s specifically designed to resist rust and corrosion that could be caused by salt, oxidation, and moisture.

Is it more than just hype? The coil is an important air conditioner component, and its performance can indeed impact energy efficiency. If the coil becomes compromised, then the air conditioner won’t perform optimally or efficiently, and corrosion can also cause small holes and refrigerant leaks. Corrosion can also happen because of volatile organic compounds, so this isn't just a problem for people in coastal areas. It’s important to choose an air conditioner that’s built with quality components, but Lennox isn't the only manufacturer tackling this problem. Other brands that offer special coils include American Standard, Napoleon, Trane, and Armstrong. Moreover, air conditioner coils will be protected under warranty, so if something does happen during the coverage period, then your investment will be protected.

Feature 6: PermaGuard Cabinets

How Lennox describes it: A cabinet that provides long-lasting protection from corrosion and rust.

What it is in plain language: PermaGuard refers to a collection of design elements that protect the air conditioner cabinet from rust, corrosion, and damage. PermaGuard refers to a heavy-gauge, galvanized steel cabinet, a coil guard, a durable zinc-coated steel base, and a baked-on powder paint finish.

Is it more than just hype? Air conditioner cabinets stay outside all year long. In Canada, the winters can be long and harsh, and that could potentially mean trouble for the outdoor unit. It is important to invest in an air conditioner that has been built to withstand the elements because if the cabinet becomes compromised, then it could pose problems for important internal components. While Lennox’s PermaGuard cabinets are indeed durable and long-lasting, most HVAC manufacturers take similar steps to safeguard their units—but they don’t all give it a fancy name. Some examples of other brands that have named this collection of protective design elements include Carrier’s WeatherArmor Protection and Bryant’s DuraGuard™ Plus.

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Warranty Analysis

 

Lennox’s standard warranty terms

Every Lennox air conditioner comes with a warranty that covers parts and compressors, but the length and terms of the warranty will depend on the series.

Here’s a breakdown of the warranty terms for the different series:

• Merit models come with a five-year parts warranty (Lennox calls this covered components) and a five-year compressor warranty
• Elite models come with a five-year parts warranty and a 10-year compressor warranty
• Signature models come with a 10-year parts warranty and a 10-year compressor warranty

There’s also an additional Comfort Shield Labor Warranty you can purchase separately from a third-party provider that will cover labour costs should your air conditioner need repairs.

Extended warranty terms are available with registration

Most HVAC manufacturers encourage you to register your equipment by providing standard warranty terms (listed above) and extended registered terms.

After installation, you'll have 60 days to register the air conditioner with Lennox. When you register, you'll be able to take advantage of the extended registered warranty. Lennox has something called Warranty Your Way, which gives you two ways to apply your registered warranty:

Registration is fast and easy. It'll only take a few minutes, and it’s well worth it for the extra coverage you'll get. You can register online or by phone, and all you have to do is provide Lennox with:

• The serial/model number of the air conditioner
• The installation date
• Your contact details

 

Conditions and restrictions

A warranty is like a contract, and there are conditions you’ll have to abide by to keep it valid. Here are some examples of common HVAC warranty terms and conditions that you might have to pay attention to in order to keep Lennox from voiding your warranty coverage:

• Hire a licensed HVAC professional to install the unit
• Hire a licensed HVAC professional to perform annual maintenance on the unit
• Document all annual maintenance
• Only install compatible HVAC components with the system

 

How the Lennox warranty measures up to the competition

You might expect that paying a premium price for a high-end air conditioner means that you're going to get the best warranty protection available. But the truth is that Lennox doesn’t offer superior warranty coverage.

In fact, their warranty terms are only standard for the industry, and there are many (more affordable) brands that offer better protection. York and Goodman, for example, are both economy brands, and yet they both offer lifetime compressor warranties for select models.

And while Lennox does offer a 12-year registered parts/compressor warranty for their top-tier units, so do Daikin, American Standard, and Trane.

Furthermore, several brands have started adopting unit replacement warranties. That means the manufacturer will provide a new air conditioner if the compressor fails during the coverage period. Brands that offer these include Goodman, KeepRite, Amana, Daikin, and Rheem. In fact, even Carrier has recently started offering a unit replacement warranty for their top-of-the-line air conditioner.

One thing that is unique and cool about Lennox is the Warranty Your Way program. No other brand gives you the option of choosing an extended parts/compressor warranty OR adding a labour warranty to the standard warranty.

Be a happy homeowner when you purchase a Lennox air conditioner. Fill out our online form and ask for a free quote.

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Is a Lennox Air Conditioner Right for Me?

 

What’s your budget like?

Lennox air conditioners are some of the most expensive on the market. For a Lennox model, you can expect to pay somewhere between $3,000 and $7,500 or more, depending on the tier, model, and size.

While Lennox does have a long history in the business and a great reputation for making lasting, quality products that are highly efficient, there are more affordable brands out there that also make high-quality, high-efficiency air conditioners.

Some examples include mid-range brands like Daikin and Amana, as well as entry-level brands like York and Goodman.

Will you be there long enough to enjoy it?

When you buy an expensive high-efficiency air conditioner, the hope is that you will recoup some of the initial investment through long-term energy savings and possibly through warranty coverage.

However, if you plan to move in the next couple of years, then you won’t have a chance to see any of those savings.

In that case, buying a premium Lennox air conditioner, especially one of their top-tier models, probably isn't worth it. Remember, you won’t be able to enjoy the energy-savings.

Beyond that, high-end HVAC appliances don’t typically add value to a home, so you won’t see any return on investment when you sell.

If you do plan to move in the near future and need to replace your air conditioner, you might be better off going with a more affordable brand.

Does Lennox have the SEER rating you want?

Lennox has a decent selection of air conditioners with SEER ratings ranging from 13 all the way to 28. In other words, whether you're looking for something with standard efficiency, high efficiency, or ultra-high efficiency, Lennox should have something to suit your needs.

In general, the more efficient the unit is, the more you'll save on cooling bills. ENERGY STAR certification is a clear indication that a unit is high-efficiency and high-performing, and it can increase rebate eligibility. In this area, Lennox also has a number of units to choose from.

However, remember that the ideal SEER for most parts of Canada is between 16 and 18. Any lower and your energy bills might not drop the way you want. Any higher and the unit might cost more than you'll ever recoup through energy savings.

Does the brand have desired features?

Lennox has some novel and unique features and technological compatibilities, including their Quantum Coil, PermaGuard cabinets, iComfort thermostats, Humiditrol, and the noise-reducing SilentComfort design elements.

As we mentioned earlier, there are different brands that offer comparable technologies. Furthermore, there are other brands that offer features and technologies that Lennox doesn’t.

Knowing what else is out there can help you make the right choice for a new air conditioner, so here are some examples of other available technologies that Lennox doesn’t have:

• Self-diagnostics from Amana and Goodman
• Antimicrobial components from Armstrong
• Customized climate setting options from York, Coleman, and Luxaire
• Special compressor designs from Goodman, Trane, and Rheem
• Built-in touchscreen monitors from Luxaire and Coleman

 

Are you concerned with warranty coverage?

We discussed that Lennox doesn’t have the most comprehensive warranty coverage on the market, though they do have the unique Warranty Your Way program.

But if long-term protection for your investment is important, then there are other brands you can consider, such as York, Trane, KeepRite, Amana, Goodman, Rheem, Daikin, and American Standard.

Just note that every manufacturer will have similar warranty conditions, such as requiring professional installation and professional annual maintenance. In other words, no matter what brand you buy, you'll still have to pay for those services in order to keep your warranty valid.

What's more important than the brand name?

For some people, a brand name is an indication of status and quality, so it’s an important consideration when investing in an air conditioner.

And while Lennox is a premium brand name with a reputation for quality, the name on the side of your air conditioner cabinet isn't always as important as you might think.

Here's one reason: the vast majority of HVAC brands out there are actually made by only a handful of parent companies. For example, the company that’s responsible for Lennox also makes air conditioners under the Armstrong brand, and their models are much more affordable.

Another thing you have to consider with certain brands is how easy it is to get repairs and replacement parts. We mentioned earlier that Lennox parts can be a little harder to come by, and that might mean you have to suffer through a heat wave with a broken air conditioner for longer than you might otherwise.

One of the most important factors beyond brand is the HVAC contractor you work with. A professional contractor will be licensed, trained, and insured, but they’ll also be able to:

• Help you choose a new air conditioner that’s compatible with your existing HVAC equipment
• Size your air conditioner properly for your home
• Install the A/C properly and safely
• Ensure the air conditioner is working optimally and at peak efficiency
• Be available down the road for annual maintenance, repairs, and emergency service
• Help you integrate the right components and devices (like smart thermostats or air purifiers) to get the most from your cooling system

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Lennox Add-ons, Extras, and Thermostats

 

Programmable Thermostats

Programmable thermostats aren't Wi-Fi enabled, but you can use them to create a variety of temperature schedules for different times of day and different days of the week. Although these devices can’t learn your behaviours like some smart thermostats, they can still save you money on energy bills. Lennox makes several programmable ComfortSense thermostats, which have features like energy reporting, maintenance reminders, home/away modes, and dual fuel operation.

Zoning Systems

Zoning systems let you program unique temperature settings in different parts of the house. They can be great if your house is large, if it has rooms you don’t use very often, or if it has rooms with special temperature requirements, like a sunroom. Lennox has several zoning systems available that are compatible with different HVAC products and that are suitable for homes of various sizes.

Air Purifiers

There are a number of air purification systems that can clean the air in your home by removing contaminants like dust, dander, pollen, smoke, pathogens, mold, VOCs, and more. These devices can be good for families with someone who suffers from allergies or asthma, homes that are in areas where dirt/dust, smog, or smoke is an issue, or anybody who’s concerned with the spread of viruses and bacteria. Lennox has a number of air purification systems available, such as air purifiers, media air filters, HEPA filters, and UV germicidal lights.

Humidifiers and Dehumidifiers

Moisture problems in the house can come in the form of too much moisture or too little, and both pose their own sets of challenges. Too much moisture can make the air less comfortable, make your air conditioner work harder, and cause mold/mildew. Too little moisture can cause cracking wood, static, and dry skin. Lennox makes whole-home humidifiers and dehumidifiers, including their Humiditrol system, as well as Healthy Climate products.

Heat and Energy Recovery Ventilators

Heat and energy recovery ventilators (HRVs and ERVs) are ventilation systems that provide your home with a constant supply of fresh air without putting additional strain on your HVAC system. They accomplish this by exchanging heat between the incoming and outgoing air (HRVs) or by exchanging heat and moisture between the two air sources (ERVs). Lennox makes Healthy Climate HRVs and ERVs that can be great for homes that don’t have enough ventilation. HRVs are great for cold climates and ERVs are ideal for places with humid winters.

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About the Company

Lennox International was founded by Dave Lennox back in 1895 as a furnace manufacturing company, and they have since expanded their business to include air conditioners and other HVAC equipment and appliances as well.

Lennox is a trusted name in residential heating and cooling systems, and their focus on quality, dependability, and energy efficiency have earned them a great reputation in North America’s HVAC industry.

Eager to learn more about Lennox air conditioners? Fill out an online quote request, and one of our representatives will be happy to provide you with a free, no obligation quote.

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Lennox FAQs

 

How long will a Lennox air conditioner last?

Lennox says their air conditioners last an average of 10 to 12 years, and this is perfectly in line with the warranty coverage they provide. Warranties are often a good indication of how long a manufacturer expects their products to perform reliably and efficiently. You can get the most of your air conditioner by installing it professionally, taking care of annual maintenance, running it at an optimal temperature, and addressing repairs promptly.

Is Lennox better than Carrier?

Carrier and Lennox are comparable brands in a lot of ways. Lennox does have a few additional features that Carrier doesn’t, but they both have similar offerings in terms of price points, model selection, compressor types, efficiency ratings, warranty coverage, quality, and reputation.

How does Lennox compare to Trane?

Trane is another major central air conditioner brand that many would consider in a similar tier to Lennox. They’re both on the premium end of manufacturers, and both offer pricey high-end models with great energy efficiency and quiet operation. Ultimately what matters more is the specific model you choose, and that it’s installed by a qualified professional working for an established HVAC company.

Should I buy a Lennox air conditioner?

Lennox air conditioners aren't for everyone. For one thing, they're very expensive. Moreover, you have to ask yourself whether Lennox has what you're looking for in terms of features and warranty. Lennox is a reputable brand that makes quality high-efficiency air conditioners, so as long as they have what you want and have a model in your budget, then chances are you'll be happy with the performance.