How much does a Lennox air conditioner cost?
How much does a Lennox air conditioner cost?
$1,500 – $6,000 air conditioner cost (unit only)
$3,500 – $10,000 average total installed cost
Lennox air conditioner prices
A Lennox air conditioner costs $3,500 to $10,000 on average with installation, depending on the size and model. Lennox air conditioner prices are $1,500 to $6,000+ for the unit alone. Budget-friendly Merit models cost $1,500 to $3,500, while the mid-range Elite Series collection costs $3,000 to $5,000 before installation.
| Series | Average installed cost | SEER ratings | SEER2 ratings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Merit Series | $3,500 – $7,500 | Up to 17 | Up to 18.0 |
| Elite Series | $5,000 – $10,000 | Up to 20 | Up to 20.2 |
| Dave Lennox Signature Collection |
$7,000 – $15,000+ | Up to 26 | Up to 25.8 |
Merit Series
The Merit Series air conditioners cost $1,500 to $3,500 for the unit alone or $3,500 to $7,500 including installation. These Merit units are the most affordable of the Lennox lines but the least energy efficient. They offer basic features including single-stage operation and limited sound insulation.
The Merit Series includes the following warranty:
5 years on covered components
5 years on compressor
20 years on heat exchanger
Elite Series
The Elite Series AC units cost $3,000 to $6,000 not including installation or $5,000 to $10,000 fully installed. Mid-range in price and efficiency among Lennox air conditioners, the Elite models offer more features, including two-stage operation, some sound insulation, and advanced technologies like variable-speed fan motors.
The Elite Series includes the following warranty:
5 years on covered components
10 years on compressor
20 years or Limited Lifetime on heat exchanger (depending upon model)
Dave Lennox Signature Collection
Lennox's Signature Collection is the most energy-efficient and expensive at $7,000 to $15,000 installed, depending on the unit size and features. Signature units use premium materials and build quality. They also offer more advanced features, including variable-speed compressors and fans, humidity control, smart capabilities, and noise reduction technologies.
The Signature Collection includes the following warranty:
10 years on covered components
10 years on compressor
20 years or Limited Lifetime on heat exchanger (depending upon model)
Lennox air conditioner cost by size
The cost of a Lennox air conditioner ranges from $1,500 to $6,000 for the unit alone, depending on its size or cooling capacity. Each ton of size represents 12,000 BTU of cooling power and cools roughly 450 to 600 square feet, meaning the larger your home, the more tonnage you need.
| AC unit size | Cooling capacity | Average unit price | Average installed cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.5 ton | 18,000 BTU | $1,500 – $5,000 | $3,500 – $9,000 |
| 2 ton | 24,000 BTU | $1,600 – $5,200 | $3,600 – $9,200 |
| 2.5 ton | 30,000 BTU | $1,700 – $5,400 | $3,700 – $9,400 |
| 3 ton | 36,000 BTU | $1,800 – $5,600 | $3,800 – $9,600 |
| 3.5 ton | 42,000 BTU | $1,900 – $5,800 | $3,900 – $9,800 |
| 4 ton | 48,000 BTU | $2,000 – $6,000 | $4,000 – $10,000 |
| 5 ton | 60,000 BTU | $2,500 – $6,000+ | $4,500 – $10,000+ |
When choosing an AC unit size, consider not only the square footage of your home, but also your home’s insulation, layout, sun exposure, and climate, which can all affect the unit’s ability to keep your home cool.
Lennox AC unit cost by model
Lennox offers a wide range of central air conditioning units to meet different needs and budgets, from their lower-tier Merit units to the ultra-efficient and costly Dave Lennox Signature Collection. The following table provides pricing for their most popular air conditioners.
| Model | Average unit cost | Total installed cost | AC unit features |
|---|---|---|---|
| ML14XC1 | $2,500 – $4,500 | $4,500 – $8,500 |
|
| ML17XC1 | $2,900 – $5,500 | $4,900 – $9,500 |
|
| EL16XC1 | $3,200 – $6,000 | $5,200 – $10,000 |
|
| EL18XCV | $4,800 – $6,400 | $6,800 – $10,400 |
|
| SL28XCV | $7,000 – $10,000+ | $9,000 – $15,000+ |
|
Lennox uses specific model naming to denote different features and specifications of their AC units. Understanding how to read the model number can help you choose the right unit for your home. For example, to interpret the model number ML14XC1:
ML: Represents the product tier, which for this unit is the Merit series by Lennox.
For Elite Series, the model number starts with EL.
For Signature Collection, the model number will begin with SL.
14: Indicates the nominal SEER rating of the unit, which is 14 in this case.
X: Denotes the type of refrigerant used, which is industry standard R-410A refrigerant.
C: Signifies the unit type, meaning it’s an air conditioner (condenser).
1: Refers to the number of cooling stages, meaning this is a single-stage compressor.
Two-stage compressors are labeled with a number 2.
Variable speed compressors are labeled with a V.
Lennox air conditioner prices by SEER rating
The cost for a Lennox air conditioner averages $3,500 to $10,000 with installation, depending on the SEER rating. A higher SEER rating means a more efficient unit, providing a cooler home while using less energy. Higher SEER units cost more initially but pay for themselves over time with lower electric bills.
SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) ratings measure the air conditioner's cooling efficiency and energy use. The newer SEER2 ratings use more realistic testing conditions to determine the cooling efficiency in hotter climates. Since 2023, both ratings may be found on air conditioner labels.
| SEER rating | SEER2 rating* | Average installed cost | Energy efficiency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Up to 14 SEER | 13.2 – 13.4 | $3,500 – $6,000 | Standard efficiency units |
| 15 – 16 SEER | 14.1 – 14.7 | $3,800 – $7,500 | High-efficiency units |
| 17 – 18 SEER | 15.0– 16.2 | $4,500 – $8,000 | High-efficiency units |
| 19 – 21 SEER | 16.5 – 18.5 | $5,000 – $10,000 | Very high-efficiency units |
| 22 – 24 SEER | 20.5 – 23.0 | $5,500 – $13,000 | Maximum efficiency units |
| 26 – 28 SEER | 23.0 – 25.8 | $7,000 – $15,000+ | Maximum efficiency units |
*The actual SEER2 rating for a particular unit may vary depending on the specific model and testing conditions.
Lennox AC installation cost factors
Some key factors that affect the cost of installing a new Lennox central air conditioning system include the AC model, size, and efficiency rating. Other factors include:
Existing ductwork: Expect additional costs if your home needs ductwork replacements or modifications. The average cost to replace ductwork is $1,400 to $5,600.
Labor rates: Installation is typically more expensive in areas with higher labor and living costs. More experienced installers may charge higher rates.
Additional equipment: Extras such as new thermostats, a whole-house air purifier system, or electrical service upgrades add to the overall price.
Permits: Permit fees range from $100 to $250 per system for an AC installation or up to $1,500 when new ductwork is needed.
Warranty: Lennox's extended warranty options add to the cost but provide extra coverage.
Accessibility issues: Installing an AC unit in tight spaces or areas with difficult access results in more labor time and higher costs.
Lennox prices vs. other air conditioner brands
The average $3,000 to $8,500 price range covers the cost for most central air conditioner installations. While the best air conditioner brands cost more up front, they provide better comfort and energy savings in the long run. Lennox is among those higher priced brands and is known for their quality and energy efficiency.
| Brand | Average installed cost | SEER2 rating |
|---|---|---|
| Lennox air conditioner | $3,500 – $10,000 | Up to 25.8 |
| Amana air conditioner prices | $2,800 – $7,500 | Up to 22.5 |
| American Standard air conditioner prices | $3,500 – $8,000 | Up to 21.5 |
| Bryant air conditioner prices | $2,300 – $7,000 | Up to 24.0 |
| Carrier air conditioner prices | $3,000 – $15,000 | Up to 24.0 |
| Goodman air conditioner prices | $3,200 – $6,500 | Up to 24.5 |
| Heil air conditioner prices | $3,000 – $9,000+ | Up to 19.0 |
| Rheem air conditioner prices | $3,000 – $8,500 | Up to 20.5 |
| Ruud air conditioner prices | $3,000 – $8,500 | Up to 20.5 |
| Trane air conditioner prices | $5,000 – $25,000 | Up to 21.5 |
| York air conditioner prices | $3,400 – $10,500 | Up to 20.0 |
How to save money on a Lennox air conditioner
Follow these tips to ensure your new Lennox air conditioner delivers the perfect blend of comfort, efficiency, and affordability:
Right-size your cooling: Choose the right-sized unit for your home's square footage and cooling needs. An oversized system wastes energy and money, while an undersized one struggles to keep your home cool.
Invest in efficiency: Look for Lennox air conditioners with high SEER or SEER2 ratings. The higher the efficiency rating, the lower your energy consumption and utility bills. Consider multi-stage models for even greater efficiency and reduced wear and tear.
Investigate rebates and incentives: Many utility companies and government programs offer rebates or tax credits for installing energy-efficient air conditioners.
Install smart solutions: A programmable thermostat costs $160 to $450 with installation. This investment pays for itself over time by letting you adjust temperatures based on your schedule and preferences, minimizing wasted energy and keeping your cooling costs under control.
Control your settings: Keep your air conditioning thermostat at 78° F when you're home and higher when you're away to reduce your energy use. Remember, each degree below 78° F translates to an 8% increase in energy consumption.
Lennox air conditioner FAQs
Is Lennox a good air conditioner brand?
Lennox is generally considered a very good air conditioner brand and consistently ranks among the top brands in the industry. They offer some of the most efficient air conditioners on the market and use high-quality materials backed by strong warranties.
Who sells Lennox air conditioners?
Authorized Lennox dealers and distributors sell and install Lennox heating and cooling products.
How long do Lennox air conditioners last?
The average lifespan for a Lennox air conditioner is between 15 and 20 years with proper care and maintenance, with some high-end models exceeding that range.
What efficiency ratings do Lennox air conditioners have?
Lennox ACs have efficiency ratings from 14 to 26 SEER, though the XC25 model exceeds that with a rating of 28 SEER. The high-end Signature Collection has SEER ratings from 17 to 26, the mid-range Elite Series is from 16 to 20, and the economical Merit Series ranges from 15 to 17 SEER.
What is the difference between SEER and SEER2 ratings?
Introduced in 2023, SEER2 takes the previous SEER energy efficiency ratings a step further by evaluating the cooling performance in more realistic testing conditions, specifically those for high-temperature climates.
Since the new rating is designed to measure efficiency in high temperatures, homes in the Southeast and Southwest should look for SEER2 ratings of 16+ on the unit label, which indicates better efficiency in extreme heat.
Where are Lennox air conditioners made?
Lennox International Inc. manufactures many of its air conditioner products in the US as well as some international locations. The high-end Signature Collection was manufactured in Iowa before a tragic tornado damaged the facility in 2018. Now, most of the mid-to-high-end air conditioners are made in the main plant in Dallas, Texas.
Getting estimates from Lennox AC unit installers
When choosing an air conditioner installation company near you, seek out reputable Lennox installers and adhere to the following recommendations:
Get estimates from a minimum of 3 authorized Lennox installers, allowing you to compare prices, services, and warranties.
Ensure each installer holds the necessary licenses, insurance, and compliance with local regulations.
Look for positive reviews for AC installers on sites like HomeGuide and Google.
Request references from previous customers. Don't hesitate to reach out to those customers to inquire about the quality of the installer’s work and professionalism.
Confirm the warranty coverage for both the Lennox unit and the installation work.
Convey your requirements, including home size, ductwork condition, and any special considerations for a more accurate estimate.
Discuss the energy efficiency of the proposed Lennox unit, getting recommendations for a SEER rating that ensures long-term energy savings.
Confirm the installation timeline, considering factors like unit availability, seasonal demand, and installation complexity.
Clarify payment terms, including the required deposit, payment schedule, and acceptable payment methods. Be cautious of contractors demanding a large upfront payment.
Request a written contract detailing the specific model, labor and material costs, warranty terms, and the expected completion date.
Questions to ask a Lennox air conditioner installer
A qualified and experienced air conditioner installer should be willing and able to answer the following questions:
Are you an authorized Lennox dealer?
How many years have you been installing Lennox air conditioners?
Can you provide references with contact information from previous Lennox installations?
Which Lennox air conditioner models do you recommend for my home’s size and cooling needs?
What is the SEER rating of the recommended Lennox units?
What is the warranty coverage for the Lennox air conditioner and the installation work?
Do you handle the entire installation process, including obtaining the necessary permits?
How soon can you start the installation and how long will it take?
Do you offer routine maintenance services for Lennox air conditioners? Are there any special maintenance considerations or requirements?
Are there any available rebates or incentives for purchasing a Lennox air conditioner?
What payment options do you accept, and what are the standard terms?
Will you provide a written contract outlining all terms and details of the installation?
Using our proprietary cost database, in-depth research, and collaboration with industry experts, we deliver accurate, up-to-date pricing and insights you can trust, every time.