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We recommend the best products through an independent review process, and advertisers do not influence our picks. We may receive compensation if you visit partners we recommend. Read our advertiser disclosure for more info.

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How Much Does a Lennox Air Conditioner Cost?

Average National Cost
? All cost data throughout this article are collected using the RS Means construction materials database.
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$5,000 - $13,000

Find costs near you.

Updated On

January 11, 2024

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Lennox offers excellent value across its entire range of products, including air conditioners, furnaces, heat pumps, mini-split systems and more.

On average, homeowners pay around $9,000 for a Lennox air conditioner, but pricing hinges on various factors. To give you the most accurate cost information possible, we’ve sifted through customer reviews, talked to top HVAC companies, and used a database of building materials. We’ll cover the cost and efficiency of each unit, compare Lennox’s models to other brands’ offerings, and conclude with some general advice for purchasing a new air conditioner.

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HVAC Installation
In general, you can expect to pay between $5,540 to $10,980 per HVAC unit, installation costs, and removal of your old unit.
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Furnace Replacement
In general, you can expect to pay between $4,000 and $7,000, including installation, old furnace removal, and labor.
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Heat Pump Installation
In general, you can expect to pay between $3,000 and $35,000, but most homeowners spend between $5,800 and $7,500.
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Highlights
  • Lennox AC units are premium and come at a higher price tag than competitors.
  • We recommend a Lennox unit if you’re looking for maximum efficiency and solid warranty options.
  • Lennox is likely going to be too expensive for those shopping on a budget.

What Does a Lennox AC Unit Cost?

Though Lennox air conditioners are classified in the premium, high-end price range for package air conditioning units, the company carries more air conditioners than most competitors, from high-efficiency units at a premium price point to affordable ACs suitable for homeowners on a budget. Lennox’s ACs, like Lennox furnaces, are backed by the company’s industry-leading warranty, giving you peace of mind that your new air conditioner will be protected throughout its life.

Lennox’s air conditioners are divided into three categories:

  • The Dave Lennox Signature Series is where you’ll find the company’s premium options, with an average cost between $7,000 and $13,000.
  • The Elite Series is the company’s middle-of-the-road product range.
  • The Merit Series offers excellent value for the money, with prices falling between $5,000 and $9,000, depending on the unit size you need.
Low CostAverage CostHigh Cost
$5,000$9,000$13,000

Fast Facts

Unit Pricing

Low

$5,000

High

 $14,000

Sound Level

Low

59 Decibels

High

76 Decibels

Efficiency Rating

Highest Option

25.8

Lowest Option

13.0

Available Units

Unit Types

Split-system, packaged, ductless, heat pump


How Much Do Lennox Air Conditioner Units Cost by Model?

Lennox currently carries 13 air conditioner models. The Signature Series contains two premium, high-efficiency models; the Elite Series has six models and covers the mid-range market; and the Merit Series offers five budget-friendly options for people looking for a more affordable choice. Each series offers a selection of different types of air conditioners, including single-stage, two-stage, and variable-capacity HVAC units.

Lennox AC unit cost

The following table examines all 13 models Lennox offers, summarizing their efficiency ratings and installation cost ranges. Remember that the installation cost varies by location and season, so you should get a quote from a local HVAC system contractor for a more precise estimate of your cost.

ModelEfficiency Rating*Installation Cost
Signature SL28XCV25.8 SEER2/28.0 SEER$8,000 – $14,000
Signature XC2119.2 SEER2/21.0 SEER$7,000 – $11,000
Elite EL23XCV22.4 SEER2$7,500 – $12,000
Elite XC2020.2 SEER2/22.0 SEER$7,500 – $12,000
Elite EL18XCV18.8 SEER2/18.0 SEER$7,000 – $10,000
Elite EL17XC117.4 SEER2/18.6 SEER$6,500 – $11,000
Elite EL16XC116.2 SEER2/17.0 SEER$6,000 – $12,000
Elite XC1316.0 SEER$6,000 – $9,500
Merit ML18XC217.8 SEER2/18.0 SEER$6,500 – $9,000
Merit 16ACX18.0 SEER$6,000 – $9,500
Merit ML17XC113.8 SEER2/17.0 SEER$5,500 – $9,000
Merit ML14XC113.4 SEER2/17.0 SEER$5,500 – $9,000
Merit 13ACX13.0 SEER$5,000 – $8,000

*As of January 1, 2023, air conditioner efficiency ratings have moved from the SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) to the SEER2 system. Lennox lists both ratings for many AC models, only the SEER2 rating for one model and only the SEER rating for three models.


How Much Does a Lennox Air Conditioner Cost vs. Competitors?

Lennox is among the best air conditioner brands today, but that doesn’t mean it’s the only option. The following table compares Lennox to Carrier and Frigidaire, two of the company’s stiffest competitors. We’ve decided to simplify this comparison by comparing each brand’s premium and budget option price ranges rather than each model the company sells.

BrandLennoxCarrierFrigidaire
Premium Unit Cost Average $14,000$15,000$10,000
Low-End Unit Cost Average$5,000$3,000$2,500
Top Efficiency Rating25.8 SEER224 SEER220 SEER*
Available AC TypesSplit-system, packaged, ductless, heat pumpSplit-system, packaged, ductless, heat pumpSplit-system, packaged, ductless, heat pump, portable, window
Sound Level59–76 decibels51–73 decibels57–76 decibels

*As of March 2023, Frigidaire’s website lists only SEER ratings.


Which Factors Impact the Costs of Lennox AC Units?

Lennox air conditioner prices vary greatly depending on their efficiency, the unit size, and your location. The following sections explore the seven most important factors that influence the cost of Lennox AC systems.

Efficiency Rating

Efficiency is the main driving force behind how much a new air conditioner costs. Units with high-efficiency ratings are more expensive to manufacture, which makes them more expensive to consumers. Even though the up-front cost of a high-efficiency unit like a Lennox Signature Series model is substantial, the money you’ll save over time makes purchasing a high-efficiency AC a good value proposition.

The industry-standard efficiency rating used to compare the efficiency of different air conditioners is the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER). As of January 2023, efficiency ratings have moved from the SEER to the SEER2 system. This was done to reflect testing methods that better model real-world conditions.

Roughly speaking, an air conditioner’s SEER2 rating is calculated as the cooling output divided by the energy used to produce that cooling output. Units that produce more cooling output with less energy have higher SEER2 ratings and cost more.

Lennox’s most efficient air conditioner is the Signature SL28XCV, which has a very impressive SEER/SEER2 rating of 28/25.8 — and an equally impressive price tag of around $8,000 to $14,000. The Merit Series 13ACX has a modest SEER rating of 13.0 but comes in at $5,000 to $8,000, about one-third the cost of the SL28XCV.

Installation and Labor

HVAC installation and labor costs can make up 10% to 20% of the total cost of a new Lennox air conditioner. Installing Lennox’s flagship SL28XCV unit costs between $1,400 and $3,000, on average, while installing the budget Merit 13ACX unit typically costs between $1,300 and $2,500.

Labor rates vary by location; you should expect your installation to cost on the upper end of the above ranges if you live in a high-cost-of-living area. If you want a more specific estimate, contact some local HVAC installation companies that carry Lennox AC units.

Location and Climate

According to the guidelines set by the U.S. Department of Energy, residents of the Southeastern and southwestern United States must install air conditioning units with a minimum of 15 SEER/14.8 SEER2. Northern U.S. residents must install AC units with a minimum of 14 SEER/13.8 SEER2.

Lennox’s Merit ML17XC1, which costs between $5,500 and $9,000, meets minimum efficiency requirements for northern states. Southern residents must upgrade to the Elite XC13 (at minimum) for $6,000 to $9,500.

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Maintenance and Repair

Another important consideration is the ongoing cost of maintenance. Lennox offers several warranty options depending on which model you purchase and the level of coverage you desire. These excellent warranties will protect you from unexpected repair costs, lowering the long-term cost of keeping your air conditioning system running compared to a company with less customer-friendly warranties.

Here is a quick rundown of the options:

  • Dave Lennox Signature Collection
    • 10-year warranty on components
    • 10-year warranty on the compressor
    • A choice between a 20-year or a limited-lifetime warranty on the heat exchanger
  • Elite Series
    • Five-year warranty on components
    • 10-year warranty on the compressor
    • A choice between a 20-year or a limited-lifetime warranty on the heat exchanger
  • Merit Series
    • Five-year warranty on components
    • Five-year warranty on the compressor
    • 20-year warranty on the heat exchanger

If you want more coverage than the standard manufacturer’s warranty, you can opt for the Comfort Shield warranty, offered through participating third-party Lennox dealers. The Comfort Shield plan takes effect after the manufacturer’s warranty ends and offers labor and refrigerant coverage.

If your warranty has expired, you can purchase an additional warranty from reputable home warranty providers that will cover the cost of labor and materials to repair or replace your cooling system.

Unit Size

Larger air conditioners are more expensive than smaller ones, which probably doesn’t come as much of a surprise.

Lennox air conditioners come in sizes up to 60,000 BTUs (British Thermal Units), equivalent to 5 tons of cooling ability and suitable for a 3,000-square-foot home. Depending on the model, these large-capacity units cost between $8,000 and $14,000, while a 1.5-ton unit costs about $5,000 to $8,000.

Today’s Homeowner Tips
Make sure you choose the right air conditioner for the space you need to cool — otherwise, you’ll either overpay or run into issues from overworking a unit that is too small for your home. Your contractor can help you choose the right size during your preliminary consultation.

Learn more about how the right size air conditioner can affect your comfort and wallet.

Type of Refrigerant Needed

Lennox’s air conditioners use R-410A refrigerant, which is more eco-friendly than the previously used R-22 refrigerant (also called Freon). R-410A is commonly called Puron (a brand name). The cost to refill R-410 refrigerant varies based on the size of your unit but ranges from $150 for a 1.5-ton unit to $1,800 for a 5-ton unit.

Puron and other trademarked R-410A refrigerants are being phased out in favor of the newer, even more environmentally friendly refrigerants R-32 and R-454B. You can still purchase a Lennox air conditioner that uses R-410A, but Lennox will have to produce new air conditioners that use an approved refrigerant like R-32 or R-454B. This transition away from R-410A began in early 2023.

Additional Considerations

The previous sections cover the most important factors that determine the price of Lennox’s air conditioning units. Still, a few other considerations might alter the price you’ll pay.

Unfortunately, some Lennox air conditioners are only available in certain regions, so you might have to purchase a more expensive model to get your home’s cooling capacity. The following models all have limited regional availability:

  • Signature XC21
  • Elite EL16XC1
  • Elite XC13
  • Merit 16ACX
  • Merit ML14XC1
  • Merit 13ACX

Contact your local Lennox installer to see what models are available in your area before you set your budget.


How Can You Save Money on Lennox Air Conditioners?

A new central air conditioner is a big purchase. However, upgrading from an older, less efficient unit can add up to big savings in the long run, even though you’ll have to foot the up-front cost. Air conditioners lose efficiency as they age, and older units don’t benefit from modern technology. You may save 20% to 40%on your cooling energy costs by replacing an air conditioner that is only 10 years old with a newer, more energy-efficient unit.

Here are some helpful tips for saving money on a new Lennox air conditioner.

  • Compare quotes from multiple contractors. Before you commit to a particular installer, shop around for quotes from at least three contractors. Pricing varies between different installers, even for the same model, so you can often find a good deal if you exercise patience and get multiple quotes before you buy.
  • Take advantage of rebates and tax credits. All Lennox air conditioners are eligible for local and federal credits that can save you anywhere from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars off the base price. Make sure you take advantage of whatever rebates are available in your area. Your local Lennox HVAC contractors should be able to help you learn about any credits you can take advantage of.
  • Bundle your services. HVAC service prices vary widely, but most companies will quote you a lower price if you bundle work into a larger job. If you need ductwork done with your installation or if you’re considering other Lennox products — like a Lennox furnace, gas furnace, or heat pump — you might be able to save some money by having all of the work done at once.
  • Perform regular HVAC preventative maintenance. Get your Lennox AC serviced by a licensed technician regularly. Regular tune-ups will keep your air conditioner working efficiently, which will help keep your electric bill low and reduce the likelihood that you’ll need to pay for expensive repairs down the road.

So, Are Lennox AC Units Worth the Cost?

Lennox is one of the most well-respected names in the HVAC business, with over 100 years of experience and an excellent track record. If you do not believe us, check out what homeowners are saying in our Lennox AC review. The company boasts some of the most efficient air conditioners available today with enough price variability to fit most budgets. The average cost of a Lennox air conditioner falls around $9,000, although the company offers both more and less expensive models.

Today’s Homeowner Tips

You may also want to consider pairing your Lennox HVAC system with a smart thermostat if you anticipate heavy usage. Smart thermostats are great for keeping your home at a comfortable temperature year-round without wasting energy.

Use the tool below to contact a professional HVAC installer in your area.

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FAQs About Lennox Air Conditioner Unit Costs

Is Lennox AC worth the money?

Lennox air conditioners are worth the money. They are some of the most efficient on the market at their price points, giving them outstanding value for the money. Lennox also backs its central ACs with a solid warranty, so you don’t have to worry if your AC experiences any issues.


Is Lennox cheaper than Trane?

Lennox is more affordable than Trane overall, although it depends on what models you compare. Lennox’s prices range from around $5,000 on the low end to $14,000 for a top-of-the-line unit. Trane’s units skew a bit more expensive, with the company’s most affordable units costing around $7,000 and its premium units fetching more than $20,000.


How long do Lennox AC units last?

Lennox AC units last between 10 and 12 years, on average. Remember that an air conditioner’s longevity depends on how well you take care of it and how much use it gets. The best way to ensure your Lennox air conditioner lasts as long as possible is to schedule annual checkups with a licensed HVAC technician.


Where is Lennox made?

Lennox is based in Richardson, Texas, and has an extensive network of manufacturing sites and dealers throughout North America.


Editorial Contributors
avatar for Dan Simms

Dan Simms

Contributor

Dan Simms worked in real estate management for five years before using his experience to help property owners maintain their own homes. He got his master’s degree in English Literature and Creative Writing, and he now enjoys sharing his knowledge about homeownership and DIY projects with others on Today’s Homeowner. When he’s not writing, he’s usually outdoors with his wife and his dog, enjoying mountain biking, skiing, and hiking.

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photo of Roxanne Downer

Roxanne Downer

Editor

Roxanne Downer is a commerce editor at Today’s Homeowner, where she tackles everything from foundation repair to solar panel installation. She brings more than 15 years of writing and editing experience to bear in her meticulous approach to ensuring accurate, up-to-date, and engaging content. She’s previously edited for outlets including MSN, Architectural Digest, and Better Homes & Gardens. An alumna of the University of Pennsylvania, Roxanne is now an Oklahoma homeowner, DIY enthusiast, and the proud parent of a playful pug.

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