Lennox SL25KCV, XC21, XC20, SL28XCV, EL22KCV AC Price & Review

Are you shopping to buy a new Lennox air conditioner?

This in-depth comparison will compare five high-performance models, including Lennox SL25KCV, XC21, XC20, SL28XCV, and EL22KCV, in terms of prices, energy efficiency, features, and their best uses at home.These are all units in the high-end Signature or Elite line of Lennox products, so they have high SEER2 efficiency ratings (much higher than the 13–14 SEER of basic units). The table below is a brief comparison of the models in a glance, their efficiency and the average price range:

Model	SEER2 Efficiency	Price (Unit Only)	Installed Cost
Lennox SL25KCV	Up to 26.0 SEER2	$7,500–$11,000	$9,000–$15,000
Lennox SL28XCV	25.8 SEER2 (28 SEER)	$7,000–$10,000	$8,000–$14,000
Lennox XC21	19.2 SEER2 (21 SEER)	$5,000–$7,500	$7,000–$11,000
Lennox XC20	20.2 SEER2 (22 SEER)	$5,000–$8,000	$7,500– $12,000
Lennox EL22KCV	Up to 22.5 SEER2	$6,300–$9,000	$7,500–$12,000

Lennox SL25KCV AC Review

Lennox SL25KCV is one of the best Dave Lennox Signature Collection air conditioners that offer superior performance.

It has an efficiency rating of up to 26.00 SEER2, which is the highest in the industry, and thus one of the most efficient central AC units.

The unit also features a variable-capacity compressor that is able to adjust output in very small increments and keep temperature and humidity levels very precise. As a matter of fact, the Precise Comfort technology of the SL25KCV enables it to adjust the cooling output to exactly suit the needs of your home. This leads to even comfort with no temperature extremes of single-stage units.

Distinguishing characteristics:The SL25KCV is loaded with the latest innovations of Lennox. It has a fully communicating design- the system has digital sensors and controls that communicate with each other to automatically adjust settings and even diagnose problems before they occur when combined with Lennox S40 or S30 smart thermostat.This implies that the AC will be able to maximize its performance and notify your HVAC technician about the issues. It also has SilentComfortTM technology, precision-balanced fan and insulated compressor, which makes it as quiet as 58 dB (approximately the sound of a microwave). This is a very quiet operation, which makes it suitable in noise sensitive areas or installations close to bedrooms or outdoor living areas.

Best application: The SL25KCV can be used by homeowners that require the utmost efficiency and comfort. The 26 SEER2 efficiency can significantly cut cooling expenses in case you reside in an area with prolonged, hot summers or in a place where electricity rates are high.

Pricing:The SL25KCV is the flagship model and thus it has a high price. The unit itself has an MSRP of between about 7,500 and 11,000 dollars depending on tonnage and dealer mark ups.

The total cost of installation including professional installation is about 9,000 to 15,000 dollars. The initial cost is high, but the energy savings during the life of the system (and possible rebates) often make the investment worthwhile to many homeowners.

Pros:

• Maximum efficiency (26 SEER2): Provides very low operating costs and is eligible to ENERGY STAR and rebate programs.
• Variable-capacity compressor: Offers exceptional comfort and smooth, on-demand cooling adjustments and superior humidity control.
• Ultra-quiet: Operates as low as 58 dB, so there is little noise inside and outside.
• High-tech smart technology: Communicating system is compatible with Lennox S40/S30 thermostats to achieve the best performance and problem identification.
• Eco-friendly refrigerant: Uses R-454B refrigerant with lower global warming impact.

Cons:

• High initial cost: It is one of the costly residential air conditioners in the market.
• Complex system: Must be compatible with a thermostat; must be installed by an expert; advanced electronics imply that repairs may be expensive.
• Reduced returns in moderate climates: Houses in cooler areas may not experience sufficient savings to warrant the high cost.
• Availability: Being a state of the art model, availability can be restricted to few Lennox dealers.

Lennox XC21 Air Conditioner Review

Lennox XC21 is an old veteran of the Signature Collection, which was once the most efficient two-stage central air conditioner in its product line. The XC21 has a two-stage compressor, unlike the variable-speed SL25KCV, which implies that it can work at two cooling output levels (high and low).

This is a simpler design that gives better comfort compared to single-stage units. The XC21 is very efficient with up to 21.0 SEER (approximately 19.2 SEER2), but not as extreme as the newer SL-series models. It is ENERGY STAR qualified and can save a lot of energy consumption as compared to the older ones.

The XC21 is best suited to homeowners who want the best efficiency and comfort at a price that is not quite the very best. In a moderate to hot climate, its two-stage operation will frequently operate on a lower, quieter stage and only go into full blast on the hottest days.

When installed, the total costs tend to be between $7,000 and $11,000. It is not as expensive as the premium SL25KCV, but it is a rather costly option. Depending on efficiency requirements in the region, Lennox does not permit new XC21 installations in certain southern states, and availability may be limited.

Pros:

• High efficiency (19.2 SEER2): Significant energy savings over typical ACs, and ENERGY STAR qualification.
• Two-stage cooling: Better comfort than single-stage systems and less complex technology than variable speed.
• Less noisy low-stage operation: operates at a lower capacity most of the time.
• Tested track record: Has been in Lennox lineup years and has a track record.
• Less expensive than variable models: Less expensive than the SL-series or other high-end variable-speed models.

Cons:

• Being phased out: Limited availability in some regions.
• Less accurate control: It does not adjust output continuously, therefore, humidity and temperature control cannot be as accurate as a variable-speed system.
• More noise at full blast: Approximately 69 dB on high stage.
• Older refrigerant: Uses R-410A, which is being phased down.
• Not cheap: Still high priced compared to mid-range two-stage ACs of other brands.

Lennox XC20 AC Review

Lennox XC20 is a mid-range variable-speed cooling air conditioner of Elite Series.

It has a real variable-capacity compressor (not merely two-stage) and can attain up to 22.0 SEER (approximately 20.2 SEER2). This makes it a high efficiency one.

The XC20 is a popular choice of many homeowners because it is positioned in the middle between Elite and Signature products and offers almost top-tier comfort at a cheaper price than Signature products.

The XC20 is a powerful option to homeowners who desire near-Signature comfort at a lower price point. Where there is a lot of humidity, or in larger homes, the variable-speed operation can maintain temperatures and humidity levels under close control. It is particularly useful in hot climates that have long cooling seasons.The XC20 can provide a lot of the same technology as the SL-series models, although they were too expensive. When combined with a high efficiency furnace or air handler, it can be used to form an advanced system of Ultimate Comfort at a lower cost than the premium models.

Being a flagship of the Elite series, the XC20 can be expected to be priced between 5,000 and 8,000 dollars, just on the unit. A good estimate with installation is between 7,500 and 12,000 dollars.

Pros:

• Variable-speed performance: Near-Signature comfort levels and excellent humidity control.
• High efficiency (20.2 SEER2): Reduces energy bills and is ENERGY STAR qualified.
• Less noisy: It operates at reduced capacity majority of the time (approximately 65 dB).
• Smart thermostat compatibility: iComfort®-enabled for advanced scheduling and optimization.
• Comparative value: Cheaper than best Signature models with only a minor loss in specs.

Cons:

• Not cheap yet: More expensive than cheaper Elite models or mid-range ACs.
• Uses older refrigerant: R-410A won’t be produced indefinitely.
• Complex installation: Requires a skilled installer for best results.
• Future availability: May be phased out in future by newer models of Elite with newer refrigerant.
• Reduced returns in moderate weather: Houses in moderate climates may not save enough to warrant a variable system.

Lennox SL28XCV AC Review

Lennox SL28XCV is among the most efficient air conditioners in the market. It used to be the efficiency champion of Lennox (up to 28.0 SEER, or approximately 25.8 SEER2), and it is still an elite model.

It is a fully variable-capacity system, like other flagship units, and it continually varies its output to maintain precise temperature and humidity. It is also a fully communicating device, which is meant to be used with Lennox smart thermostats.

The SL28XCV is similar to the SL25KCV in most ways: variable-speed inverter compressor, SilentComfort noise suppression, and high-quality construction. It normally runs at around 59 dB which is very silent compared to a central AC.It also has the advanced technology of Lennox to perform best in different climates. Among the differences, it does not have the new low-GWP refrigerant since it operates with R-410A. Nevertheless, it is still compliant with existing installations and will be serviceable over years.

The model is ideal in the case of homeowners that desire the highest level of efficiency and have a high number of annual cooling hours. Its radically lower energy consumption can save large amounts of money in areas that have hot summers or expensive utilities.

The SL28XCV is of high price just like the SL25KCV. The cost of installation is usually between 8000 and 14000 dollars but bigger systems with add-ons may cost more.

Pros:

• Ultra-high efficiency (25.8 SEER2): It is one of the most efficient ACs, which is suitable in case of heavy use.
• Variable-capacity + fully communicating: Optimal comfort with real time climate control and system monitoring.
• Extremely quiet (59 dB): Advanced sound-dampening design.
• Proven top performer: Longstanding flagship with high customer satisfaction.
• Incentive eligible: Can be eligible to receive high-level rebates and tax credits.

Cons:

• Very expensive: Among the highest-priced residential AC units.
• Old refrigerant tech: Still uses R-410A.
• Possible overkill: In a small house or in a mild climate, the additional efficiency may not be worth the price.
• Large physical unit: Requires ample outdoor space.
• Installation sensitivity: Requires expert setup to achieve promised efficiency.

Lennox EL22KCV Air Conditioner Review

Lennox EL22KCV is a more recent model of the Elite Series air conditioner that introduces many Signature-level features into the Elite line. It is a high-efficiency variable-capacity unit with up to 22.5 SEER2, which makes it one of the best models in the Elite category.

This model is one of the models that Lennox introduced in its rollout of lower-GWP refrigerants, hence it uses R-454B. The EL22KCV is in a way a smaller brother of the SL25KCV, ENERGY STAR 2.0 certified and environmentally friendly.

he EL22KCV can be used by homeowners who want near-Signature performance at a step down price. In case you desire a variable-capacity AC that is priced lower, this model will satisfy. It works well in warm weather, with a SEER2 in the low-to-mid 20s saving a lot of energy costs.

Once installed, they cost an average of 7,000 to 12,000 dollars depending on size and complexity. That puts it between the Signature SL25KCV and less complex Elite models. It is a good compromise of cost, performance, and new refrigerant that many home owners like.

Pros:

• Superior efficiency (up to 22.5 SEER2): Provides significant energy savings, nearly Signature levels.
• Variable-speed comfort: Maintains steady indoor conditions and strong humidity control.
• Calm and sophisticated: Has a low operation of about 60 dB, and a solid Elite cabinet.
• Strong value proposition: Signature-like performance at a somewhat lower cost.

Cons:

• Initial price remains high: It is one of the most expensive Elite models, compared to basic two-stage units.
• New model considerations: There will be less long-term reviews; some contractors may be less known.
• Compatibility needs: Works best when combined with Lennox communicating thermostat and indoor equipment.
• Same performance as less expensive models: In mild climates, a less-SEER2 Elite may be adequate at a reduced price.

How to Get the Best Lennox Air Conditioner Prices?

• Firstly, keep in mind that installation quality is always the most important thing for any HVAC project. So never sacrifice contractor quality for lower price.
• Secondly, remember to look up the latest tax credit and rebates.
• Thirdly, ask for at least 3 bids before you make the decision. You can click here to get 3 free estimates from your local contractors, and this estimate already takes rebates and tax credit into consideration and filter unqualified contractors automatically.

At last, once you chose the right contractor, remember to use the tactics from this guide: homeowners tactics when negotiating with HVAC dealer to get the final best price.