Lennox and American Standard make it on the list of the most popular air conditioner brands on the market. Both offer a range of small and large air conditioning systems. And both have a solid reputation for delivering excellent performance and durability.
So, that begs the question – what is the difference between Lennox and American Standard? Which air conditioner should you choose for your home?
In this comparison of Lennox vs. American Standard, I break down both brands’ good and bad.
Also, you get to know how the air conditioners compare in terms of prices, costs, efficiency, warranties, and cooling and heating performances.
So, if you’re planning to invest in a central air conditioning unit but not sure whether to purchase Lennox or American Standard, keep reading.
Lennox Air Conditioner?
Lennox International is a global provider of climate-control solutions for heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration (HVAC) markets.
Headquartered in Richardson, Texas, Lennox International Inc. has manufacturing facilities in the United States, Canada, Europe, China, and Mexico. The company was founded in 1895 by Dave Lennox but was later sold to D.W. Norris, the founder of Lennox Furnace Company.
Lennox provides products to more than 75 countries through a network of independent distributors and more than 6000 dealers and service providers.
The company’s product line includes gas furnaces, oil furnaces, heat pumps, packaged units (air conditioners and heat pumps), coils & evaporator blowers/coils/fan coils.
What to Know About Lennox Brand HVAC Systems
Lennox is a name that will pop up more often than not when you speak of efficiency, durability, and longevity in the HVAC industry. This company has been in business for over 120 years, and its experience speaks for itself. The company has maintained a standard quality for all its appliances.
Lennox air conditioners are among the most energy-efficient units, with a Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) of up to 28. Their furnaces have an Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) rating of up to 98, qualifying them to hold an Energy Star Certification.
In addition to being more energy-efficient, the central air conditioner is also built to last longer. The company uses rust-resistant screws, galvanized steel construction, and zinc to design the unit’s exclusive PermaGuard cabinet. Your Lennox AC unit could easily last 20 years or more with proper maintenance.
Their ac units come installed with a variable speed compressor or a modulating compressor. The unit’s double fan system does an excellent job evenly distributing cool air in your home. The company offers a wide range of models to choose from depending on the needs of your home.
It also has a smart thermostat that collects rooms temperature data and automatically. It also helps dehumidification and provides clean and fresh air for a suitable indoor environment. The thermostat can be integrated with other smart gadgets for optimum performance.
Lennox Air Conditioner Models
| Model | Tonnage | Seer Rating | Noise Levels* | BTU’s | Compressor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lennox XC25 | 5 | 26 | 59 dB | 24,000-60,000 | Two Stage |
| Lennox XC21 | 2-5 | 21 | 69 dB | 24,000-60,000 | Two Stage |
| Lennox SL18XC1 | 2-5 | 18.50 | 65 dB | 24,000-60,000 | Single Stage |
| Lennox XC20 | 2-5 | 20 | 65 dB | 24,000-60,000 | Two Stage |
| Lennox XC16 | 2-5 | 17.20 | 74 dB | 18,000-57,000 | Two Stage |
| Lennox EL16XC1 | 1.5-5 | 17 | 71 dB | 18,000-57,000 | Single Stage |
| Lennox XC13 | 1.5-5 | 15.50 | 74 dB | 18,000-60,000 | Single Stage |
| Lennox 16ACX | 1.5-5 | 14-17 | 75 dB | 18,000-57,000 | Two Stage |
| Lennox ML14XC1 | 1.5-5 | 16 | 76 dB | 18,000-60,000 | Single Stage |
| Lennox 14ACX | 1.5-5 | 16 | 76 dB | 18,000-60,000 | Single Stage |
| Lennox 13ACX | 1.5-5 | 13 | 76 dB | 18,000-60,000 | Single Stage |
Pros of Lennox AC Units
Energy efficiency
Lennox produces some of the most energy-efficient HVAC systems in the industry. The energy consumption of their appliances is significantly lower than that of other brands, which helps to reduce the electricity bills.
Durability
Lennox takes measures to ensure that its products are built to last. The company uses high-quality materials while making the air conditioner parts. Rust-resistant screws are also used in the manufacturing process. If properly installed and with good maintenance, a Lennox AC unit could last for over 20 years.
Quiet operation
Lennox units come equipped with a sound insulation system that ensures the mighty unit operates quietly. The company also offers a wide range of models to choose from depending on the needs of your home.
Cons of Lennox AC Units
High initial cost
The high initial cost is one of the main disadvantages of Lennox air conditioners. The appliances are designed for durability and longevity, making them a bit more expensive than other brands. However, these units’ long lifespan and energy efficiency make them a good investment in the long run.
Prone to failure
Copper coils are used in the making of Lennox air conditioners. These coils are prone to failure and need to be replaced every few years. The replacement cost can be quite high, another disadvantage of these units.
American Standard Air Conditioner?
American standard was a merger of two companies in 1929. These companies are Standard Sanitary Corporation and American Radiator Company. The merge was done to compete with the other large companies, such as Kohler and American Radiator Company.
The company specializes in making HVAC products, plumbing fixtures, vehicle parts, etc. They have a wide range of products that they offer to their customers. Their popular product lines include Trane furnaces, Carrier ACs, Bryant heat pumps, commercial refrigerators, etc.
About American Standard HVAC
American Standard is one of the leading brands in the HVAC industry. The company has been in business for over 90 years and has a lot of experience. Their appliances are known for their reliability and durability.
American Standard offers a wide range of models to choose from, depending on the needs of your home. The company separates its HVAC products into three categories, platinum, gold, and silver.
Platinum is their top-of-the-line product with parts like the duration compressor and the spine fin coil in their central air conditioner units. The spine fin coil is a unique feature that helps to increase the surface area for heat transfer. This results in better performance and increased efficiency.
Gold products are the mid-range option and are good for most homes. The silver series is their budget-friendly option but not less than most comparable units. It is an excellent choice for people looking to save money.
American standard ac units are also efficient, with a SEER rating of 22. To ensure the system’s durability, vigorous tests are done on all products. These tests include impact, corrosion, vibration, and more.
American Standard Models
| Model | Tonnage | SEER* | Noise Levels** | BTUs | Compressor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| American Standard Platinum 20 | 2-5 | 22 | 57-75 dB | 24,000-60,000 | Two Stage |
| American Standard Platinum 18 | 2-5 | 18 | 57-75 dB | 24,000-60,000 | Two Stage |
| American Standard Gold 17 | 2-5 | 18 | 72-74 dB | 24,000-60,000 | Two Stage |
| American Standard Silver 16 | 1.5-5 | 17 | 71-74 dB | 24,000-60,000 | Single Stage |
| American Standard Silver 16 Low Profile | 1.5-5 | 17 | 55-65 dB | 24,000-60,000 | Single Stage |
| American Standard Silver 14 | 1.5-5 | 14 | 72-73 dB | 24,000-60,000 | Single Stage |
| American Standard Silver 13 | 1.5-5 | 13 | 71-75 dB | 18,000-60,000 | Single Stage |
What are the Pros and Cons of American Standard?
Pros
Efficiency
American Standard units are some of the most efficient on the market. Their appliances have a SEER rating of 22, which is quite high. This results in lower energy bills and is better for the environment.
Wide range of products
American Standard offers a wide range of models to choose from, depending on the needs of your home. The company separates its HVAC products into three categories, platinum, gold, and silver. This gives you many options to select from, depending on your budget and needs.
Perform under adverse weather conditions
The units are designed to perform well even under adverse weather conditions. They have a tough construction that can withstand high winds and freezing temperatures.
Cons
High installation cost
One of the main disadvantages of American Standard units is the high installation cost. The units are quite complex and require a professional to install them. This can add to the overall cost of the project.
Limited accessibility
Another disadvantage of these units is the limited accessibility. The company does not have a lot of dealers and service centers. This can make it difficult to get your hands on their products and get them serviced if needed.
Noisy during operation
Some of the American Standard units can be quite noisy during operation. This can be a problem for people looking for a quiet appliance for offices and schools.
In-depth Comparison: Lennox vs. American Standard
Below is an in-depth comparison of Lennox vs American Standard;
1. Performance
Performance is the ability of a unit to do the job it is supposed to do. We are looking at how well the unit can heat or cool space in this case. Both Lennox and American Standard units are some of the most efficient on the market. Their appliances have a high SEER rating, resulting in lower energy bills and eco-friendliness.
However, due to a higher SEER rating of 28, Lennox units offer more efficiency than American Standard. This means that they can save you more money on your energy bills in the long run.
On the other hand, American Standard units are designed to perform well even under adverse weather conditions. They have a tough construction that can withstand high winds and freezing temperatures. This makes them a better choice for people who live in areas with extreme weather conditions.
2. Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency is the ability of an appliance to convert energy into useful work. Lennox units are some of the most efficient on the market, while American Standard falls short in this category.
Lennox flagship scores a SEER rating of up to 28, making it one of the most energy-saving appliances. On the other hand, American Standard’s best model has a SEER rating of 22. This makes Lennox units up to 30% more efficient than their counterparts.
3. Compressor Options
When it comes to HVAC, the compressor is one of the most important parts. It is responsible for circulating refrigerant through the system. Lennox compressors come in two types; variable and modulating compressors.
The variable compressor is the most common type. It has two stages that can be turned on and off as needed. This makes it quite efficient. On the other hand, the modulating compressor is designed for precision cooling. It has an infinite number of speeds that you can adjust to meet the exact cooling needs of your home.
American Standard offers single, two, and variable compressor options. This gives you less flexibility when choosing a unit that meets your needs.
4. Noise Level
A noisy unit can be quite a nuisance, especially if you are trying to sleep or concentrate. American Standard air conditioners are some of the quietest on the market, with most models operating at less than 54 decibels.
Lennox units are also quiet, but they don’t match up to the noise levels of American Standard. Most of their models operate at around 59 decibels which is slightly higher than the industry average.
5. Condenser Fan Options
The condenser fan is responsible for circulating air over the outdoor coils. This helps to dissipate heat and keep the coils from freezing. Lennox offers two types of condenser fans; single and double fans.
The single-speed fan runs at a constant speed regardless of the weather conditions. This makes it quite noisy. On the other hand, the double-speed fan motor has two speeds; high and low.
This makes it more efficient as it can be adjusted to meet the cooling needs of your home. American Standard also offers two condenser fans; single and variable speed.
6. Warranties
HVAC systems are expensive, and you want to be sure that you are covered in case something goes wrong. Both brands offer a standard warranty of up to ten years on their units. This is quite good as it covers most of the major components of the air conditioner units.
However, the American Standard warranty edges over Lennox. The warranty covers the units for up to 12 years. The warranty is two years longer than the standard warranty offered by Lennox.
7. Price and Cost
Lennox units are some of the most expensive on the market. The high cost is because they are energy efficient and offer many features. American Standard units are also quite expensive, but they are not as pricey as Lennox. This makes them a good choice for people who want to save money on their purchases.
The price of a Lennox unit ranges from $1,475 to $3,775, while that of an American Standard ranges from $1,235 to $2,625. However, when it comes to the installation, an American Standard unit’s cost is higher than that of a Lennox unit.
Lennox installation costs between $3,110 to $7,340 while American standard cost $5,800 to 8,000. The installation cost also depends on the unit’s size and type, making them vary. To ensure proper installation, look for a licensed HVAC installer.
Lennox Prices and Costs Expectations
| Model | AC Price* (w/out Installation) | AC Price* (w/ Installation) | Estimated Running Cost** | Government Tax Breaks*** |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lennox XC25 | $3,775 | $7,190 | ~$441 | $300 |
| Lennox XC21 | $2,875 | $4,780 | ~$525 | $300 |
| Lennox SL18XC1 | $2,450 | $4,275 | ~$613 | $300 |
| Lennox XC20 | $2,690 | $4,495 | ~$551 | $300 |
| Lennox XC16 | $2,175 | $3,880 | ~$649 | $300 |
| Lennox EL16XC1 | $2,080 | $4,525 | ~$689 | $300 |
| Lennox XC13 | $1,795 | $3,400 | ~$848 | – |
| Lennox 16ACX | $1,690 | $3,295 | ~$691 | $300 |
| Lennox ML14XC1 | $1,700 | $3,200 | ~$788 | – |
| Lennox 14ACX | $1,550 | $3,159 | ~$791 | – |
| Lennox 13ACX | $1,475 | $3,090 | ~$852 | – |
American Standard Prices and Costs Expectations
| Model | Price* (w/out Installation) | Price* (w/ Installation) | Estimated Running Cost** | Tax Breaks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| American Standard Platinum 20 | $2,450 | $6,400 | ~$401 | $300 |
| American Standard Platinum 18 | $1,980 | $5,820 | ~$441 | $300 |
| American Standard Gold 17 | $1,705 | $5,405 | ~$490 | $300 |
| American Standard Silver 16 | $1,650 | $4,950 | ~$551 | $300 |
| American Standard Silver 16 Low Profile | $1,660 | $4,960 | ~$551 | $300 |
| American Standard Silver 14 | $1,460 | $4,300 | ~$630 | – |
| American Standard Silver 13 | $1,370 | $3,850 | ~$678 | – |
8. Maintenance
Maintenance is also a factor you need to consider when making your purchase. American Standard units are easier to maintain as they have fewer parts that require regular replacement.
The only downside with American standard units regarding maintenance is the outdoor AC spine fin coil. The coil is difficult to keep clean and free of debris.
Lennox units are also easy to maintain. However, their parts are more expensive to replace than those of American Standard units. The expensive parts increase the overall cost of ownership.
9. Tax Breaks
A tax break is an incentive the government offers to encourage people to purchase energy-efficient products. Tax breaks are available for a variety of products, including HVAC systems.
Lennox and American Standard both offer tax breaks on their units. However, Lennox offers a larger tax break of $500 than American Standard, $300. This is because their units are more energy-efficient.
10. Durability
Your ac units should be able to serve you for a long time without the need for repairs or replacement. For this reason, durability is an important factor to consider when making your purchase.
American Standard units are more durable than Lennox units. This is because they are made from high-quality materials like heavy-duty steel panels that can withstand the elements. Additionally, the units undergo vigorous testing to meet the highest standards.
Lennox vs American standard: Which One Should you Choose?
Both brands offer high-quality products, with each having its pros and cons. The Dave Lennox Signature collection is an excellent choice if looking for an energy-efficient unit with a large tax break. In addition, Lennox units are also easier to maintain.
American Standard is a good choice if you are looking for a durable unit that is easier to install. American Standard units are also more affordable than Lennox units and have a longer warranty. Ultimately, the decision on which brand to purchase your new ac system comes down to your needs and preferences.
Lennox and American Standard are two of the best brands on the market. Both brands offer high-quality products, with each brand having its pros and cons. Consider your needs and preferences when making your decision.