Are you shopping for a central air conditioner but unsure whether to buy from Carrier or Lennox?
Choosing the wrong air conditioner is detrimental to the unit’s performance, efficiency, and long-run cost of operation and maintenance. To maintain the right indoor temperature, you need the use the right size air conditioner for your home.
In this comparison of Carrier vs. Lennox air conditioners, you’ll learn:
- The difference between Carrier and Lennox air conditioners
- Which air conditioner to choose for your home
- Tips for choosing the right AC system
So, if you’re still on the fence about Carrier and Lennox and can’t decide which AC to buy, keep reading.
What is Carrier?
Carrier is the brand name of United Technologies Corporation (UTC). Their main HVAC products are residential and commercial air conditioners, furnaces, heat pumps, and packaged units.
Carrier was founded in 1915 by the inventor of modern air conditioning, Willis Carrier. The brand has grown to be a global leader in HVAC solutions, selling products in over 170 countries.
About Carrier Brand HVAC
Carrier brand HVAC systems are among the most energy-efficient and quietest. They offer a wide range of products to meet the needs of any home or business, from small window air conditioners to large commercial chillers.
Carrier’s compressors are some of the most efficient in the industry. They use single-stage, two-stage, and variable-speed scroll compressor technology for heat pumps and air conditioners. Their units are also eco-friendly. Many of their products use the R-410A refrigerants that have a low impact on the environment.
In addition, Carrier offers the most balanced air conditioning units on the market. This means that their units can maintain a comfortable temperature in your home or office while also evenly distributing air throughout the space.
Air conditioners from Carrier have a seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) of up to 26. This is significantly higher than the minimum SEER rating of 14 that is required by the U.S. Department of Energy. The inverter technology and the cor thermostat in their units also add to their energy efficiency, which saves money in the long run.
Carrier central air conditioners come installed with a smart thermostat which helps with humidity control. A smart thermostat collects the room’s temperature information and automatically sets the perfect temperature for your space.
| Model | Tonnage | SEER* | Noise Levels** | BTU’s | Compressor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carrier 24VNA0 | 2-5 | 20.5 | 55 dB | 24,000-60,000 | Two Stage |
| Carrier 24ANB1 | 2-5 | 21 | 49 dB | 24,000-60,000 | Two Stage |
| Carrier 24VNA9 | 2-5 | 19 | 67 dB | 24,000-60,000 | Two Stage |
| Carrier 24ANB7 | 2-5 | 17 | 63 dB | 24,000-60,000 | Two Stage |
| Carrier 24ANB7**C | 2-5 | 17 | 71 dB | 24,000-60,000 | Two Stage |
| Carrier 24ANB6 | 1.5-5 | 16 | 70 dB | 24,000-60,000 | Two-Stage |
| Carrier 24ACB7 | 2-5 | 17 | 55 dB | 24,000-60,000 | Single Stage |
| Carrier 24ACC6 | 1.5-5 | 16 | 57 dB | 24,000-60,000 | Single Stage |
| Carrier 24ACB3 | 1.5-5 | 13 | 60 dB | 18,000-60,000 | Single Stage |
| Carrier 24AHA4 | 1.5-5 | 14 | 55 dB | 18,000-60,000 | Single Stage |
| Carrier 24APB6 | 1.5-5 | 16 | 59 dB | 24,000-60,000 | Single Stage |
| Carrier 24AAA6 | 1.5-5 | 16 | 62 dB | 24,000-60,000 | Single Stage |
| Carrier 24ABC6 | 1.5-5 | 14 | 67 dB | 18,000-60,000 | Single Stage |
| Carrier 24AAA5 | 1.5-5 | 14 | 66 dB | 18,000-60,000 | Single Stage |
| Carrier 24ACC4 | 1.5-5 | 13 | 70 dB | 18,000-60,000 | Single Stage |
| Carrier 24ABB3 | 1.5-5 | 13 | 75 dB | 18,000-60,000 | Single Stage |
| Carrier 24ABB3**C | 1.5-5 | 14 | 63 dB | 18,000-60,000 | Single Stage |
| Carrier 24ACA4**C | 1.5-5 | 14 | 72 dB | 18,000-60,000 | Single Stage |
How Long do Carrier Air Conditioners Last?
Carrier air conditioners are built to last. Their ac units parts, ac cabinets, compressors, and coils are made with high-quality materials and can last up to 20 years. However, With proper maintenance and care, you can add to the lifespan of your carrier ac unit.
Pros and Cons of Carrier HVAC
Like other establish HVAC manufacturers, Carrier has its pros and cons.
Pros:
Efficiency
The Carrier air conditioner is one of the most efficient models in the HVAC industry. The unit has a SEER rating of 26, making it a highly energy-efficient ac. High efficiency is beneficial since it saves on your HVAC operating cost.
Latest technology
Carrier HVAC manufacturers have embraced the latest technology in their HVAC units. One of them is the cor thermostat, a home automation system that controls HVAC units from Carrier.
Dehumidification
The Carrier air conditioner is designed to remove humidity from the warm air during hot weather. The unit does this by cooling and then reheating the air. This removes moisture from the air, making it more comfortable for you during humid days.
Inverter technology
This technology in Carrier’s ac units is designed to reduce energy consumption. It does this using a variable fan. The variable fan adjusts the compressor’s speed to match the variable capacity of your space.
Cons
High initial cost
The Carrier air conditioner is a high-quality HVAC unit with many features that come at a price. The unit’s initial cost is higher than most models in the market, making it a less attractive option for budget-conscious consumers.
Not easy to find parts
Although Carrier ACs are built to last, finding replacement parts can be challenging since Carrier isn’t as widely available as other brands. You may have to order parts online or visit authorized HVAC dealers, which is time-consuming.
Poor customer service
Carrier has been known to have poor customer service. Customers have complained about long wait times when calling customer service and difficulty getting through to a live representative. In addition, some customers have reported that Carrier’s warranty process is complex and time-consuming.
What is Lennox?
Lennox is an HVAC company that manufactures various products, including furnaces, air conditioners, and more. The company was founded in 1895 by Dave Lennox and is headquartered in Richardson, Texas.
The company has been in business for over 100 years, and its products are available in over 50 countries.
About Lennox Brand HVAC; Lennox AC Review
Lennox HVAC units are some of the most popular in the market. The units are known for their durability, efficiency, and quiet operation. Lennox cooling systems come in various models that are designed for different types of homes and businesses.
The company offers a wide range of features that make its units stand out from other brands. These features include two-stage cooling, humidity control, and a programmable thermostat. In addition, all Lennox air conditioners come with a 12-year warranty which is one of the longest warranties in the industry.
Lennox cooling units have a SEER rating of up to 28, making them some of the most efficient units on the market. The units also come with various energy-saving features that can help you save money on your utility bills. An example of this feature is the Lennox variable-capacity compressor.
Lennox ACs also come installed with humidity control, a feature that is not available in most brands. The humidity control feature helps remove excess moisture from the air, making it more comfortable for you during hot weather.
| 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 |
What is the Average Life of a Lennox Air Conditioner?
Like any other HVAC unit, the lifespan of Lennox air conditioners will depend on how often it is used, the climate, and maintenance. However, on average, Lennox AC systems have a 15-20 year lifespan.
The extended lifespan is because Lennox units are built with high-quality parts and are designed for durability.
Pros and Cons of Lennox HVAC
Pros:
Energy efficient
Lennox systems are designed to be energy efficient. The units have a SEER rating of up to 28, making them some of the most energy-efficient models on the market. The units also come with various energy-saving features that can help you save money on your utility bills.
Long lifespan
Lennox ac units have an average lifespan of 15-20 years, much longer than most ac brands. The extended lifespan is because Lennox units are built with high-quality parts and are designed for durability.
Wide range of products
Lennox offers a wide range of HVAC products, including furnaces, AC units, heat pumps, etc. The company has a product for every type of home and business.
Cons:
High price point
Lennox HVAC systems are some of the most expensive on the market. The high price point is due to the quality of the units and the wide range of features that they offer.
Lennox supply chain issues
Lennox has a slow and complicated supply chain. This has led to several customer complaints about delayed shipments and parts for Lennox repairs.
It May require a large space for installation
Lennox units are larger than most brands. The unit’s large size can be an issue for homes and businesses with limited HVAC installation space.
Carrier vs. Lennox: In-depth Comparison
To help you decide which HVAC unit brand is right for your home or business, we have put together an in-depth comparison between Carrier and Lennox.
1. Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency is the ability of a system to convert energy into useful work. The higher the efficiency of a system, the less energy it wastes. Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) measures how much cooling a system produces per unit of energy it consumes. The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient the system.
Lennox systems are designed to be energy efficient. The units have a SEER rating of up to 28, making them some of the most efficient units. The units also come with various energy-saving features that can help you save money on your utility bills.
Carrier systems are also designed for energy efficiency. Carrier airconditioning units have a SEER rating of 26, which qualifies them among the most efficient cooling units. In addition, Carrier offers many ENERGY STAR-qualified products that can help you save money on your utility bills.
2. Performance
The performance of an HVAC unit is vital to consider when making a purchase. The performance of a system will determine how well the system can heat or cool your home or business.
Lennox air conditioner is designed for durability and long-term performance. The units are built with high-quality parts and come with various features that help the unit run smoothly and efficiently.
Carrier systems are also designed for durability and long-term performance. Carrier units use corrosion-resistant materials and come with several features that help extend the unit’s life.
3. Price
The price of an HVAC system is a crucial consideration when purchasing your new central air conditioner. The cost will vary based on the system’s type, size, and efficiency.
Lennox systems are some of the most expensive ($5,760). The high price point is due to the quality of the units and the wide range of features that they offer.
Price & Cost Expectations of Lennox AC Systems
| 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 | – |
Carrier systems are less expensive than Lennox systems (2,934). Carrier offers a variety of HVAC products at a variety of price points to fit your budget.
Price & Cost Expectations of Carrier AC Systems
| Model | Price* (w/out Installation) | Price* (w/ Installation) | Estimated Running Cost** | Tax Breaks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carrier 24VNA0 | $3,985 | $6115 | ~$400 | $300 |
| Carrier 24ANB1 | $3,795 | $5950 | ~$420 | $300 |
| Carrier 24VNA9 | $2,900 | $4890 | ~$464 | $300 |
| Carrier 24ANB7 | $2,650 | $4675 | ~$519 | $300 |
| Carrier 24ANB7**C | $2,670 | $4710 | ~$519 | $300 |
| Carrier 24ANB6 | $2,295 | $4250 | ~$551 | $300 |
| Carrier 24ACB7 | $2,159 | $3775 | ~$519 | $300 |
| Carrier 24ACC6 | $2,100 | $3700 | ~$551 | $300 |
| Carrier 24ACB3 | $1,900 | $3500 | ~$678 | – |
| Carrier 24AHA4 | $1,950 | $3550 | ~$630 | – |
| Carrier 24APB6 | $1,975 | $3575 | ~$551 | $300 |
| Carrier 24AAA6 | $1,825 | $3430 | ~$551 | $300 |
| Carrier 24ABC6 | $1,625 | $3330 | ~$551 | – |
| Carrier 24AAA5 | $1,550 | $3150 | ~$588 | – |
| Carrier 24ACC4 | $1,525 | $3195 | ~$630 | – |
| Carrier 24ABB3 | $1,530 | $3200 | ~$678 | – |
| Carrier 24ABB3**C | $1,375 | $2990 | ~$678 | – |
| Carrier 24ACA4**C | $1,450 | $3050 | ~$630 | – |
4. Compressor Options
The compressor is the heart of the air conditioner. It is responsible for pumping refrigerant through the system. Your system’s type of compressor will determine how well the system works and how long it lasts.
Both Carrier and Lennox offer units with one-way, two-stage, and variable-speed compressors. One-way compressors are the most common type of compressor. They are designed for basic air conditioning needs and are the least expensive option.
Two-stage compressors are more powerful than one-way compressors and can cool your home or business more quickly. Two-stage compressors also run at a lower speed most of the time, which makes them quieter than one-way compressors.
Variable speed compressors are the most powerful type of compressor. They can cool your home or business quickly and efficiently. Variable speed compressors also run at a lower speed most of the time, which makes them quieter than one-way or two-stage compressors.
5. System Warranties
When you purchase an HVAC system, you want to be sure that you are covered if something goes wrong with the unit. That’s why it’s essential to consider the warranty offered by the system.
Lennox systems come with a standard five-year warranty. A ten-year warranty also covers the units on the compressor and a two-year labor warranty. Carrier systems come with a standard one-year warranty. A five-year warranty also covers the units on the compressor and a one-year labor warranty.
6. Condenser Fan Options
The condenser fan is responsible for moving air across the condenser coils. Your system’s type of fan will determine how well the system works and how long it lasts.
Both Carrier and Lennox offer units with single-speed and variable-speed condenser fans. Single-speed fans are the most common type of fan. They are designed for basic air conditioning needs and are the least expensive option.
Variable speed fans are more powerful than single-speed fans and can cool your home quicker. Variable speed fans also run at a lower speed most of the time, making them quieter than single-speed fans.
7. System Controls
The control panel is the brain of the air conditioner. It is responsible for controlling all of the functions of the unit. Your system’s type of control panel will determine how easy it is to use the system.
Lennox systems come with a standard seven-day programmable thermostat. You can program the thermostat to turn the unit on and off at specific times throughout the day.
Carrier systems come with a standard five-day programmable thermostat. The thermostat can be programmed to turn the unit on and off at specific times throughout the day.
8. Tax Breaks and Incentives
The purchase of a new central air conditioner may qualify you for a tax break or incentive. The type of tax break or incentive you are eligible for will vary depending on the type of system you purchase.
Purchasing an Energy Star-certified air conditioner may qualify you for a tax credit or rebate. Both brands offer a variety of models that meet the Energy Star guidelines for energy efficiency. The brands qualify for tax breaks of up to $300.
9. Humidity Control
A hot, humid day can be made even worse if your air conditioner cannot remove the humidity from the air. The type of system you have will determine how well the unit can control the moisture in your home or business.
Lennox systems come with a standard whole-house dehumidifier. The dehumidifier is designed to remove up to 70 pints of moisture from the air per day. On the other hand, Carrier systems come with a standard whole-house dehumidifier. The dehumidifier is designed to remove up to 50 pints of moisture from the air per day.
10. Ease of Installation
The installation process for an HVAC system can be complicated and time-consuming. That’s why it’s essential to consider the ease of installation when choosing a unit.
Carrier systems are designed for easy installation. The units come with pre-charged refrigerant lines and a quick-connect electrical panel. They are also small and lightweight, which makes them easy to handle.
On the other hand, Lennox AC units are bulky and heavy. The units come with pre-charged refrigerant lines, but the electrical panel is not quick-connect. This means that the installation process will take longer.
11. Noise level
The noise level of an HVAC system is essential to consider if you have a small home or business. A loud system can be disruptive and make it difficult to concentrate.
Carrier ac unit is designed for quiet operation. The units come with sound-dampening insulation that reduces the noise level to 51 decibels. Unlike Carriers, Lennox cooling systems are noisy during operation. The units come with sound-dampening insulation, but the noise level is still 70 decibels.
Carrier vs. Lennox: Which One should you Choose?
After reviewing the pros and cons of Carrier vs Lennox ac units, we think that Carrier is the better option. Carrier systems are more energy-efficient, easier to install, and quieter than Lennox systems. However, the ultimate decision lies in your heating and cooling needs.
Whichever brand you decide on, be sure to have your new system installed by insured HVAC installers certified by the brand. Improper installation can void warranties and cause expensive repairs down the road.
Carrier and Lennox are both leading brands in the HVAC industry. They offer a wide range of products to meet your needs. When deciding which brand to purchase, consider the type of unit you need, your budget, and the available warranties.
Both brands offer high-quality products that will keep your home or business cool and comfortable for many years to come. You can also check the Trane carrier and Lennox air conditioner review to help you make an informed decision.
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