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Lennox Furnace Review & Buying Guide
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15,000+
Lennox
4.6
Average Rating By Homeowner
$5,500
Average Price Including Installation
Lennox Furnaces At a Glance
Strengths
Areas for Improvement
Lennox Furnace Review
Our updated 2024 Lennox furnace buying guide provides a complete overview, including model comparisons, energy efficiency ratings, standout features, warranty details, and more. Get a free quote quickly and easily!
If you're considering a new Lennox furnace, you're in the right place. This detailed brand review is designed to help you make an informed choice when comparing your options.
We’ll break down average Lennox furnace prices in both Canada and the U.S., highlight key features, explain the warranty coverage, and give you a side-by-side comparison of all available models. You’ll also find insights from real HVAC professionals and homeowners who have experience with Lennox systems.
Whether you're upgrading an older unit or installing a furnace for a new build, this guide will help you find a high-efficiency Lennox heating system that fits your comfort needs and budget.
Also Read: The Best Furnaces for Canadians
The Bottom Line
Lennox stands out in the HVAC industry by offering premium, high-efficiency heating solutions. Their furnaces are known for quality construction, quiet performance, and reliable operation across a range of models—whether you're looking for entry-level, mid-range, or top-tier options.
The brand positions itself as a top-tier name in home comfort, and it has built a solid reputation to match. If your priorities include energy efficiency and long-term performance, Lennox is a strong contender.
However, if you're more focused on affordability, extended warranties, or innovative features, you may find better value with other brands.
Overall, Lennox furnaces deliver excellent performance—just be prepared to invest a bit more upfront for that premium quality.
Lennox Furnace Model Series Overview
Lennox offers a wide range of furnace models across three main tiers: Dave Lennox Signature Collection, Elite Series, and Merit Series. Our proprietary grading system evaluates each model based on efficiency, features, warranty coverage, and overall value to help you easily compare furnaces—both within Lennox and across other brands.
Note: A lower grade doesn’t always mean a poor product. It may simply reflect fewer features, lower efficiency, or shorter warranties that are typical of more budget-friendly models.
| Model | AFUE Efficiency | ENERGY STAR® | Overall Grade | Warranty Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dave Lennox Signature Collection | ||||
| SLP99V | 99% | Yes | A+ | A+ |
| SL297NV | 97.5% | Yes | A+ | A+ |
| SL280V | 80% | No | B | A+ |
| SL280NV | 80% | No | B | A+ |
| Elite Series | ||||
| EL297V | 97% | Yes | A | A- |
| EL296V | 96% | Yes | A | A- |
| EL296E | 96% | Yes | B+ | A- |
| EL280E | 80% | No | D | B |
| EL196E | 96% | Yes | B | A- |
| EL195NE | 95% | Yes | B | A- |
| EL180NE | 80% | No | D | B |
| Merit Series | ||||
| ML296V | 96% | Yes | A | B |
| ML196E | 96% | Yes | B | B |
| ML193E | 93% | Yes | B | B |
| ML180V | 80% | Yes | B | B |
| ML180E | 80% | No | D | B |
| Oil Furnaces | ||||
| SLO185V (Signature) | 87% | No | B | A+ |
| ELO183 (Elite) | 83% | No | D | A- |
Merit Series Furnaces
Average price for an entry-level Merit furnace: $5,250 to $6,250
Models
ML196E: A single-stage furnace with a constant torque motor and an AFUE rating of 96%. It’s compatible with dual fuel systems, allowing it to work with a heat pump. The furnace can automatically switch between gas and electric heating depending on outdoor temperatures to optimize energy savings.
ML296V: A two-stage, variable-speed furnace with a 96% AFUE. It offers better control over temperature and humidity, operates more quietly and efficiently, and includes a sealed burner box for reduced noise.
Ideal For
Merit furnaces are best suited for homeowners seeking a reliable brand name without a high-end price tag. These units are ideal for small to medium-sized homes, especially where advanced features or extensive warranties are less of a priority.
Elite Series Furnaces
Average price for a mid-range Elite furnace: $5,750 to $6,750
Models
EL195NE: A single-stage furnace with a constant torque motor and 95% AFUE. This ultra-low NOx model emits 65% fewer emissions than typical low-NOx furnaces and holds Green Seal certification.
EL196E: A single-stage model with a constant torque motor and a 96% AFUE. It uses Lennox’s Power Saver motor, which is up to 33% more efficient than standard motors, reducing operating costs.
EL296E: A two-stage furnace with a constant torque motor and 96% AFUE. It features the Duralok Plus heat exchanger made of patented steel and a clamshell design, enhancing reliability and performance.
EL296V: A two-stage, variable-speed furnace with a 96% AFUE. This unit can be paired with compatible ACs or heat pumps and uses 2/3 less energy than a standard motor.
EL297V: A high-efficiency, two-stage, variable-speed furnace with 97% AFUE. It works with the Lennox S40 smart thermostat, using onboard sensors for diagnostics and automatic adjustments to boost energy efficiency and improve indoor comfort.
Ideal For
The Elite series is versatile enough to heat homes of any size efficiently and quietly. With single and two-stage options, these models also provide better coverage and slightly longer warranties than entry-level units.
Dave Lennox Signature Collection Series Furnaces
Average price for a top-tier Signature furnace: $6,250 to $7,250
Models
SL297NV: A two-stage, variable-speed furnace with 97.5% AFUE. It delivers even heating throughout your home and is an ultra-low NOx unit, producing 65% fewer emissions than standard low-NOx models.
SLP99V: This modulating, variable-speed model boasts an industry-leading 99% AFUE. It belongs to Lennox’s Ultimate Comfort System, supports top-tier smart thermostats, and features SilentComfort Technology for quiet operation.
Ideal For
These premium models are perfect for larger homes in colder climates and for homeowners with higher budgets. Designed for long-term performance, comfort, and energy efficiency, they’re also great for anyone looking to reduce their environmental impact.
Recently Discontinued Lennox Furnaces
- Elite EL195E
- Merit ML195
- Merit ML193
- Dave Lennox Signature Collection SLP98V
Exclusive Features from Lennox
Power Saver™ – High-Efficiency Blower Motor
How Lennox describes it:
A constant torque motor that uses less energy to heat and cool your home, helping reduce utility bills.
In plain language:
This is a blower motor with multiple speeds—typically five—that adjusts airflow based on your heating needs. It helps circulate warm air more efficiently throughout your home while using less electricity.
Is it more than just hype?
While "Power Saver" is just a brand name, the underlying technology is real and beneficial. Constant torque motors outperform single-speed ones by saving energy, managing humidity better, lowering operational noise, and distributing heat more evenly. Lennox is shifting away from outdated single-speed motors—a move that mirrors the rest of the industry.
iComfort Smart Thermostat – Intelligent Climate Control
How Lennox describes it:
A smart, Wi-Fi-enabled thermostat designed to enhance your HVAC system’s performance, improve efficiency, and lower energy bills.
In plain language:
Lennox’s iComfort line includes the S30 (for Signature models), E30 (for Elite models), and M30 (for Merit models and other systems). These smart thermostats learn your routine, automate heating schedules, and offer remote control through mobile apps.
Is it more than just hype?
Lennox is not alone—many HVAC brands offer smart thermostats—but the iComfort models stand out for their robust features. Depending on the model, you can expect capabilities like:
- Voice control via Alexa, HomeKit, and IFTTT
- Outdoor air quality monitoring with automatic indoor adjustments
- Real-time diagnostics sent to your HVAC technician
- Geofencing that switches to energy-saving mode when you're away
These are practical, comfort-boosting tools—not just marketing fluff.
Duralok Plus – Exclusive Heat Exchanger Design
How Lennox describes it:
A premium heat exchanger made from patented ArmorTuf steel, with a clamshell design for enhanced durability and performance.
In plain language:
The heat exchanger is a core furnace component. Lennox’s Duralok Plus uses corrosion-resistant steel and a clamshell design, which avoids welding—minimizing stress points and the risk of cracks over time.
Is it more than just hype?
Yes, this design can significantly extend the life of your furnace. While Lennox isn’t the only brand with a proprietary heat exchanger, theirs is among the more durable thanks to its materials and construction. Comparable technologies include Armstrong’s EHX, Napoleon’s Vortex Turbulator, and RPJ models from brands like Heil and Tempstar.
Ultimate Comfort System – Premium Home Comfort Package
How Lennox describes it:
A complete home comfort solution, custom-tailored to deliver optimal indoor air quality and quiet, efficient performance.
In plain language:
This isn’t a single product—it’s a bundled system of top-tier Lennox technologies. The package typically includes the iComfort S30 thermostat, PureAir S air purifier, and iHarmony zoning system, all working together with a high-end furnace to create a premium climate control experience.
Is it more than just hype?
It’s definitely a premium setup that can improve comfort and air quality—especially with the S30’s smart sensors that adjust airflow based on outdoor conditions. However, it comes at a cost. Similar results can be achieved using third-party systems, though not always with the same level of integration or automation.
Warranty Analysis
Understanding Lennox’s Warranty Coverage
Lennox furnaces come with warranties for both parts and the heat exchanger. These warranties are split into two tiers: base coverage and extended coverage, which you access by registering your unit. The Warranty Your Way program allows you to customize how you want your extended warranty to apply.
Merit and Elite Series
- Base Warranty:
5-year parts warranty and 20-year or lifetime heat exchanger warranty - Registered Option A:
Extends the parts warranty to 10 years - Registered Option B:
7-year parts warranty + 3-year labor warranty
Dave Lennox Signature Collection
- Base Warranty:
10-year parts warranty and 20-year or lifetime heat exchanger warranty - Registered Option A:
Extends parts warranty to 12 years - Registered Option B:
3-year labor warranty
Registration Is Required
To access the full warranty coverage, Merit and Elite furnaces must be registered within 60 days of installation. Without registration, only the base 5-year parts warranty applies.
What You’ll Need to Register:
- Model and serial numbers
- Installation date
- Installer’s name and address
- Information on other connected HVAC components
- Your email address
Registration can be completed easily on the Lennox website.
🔎 Note: Requiring registration is common across HVAC brands. However, Lennox uniquely requests information about your full HVAC setup.
Warranty Conditions and Requirements
To keep your warranty valid, there are a few important conditions:
- Professional Installation:
Must be installed by a licensed HVAC technician. DIY installation voids the warranty. - Annual Maintenance:
Regular servicing is required. Keep all receipts and records as proof.
How Lennox’s Warranty Compares
Despite their premium pricing, Lennox’s warranty terms are not particularly generous compared to other manufacturers.
What’s Missing:
Lennox does not include a unit replacement warranty if the heat exchanger fails—something increasingly common among competitors.
Brands Offering Better Coverage:
- Unit replacement warranties:
Comfortmaker, American Standard, York, Trane, Tempstar, Ruud, Rheem, Coleman, Napoleon, Luxaire, Amana, KeepRite, Heil, Goodman, Daikin - Lifetime heat exchanger warranties (even on entry-level models):
Luxaire, Goodman, Daikin, Coleman, American Standard, Amana - Armstrong Air (a Lennox subsidiary):
Offers lifetime heat exchanger warranty on all high-efficiency models
Lennox Add-Ons and Accessories
Programmable Thermostats
Aside from smart thermostats, Lennox also offers ComfortSense programmable models. These allow for scheduled temperature adjustments based on the time of day and your presence at home.
Key Features:
- Energy-saving away mode
- Filter change alerts
- Dual fuel compatibility
- Energy usage reports
🔎 Note: These thermostats aren’t Wi-Fi enabled and don’t adapt to your habits like smart models do.
Zoning Systems
Lennox’s Harmony zoning systems can divide your home into separate temperature zones. Available in two-zone or four-zone models, they work with both programmable and smart thermostats.
Perfect for:
- Large or multi-story homes
- Rooms with different heating/cooling needs
- Sunrooms or spaces over unheated garages
- Families with different temperature preferences
Air Purification Systems
Lennox offers a range of indoor air quality (IAQ) products:
PureAir and PureAir S:
- Remove viruses, bacteria, mold, ozone, VOCs, smoke, odors, dust, and pollen
Media Air Cleaners:
- MERV 11, 13, and 16 options
- Capture up to 95% of particles
HEPA Filters:
- Capture 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns
UV Germicidal Lights:
- Kill mold, bacteria, and fungi in the ductwork
- Help maintain HVAC efficiency and extend equipment lifespan
Humidifiers and Dehumidifiers
Maintaining proper humidity is vital for comfort and health:
- Humidifiers: Add moisture during winter; reduce static, dry skin, and heating bills
- Dehumidifiers: Remove excess moisture to prevent mold, protect wood/paint, and lighten A/C loads
Lennox provides whole-home systems to automatically regulate indoor humidity.
Heat and Energy Recovery Ventilators
These systems improve indoor air quality by circulating fresh air without affecting indoor temperatures.
- HRVs: Ideal for cold climates; exchange heat while ventilating
- ERVs: Best for humid, mild climates; exchange both heat and moisture
These systems help maintain comfort while reducing the load on your HVAC system.
About Lennox
Founded in 1895 by David Lennox, Lennox International has become one of the most respected names in heating technology. Known for innovation and reliability, Lennox offers a range of furnaces designed to meet the needs of different homeowners—whether you're seeking affordability or the quietest, most efficient model on the market.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Are Lennox Furnaces So Expensive?
Lennox invests heavily in product innovation and marketing. They offer industry-leading features such as the quietest operation, highest efficiency, and lowest emissions, which contribute to higher costs.
How Long Do Lennox Furnaces Last?
With proper maintenance, a Lennox furnace can last 15 to 20 years or longer. Their lifetime heat exchanger warranties suggest they expect at least two decades of dependable service.
Are Lennox Furnaces Worth the Money?
That depends on your priorities:
- Yes, if you want top-tier efficiency, brand prestige, quiet performance, and smart tech
- Maybe not, if you're looking for extended warranty coverage or advanced features at a lower price point
The most expensive Lennox model is also the most efficient on the market, which may offset its cost through energy savings and rebate eligibility.
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