What size furnace should I buy?

Square FootageFurnace BTU
1,000-1,200 sq. ft. Home40,000 - 60,000 BTU
1,200-1,500 sq. ft. Home60,000 BTU
1,500-1,800 sq. ft. Home60,000 - 80,000 BTU
1,800-2,500 sq. ft. Home80,000 - 100,000 BTU
2,500-3,500 sq. ft. Home100,000 to 120,000 BTU
Lennox Merit ML193E Review

Lennox Merit ML193E Review

AFUE: Up to 93%
ENERGY STAR ®: No
Burner Type: Single-Stage
Blower Type: Constant torque
Price: $4,000 to $4,500
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🔥Lennox ML193E Furnace Review

The Lennox ML193E Furnace Review covers Lennox’s most budget-friendly gas furnace, designed for homeowners who want basic, dependable heating at a lower upfront cost. Part of the Merit® Series, the ML193E focuses on durability and quiet operation rather than top-tier efficiency.

With a 93% AFUE rating, this model falls below Canada’s current high-efficiency benchmark (95%+), which means it may not qualify for rebates and may have limited availability in some regions. Still, for smaller homes or milder climates, the ML193E can provide reliable comfort without the price tag of higher-end Lennox furnaces.


⭐ In a Nutshell

  • Average Installation Cost (Canada): $4,000 – $4,500

  • AFUE Efficiency: 93%

  • Heating Stages: Single-stage

  • Blower Motor: Constant torque

  • ENERGY STAR® Certified: No

  • Best For: Budget-focused buyers, smaller homes, mild climates


💡 Key Benefits

  • Lower upfront installation cost compared to Elite and Signature models

  • Constant torque blower delivers steady, balanced airflow

  • Quiet operation with sealed blower compartment

  • Dual-fuel compatible when paired with a Lennox heat pump

  • Smart thermostat compatibility for added control

  • Proven Lennox components designed for long-term reliability


⭐Top Features

  • Secondary heat exchanger for improved efficiency

  • Constant torque blower motor for steady, balanced airflow

  • Quiet and durable performance

  • Fast and straightforward installation design

  • Dual-fuel compatible (with a Lennox heat pump)

  • Compatible with Lennox air filters and humidifiers

  • Works with the iComfort M30 smart thermostat

  • Standard Lennox warranty coverage

Note: This model does not meet Canada’s minimum efficiency requirement for gas furnaces (95% AFUE), so availability may be limited.


🏆 The Bottom Line

The Lennox ML193E Furnace Review is a straightforward, entry-level furnace that prioritizes reliability and quiet performance over maximum efficiency. While it includes useful features like a constant torque blower, condensing design, and dual-fuel capability, its 93% AFUE efficiency limits long-term energy savings and rebate eligibility in Canada.

For homeowners on a tight budget or in milder climates, the ML193E can still be a practical option. However, those looking for better efficiency, lower operating costs, and future-proof performance should strongly consider stepping up to a higher-efficiency Lennox model.


⚙️ Product Specifications

Specification Details
AFUE 93%
Burner Type Single-stage
Blower Type Constant torque
ENERGY STAR® No
Heat Exchanger Duralok Plus®
Ignition SureLight® silicon nitride
Dual-Fuel Ready Yes

🛠️ Design & Performance Features

The ML193E includes several Lennox-exclusive components focused on durability and steady performance:

  • Power Saver™ Constant Torque Motor – Maintains consistent airflow while improving comfort

  • SureLight® Silicon Nitride Ignitor – Reliable, long-lasting ignition without a standing pilot

  • Duralok Plus® Heat Exchanger – Clamshell design enhances heat transfer and reduces air leakage

  • Sealed Blower Compartment – Limits noise and minimizes air loss

Pre-fabricated installation features such as flanges and flue collars help simplify setup and reduce installation time.

⚙️ Core Performance & Efficiency

With a 93% AFUE, the ML193E converts most—but not all—of its fuel into usable heat. Compared to 95%+ furnaces, it allows more heat to escape through exhaust gases, which can lead to higher heating costs over time.

The single-stage burner operates at one output level, providing steady heat but less flexibility during milder weather. This makes the ML193E better suited for smaller homes or regions with shorter heating seasons.

🔇 Noise / Quiet Operation

Quiet operation is one of the ML193E’s strengths. A reinforced blower assembly, sealed burner box, and insulated cabinet help keep sound levels low, making it a good choice when the furnace is installed near living areas.

👁️ Optional / Smart Features

The ML193E is compatible with the Lennox iComfort® M30 Smart Thermostat, enabling:

  • Geofencing temperature adjustments

  • Voice control via Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit

  • Improved temperature and humidity balancing

  • Smart home integration through IFTTT


🧾 Warranty Coverage

Lennox provides solid warranty protection for an entry-level furnace:

  • 20-Year Limited Heat Exchanger Warranty

  • 10-Year Limited Parts Warranty (registration required within 60 days)

If not registered, parts coverage drops to 5 years. Professional installation and regular maintenance are required to keep warranties valid.


➕ Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Lower upfront installation cost

  • Quiet and reliable operation

  • Dual-fuel compatibility

  • Smart thermostat support

  • Durable Lennox components

Cons

  • 93% AFUE does not meet Canada’s high-efficiency standard

  • No ENERGY STAR® certification

  • Limited rebate eligibility

  • Higher long-term operating costs than 95%+ models


🔍Comparable Lennox Models

1.ML193E vs. EL296V (Mid-Range Elite Series)

The EL296V is a major upgrade from the ML193E. It’s a two-stage, variable-speed furnace with an AFUE of 96%, offering:

  • Quieter operation

  • Better humidity control

  • Greater energy savings

  • Eligibility for rebates

Feature ML193E ML296V
AFUE 93% 96%
Heating Single-stage Two-stage
Blower Constant torque Variable-speed
Best For Lowest upfront cost Better efficiency & comfort

While the EL296V costs more ($6,800 – $7,400 installed), it’s a stronger long-term investment for Canadian homes.


2.ML193E vs. SLP99V (Premium Dave Lennox Signature Series)

The SLP99V is Lennox’s top-of-the-line model with a 99% AFUE, variable-capacity burner, and modulating airflow. It can fine-tune performance in 1% increments, offering:

  • Maximum comfort and energy savings

  • Whisper-quiet operation

  • Smart thermostat integration with advanced system diagnostics and air quality management

Feature ML193E EL296V
Series Merit Elite
AFUE 93% 96%
Comfort Level Basic High
Rebate Potential Low Higher

If you want the best efficiency and performance possible, the SLP99V leads the market.


3.ML193E vs. ML296V (Same Series Comparison)

The ML296V belongs to the same Merit series but offers much better value:

  • AFUE: 96%

  • Burner: Two-stage

  • Blower: Variable-speed

While it costs slightly more, it provides:

  • More even heating throughout the home

  • Lower long-term energy costs

  • Potential rebate eligibility

Feature ML193E SLP99V
AFUE 93% 99%
Heating Single-stage Modulating
Price Tier Budget Premium
Best For Basic needs Maximum efficiency & comfort

In short, the ML296V is a more balanced and future-proof option for most Canadian homeowners.


Final Verdict

The Lennox ML193E is a basic, entry-level gas furnace best suited for smaller homes or milder climates. It’s durable, quiet, and reliable—but falls short of the efficiency and rebate qualifications needed in most Canadian regions.
If budget is your top priority, it’s worth considering—but for lasting performance and savings, the ML296V or EL296V are stronger choices.


💰What Factors Affect Furnace Pricing in Canada?

The installation or replacement cost of any furnace, air conditioner, or heat pump in Canada can vary based on several important factors:


📍Top Cities We Serve Across Canada

We proudly help homeowners across Canada compare furnace prices, get installation quotes, and find trusted HVAC contractors. Here are some of the top cities where we provide service:

Hamilton • Burlington • Brantford • Cambridge • Kitchener • Milton • Oakville

Whether you’re upgrading your furnace, replacing an old system, or comparing HVAC quotes, our certified contractors are available to assist you in all major regions across Ontario and beyond.

Get free quotes from trusted HVAC professionals in your city and compare furnace installation costs instantly.


🏆 Our HVAC Partners Are Members of Leading Canadian Associations

We partner with installers affiliated with recognized industry organizations, including:

These affiliations ensure reliable service, certified expertise, and consistent installation quality across Canada.


❓Lennox ML193E Furnace Review – FAQs

Is the Lennox ML193E good for Canadian winters?
It works best in milder climates or smaller homes. Colder regions benefit more from higher-efficiency models.

Does the ML193E qualify for rebates?
No, its 93% AFUE rating typically does not meet rebate requirements in Canada.

Is it quiet?
Yes, it’s quieter than many entry-level furnaces due to its sealed and insulated design.

Can it work with a heat pump?
Yes, it supports dual-fuel configurations.


👥 Who Should Buy This Furnace?

  • Homeowners on a tight budget

  • Smaller homes or townhouses

  • Mild to moderate Canadian climates

🚫 Who Should Skip It?

  • Large homes

  • Very cold regions

  • Buyers seeking rebates or long-term energy savings


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