| Square Footage | Furnace BTU |
|---|---|
| 1,000-1,200 sq. ft. Home | 40,000 - 60,000 BTU |
| 1,200-1,500 sq. ft. Home | 60,000 BTU |
| 1,500-1,800 sq. ft. Home | 60,000 - 80,000 BTU |
| 1,800-2,500 sq. ft. Home | 80,000 - 100,000 BTU |
| 2,500-3,500 sq. ft. Home | 100,000 to 120,000 BTU |
The Lennox Merit ML296V Furnace Review is part of Lennox’s entry-level Merit Series, designed for homeowners who want dependable performance, high efficiency, and quiet operation—without paying premium-tier prices. Despite its more affordable positioning, this model includes features typically found in higher-end furnaces, making it a strong option for many Canadian homes.
This Lennox Merit ML296V Review covers installation cost in Canada, efficiency, noise level, warranty coverage, and comparisons with other Lennox furnaces to help you decide if it’s the right fit for your home.
Average Installed Price (Canada): $4,200 – $4,800
AFUE Efficiency: 96%
ENERGY STAR® Certified: Yes
Heating Stages: Two-stage
Blower Type: Variable-speed
Key Highlights
Two-stage gas valve for better comfort and energy savings
Variable-speed blower for quieter, more even heating
Secondary heat exchanger reduces fuel waste
Dual-fuel capable with a compatible heat pump
Designed for quiet operation with a sealed burner box
Consistent Comfort: Two-stage heating reduces temperature swings
Quiet Operation: Variable-speed blower and sealed cabinet lower noise levels
High Efficiency: 96% AFUE helps reduce heating costs in Canadian winters
Flexible Setup: Compatible with humidifiers, air cleaners, and dual-fuel systems
Smart Control Ready: Works with Lennox iComfort® M30 thermostat
Two-stage gas valve for improved comfort and efficiency
Variable-speed blower for quieter, more even heating
High-efficiency AFUE of 96%
Secondary heat exchanger captures more heat and reduces energy waste
ENERGY STAR® certified
Designed for quiet operation with a sealed burner box
Dual-fuel capable when paired with an electric heat pump
Compatible with humidifiers and air filtration systems
Built with durable steel cabinet and long-lasting components
Although positioned as an entry-level model, the Lennox Merit ML296V Furnace Review delivers near-premium performance. Its two-stage burner and variable-speed blower provide steady warmth, improved humidity control, and noticeably quieter operation than basic single-stage furnaces.
While Lennox warranties are not the strongest in the industry, the ML296V offers excellent long-term value through energy savings, comfort, and reliability—especially for homeowners upgrading from an older furnace.
AFUE: 96%
Burner: Two-stage gas valve
Blower: Variable-speed ECM
ENERGY STAR® Certified: Yes
The ML296V focuses on proven engineering rather than flashy add-ons. Core components are designed to improve reliability, efficiency, and comfort:
Duralok Plus™ Heat Exchanger: Built for long-term durability
Clamshell Primary Heat Exchanger: Improves heat transfer and reduces air leaks
SureLight® Silicon Nitride Ignitor: Reliable, maintenance-free ignition
Sealed Burner Box: Reduces operating noise and improves combustion efficiency
With a 96% AFUE rating, the ML296V converts most of the fuel it burns into usable heat. The two-stage burner allows the furnace to operate on a lower setting most of the time, improving comfort and efficiency while reducing noise. During extreme cold, it automatically shifts to high stage for added heating power.
Thanks to its variable-speed blower, sealed cabinet design, and ultra-low continuous fan mode, the ML296V operates noticeably quieter than single-stage furnaces. This makes it well-suited for homes where the furnace is installed near living spaces.
When paired with the Lennox iComfort® M30 Smart Thermostat, homeowners gain:
Geofencing for automatic energy savings
Voice control via Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit
Smart scheduling and comfort automation
Heat Exchanger: 20-year limited warranty
Parts: 10-year limited warranty (registration within 60 days required)
Unregistered units receive only 5 years of parts coverage. Professional installation by a licensed HVAC contractor is required to keep the warranty valid. Lennox does not include a lifetime heat exchanger or unit replacement warranty.
Pros
High efficiency (96% AFUE)
Quiet, two-stage operation
Variable-speed blower improves comfort
ENERGY STAR® certified
Strong overall performance for the price
Cons
Warranty weaker than some competitors
Higher upfront cost than basic single-stage furnaces
Both models cost about the same, but the ML296V offers better overall performance.
ML296V: Two-stage burner + variable-speed blower
EL196E: Single-stage burner + constant torque motor
| Feature | ML296V | EL196E |
|---|---|---|
| AFUE | 96% | 96% |
| Heating Stages | Two-stage | Single-stage |
| Blower | Variable-speed | Constant torque |
| Best For | Most homes | Smaller homes |
Verdict: ML296V offers better comfort and quieter operation.
While the EL196E includes a longer lifetime heat exchanger warranty, the ML296V provides quieter, more consistent heating and improved efficiency—making it the stronger choice for most homes.
The SLP99V is Lennox’s flagship furnace, offering:
99% AFUE (the highest efficiency available)
Modulating burner and variable-speed blower
ENERGY STAR® Most Efficient 2021 designation
| Feature | ML296V | SLP99V |
|---|---|---|
| AFUE | 96% | 93% |
| Heating | Two-stage | Modulating |
| Best For | Value-focused buyers | Maximum efficiency seekers |
It delivers unmatched comfort, quietness, and energy savings—but comes at a significantly higher price. If budget isn’t a concern, the SLP99V is the ultimate option.
Both belong to the Merit Series, but the ML296V outperforms the ML193E in nearly every area.
ML193E: Single-stage operation, 93% AFUE (not ENERGY STAR® certified)
ML296V: Two-stage operation, 96% AFUE, variable-speed blower
| Feature | ML296V | ML193E |
|---|---|---|
| AFUE | 96% | 93% |
| ENERGY STAR® | Yes | No |
| Heating | Two-stage | Single-stage |
The ML296V provides better efficiency, quieter performance, and improved comfort, while the ML193E no longer meets the Canadian minimum efficiency standard of 95%.
Homeowners upgrading from an older furnace
Those wanting quiet, efficient heating without premium pricing
Canadian homes in cold climates needing consistent comfort
Buyers looking for the strongest warranty coverage
Homeowners wanting modulating (variable-capacity) performance
The Lennox Merit ML296V Furnace Review offers an impressive balance between affordability, performance, and energy efficiency. It’s perfect for homeowners looking for a quiet, reliable furnace that delivers even, consistent heat—without jumping to premium-tier pricing.
It may not have the best warranty, but with proper installation and maintenance, the ML296V is a dependable, cost-effective heating solution for years to come.
The installation or replacement cost of any furnace, air conditioner, or heat pump in Canada can vary based on several important factors:
Size of the home and required furnace sizing
Your province and climate conditions (Ontario, hamilton, burlington, etc.)
Overall installation difficulty and labour hours
The need for ductwork upgrades
Pricing and experience of local HVAC contractors
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.
We partner with installers affiliated with recognized industry organizations, including:
These affiliations ensure reliable service, certified expertise, and consistent installation quality across Canada.
Is the Lennox ML296V ENERGY STAR® certified?
Yes, it meets ENERGY STAR® efficiency standards.
Does the ML296V qualify for rebates?
It may qualify for some rebates, depending on province and utility programs.
Is this furnace quiet?
Yes, it’s one of the quieter models in the Merit Series.
Thinking about upgrading your furnace?
Compare installation costs, check local availability, and get free quotes from licensed HVAC contractors to see if the Lennox Merit ML296V fits your home and budget.
