Lennox vs. Goodman Air Conditioners: A Comprehensive Comparison for Informed Buyers
The vast choice of variants of central air conditioners available may make it rather daunting to select the appropriate one to use in your home. And you have likely also heard of Lennox and Goodman, both of them huge banners within the industry. Reliability and Energy efficiency are the hallmarks of both. Both manufacture air conditioning systems that are reliable and do not further strain your wallet by running an intensive AC system that has to be run all the time. However, in spite of having the same kind of products, they are of different natures and address different customer demands. This article will divide main differences between Lennox and Goodman air conditioners and compare some of the best models to help you make a qualified decision.
Lennox vs. Goodman – What’s the Real Difference?
Lennox is one of the companies present on the market of HVAC systems since the 1800s. They are also renowned in manufacturing high efficiency and high tech air conditioning systems that are energy saving and comfortable. Lennox systems are constructed in the latest designs with such features as smart thermostats, use of variable-speed compressors and absolute quiet during operation. They provide a high experience; however, they are more expensive. At a price, Lennox might be what you need, provided that you are ready to pay a little extra upfront and enjoy the newest technology and highest energy efficiency.
Goodman however is more economical. Goodman was established in the 1970s and it has a reputation of supplying sturdy, reliable air conditioners which are simple to repair and put in place. They might not possess some of the airs concerning Lennox systems but Goodman units provide good performance at a cheaper price. Goodman may suit you better in case you are seeking a simple, cheap cooling system without all the super fancy features.
Comparing Models: What Each Brand Actually Offers
Comparing Lennox and Goodman air conditioners, one has to take into consideration the modalities in any of these brands line. Now, let us see some of the best models of both the brands:
Lennox Models
- EL18XCV: The EL18XCV, available as a part of the Elite® Series, is a two-stage air conditioner with all the cooling power that homeowners want but at a price that does not break the bank. It has a SEER2 rating of 18 that is exceptional in making your house cool and reducing energy expenses. The SilentComfortTM technology was also built into this model thus it operates in a quiet manner even during the hottest days.
- EL22KCV: The EL22KCV by Elite Series is an exclusive choice that aims to give what is best. It gets best-in-class efficacy and spot-on temperature management, with a SEER2 rating of up to 22 and variable-speed compressor. It is expected to provide maximum comfort and least energy use and therefore it is really suitable among the homeowners who want advanced technology and lifelong savings.
- ML14XC1: ML14XC1 is the best option when one is on a budget and wants a good Lennox air conditioning. It belongs to the Merit Series and has a SEER2 rating of 14, which is also not bad in cooling down smaller houses or apartments. It does not come with all the premium features of the top end Lennox models, but uses single stage cooling and sells at a more reasonable price.
- ML17XC1: Attributing a SEER2 rating of 17, the ML17XC1 is another choice of the Merit14 Series and this model aims at providing reliable cooling to the homeowner who does not need all those extra features. It might not be as efficient as the mid-level and upper Lennox models but it does a good job at the affordable price range.
Goodman Models
- GLXS4B: The GLXS4B is one of the highly-achieving models of Goodman. The system is built to be efficient and the refrigerant to be used is R-32, which is friendly to the environment compared to the old R-410A. The SEER2 rating of this model is 15.2, so it is good to keep your home cold without energy loss. All this is designed to make the GLXS4B easy to service too, such as factory-installed filter driers and convenient gauge ports. It is ideal with the homeowners that need a long lasting yet affordable air conditioning system.
Energy Efficiency: Lennox vs. Goodman
Lennox leads in regards to energy efficiency. The higher-end models of the company, like the EL18XCV and EL22KCV have the SEER2 rating of up to 28, which makes them among the most efficient air conditioners. When using these models, you will save much in a long run in terms of energy bills. The fact that Lennox is energy efficient also implies that their systems can receive a refund in the form of rebates and taxes credits depending on the location.
Another thing is that Goodman GLXS4B has a good SEER2 rating: 15.2 which is below Lennox high-end models, but is still good enough to be respectable on the price. Although it is not likely to save as much energy as a Lennox unit, the Goodman GLXS4B is actually an excellent combination of reasonable performance and low price by those who do not require the utmost efficiency.
Technology: Lennox vs. Goodman
Lennox has achieved fame in the integration of advanced technological systems in their air controls. A lot of Lennox systems like EL18XCV and EL22KCV have built-in variable-speed compressor, which varies the cooling output depending on what is required in your house. This not only ensures that more energy efficient is achieved but also improves the level of comfort by considerably ensuring better control of temperature. Also, Lennox can support smart thermostats, so you can operate your cooling system at any time with your smartphone.
The models of Goodman like GLXS4B are simpler as far as technology is concerned. Their products are single-stage or their use is single-stage although this implies that the system runs on a single speed. Although this is not as efficient as a variable speed compressor, it remains sufficient in most houses and it simplifies and makes the system to be friendly and less costly to maintain. Goodman does not provide the Smart thermostat integration but their systems are good and do the task as well, not as complicated.
Noise Levels: Lennox vs. Goodman
In case noise is an issue to you, the Lennox air conditioners are the eminent winner. Most of their high-end models like the EL18XCV incorporate the SilentComfort technology that contributes to low levels of noise when in operation. Even some of their quieter varieties carry a sound level of about 58 decibels which is roughly equal to a conversation at conversational level.
Goodman air conditioner such as the GLXS4B is slightly noisy. The GLXS4B should have an operation noise level of a 2-ton unit of approximately 69 decibels, which is more similar to a normal background hum. Although it might not be a very big problem to the majority of people, it is worth figuring in whether you are sensitive to noise or the unit will be mounted in a residential place such as a bedroom or living room.
Durability & Warranty: Lennox vs. Goodman
Both Lennox and Goodman provide good durability, however, Lennox is more likely to give premium materials and manufacture. Lennox air conditioners are designed to be durable and you usually receive a 10year warranty on both parts and compressor though you have to activate the unit by registering. Their models are made to be resistant to extreme weather conditions and even the more expensive models utilize high quality parts so as to be able to last long.
The 10 years limited parts warranty provided by Goodman is similar to that offered by Lennox, albeit at a lower price. And although Goodman units are not made with an equal level of premium construction with Lennox, they are made to be sturdy and one that can survive. Take, in the case of its GLXS4B model, it has a galvanized steel cabinet, which is rust and corrosion resistant, thus the system can withstand the harsh elements.
Final Thoughts — Just Being Honest
It all depends on your need when you have to select between Lennox and Goodman air conditioners, but it also depends on your budget. Lennox is your answer if you need the newest technology, the greatest energy efficiency, and quieter than silent operation. Their units suit best homeowners who desire utmost comfort and is ready to spare a little more and gain a lot later.
Conversely, Goodman is good value on a budget and you will not miss some of the high tech features. The GLXS4B is a good, inexpensive solid performer that lacks the frills.
The variety of Lennox and Goodman models of air conditioners is offered at ACFurnaceShop.com.
The final line: choose what can fit your wallet and your home. It is hard to lose in any case.
