AC manufacturers and companies offer different features with each unit, so picking the appropriate option among these is essential. Some leading air conditioner brands include Heil and Lennox, but how do you know which one to choose? Which of these will fit your needs the best? We've gathered information that you need to know and put together a comparison in this post.
If you're on a budget and willing to try newer brands, you may want to check out Heil air conditioners. They are known for having competitively priced units enabled with Wi-Fi, remote access, smart thermostat compatibility, and geothermal systems.
Although Lennox is on the higher-priced end of the scale for air conditioners, Lenox offers reliable units equipped with outstanding features, such as smart zone control.
There are other things you should consider before you decide to switch your AC. Keep reading for further insights into Heil and Lennox air conditioners and a deeper look into each point.
Heil Vs Lennox AC Comparison
Heil and Lennox are brands you will likely hear about in the air conditioning industry. While each comes with a unique set of air conditioner features, one brand may be a better fit for you than the other.
Here is a quick look into what they have to offer.
Key Features
Regarding strong points, Heil is a good choice if you want a reliable, affordable, and efficient air conditioning unit. They offer a broad product selection, allowing you to choose a model that fits your needs best, including units with geothermal technology, at competitive price points.
Although they don't offer many unique features, they provide high-quality products with comprehensive warranties, which could be a big plus for select homeowners.
On the other hand, you can expect a lot with Lennox, mainly because the company offers their units at a higher price than most brands but make up for it through their features.
One of the best qualities of a Lennox AC is its durability and energy-efficiency rating, topping most air conditioner brands.
However, it's vital to note their units may cost too much if you're on a budget, even in the long run, due to the repair cost. But if these aren't a significant concern for you, their models are an excellent choice!
Energy Efficiency
The recommended SEER rating for optimal efficiency in air conditioners is typically 13 or higher. While Heil and Lennox offer a broad range, Lennox ranks higher regarding energy efficiency, even among other competitors.
Heil offers air conditioners with a SEER rating of 13 to 19, enough to provide the minimum requirement for a reasonable range. On the other hand, Lennox boasts an average of 17 SEER for most of their models and 26 SEER for their higher-end units.
Learn more about SEER ratings in this post: 13 SEER Vs 14 SEER: Which To Choose?
Noise Rating
Several brands have been making improvements with quieter operation among air conditioners. Heil AC units produce sound within 56 to 76 decibels, while Lennox offers units producing 59 to 70 decibels.
So Heil is the winning option if you're looking for a quiet unit. Most of their products also come with sound-reducing features and components that work with the compressor to produce less noise when operating.
Life Expectancy
Some Lennox models last an average of 10 to 12 years, but most function well for as long as 15 to 20 years. Similarly, Heil air conditioning units have an average expectancy of about 15 to 20 years, much like other AC brands.
To know more about a Lennox AC's lifespan, read this post: How Long Does A Lennox Air Conditioner Last?
You can extend the life of your air conditioner with proper maintenance. With that, it's worth noting that Lennox units are known for lasting more years without needing repairs.
Maintenance And Repair
Although Lennox products aren't quick to break down, they can be costly when they need repairing. Their units only use parts exclusively provided by the brand, making it harder to look for and expensive to get done.
As for Heil, it's much easier to look for replacement parts if you have a licensed distributor nearby, so repairs will be less of a hassle in terms of time and money.
Warranty
Heil and Lennox offer a similar range when it comes to warranties but differ with their required terms.
The basic Heil warranty varies with the product type, starting with one to three years for standard-level units, five years for mid-tier products, and 10 years for their premium collection. If you fail to register your AC within 90 days after installation, you will be given the basic five-year warranty period.
As opposed to this, Lennox doesn't require you to register your AC to receive full warranty benefits. A Lennox warranty usually starts with the basic five-year period and extends to up to 10 or 20 years, varying on the product.
Unit Prices
Like other brands, the costs of Heil and Lennox air conditioners vary depending on the model, size, capacity, and equipped technology.
For the unit alone, Heil starts at a price range of approximately $800 and goes up to $2,000 or more. On the other hand, a Lennox AC without installation can cost $2,000 to $3,700 and higher.
Heil is worth considering price-wise as it offers more budget-friendly options. However, Lennox is worth the expense if you want more advanced features and can spend a higher amount.
How Long Does An Air Conditioner Last?
The average life expectancy for an air conditioner is about 15 to 20 years, depending on the maintenance frequency and model type. It can last even longer if you follow a regular preventive maintenance routine every few months.
Here are a few ways to maintain your AC according to Energy Saver.
Replace Air Filters
An essential task for maintaining efficiency and durability in your air conditioner is to clean or replace its air filters. Clogged and dirty filters will disrupt airflow around your home, reducing your unit's efficiency and cooling or heating effectiveness.
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Clean Coils
Next to the filters, AC coils also collect dirt and debris as time passes. Although clean filters prevent your evaporator coil from soiling, dust and dirt will continue to build up, leading to lower airflow and insulation ability.
Check and clean your evaporator coils inside and outside your unit. Keeping at least a one-inch distance around the unit is also good to avoid having debris blocking the evaporator coils.
Check Coil Fins
Even with clean evaporator coils, airflow may still be disrupted when the coil fins are bent. You can purchase a fin comb to clean the fins and push them back into their original positions.
Get the Boao Air Conditioner Condenser Fin Comb Cleaning Brush on Amazon.
Check Condensate Drains
As your AC operates, it removes excess moisture and releases it into a condensate drain pan. However, it could be a problem when the drain line is clogged, or the drain pan is full.
Regularly checking to see if it needs cleaning or unclogging will prevent the system from reducing humidity levels, rusting, or causing discoloration.
Weather Seal Windows
Moisture can damage the seals between your AC and window, so inspect it frequently to know when it needs replacing. If you leave it open for too long, cool air can escape and lower cooling levels in your home.
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Should I Get A New AC?
Many homeowners prefer to keep their AC as long as it continues functioning, since it could be expensive to purchase replacements. However, some signs indicate you should change it instead. These are as follows.
Air Conditioner Age
If you own a unit over 10 years old, you might want to start preparing to switch out for a newer model.
Most recent AC models cater to the current conditions around you, meaning you could save more in the long run with a new and more efficient model. They also tend to come with modern features, making it easier for you to operate and adjust.
Higher Bills
When you notice your energy bill rising, but you haven't changed your energy-consumption habits, it might have something to do with your heating and cooling system.
When your AC loses efficiency, it takes more power to operate as usual, incurring additional costs to your bill.
Frequent Breakdowns
It's common for your AC to break down if it lacks maintenance. But if it continues to do so despite being regularly maintained and repaired, there could be a more significant issue within the system.
Eventually, all the repairs will amount to the cost of a new unit or more. So, it's best to look for a new one as soon as you notice these inconsistencies.
Final Thoughts
Heil and Lennox both have a lot to offer if you're looking for a new high-quality air conditioner at an affordable, premium price.
Heil units are suitable for homeowners on a budget who prefer reliability and average to good efficiency. At the same time, Lennox is excellent for individuals looking for high-efficiency, durable units regardless of the price.