Understanding quote for Lennox system

15 years ago

I got a quote to replace my 15+yr old furnace/AC and since I don't know anything about this kind of equipment, I was hoping for some unbiased feedback.

I live in central Texas (AC matters much more than heat) and looking to take advantage of the federal tax credit.

I've had multiple contractors suggest I need a 3.0 ton system (1900 sq ft), so I tend to believe that is accurate.

The quote in question:

Lennox 14ACX-036 Air Conditioner w/ CX34-43B evaporator

Lennox SL280V H90V36 Furnace 80%AFUE

Total w/install: $5650

1) Is that a reasonable/ballpark price? I understand there are regional differences, etc.

2) Does that equipment make sense for my needs?

3) Looking at the Lennox website, I see that the furnace is part of their "Signature Series" (highest end) while the AC is part of their "Merit Series" (lowest end, from what I can tell). This seems like the opposite of my expectation, where the AC matters more than the furnace (in my climate). Am I missing something? Is there a reason to spend on better furnace and pair it with a lower-end AC?

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

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Comments (6)

neohioheatpump
15 years ago
you would probably be well served with a heatpump in your climate. A heatpump system in place of the furnace should cost a bit less and do you good. Some people don't like lennox systems others do though.
ryanhughes
15 years ago
If you already have a gas line in place and had a furnace before, I'd stick with gas heat. One big reason is because you'd need more power (230v) for the air handler compared to what the furnace is supplied with (115v). I'm not sure what you have in place now.

Lennox equipment is fine (not much better or worse than other similar manufacturers if installed correctly), but your observation is correct. While the 14ACX isn't a bad unit (they've made it nicer with the louvered cabinet), there are better options from the Elite Series and Signature Series which I would recommend exploring. A 2 stage outdoor unit with the variable speed indoor unit can help improve comfort in terms of dehumidification, especially when configured with the right thermostat to run a dehumidification cycle.

Let us know if you have further questions. Your price looks fine to me. It's critical that they're quoting you the right size equipment for your home. You'll hear mixed brands on equipment depending on who you speak with, but it's true that installation is the most important aspect. I personally feel Lennox has a history of making solid equipment, especially in the commercial market.
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tigerdunes
15 years ago
jm555

generally heat pumps are not used or recommended for texas unless home is in an all electric situation.

at the very least, i would upgrade outside condenser to the XC14 Lennox mdl-more middle of the road. a much quieter unit and may have better warranty-not certain on that.

you are probably oversized on furnace which is typical of all manufacturers to achieve tax credit qualification.

you should get new and correctly sized refrigerant lineset, a good two stg thermostat, and a 4-5" pleated filter media cabinet.

IMO

Here is a link that might be useful: Lennox ACs
neohioheatpump
15 years ago
how much do you pay for electricity where you are at? I'm talking about your total rate?

Do you get alot of cold below freezing temperatures?

Heatpumps are great above freezing, and especially great when you get cheap or reasonable electric. Some utilities still offer discount electric for people with heatpumps.

Upgrade your A/C to a heatpump and then you have dual fuel. Its the best of both worlds. Shouldn't cost much extra to do unless your installer is taxing you. If natural gas spikes again atleast you have another option.
tigerdunes
15 years ago
again, HPs are not used in Texas except for all electric homes. nat gas is preferred heating fuel because of cost vs electric. last time I checked Texas was full of NG.

TD
jabre
15 years ago
jm555, I'm in central Texas too. Austin to be exact. I just got a bid for the same system although the evaporator coil was 38A rather than the 43B in yours. My bid is $2K less than yours. You need to get competing bids.

Also, you should use gas if you have it available. As mentioned by others you should steer away from an all electric solution.