Lennox Air Conditioners for Chicago-Area Homes
As a Lennox Premier Dealer based in Streamwood, we install Lennox central air conditioners from single-stage models like the ML14KC1 to variable-capacity models like the SL25KCV, matched to your furnace or air handler and sized with a load calculation. See our air conditioner installation page for pricing and how the install works.
As a Lennox Premier Dealer, we register every Lennox air conditioner we install and add ComfortShield extended labor coverage.
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How a Central Air Conditioner Fits the System
A central air conditioner removes heat and moisture from indoor air through an indoor coil and outdoor condensing unit. The blower in the furnace or air handler then moves cooled air through the duct system.
Because these components work together, the outdoor unit cannot be evaluated in isolation. Indoor-coil compatibility, blower performance, duct capacity, refrigerant requirements and controls all influence comfort and reliability.
Common Air Conditioner Operating Types
- Single-Stage Air ConditionersSingle-stage equipment operates at full output when cooling is needed. It offers straightforward operation but may create wider temperature and humidity swings in some applications.
- Two-Stage Air ConditionersTwo-stage equipment can operate at a lower output during moderate conditions and increase capacity when the load rises.
- Variable-Capacity Air ConditionersVariable-capacity systems can adjust output across a broader range. When sized and installed correctly, longer lower-capacity cycles may support steadier temperatures, quieter operation and improved moisture removal.
Lennox Air Conditioner Lineup: Good, Better, Best
We install the full Lennox central air line. Lennox groups its air conditioners into three collections, from reliable standard-efficiency units to the most efficient AC they make. Here's how they compare. Click any model to see its full specs on lennox.com.
Merit Series
Reliable, affordable cooling. Great for rentals, smaller homes or a budget-minded replacement.
- 13.4 to 18 SEER2
- Single-stage or two-stage
- Durable, proven design
Elite Series
Better comfort and lower bills for most homes. The variable-capacity models remove more humidity on muggy days.
- 16 to 22.5 SEER2
- Single-stage to variable-capacity
- Quieter operation
Dave Lennox Signature Collection
The most precise and efficient air conditioner Lennox makes. Whisper-quiet and built for long-term savings.
- Up to 26 SEER2
- Variable-capacity cooling
- As low as 58 dB
Compare every Lennox air conditioner
| Model | Efficiency | Cooling stages | Sound | Good for | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Merit Series · Good | |||||
| ML13KC1 | Up to 13.4 SEER2 | Single-stage | As low as 73 dB | Basic replacement, rentals | Lennox.com ↗ |
| ML14KC1 | Up to 14.3 SEER2 | Single-stage | As low as 73 dB | Budget replacement | Lennox.com ↗ |
| ML17KC2 | Up to 18 SEER2 | Two-stage | As low as 73 dB | Value pick with better humidity control | Lennox.com ↗ |
| Elite Series · Better | |||||
| EL15KC1 | Up to 16 SEER2 | Single-stage | As low as 72 dB | Step up in efficiency | Lennox.com ↗ |
| EL16KC1 | Up to 17 SEER2 | Single-stage | — | Efficient single-stage choice | Lennox.com ↗ |
| EL18KCV | Up to 19.5 SEER2 | Variable-capacity | As low as 67 dB | Even cooling, lower bills | Lennox.com ↗ |
| EL22KCV | Up to 22.5 SEER2 | Variable-capacity | As low as 60 dB | High efficiency, very quiet | Lennox.com ↗ |
| Dave Lennox Signature Collection · Best | |||||
| SL25KCV | Up to 26 SEER2 | Variable-capacity | As low as 58 dB | The best AC Lennox makes | Lennox.com ↗ |
Specs are Lennox maximum ratings from lennox.com as of October 2026. Actual efficiency depends on the matched indoor equipment and your home. As a Lennox Premier Dealer, we'll recommend the right model after a free in-home load calculation.
Which Homes Benefit from Different AC Options?
A single-stage AC fits basic, budget-focused cooling, while two-stage and variable-capacity AC fit homes that want quieter operation, steadier temperatures and better humidity control. A straightforward single-stage system may fit a homeowner focused on dependable basic cooling. Multi-stage or variable-capacity equipment may be worth comparing when the priorities include quieter operation, more consistent temperatures or better humidity control.
Homes with persistent hot spots, short cycling or high humidity still need diagnosis. Those symptoms may involve sizing, ductwork, return air, insulation or airflow rather than the outdoor unit alone.
Features to Compare
The Rating on the Box Is Not the Whole Story
Choosing More Than an Efficiency Rating
A higher efficiency rating can reduce energy use under the right conditions, but it does not correct an oversized system or restricted ductwork. The best value depends on how long you plan to stay in the home, how the system operates, the features you will use and whether supporting upgrades are needed.
Pure Comfort compares equipment only after reviewing the home’s load, ductwork, return-air capacity, filter setup and existing electrical conditions.
Installation and Commissioning
Replacement should include verification of the indoor coil, refrigerant piping, electrical circuit, disconnect, equipment pad, drainage and airflow settings. Reusing an old component simply because it still exists can create avoidable problems when it is no longer appropriate for the new system.
Pure Comfort flows nitrogen during brazing, pressure-tests the refrigerant circuit, verifies a deep vacuum and checks operation using manufacturer-required procedures. Airflow, drainage and temperature performance are also tested before closeout.
Why Choose Pure Comfort for AC Replacement
Thorough in-home evaluation and system design
Load and ductwork considerations instead of nameplate-only sizing
Lennox Premier Dealer with service for all major makes and models
In-house crews with documented startup measurements
Related Services and Guides
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between single-stage, two-stage and variable-capacity AC?
The terms describe how the equipment adjusts cooling output. Single-stage systems operate at full capacity, two-stage systems have two output levels and variable-capacity systems can modulate across a wider range.
Does a higher SEER2 rating always mean a better air conditioner?
It indicates higher tested efficiency, but value also depends on sizing, installation, climate, runtime, ductwork and how long you expect to own the system.
Should my new AC be the same size as the old one?
Not automatically. The old system may have been oversized, and changes to insulation, windows or the home can alter the cooling load.
Can I replace the outdoor AC without replacing the indoor coil?
Only when the components are properly matched and compatible with the refrigerant and performance requirements. Pure Comfort verifies the complete system before recommending a partial replacement.
Licensed, certified and accredited
- Lennox Premier Dealer
- NATE-certified technicians
- EPA Section 608 certified
- BBB Accredited Business
- Licensed business in the Village of Streamwood
- Registered Illinois LLC
- Fully insured