Lennox SL18XC1 Review

DISCONTINUED: Please note, this model appears to have been discontinued by the manufacturer, although it may still be available for purchase through distributors and contractors for some time.

The SL18XC1 is the most affordable air conditioner in the Dave Lennox Signature Collection, the premium series from Lennox. This model offers superior cooling capabilities and is high-efficiency so you could save hundreds of dollars on cooling costs every year by upgrading from an older model. As part of the Lennox premium line of air conditioners, the SL18XC1 comes with some great features, is compatible with cutting-edge technologies, and is backed by a great warranty.

About the Lennox SL18XC1

Average Price (with installation): $4500 - $6000

Top Features

• Compatible with smart thermostats and the SunSource Home Energy System
• Designed for durability and corrosion-resistance
• Built for quiet operation
• Guaranteed performance and efficiency

The Bottom Line

Lennox’s SL18XC1 is one of the best air conditioners Lennox offers, and while it still has many of the same perks as their premium model, it’s also a more affordable option. The SL18XC1 is designed for reliable performance, durability, and energy efficiency, so you know you'll save money and your family will be comfortable even on the hottest summer days.  

In Depth Review

Lennox SL18XC1 Product Specifications:

Compressor: Single-stage
SEER: Up to 18.5
Tonnage: 2 to 5
Cooling capacity: 22,400 to 58,000 Btus
ENERGY STAR® certified: Yes

Features Overview

Corrosion- and rust-resistance: The SL18XC1 is made explicitly for durability thanks to its corrosion-resistant design. It has an aluminum alloy Lennox Quantum coil that can stand up to harsh coastal environments, and it also has a PermaGuard cabinet and SmartHinge louver design to help fight rust.

Environmental responsibility: There are two main ways the SL18XC1 is a more environmentally conscious choice than some other air conditioners, and the first is that it uses R-410A refrigerant, which isn't ozone-depleting. The other factor is that it’s compatible with the SunSource Home Energy System, so you can connect the cooling system to your existing solar modules and use the power of the sun to run your air conditioner.  

Technological compatibilities: Along with being compatible with the SunSource system, the SL18XC1 can also be paired with the iComfort S30 Smart Thermostat, so you'll save money and make sure your home is always at the perfect temperature.  

Reliable and quiet performance: The SL18XC1 is equipped with advanced sensors that improve performance, but it also has SilentComfort technology to ensure quiet operation and ultimate comfort.

Warranty Information

As part of Lennox’s premium offering, the SL18XC1 comes with a 10-year limited warranty for all covered components and a separate 10-year warranty specifically for the compressor. This is ideal because the compressor can be one of the most expensive parts to repair an air conditioner so the 10-year warranty could save you a great deal of money.

Comparable Models by Lennox

Model Comparison by Price: Lennox SL18XC1 versus Lennox XC13

When compared with a mid-tier model from Lennox, the SL18XC1 will cost roughly $1,000 more than something like the XC13, even though both are single-stage air conditioners. However, the XC13 isn't as efficient, it doesn’t have ENERGY STAR certification, it doesn’t have the same warranty, and it doesn’t have all the features that the SL18XC1 offers.

Model Comparison by Features: Lennox SL18XC1 versus Lennox XC20

The XC20 is one step down from the SL18XC1 and part of Lennox’s Elite series, but the XC20 is actually a little more expensive because it has a variable-speed compressor and a higher SEER rating. However, the XC20 doesn’t have the same warranty as the SL18XC1, it doesn’t have the SilentComfort technology, and it’s not compatible with the SunSource system.

Model Comparison by Tier: Lennox SL18XC1 versus Lennox XC25

The XC25 is Lennox’s premier offering, so it has a variable-speed compressor for ideal temperature control, a SEER rating up to 26, and a few additional features that the SL18XC1 doesn’t have. This includes Precise Comfort technology that enables the unit to change the cooling output by small increments and Climate IQ Technology that allows you to change the humidification or dehumidification settings based on your climate.