Lennox Elite EL18XCV Review

Lennox Elite EL18XCV Review

SEER: Up to 18
ENERGY STAR ®: Yes
Decibel Level: As low as 70
Compressor Type: Variable-speed
Price: $4500 – $6000
Free Instant Quote

Category: Brand:
Share your love

❄️Lennox EL18XCV Air Conditioner Review

The Lennox EL18XCV Air Conditioner Review covers a high-efficiency, mid-range cooling system designed for homeowners who want premium comfort without Signature-Series pricing.

With variable-speed inverter technology, quiet performance, and ENERGY STAR® certification, the EL18XCV delivers excellent temperature consistency, humidity control, and long-term energy savings—making it well suited for Canadian homes.


💡 Lennox Elite EL18XCV — In a Nutshell

  • Average Installed Price (Canada): $4,500 – $6,000

  • Efficiency: Up to 18 SEER

  • Compressor: Variable-speed inverter

  • Sound Level: As low as 70 dB

  • ENERGY STAR® Certified: Yes

  • Best For: Homeowners wanting smooth, quiet, efficient cooling


🧊 Lennox Elite EL18XCV at a Glance

Top Features

  • Variable-speed inverter compressor for precise cooling

  • Quiet operation compared to single- and two-stage units

  • ENERGY STAR® certified for energy savings and rebate potential

  • Quantum™ Coil for enhanced corrosion resistance

  • iComfort® S30 smart thermostat compatibility

  • Communicating system capabilities with iComfort®

  • Durable PermaGuard™ cabinet design


🏆 The Bottom Line

The EL18XCV stands out by using variable-speed technology, allowing it to make small, continuous adjustments to cooling output instead of cycling on and off.

This results in:

  • More consistent indoor temperatures

  • Better humidity control

  • Lower energy use

  • Quieter operation

With a SEER rating up to 18, the EL18XCV falls right within the ideal efficiency range for most Canadian climates, offering an excellent balance between upfront cost and long-term savings.


🔍 In-Depth Review

Product Specifications

  • Compressor Type: Variable-speed inverter

  • SEER Rating: Up to 18

  • ENERGY STAR® Certified: Yes

  • Sound Level: As low as 70 dB


⚙️ Product Specifications

Feature Details
Compressor Type Variable-speed inverter
SEER Rating Up to 18
ENERGY STAR® Yes
Sound Level As low as 70 dB
Cabinet PermaGuard™ corrosion-resistant

🛠️ Design & Performance Features

⚙️ Core Performance & Comfort

  • Variable-speed operation for steady, even cooling

  • Reduced temperature swings and improved humidity control

  • Efficient low-speed operation during most cooling cycles

🔌 Smart System Compatibility

  • Works with Lennox iComfort® S30 smart thermostat

  • Enables two-way communication between system components

  • Supports advanced diagnostics and performance monitoring

🧱 Build Quality & Durability

  • Quantum™ Coil made from proprietary aluminum alloy

  • Resistant to corrosion, coastal air, and harsh weather

  • PermaGuard™ cabinet protects against rust and damage


🛡️ Warranty Coverage

The Lennox Elite EL18XCV includes:

  • 10-year limited parts warranty

  • 10-year limited compressor warranty

⚠️ Registration within 60 days of installation is required to receive full coverage. Unregistered units revert to a 5-year parts warranty.


➕ Pros & Cons

✅ Pros

  • Variable-speed inverter technology

  • Quiet, consistent cooling

  • ENERGY STAR® certified

  • Excellent humidity control

  • Durable Quantum™ Coil and cabinet

❌ Cons

  • Higher upfront cost than single-stage models

  • Requires iComfort® thermostat to unlock full features

  • Not as efficient as top Signature-Series models


🔄Comparable Models by Lennox

1. EL18XCV vs. XC21 (Dave Lennox Signature Collection)

The XC21 is a premium-tier model with a multi-stage compressor and higher 21 SEER rating, but it comes at a higher cost ($5,000–$7,500+).
While the XC21 is slightly more efficient, the EL18XCV’s variable-speed inverter offers smoother operation, quieter performance, and better temperature consistency — making it more advanced in control and comfort.

Feature EL18XCV XC21
Compressor Variable-speed Multi-stage
SEER Up to 18 Up to 21
Noise Very quiet Quieter
Price $$$ $$$$

Summary: The XC21 offers higher efficiency, but the EL18XCV delivers smoother operation and better value for most Canadian homes.

2. EL18XCV vs. Merit 13ACX

The Merit 13ACX is Lennox’s entry-level model, featuring a single-stage compressor and a 13 SEER rating. It’s less efficient, not ENERGY STAR® certified, and lacks compatibility with the iComfort® thermostat.
Although more affordable, it results in higher long-term energy costs and fewer rebate opportunities.
Both units share core Lennox features like the Quantum™ Coil and PermaGuard™ cabinet, but the EL18XCV far surpasses it in performance and efficiency.

Feature EL18XCV 13ACX
Compressor Variable-speed Single-stage
SEER Up to 18 13
ENERGY STAR® Yes No
Comfort Excellent Basic

Summary: The EL18XCV is a major upgrade in comfort, efficiency, and long-term savings.

3. EL18XCV vs. EL16XC1

Both belong to the Elite Series, but the EL16XC1 has a single-stage compressor and a slightly lower 17 SEER rating.
It’s not iComfort®-enabled, meaning it lacks the communication and smart control capabilities of the EL18XCV.
While still ENERGY STAR® certified, the EL16XC1 can’t match the EL18XCV’s humidity control, quiet operation, and consistent temperature performance.

Feature EL18XCV EL16XC1
Compressor Variable-speed Single-stage
SEER 18 17
Smart Control Yes No

Summary: Both are Elite Series models, but the EL18XCV offers better humidity control, quieter operation, and smart communication.


🏁 Final Verdict

The Lennox Elite EL18XCV is an excellent mid-range air conditioner for homeowners who want:

  • Quiet, consistent comfort

  • Strong energy efficiency without premium pricing

  • Smart-thermostat compatibility

  • Long-term durability

It delivers many high-end benefits of Signature-Series systems—without the top-tier cost—making it one of the best value variable-speed air conditioners in Lennox’s lineup.


📌 How Soon Are You Planning to Buy?

Choose your time frame and get tailored quotes:

  • 🔥 Urgently (Next 48–72 hours)

  • ⏳ Within a few weeks

  • 🤔 Not sure yet

👉 Get Personalized Quotes


📍Top Cities We Serve Across Canada

We proudly help homeowners across Canada compare AC get installation quotes, and connect with trusted HVAC contractors.

Top service cities include:

Hamilton • Burlington • Brantford • Cambridge • Kitchener • Milton • Oakville

Whether you’re replacing an old HVAC system or comparing installation quotes, our certified contractors serve all major regions across Ontario and beyond.

👉 Explore more service locations here


🏆 Our HVAC Partners Are Members of Leading Canadian Associations

We work with installers who are members of:

These affiliations ensure certified workmanship, safety compliance, and consistent installation quality across the country.


💰What Affects Air Conditioner Pricing?

Air conditioner installation costs in Canada vary based on:

Home size & AC capacity – Bigger homes need larger units.
→ Learn more: HVAC Sizing

Installation complexity – Electrical upgrades, line sets, or duct fixes add cost.
→ Find installers: Find a Company

Location & contractor rates – Prices vary by province and local labour costs.
→ Explore brands: A/C Manufacturers

Repair vs. replacement – Full replacements cost more than simple fixes.
→ Service areas: Cities We Serve


⭐ Lennox EL18XCV Air Conditioner Review – FAQs

1️⃣Is the Lennox EL18XCV energy efficient?
Yes. It offers up to 18 SEER, is ENERGY STAR® certified, and helps reduce cooling costs.

2️⃣How quiet is the Lennox EL18XCV?
It operates as quietly as 70 dB, making it quieter than most standard AC units.

3️⃣Does the EL18XCV support smart thermostats?
Yes. It works with the Lennox iComfort® S30 for advanced comfort control.

4️⃣Is the Lennox EL18XCV good for Canadian climates?
Yes. Its efficiency range and variable-speed operation are ideal for Canadian summers.


📞 Ready to Install Lennox EL18XCV ?

Compare quotes, confirm proper sizing, and work with licensed HVAC professionals to ensure long-term performance of the Lennox EL18XCV.

👉  Get Quotes
         Fast • Free