TL;DR (Too Long, Didn’t Read) Quick Summary

Wondering how Lennox variable speed A/C units hold up after 6 brutal Phoenix summers? Here’s the short version:

• Comfort: Dead-on precise. Set 72°, stay 72°.
• Noise: Whisper-quiet, even at 118° with both units outside my bedroom.
• Build Quality: Still solid after 6 Arizona summers.
• Reliability: One major refrigerant failure — but thermostat/Smart Hub issues = 7 more failures.
• The Ugly: 4 thermostat failures + 3 hub failures in 6 years.
• Bottom Line: Rolls-Royce level comfort and performance… with Rolls-Royce costs (and quirks).

Want the full story with charts, context, and a contractor’s perspective? Keep reading.

Out With York – In With Lennox

When I moved from Mesa to Gold Canyon, AZ almost six years ago, one of my first orders of business was replacing the two very noisy, builder-grade York air conditioners and furnaces I inherited.

I replaced them with two Lennox XC25 air conditioners, matched with Lennox SL280V natural gas furnaces.

Today’s equivalents are the Lennox SL28XCV (still R410a) and the Lennox SL25KCV (new R454b).

Why I Chose Lennox Variable Speed

If you’ve never read my blog or watched my reviews on our YouTube channel — shame on you! (Just kidding.) But here’s why this review matters:

I founded Magic Touch 28 years ago and have been an HVAC technician and installer for over 35 years. We’ve installed and repaired thousands of Lennox units across Phoenix, Chandler, Gilbert, and Scottsdale, but we also install Bosch, Gree, Trane/American Standard, Goodman/Amana, Daikin, Mitsubishi, Airtemp, and others.

When I picked a system for my own home, here was my checklist:

1. It had to be a variable speed inverter compressor.
   (See the chart below to understand why variable speed matters compared to single-stage and two-stage systems — the difference in comfort and efficiency is night and day in Arizona’s desert climate.)
2. It had to be ultra-efficient — not just for comfort, but also to help keep APS and SRP summer bills under control.
3. The company had to have great tech support.
4. Parts had to be readily available in Phoenix.
5. It couldn’t be on our “Do Not Recommend” list (which changes year to year).

Single Stage vs. Two Stage vs. Variable Speed

Technology	Example in My Home	Year	Comfort	Noise	Energy Use	Takeaway
Single Stage	Trane XR13 (Mesa)	2017	Uneven temps, big swings	Loud on/off	Highest bills	Outdated, least comfortable.
Two Stage	Lennox LRP16 (Mesa)	2017	Smoother comfort	Quieter	Lower bills	Noticeable step up.
Variable Speed	Lennox XC25 (Gold Canyon)	2019	Perfectly precise	Whisper quiet	Lowest bills	Game-changer. Not even close.

Ultimately, two models checked all the boxes for me at the time:

• Lennox XC25
• Bosch IDS Premium

I chose Lennox because they offered straight A/C with an 80% AFUE furnace. Bosch was heat pump only, which would’ve meant converting. Not a deal-breaker (we recommend it all the time), but I stuck with gas.

If I had to do it again today, I’d choose Bosch. The value is better, and after the thermostat issues I’ve lived with, the price gap matters.

Important note: Magic Touch Mechanical sells multiple brands including Lennox, Bosch, American Standard, Mitsubishi, Goodman, Amana & Airtemp (and a few more depending on the application). I mention that so you know my reviews are completely unbiased. Frankly, I’m happy when someone chooses Magic Touch as their installer no matter what brand they choose!

The Good

1. Precise Comfort

Lennox advertises “the most precise comfort money can buy.” I agree. If I set 72°, my house is 72°. Not 73, not 71. Always spot on — even during a 118° Phoenix July heatwave.

2. It’s SO Quiet

I have a 5-ton and 4-ton XC25 right outside my bedroom windows. When both are running 100% during the hottest monsoon season nights, I can’t hear them.

3. Build Quality

After 6 Arizona summers, the cabinets still look great. No rattles (as long as screws are tightened periodically), no rust, and even the powder coat still shines.

4. Support & Parts

Whenever replacement parts were needed, availability in Phoenix-area supply houses was excellent and Lennox tech support was responsive.

The Bad

The Lennox S30 Thermostat

This thermostat started on my “Good” list. It’s feature-rich and great looking, but user experience has been frustrating.

• Wi-Fi Smart Hub issues: When the hub loses communication, sometimes you can’t operate the AC. The error screen blocks the manual controls. If you only have one system in your home, I can’t recommend it.
• Phantom purifier error: For 6 years, one thermostat has shown a “purifier error.” The purifier works fine, but Lennox support never solved it. Annoying on a $20K+ system.
• Breakdowns happen: This past summer I had a refrigerant circuit failure requiring a new expansion valve, filter drier, and refrigerant. That could happen to any brand, but worth noting.

Other than that single major failure, my only “bad” has been thermostat-related. That’s impressive for units already at mid-life.

The Ugly

This one pains me, because I like Lennox as a company. Their support is excellent, and they’re innovative. But facts are facts:

• 4 thermostat failures in 6 years.
• 3 Smart Hub failures (one on one unit, two on the other).
• 8 failures in 6 years total.

When the thermostat or hub fails, the whole AC is down until you replace it. And you can only use their proprietary controls.

For homeowners in Mesa, Gilbert, or Scottsdale who only have a single AC system — that risk is even higher.

Summary & Final Advice

The precise comfort, whisper-quiet operation, and build quality of Lennox’s variable speed systems are undeniable. After 6 brutal Phoenix-area summers, I can say they’re impressive machines.

But the proprietary thermostat and hub are their Achilles’ heel. They’re expensive, fragile, and required.

Quick Pros & Cons Snapshot

Feature	Single Stage	Two Stage	Variable Speed
Comfort	Basic	Better	Best
Noise	Loud	Quieter	Whisper quiet
Efficiency	Lowest	Moderate	Highest
Energy Bills	Highest	Lower	Lowest
Technology	Oldest	Solid step	State-of-the-art

My Advice for Phoenix Homeowners

• If you’re a Rolls-Royce buyer in Phoenix or the East Valley and money is no object — the Lennox XC25/SL28XCV is still the Rolls.
• If you want BMW/Mercedes-level comfort and efficiency without the Rolls-Royce price tag — the Bosch IDS Premium is the smarter play.
• And unlike Lennox, Bosch lets you use a standard smart thermostat like an Ecobee or Nest.

If I had to replace my systems in Gold Canyon today, I’d go Bosch IDS Premium — better value, fewer headaches, and still perfect for keeping APS and SRP bills under control during our 115°+ summers.

The post Lennox Variable Speed Air Conditioner Review – After Using appeared first on Magic Touch Mechanical.

TL;DR (Too Long, Didn’t Read) Quick Summary

Want to keep your AC, fridge, or washer from frying during a storm? Here’s the short version:

Power surges can destroy appliances — I just lost a fridge after back-to-back outages.
Appliance-specific surge protectors are a must — especially for modern units with circuit boards.
I also added whole-home protection for added peace of mind.
Products I recommend: Refrigmatic for refrigerators, Lavamatic for washers/dryers, and Ditek for AC units.
I’m an electrician, but for whole-home protection, I’d still recommend most people call a licensed pro.

Ready for the full story and all the tips? Keep reading …

A Harsh Reminder from a Dead Fridge

I recently replaced my refrigerator after a couple of back-to-back power outages killed the compressor. It was a great LG fridge with years of life left in it — until the power flickered, and that was all she wrote. Click-click-click. No cold air. Dead compressor.

Turns out I probably could’ve saved it with a $27 surge protector. Yep. That stings.

What’s worse is — I should’ve known better. I do know better.

Let me explain.

I’ve Seen This Movie Before … With My AC

Many years ago, when I was living in Mesa, I learned this lesson the first time — on my home’s AC system.

Back then, surge protection wasn’t really a thing for air conditioners. Most units were single-stage and didn’t have the sensitive circuit boards we see today.

Ironically, one of my suppliers had given me a sample of a “new product on the market” — a surge protector made specifically for HVAC equipment. I tossed it on my workbench to install later. And it sat. And sat. Then it sat some more.

Then a summer storm rolled in. The power flickered, the unit died, and when I opened it up — let’s just say the magic smoke had left the building.

It would’ve probably lasted a few more years. But just like my fridge, it was toast.

That was the last time I left a surge protector sitting in the garage.

We now install surge protection on every AC system we sell — and I’ve had them on my home systems ever since.

Appliance-Level Protection vs. Whole-Home

Today’s appliances — especially high-efficiency models — are packed with circuit boards. That includes:

• Refrigerators with inverter compressors
• Washers and dryers with fancy controls
• AC units and mini-splits
• Dishwashers and microwaves

A single surge can take them all out.

You have two options:

1. Appliance-Level Surge Protectors

Think of these as plug-and-play. They go between the appliance and the wall. Super easy.

• Refrigerators: Refrigmatic
• Washers/Dryers: Lavamatic (same 2-pack, different ratings)
• AC Units: We recommend and use Ditek DTK-120/240CM+ (mounted at the fused disconnect — see photos below)**
• ** Unlike the Refrigmatic and Lavamatic which plug directly into your wall outlet, the Ditek DTK-120/240CM+ is hardwired into the line voltage of your air conditioner or heat pump. I highly recommend you call a professional HVAC company for this installation.

2. Whole-Home Surge Protection

This installs at your main electrical panel and protects the entire home from voltage spikes.

After the fridge incident, I added one to my home too. I’m protecting everything every which way but Sunday now. Lesson learned.

Now here’s where I should probably insert another disclaimer…

“Can I Install This Myself?”

As it happens, I’m an experienced electrician with over 30-years of experience. I graduated from trade school a very long time ago where I earned my degree in Electro-Mechanical Technologies and Electrical Systems. In addition, I hold multiple Arizona contractor licenses in HVAC and Remodeling. That means I can legally and safely install things like a whole-home surge protector. It’s what I’ve been doing my entire adult life.

But this is not a DIY project for the average homeowner.

Unless you’re licensed and/or highly experienced with electrical work, I strongly recommend hiring a professional. Sure — for me, it was just the cost of the part. But if I didn’t have the licenses and experience, I absolutely would’ve hired someone. Especially after shelling out $2,000 on a replacement fridge. It’s a small price to pay for peace of mind.

Photos: What Appliance Surge Protection Looks Like

Here’s how we protect HVAC systems here in sunny Arizona:

My Gree Mini Split — Protected with Ditek surge protector at the disconnect box.
Dual Lennox AC Units — Same deal, each with their own dedicated protector.

These little boxes can save thousands — and a whole lot of summer misery.

Final Thought: Don’t Wait for Lightning to Strike

We install surge protection on every new AC system we sell. But this isn’t a sales pitch — it’s a PSA.

We don’t offer surge protection for appliances as a stand-alone service (except for HVAC systems and electric fireplaces). I’m sharing all of this as someone who’s learned the hard way (twice!) and wants to help homeowners avoid the same mistake.

If you’re in the East Valley — Gilbert, Mesa, Chandler, Queen Creek — and:

• Unsure what protection (if any) your home already has
• You’re upgrading appliances or HVAC equipment
• Or just want to make sure your next power flicker doesn’t fry your fridge…

Talk to a licensed electrician, HVAC contractor, or fireplace contractor. It’s worth it!

And if you’re getting a new HVAC system? Make sure your contractor includes surge protection. If you’re in the Phoenix area – just call us. We install surge protectors on air conditioners, heat pumps, and furnaces every day – even if we didn’t install your equipment.

They’re not a ‘nice-to-have’ anymore. They’re a ‘must have‘!

Can We Help with Your AC & Heating Problems or a Fireplace / Fire Pit?

Feel free to reach out — or better yet, schedule to swing by our Mesa fireplace showroom (by appointment only). We love helping our neighbors stay comfortable, safe, and informed.

The post Protecting Your Appliances from Power Surges | Mesa AZ Guide appeared first on Magic Touch Mechanical.

TL;DR (Too Long, Didn’t Read) Quick Summary
Wondering if a Lennox air conditioner is worth it in Phoenix? Here’s the short version:

• Top Efficiency Available: Lennox’s Signature Series models (like the SL28XCV AC and SL25XPV heat pump) are the most efficient central systems on the market today.
• Whisper Quiet + Precise Control: Advanced variable-speed inverter compressors + Lennox’s proprietary iComfort controls deliver excellent temperature and humidity control.
• Big Price Tag: Think Rolls Royce performance—with a Rolls Royce price. Installed costs can be several thousand more than competitors.
• App Lock-In: Lennox Signature systems require their proprietary thermostat and smart hub, meaning no Ecobee, Nest, or Sensi compatibility.
• Phoenix Payoff?: High-efficiency units can save on energy bills, especially if you keep your home cold (like I do). But if the price delta is too high, the ROI may not pencil out.

Ready for the full breakdown? Let’s get into it.

Why I Still Like Lennox in 2025

I’ve been recommending Lennox for decades, and they’re still one of the most respected names in HVAC. In fact, I have two Lennox XC25 variable speed air conditioners installed on my own home. I like their quiet operation, humidity control, and how they keep up with my preferred “meat locker cold” settings in the Phoenix summer.

That said, Lennox has evolved over the past few years, and so have homeowners’ priorities. Efficiency, noise levels, and app compatibility are top of mind. And frankly—so is price.

So, should you still buy a Lennox in 2025? Maybe. Let’s break it down.

The Flagship Models: SL28XCV & SL25XPV

If you’re shopping for the absolute best Lennox has to offer, these are it:

SL28XCV (Air Conditioner)

• SEER2: Up to 28.0
• Compressor: Variable-speed inverter
• Sound Rating: As low as 59 dB
• Notes: Highest SEER2 on the market

SL25XPV (Heat Pump)

• SEER2: Up to 24.0
• HSPF2: Up to 10.8
• Compressor: Variable-speed inverter
• Sound Rating: As low as 58 dB
• Notes: Smart hybrid-ready

When the Rolls Royce Is Worth It

Lennox Signature Series units truly are the Rolls Royce of the HVAC world. But here’s the catch: you need to be okay paying for it.

A real-world example from one popular energy savings tool:
The difference in 10-year energy cost between a 3-ton 26 SEER unit and a 3-ton 20 SEER unit in Phoenix is about $1,571.
Over 15 years? $2,357.

Sounds great until you consider this:

• The average useful lifespan of a system in Phoenix is about 12 years.
• If the Lennox unit costs you $3,000 – $4,000 more than the competition, you may never recoup that extra cost in energy savings alone.

That said, if you’re planning to stay long-term, value ultra-quiet performance, and demand top-tier comfort control—Lennox can absolutely be worth it.

What You Need to Know About Controls

One of the biggest pain points with Lennox Signature systems: you can’t use your existing thermostat.

To unlock full performance, you need:

• Lennox iComfort smart thermostat
• Proprietary smart hub

This adds over $1,500 to the price tag (yes, over $1,500 just for the proprietary thermostat and required smart hub controller)! And it means you’re stuck using the Lennox app instead of your preferred Sensi, Nest, or Ecobee app—which may already be on all your devices.

This lack of flexibility is a deal-breaker for some people, and I get it. It’s not a con if you’re starting from scratch, but it can be frustrating if you like your current setup.

Complete Transparency: My Lennox XC25’s are 6 years old. Both of my iComfort S30 thermostats failed in year three and multiple times since. One of my Smart Hub Controllers failed in year three and again in year 5 and the other failed last year. I share this as even the Rolls Royce of air conditioners is not without issue.

Lennox vs. Bosch vs. Goodman & AirTemp (HVAC / Car Analogy)

Phoenix-Specific: When Ultra-Efficiency Pays Off

Here in Mesa, Chandler, and the surrounding Phoenix Valley, our AC systems work harder than most cities in the country. Inverter-driven, high-SEER2 systems like Lennox’s SL28XCV can reduce your electric bills by a meaningful amount—if (and only if) the ductwork, sizing, and install are dialed in.

But the bigger payoff often comes from getting something like Bosch IDS or similar variable inverter properly installed. That’s where you’ll see big bang for buck.

Why? Units like the Bosch IDS utilize the same variable speed compressor technology as the Lennox SL28XCV and SL25XPV with the same ultra-efficient results, but typically cost several thousands of dollars less upfront.

Installation Quality > Brand

I’ll say this until I’m blue in the face:

“A budget system from a great contractor will outperform a premium system from a bad one.”

If the ductwork is wrong, static pressure is too high, or the system’s not commissioned properly—you can forget about reaching the promised SEER2 ratings.

At Magic Touch Mechanical, we perform full Manual J load calculations, duct static pressure testing, and system commissioning on every job. Whether you choose Lennox, Bosch, or a value brand, we make sure it performs like it should.

Read our Complete Guide to Buying The Best New AC Unit

Final Thoughts: Should You Buy a Lennox AC or Heat Pump in 2025?

You should consider a Lennox if:

• You’re staying in your home long-term
• You want the quietest, most precise comfort possible
• You’re okay paying a high premium upfront
• You don’t mind switching thermostats/apps

You should skip Lennox if:

• You’re on a budget
• You love your current smart thermostat
• You want the best value per dollar

Bottom line: Lennox makes phenomenal equipment—but the install and application have to make sense. If it fits your goals and budget, you’ll be happy. If it doesn’t, there are plenty of great options out there.

Live in the Phoenix area?
Schedule a free consultation with Magic Touch Mechanical. We’ll help you compare your options and choose the right air conditioner or heat pump for your home—no pressure, just honest advice.

Book Online or Call Us Today.

The post Why Buy a Lennox Air Conditioner? appeared first on Magic Touch Mechanical.