When considering an Armstrong Air Conditioner for your home, it is crucial to understand the innovative features and energy efficiency options available. Armstrong stands out with its Comfort Sync™ technology, enabling users to remotely manage their cooling system via a smartphone app. Additionally, the Pro Series™ systems provide advanced diagnostics, ensuring optimal performance and hassle-free maintenance for homeowners.
Armstrong Air Conditioners are designed with competitive SEER ratings, making them a cost-effective choice for cooling needs. Models like the 4SCU23LX offer impressive energy-efficiency levels with a SEER of 23, allowing homeowners to enjoy lower utility bills. However, it is essential to note that some Armstrong models may not carry the Energy Star rating, which could affect long-term energy savings.
Purchasing an Armstrong Air Conditioner involves evaluating various models for their price, efficiency, and features. Understanding the differences among models, such as single stage versus variable capacity options, will help you make an informed choice. We provide comprehensive information on prices and comparisons to support your decision making process, ensuring you select an air conditioner that meets your comfort and budget requirements.
What company makes Armstrong air conditioners?
Armstrong air conditioners are manufactured by Lennox International Inc. Lennox acquired Armstrong Air Conditioning in 1988, and since then, Armstrong air conditioners have been produced under the Lennox brand.
Lennox is a well-known company in the HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) industry, recognized for its quality and innovation in heating and cooling products.
Key features and benefits of Armstrong air conditioners
Higher SEER Levels
Armstrong air conditioners offer a range of SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) levels, indicating the cooling system’s efficiency.
Benefits:
Energy Efficiency: Higher SEER ratings, such as 23 for the 4SCU23LX model, signify greater energy efficiency, leading to potential cost savings on utility bills.
Customizable Options: With models like the 4SCU14LE providing a SEER rating of 14, Armstrong offers options to match different efficiency needs and budget considerations.
Noise Level
Armstrong air conditioners are designed with varying sound levels, measured in decibels (dB), to minimize operational noise.
Benefits
Quiet Operation: Models like the 4SCU23LX, with a sound level of 62 dB, ensure quieter operation, enhancing indoor comfort without disruptive noise.
Personalized Comfort: Customers can choose models with sound levels that suit their preferences and requirements, whether for residential or commercial settings.
Model Variation
Armstrong offers a diverse range of air conditioner models, each with distinct features and capabilities to meet various cooling needs.
Benefits:
Customized Solutions: Whether it’s the 4SCU18LS with built-in communication technology or the 4SCU14LE offering single-stage cooling, Armstrong provides options tailored to different preferences and requirements.
Flexibility: Customers can select models based on factors such as efficiency, performance, and budget, ensuring they find the ideal air conditioner for their specific circumstances.
Comprehensive Warranty
Armstrong air conditioners come with a 10-year limited warranty on parts, providing long-term protection and peace of mind.
Benefits:
Warranty Coverage: Customers can rely on the warranty to cover essential parts of their air conditioner, minimizing potential repair costs and ensuring continued performance.
Confidence and Assurance: The warranty demonstrates Armstrong’s commitment to quality and reliability, offering reassurance to customers regarding their investment in an Armstrong cooling system.
Comfort Sync™ Technology
Armstrong air conditioners are equipped with Comfort Sync™ technology, allowing convenient remote control via a smartphone app.
Benefits:
Remote Control: Use your smartphone to manage and adjust your air conditioner settings from anywhere easily.
Enhanced Convenience: Enjoy greater flexibility and comfort by controlling your cooling system remotely.
Communication Technology (e.g., 4SCU18LS Model)
The 4SCU18LS model features built-in communication technology, enabling centralized control and monitoring of various components.
Benefits:
Enhanced Efficiency: Centralized monitoring ensures that all parts of the AC unit operate optimally, maximizing efficiency and performance.
Maintenance Alerts: Receive notifications via a smart thermostat for filter changes and other maintenance requirements, ensuring the longevity of your system.
High-Pressure and Low-Pressure Switches
Armstrong air conditioners have high-pressure and low-pressure switches for added safety and protection.
Benefits:
Compressor Protection: The high-pressure switch safeguards the compressor from potentially dangerous situations by halting operation when refrigerant levels reach critical levels.
Contaminant Prevention: The low-pressure switch prevents contaminants from entering the unit during operation, maintaining air quality and system integrity.
Problems with Armstrong air conditioners
Long-Term Reliability
While Armstrong air conditioners may offer initial cost savings, some units may have long-term reliability issues, leading to increased maintenance costs.
Lack of Energy Star Rating
Not all Armstrong air conditioner models have the Energy Star rating, which signifies energy efficiency and environmental friendliness.
Dealer Selection and Moderation
Armstrong only moderates their installers and dealers, allowing anyone to purchase their products wholesale with strict oversight.
Armstrong air conditioners models and variation
Variable-Capacity Models
4SCU23LX
- SEER: 23
- Sound Level: 62 dB
- Compressor: Variable
- Communicating: Yes
- Description: The 4SCU23LX is designed with high efficiency in mind, achieving up to a 23 SEER rating. Its variable-speed compressor operates like a dimmer switch, providing precise cooling adjustments for enhanced comfort.
4SCU20LX
- SEER: 20
- Sound Level: 72 dB
- Compressor: Variable
- Communicating: Yes
- Description: With a SEER efficiency of up to 20, the 4SCU20LX is another high-efficiency option. It’s compatible with Comfort Sync® A3 for optimal cooling and energy-saving benefits.
Two-Stage Models
4SCU18LS
- SEER: 18
- Sound Level: 72 dB
- Compressor: Two-Stage
- Communicating: Yes
- Description: The 4SCU18LS offers balanced performance and comfort with its two-stage scroll compressor. It’s part of the Pro Series™ and provides up to 18 SEER efficiency.
4SCU16LS
- SEER: 16
- Sound Level: 75 dB
- Compressor: Two-Stage
- Communicating: Yes
- Description: Another option from the Pro Series™, the 4SCU16LS offers up to 16 SEER efficiency. Its two-stage compressor ensures consistent cooling and comfort.
Single-Stage Models
4SCU14LE
- SEER: 14
- Sound Level: 75 dB
- Compressor: Single-Stage
- Communicating: No
- Description: The 4SCU14LE provides dependable cooling with its single-stage scroll compressor. While not as efficient as variable-capacity or two-stage models, it still offers reliable performance.
4SCU14LB
- SEER: 14
- Sound Level: 76 dB
- Compressor: Single-Stage
- Communicating: No
- Description: Similar to the 4SCU14LE, the 4SCU14LB offers up to 14 SEER efficiency with a single-stage compressor, providing consistent cooling for your home.
4SCU13LE
- SEER: 13
- Sound Level: 76 dB
- Compressor: Single-Stage
- Communicating: No
- Description: With a SEER rating of 13, the 4SCU13LE is another option for reliable cooling. It features a single-stage compressor for consistent performance.
Comparison Chart
| Model | SEER | Sound Level | Compressor | Communicating |
| 4SCU23LX | 23 | 62 dB | Variable | Yes |
| 4SCU20LX | 20 | 72 dB | Variable | Yes |
| 4SCU18LS | 18 | 72 dB | Two-Stage | Yes |
| 4SCU16LS | 16 | 75 dB | Two-Stage | Yes |
| 4SCU14LE | 14 | 75 dB | Single-Stage | No |
| 4SCU14LB | 14 | 76 dB | Single-Stage | No |
| 4SCU13LE | 13 | 76 dB | Single-Stage | No |
Armstrong air conditioner prices by models
| Model | System Only ($) | System Installed ($) | Running Cost ($) |
| 4SCU20LX | $2,130 | $4,630 | $439 |
| 4SCU16LS | $1,420 | $3,880 | $540 |
| 4SCU14LE | $1,160 | $3,570 | $630 |
| 4SCU14LB | $1,090 | $3,410 | $679 |
| 4SCU13LE | $1,000 | $3,170 | $711 |
| 4SCU13LB | $960 | $3,090 | $719 |
Armstrong air conditioners prices by sizes
| AC Unit Size | Home Size Range (sf) | System Only ($) | System Installed ($) | Running Cost ($) |
| 1.5 ton | 600 – 1000 | $990 | $3,130 | $313 |
| 2 ton | 1001 – 1300 | $1,110 | $3,300 | $330 |
| 2.5 ton | 1301 – 1600 | $1,220 | $3,360 | $336 |
| 3 ton | 1601 – 1900 | $1,440 | $3,680 | $368 |
| 3.5 ton | 1901 – 2200 | $1,570 | $3,960 | $396 |
| 4 ton | 2201 – 2600 | $1,830 | $4,320 | $432 |
| 5 ton | 2601 – 3200 | $2,290 | $4,850 | $485 |
Is Armstrong as good as Lennox?
Performance and Reliability:
Lennox: Lennox air conditioners are known for their excellent performance, reliability, and durability. They often feature advanced technologies and components engineered for long-term use.
Armstrong: Armstrong air conditioners also offer reliable performance, but reliability variations may vary depending on the specific model and maintenance practices.
Efficiency:
Lennox: Lennox air conditioners typically boast high SEER ratings and energy-efficient features, helping homeowners save on energy costs.
Armstrong: Armstrong air conditioners also offer various models with competitive SEER ratings, providing efficient cooling solutions.
Features
Lennox: Lennox air conditioners often have advanced features such as variable-speed compressors, smart thermostat compatibility, and advanced diagnostic capabilities.
Armstrong: Armstrong air conditioners offer features like Comfort Sync™ technology for remote control and monitoring and Pro Series™ systems for enhanced diagnostics.
Customer Satisfaction:
Both Lennox and Armstrong have loyal customer bases and generally positive reviews. However, individual experiences may vary based on installation quality, maintenance, and customer service.
Warranty and Support:
Both brands typically offer product warranties, but the specific terms and coverage may vary. It’s essential to review the warranty details for each brand before making a purchase.
Should you buy it?
Performance Requirements: Evaluate if the Armstrong air conditioner models meet your performance requirements regarding cooling capacity, energy efficiency, and features. Consider factors like SEER ratings, noise levels, and special features like Comfort Sync™ technology.
Budget: Compare the cost of Armstrong air conditioners to other brands and models within your budget. Consider not only the upfront cost of the unit but also long-term operating costs and potential maintenance expenses.
Reliability and Durability: Research the reliability and durability of Armstrong air conditioners, including factors like warranty coverage, customer reviews, and industry ratings. Consider if Armstrong’s reputation for reliability aligns with your expectations.
Energy Efficiency: Evaluate the energy efficiency of Armstrong air conditioners compared to other brands. Look for models with high SEER ratings to ensure energy savings over the long term.
Features and Technology: Consider if Armstrong’s features and technology offerings align with your preferences and lifestyle. Features such as smart thermostat compatibility, advanced diagnostics, and remote control capabilities may enhance convenience and comfort.
Customer Support: Research Armstrong’s customer support and service offerings, including the availability of authorized dealers, warranty coverage, and after-sales support. Consider if Armstrong provides adequate support in your area.
Comparison with Other Brands: Compare Armstrong air conditioners with other leading brands such as Lennox, Carrier, Trane, and Rheem to ensure you’re making an informed decision. Consider factors like performance, reliability, features, and overall value for money.
Author: Ralph P. Sita
Ralph P. Sita is a seasoned professional with deep roots in both the HVAC and tech industries. His family’s business, Ralph P. Sita, Inc., is a locally owned and operated HVAC contractor with over 42 years of experience, serving the DC, Maryland, and Virginia areas. The company specializes in residential, commercial, and industrial heating, ventilation, and air conditioning services, offering everything from installation and maintenance to custom ductwork and indoor air quality solutions -www.ralphpsita.com. A former CPA, he spent the last decade as co-founder and co-CEO at Cybrary, a leading platform for cybersecurity and IT training. Cybrary became the largest, most well-known cybersecurity training businesses in the industry under his leadership. Smart AC Solutions is an opportunity to give back to the HVAC community by providing reliable, actionable information on all things heating and cooling.