Lennox International Inc. - Experts & Thought Leaders

Lennox Residential HVAC, a trusted home comfort solutions and energy-efficiency innovator since 1895, announced the latest addition to its industry-renowned Dave Lennox Signature® Collection with the launch of the SL25KCV Air Conditioner, the most precise and efficient air conditioner available.  A recent survey found that 81% of homeowners consider the installation of high-efficiency HVAC equipment to be either extremely or very important to them due to potential savings, with 91% reporting lower monthly bills as the most appealing advantage. Lennox SL25KCV Air Conditioner The Lennox SL25KCV Air Conditioner delivers an unmatched efficiency rating of up to 26.00 SEER2 (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio 2) and can help lower energy bills while keeping the home cool and quiet. Additionally, its Precise Comfort® technology finely tunes and adjusts cooling output in tiny increments to perfectly match energy use, effortlessly meeting homeowners’ desire to help the planet and their wallets.  HFC refrigerants The intro of the SL25KCV Air Conditioner precedes an upcoming industry-wide growth in unity with the AIM actThe introduction of the SL25KCV Air Conditioner precedes an upcoming industry-wide transition, in accordance with the American Innovation and Manufacturing  (AIM) Act and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), to phase down high-hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) refrigerants by using low global warming potential (GWP) alternatives.  This change will take place on January 1, 2025. With substantially lower GWP than previous refrigerants, the launch of the SL25KCV Air Conditioner complies with updated EPA regulations and is formulated to provide peace of mind for years to come. 2025 Compliant Refrigerants As part of its relentless pursuit of staying ahead of industry standards, Lennox updated its entire product lineup to use 2025 Compliant Refrigerants and will continue rolling those products out over the next several months. "As the industry transitions to low GWP refrigerants, Lennox is introducing products that meet and exceed regulatory requirements, supporting both sustainability and operational efficiency," said Prakash Bedapudi, Chief Technology Officer at Lennox. S40 Smart Thermostat SL25KCV Air Conditioner’s digital touch features maximize exact control when paired with a thermostat Prakash Bedapudi adds: "The SL25KCV exemplifies our commitment to providing innovative, high-performance HVAC solutions that deliver industry-renowned energy efficiency for homeowners and advance our efforts toward a sustainable future."  In addition to its groundbreaking 26.00 SEER2 rating, the SL25KCV Air Conditioner’s digital communication features maximize accurate control when paired with the S40 Smart Thermostat. Sensors in the equipment make diagnosing issues seamless for dealers, while automatic system adjustments accurately maintain temperature, humidity, and air quality levels for homeowners. SilentComfort™ technology Thanks to SilentComfort™ technology and the air conditioner’s variable-speed compressor, the unit can achieve a whisper-quiet operation as low as 58 dB or the sound of a microwave. Additionally, Quantum™ Coil technology and premium quality materials like the composite unit base and top and galvanized steel cabinet prevent corrosion and deliver peace of mind. 

When they are one of the largest beverage distributors in the U.S., it’s crucial to stay ahead of the curve on everything that drives customer satisfaction, corporate responsibility, and a strong bottom line. Hensley Beverage Company did exactly that when it collaborated with Chemours and American Refrigeration Supplies, Inc. (ARS) to implement a system utilizing a new-generation A2L refrigerant, Chemours Opteon™ XL20 (R-454C). Completed in 2023, the installation paves the way for companies throughout the commercial refrigeration industry to embrace refrigerant technologies that are both cost-effective and environmentally sustainable. Situation The company recently ended an acquisition that grew its distribution footprint into New Mexico Hensley Beverage, a Phoenix-based beverage wholesaler, supports a customer base of more than 9,000 accounts and more than 2,500 individual products, operating out of six locations across Arizona.  The company recently completed an acquisition that expanded its distribution footprint into New Mexico, making it one of the largest family-owned and operated beverage distributors in the nation. As it grows, Hensley remains committed to maintaining exceptional product integrity, upholding its multi-generational family business legacy, and supporting a variety of environmental objectives. These factors, coupled with the current regulatory landscape (notably, the phasedown of legacy hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) refrigerants), have put Hensley’s focus on ways to upgrade its refrigeration systems. Phasedown of HFC refrigerants For the past several years, Chemours, ARS, and Hensley have worked together to retrofit the distributor’s existing R-22 and R-404A systems to Opteon™ XP40 (R-449A), a hydrofluoroolefin (HFO) blend offering zero ozone depletion potential (ODP) and a significantly lower global warming potential (GWP) than legacy products. However, with the ongoing phasedown of HFC refrigerants under the U.S. EPA’s American Innovation and Manufacturing Act (AIM), the teams began weighing the benefits of an even bolder upgrade. “Hensley Beverage is proud to partner with Chemours, TBSI, and ARS to help develop innovative solutions and responsible business practices that drive sustainability in our community. These groundbreaking results are a culmination of partnership and collaboration. It is refreshing to work with three organizations that are this passionate about developing pioneering products that will help shape a better future for the communities we serve,” Alex Dunn SVP of Operations, Hensley Beverage.  Solution Chemours recommended bringing Opteon™ XL20 (R-454C) into Hensley’s refrigeration plan Even as Chemours, ARS, and Hensley continued to strategically employ retrofit solutions in some areas, they explored options that would put the company in a stronger position for the long term. Chemours recommended bringing Opteon™ XL20 (R-454C) into Hensley’s refrigeration plan. A mildly flammable refrigerant with an ASHRAE A2L safety classification, Opteon™ XL20 is designed for use in new equipment, so Hensley identified an old R-22 system near the end of its life that was ideal for replacement by a new system using Opteon™.  Opteon™ XL20 has been used for several years in Europe and is expected to become the new norm in the U.S. by 2026, based on the current direction provided by the EPA. Leveraging its experience in Europe, the Chemours team of technical service and business development resources is prepared to support end users as they consider trial installations using A2L refrigerants. Features of Opteon™ XL20 Opteon™ XL20—the future of sustainable low- and medium-temperature refrigeration GWP of 148 (a 96% reduction versus R-404A)  Zero ODP Enables much higher charge sizes than highly flammable A3 refrigerants Is a close performance match to R-22 and R-404A Offers the optimum balance of performance and environmental sustainability Provides an easy, cost-effective alternative to legacy refrigerants in new equipment applications Utilizes well-known technology for ease of service and maintenance Benefits of HFOs Hensley was an early adopter of Opteon™ XP40, retrofitting equipment to experience better “Hensley was an early adopter of Opteon™ XP40, retrofitting equipment to experience better environmental outcomes, as well as high performance in low- and medium-temperature applications. Experiencing these benefits of HFOs whet their appetite to ask, ‘What next?’ With a strong dedication to supporting their communities and the environment while operating an efficient and thriving business, Hensley is a company that pushes the envelope." "Chemours was ready with our next-generation Opteon™ XL20—that will ensure they achieve maximum performance, operating efficiency, and sustainability," Joe Martinko President, Thermal and Specialized Solutions, Chemours. New low GWP refrigerant  “Our industry is undergoing some of the most significant regulatory changes in history and will be for the foreseeable future. ARS was excited to work with Chemours and be a part of the launch at Hensley of the new low GWP refrigerant." "It’s been a privilege for ARS to help bring together such an excellent group of partners for this project—and to install a first-of-its-kind system right here in Tucson, a community we’ve proudly served since 1948,” John White President, American Refrigeration Supplies, Inc.  Opteon™ XL20 properties ASHRAE Number: R-454C Composition Weight%: R-32/R-1234yf 21.5/78.5 Molecular Weight: 90.8 g/mol Normal Boiling Point: -45.6 °C (-50.0 °F) Critical Pressure: 4318.9 kPa (626.4 psia) Critical Temperature: 85.7 °C (186.2 °F) Liquid Density at 21.1 °C (70 °F): 1058.2 kg/m³ (66.1 lb/ft³) Ozone Depletion Potential (CFC-11 = 1.0): 0 AR4 (AR5) GWP (CO₂ = 1.0): 148 (146) ASHRAE Safety Classification: A2L Temperature Glide: ~6 K (~10.8 R) LFL (UL 60335 2-89 WCF): 0.291 kg/m³ (0.018 lb/ft³). Collaboration and Installation The installation brought together additional resources from the HVACR industry, including Copeland and Heatcraft Refrigeration Products— two ARS manufacturing partners—as well as Technical Building Services, Inc. (TBSI), the local HVACR service provider. As HVACR technology providers helping customers achieve their sustainability, decarbonization, and regulatory compliance goals, Heatcraft and Copeland had the knowledge and experience of emerging A2L requirements and the capabilities to support the project. TBSI was selected as the contractor for installation and servicing.  Use of R-22 in other Hensley systems Installation, evacuation, and setting methods were very similar to the recent refrigerants With the team assembled, Chemours took the lead on the project, ensuring that the contractor, Hensley’s service personnel, and others involved were certified through the ESCO Institute’s A2L refrigerant training program, and answering any questions from the local authorities.  After safely recovering the R-22 for use in other Hensley systems, the team from TBSI started removing the existing Keg 6 equipment, hanging new evaporator coils, and running new refrigerant lines. Installation, evacuation, and charging procedures were very similar to the current refrigerants in use by industry, making for a time- and cost-efficient process. Next generation of climate technology “Copeland has always been focused on not just setting the standard in climate solutions with pioneering brands in compression, controls, software, and monitoring—but pioneering the evolution in this space. Our role in the system design and installation for Hensley was right in our wheelhouse. What we accomplished together demonstrates that by bringing together energy-efficient products, regulation-ready solutions, and expertise, we can revolutionize the next generation of climate technology for the better,” Brian Schroeder Engineering Manager, Refrigerants, Copeland.  “Our tools and gauges were already enabled for the R-454C refrigerant. The startup and charging of both systems went pretty smoothly. TBSI is proud to have participated in the project at Hensley and, by doing so, adding to the variety of equipment we’ve worked on since founding our business in 1990. This was a great opportunity to grow our experience with A2Ls,” Sergio Pelayo Vice President, TBSI.  Copeland monitoring data Copeland applied monitoring units to the systems that capture nearly two dozen data points every second To make sure the system performed as expected, Copeland applied monitoring units to the systems that capture nearly two dozen data points every second. The data has shown that the systems are running as designed.  “We are thrilled with the results of the R-454C project with Hensley Beverage. As we continue our journey toward new regulation compliance, this successful collaboration has been instrumental in leveraging Heatcraft’s new product design efforts, with A2L refrigerants being an important part of the mix. We are poised to lead the industry and provide more customers like Hensley with cutting-edge solutions that drive their success,” Bob Landi Vice President and General Manager, Heatcraft Refrigeration Products. Summary Influenced by upcoming regulatory changes and stronger organizational ESG commitments, the commercial refrigeration industry’s transition to lower GWP refrigerants is inevitable. Opteon™ refrigerants provide organizations with lower GWP options that can help extend the useful life of their systems, as well as new equipment options that enable decades of reliable operation. Moreover, these systems answer the consumer preference for businesses that utilize responsibly manufactured products and support a greener environment. Hensley’s approach demonstrates an ideal way for companies to meet the needs of refrigerating their products while following the guidelines of the HFC phasedown. It’s important to assess where your equipment is in its lifecycle and determine if it makes the most sense in terms of budget, performance needs, and corporate vision to (1) retrofit existing equipment for more efficient and sustainable operation or (2) replace it with A2L refrigerant technologies and products.

Heatcraft Refrigeration Products, a manufacturer of commercial refrigeration equipment and systems as part of Lennox Commercial, now offers expanded capacity, at up to 250 refrigerated tons, for the eCO2Boost™ Transcritical Booster System. The cost-effective system, which can be customized for an array of applications, is an integral component of Heatcraft’s suite of low global warming potential (GWP) solutions for cold storage. eCO2Boost™ Transcritical Booster System The eCO2Boost™ Transcritical Booster System uses natural, environmentally friendly, and energy-efficient carbon dioxide (CO2) refrigerant, delivering top performance and reliability. Compared to traditional hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) systems, the typical eCO2Boost Transcritical Booster System is expected to cause 98% less global warming impact with an energy cost 6-10% lower and a total cost of ownership 5-10% lower. increase efficiency, reduce costs “Customers are consistently choosing to spend with companies actively reducing their impact on climate change, so they recognize that transitioning to low GWP products now will avoid headaches later,” said David Bolaños, head of product management for Heatcraft. David Bolaños adds, “Plus, customers realize they can save with low GWP products through increased efficiency, potentially reduced material and energy costs, and the avoidance of hidden liabilities.” Heatcraft offers optional parallel compression In addition to eCO2Boost™ racks, unit coolers, and gas coolers, Heatcraft offers optional parallel compression, as well as the NTC CO2 air-cooled gas cooler and CO2 unit coolers.

A 93-year old woman in Glasgow, Ky., lost her husband last November after 73 years of marriage. Thousands of miles away, a disabled veteran in Rancho Cordova, Calif., suffers from asthma. Both were in dire need of a new HVAC unit, and neither could afford it. They are two of the 210 recipients of new HVAC units in the Lennox International “Feel the Love” campaign for 2020, which honors residents and families facing physical, mental or social disabilities, financial challenges, or those who have made an impact through military or community service. heating and cooling equipment HVAC Services Inc. in Kentucky and Bonney Plumbing, Electrical, Heating and Air in Rancho Cordova, Calif., installed the two new HVAC units. They are just two among the hundreds of HVAC installers and local community members who took part in the Lennox Residential program, which has given back to local communities since 2009. Local installers across the country began requesting nominations in June from community members. We received more than 50 nominations from across the greater Sacramento region" "We received more than 50 nominations from across the greater Sacramento region,” said Oscar Poort, Bonney General Manager. For the first time this year, Bonney is participating in the program in partnership with Lennox Residential. For the past 10 years, the Lennox “Feel the Love” program has donated heating and cooling equipment to help deserving residents across the country, helping more than 1,500 families throughout North America stay comfortable and safe in their homes. supporting the community Across the country, deserving individuals and families are nominated in their hometowns to receive new heating and cooling systems. Each nomination recognizes an “unsung hero” who may be going through hardship, helping others in need, or simply supporting their community. Lennox provides each selected recipient with a high-efficiency Lennox Merit system complete with a three-year Comfort Shield Labor Protection Plan. Local dealers donate their time and labor to make the program a success. Past nominees have included teachers, firefighters, community volunteers and families impacted by natural disasters. This year, Lennox has expanded the program to include medical professionals and other essential workers on the front line of the COVID-19 pandemic. essential HVAC units “As many prepare for a winter working and learning from home, a new HVAC unit can make a significant impact on one’s health, comfort and happiness,” says Stephanie Bond, Director of Marketing at Lennox Residential. Since 2009, “Feel the Love” has been a key program for Lennox Residential to give back to its communities With the ongoing challenges as the pandemic continues, Lennox is expanding the “Feel the Love” program through the end of the year to continue installing much-needed HVAC units to recipients. Among the 2020 recipients are COVID-19 frontline workers, including medical professionals. Since 2009, “Feel the Love” (formerly known as Heat U.P.) has been a key program for Lennox Residential to give back to its communities. corporate responsibility program Culminating in “Feel the Love Day” in October, Lennox partners with HVAC installers and local community members in the United States and portions of Canada to deliver HVAC units at no cost to people who consistently put others before themselves and need a helping hand. Lennox is committed to contributing to its communities, investing in the future of the HVAC industry, and giving back through its corporate responsibility program. Displaying generosity benefits everyone, including corporations like Lennox, who receive well-deserved recognition for their investments in doing good. The entire HVAC industry benefits when companies become helpful and constructive forces in the communities they serve.