Trane Air Conditioners Review (2024 Guide)
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Trane is a leading HVAC manufacturer with more than 120 years of business experience. The company produces air conditioners, heat pumps, and other equipment for residential and commercial use. This buying guide explores the company’s history, products, and features, as well as AC unit and installation costs. We’ve also provided tips for finding the right central AC system for your home.
Trane Air Conditioner Overview
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Trane Air Conditioner Quality
Trane is a reputable brand that produces quality air conditioning units. The company has more than 120 years of experience and is a widely recognized name.
Trane tests each HVAC unit for 16 weeks in its Systems Extreme Environmental Test (SEET) lab in Tyler, Texas. Systems are exposed to cold and heat to replicate five years of wear and tear. This intense testing ensures that your Trane system will last for years without constant maintenance or repairs. Trane also manufactures many parts in-house to maintain quality standards and ensure system compatibility.
Trane’s energy efficiency and sound levels are additional markers of quality. We’ll go over both factors in more detail below.
SEER Rating
Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) represents an air conditioning system’s efficiency as laid out by the U.S. Department of Energy and the Air Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute. This rating is measured by the total ratio of heat removed from the air during a typical cooling season divided by the total electrical energy the system used to run. The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient the unit.
The Department of Energy raised the measurement standards and developed SEER2 ratings in 2023. Now, the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) mandates that all residential systems in northern states have a minimum SEER rating of 14. Southern states must have a SEER rating of 15.
Trane’s current AC units and heat pumps have a SEER2 rating, meaning they meet the highest efficiency standard. Specifically, Trane’s products have SEER2 ratings ranging from 14.8 to 21.5. Make sure you select a system that meets the new guidelines for your area.
Sound Rating
Air conditioning units make considerable noise when in use. Manufacturers include their units’ decibel (dB) levels so you know how loud your AC will be. The lower the decibel level, the quieter it sounds.
You’ll see sound levels displayed as decibel A (adjusted decibels, or dBA). This measurement indicates sound levels detectable by the human ear. Quiet outdoor AC units fall between 50–60 dBA. The Center for Disease Control’s guide to common decibel levels provides examples of how loud different levels are:
- 40 dBA: A refrigerator hum
- 60 dBA: A normal conversation
- 70 dBA: A running washing machine or dishwasher
- 80–85 dBA: City traffic (from inside the car) or a gas-powered lawn mower or leaf blower
Energy efficiency and sound are directly related. The more efficient the unit, the quieter it will be. Keep this in mind when shopping for a new air conditioner, particularly the best Trane units. Trane’s less efficient AC units have sound levels between 71 and 74 dBA, which is outside the recommended sound levels for an outdoor unit. The company’s more efficient, higher-priced units have lower sound levels, ranging between 55 and 75 dBA.
Trane Air Conditioner Costs
Trane’s central air conditioners cost $5,400–$12,800, but the price can vary greatly among regions and local Trane dealers. The prices are generally a little bit higher on average than the typical cost of an HVAC installation from some of the other best air conditioner brands. These prices are for single- and double-stage AC units and include the equipment, labor, accessories, and services needed for your HVAC installation. They also include the cost of removing your old system, reconnecting your existing ductwork, and cleaning up after installation. Trane does not share variable-speed system costs on its website.
| Trane Model | SEER Rating | Sound Rating | Cost* |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trane XR14 | Up to 14.8 | 72–73 dBA | $5,400–$8,400 |
| Trane XR15 | Up to 15.6 | 71–74 dBA | $6,800–$10,800 |
| Trane XL17i | Up to 17.2 | 72–74 dBA | $8,400–$12,800 |
| Trane XV18 | Up to 18 | 55–75 dBA | By quote only |
| Trane XV20i | Up to 21.5 | 55–75 dBA | By quote only |
*Cost includes equipment, labor, installation services, and accessories.
Trane Heat Pump Costs
Trane’s single- and double-stage heat pumps cost $5,400–$12,400. These prices include the equipment, labor, and other accessories and services. Trane only discloses the pricing for variable-stage systems if you make an appointment to speak with a local Trane dealer.
| Trane Model | SEER Rating | Sound Rating | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trane XR14 | Up to 14.8 | 71–76 dBA | $5,400–$7,400 |
| Trane XR15 | Up to 17 | 70–75 dBA | $6,800–$9,200 |
| Trane XL17i | Up to 17.2 | 72–74 dBA | $8,800–$12,400 |
| Trane XV18 | Up to 18 | 54–76 dBA | By quote only |
| Trane XV19 | Up to 19.5 | 43–57 dBA | By quote only |
| Trane XV20i | Up to 20 | 54–76 dBA | By quote only |
Product Features
Trane offers several features and upgrades to improve its products’ quality. Here’s an overview of some of the top features.
HVAC Unit Options
Trane offers one-stage, two-stage, and variable-speed HVAC units to meet each customer’s needs. We’ll examine each option below.
- One-stage units: One-stage (or single-stage) units work at 100% capacity to cool your home and use more energy than other options. These systems run through constant on-and-off cycles and work harder to cool your home. They’re less efficient but have the lowest price point. Trane XR14 and Trane XR15 are one-stage units.
- Two-stage units: A two-stage system runs at two speeds. Whereas one-stage units operate at 100% capacity all the time, two-stage units will switch to a lower capacity—usually around 65%—to save energy. These units offer more accurate temperature control and better utility bill savings. They’re priced moderately.
- Variable-speed units: Variable-speed HVAC systems are the most expensive but provide the greatest temperature control. They account for indoor and outdoor temperatures, humidity levels, and run time to determine the right output. Their power capacity varies between 25% and 100%, offering high efficiency. Trane’s variable-speed units are equipped with its signature TruComfort system, which uses 700–750 stages to provide maximum comfort and efficiency.
Each Trane HVAC unit uses the company’s patented heat pump compressor, the Climatuff, which was the first of its kind in the industry. The component is exclusive to residential units and provides excellent efficiency and minimal noise levels.
Added and Optional Features
Here’s a list of additional HVAC unit features Trane offers:
- Compressor sound insulator: This product helps reduce compressor sounds, making the unit quieter. It’s available for select models.
- DuraTuff rustproof base pan: This patented base pan is designed for durability and will resist cracking and warping.
- Trane Link technology: This innovative system uses Bluetooth technology to connect to system components. It syncs with the Trane Home app to give homeowners remote access to their system’s performance and diagnostics. The system also connects with Alexa or Google Home for contactless controls. It’s available on select models.
- Trane ComfortLink II smart thermostats: Trane offers four smart thermostats that let you track your energy usage, create season-based temperature programs, and identify trends in your energy use. Compatibility varies based on the HVAC unit.
- WeatherGuard fasteners: These weather-resistant fasteners are zinc-coated for added protection against corrosion and rust.
- WeatherGuard top: This optional component provides additional protection to the unit’s top. It’s limited to certain models.
Trane Air Conditioner Warranty
Trane offers one of the best warranties of any HVAC manufacturer. Its 10-year limited warranty on the Trane XR14 and XR15 models covers the outdoor coil, compressor, and functional parts. However, the AC unit must be registered within 60 days of purchase, or it will revert to a five-year limited warranty.
All other models include 10-year coverage on the outdoor coil and function parts, plus an extended 12-year warranty on the compressor. You must complete registration within 60 days to qualify for full coverage.
Trane vs. Other Brands
See how Trane air conditioning systems compare to other leading HVAC brands.
| Brand | SEER Rating | Sound Ratings | Warranty | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Trane | Up to 21.5 | 55–75 dBA | 10–12 years (varies by model) | $5,400–$12,800 |
| Amana | Up to 24.5 | 57–73 dBA | 10 years–lifetime (varies by model) | $3,600–$11,000 |
| American Standard | Up to 21.5 | 55–75 dBA | 10–12 years (varies by model) | $3,500–$10,900 |
Trane Air Conditioners History
Trane was founded in 1885 as a family plumbing business and entered the air conditioner market in 1931. The company spent the next 53 years developing commercial and residential air conditioner technology to increase efficiency and reduce emissions. In 1984, American Standard acquired Trane but maintained two separate brands. Both companies operate under Ingersoll Rand, its parent company.
Today, Trane is a leading global manufacturer of HVAC systems. The company offers air conditioners, furnaces, heat pumps, smart thermostats, air handlers, whole-home air cleaners, and other residential and commercial products. Trane’s air conditioners are typically priced higher than other AC manufacturers due to the company’s long-standing reputation and high-quality products.
Our Conclusion
Trane offers high-quality HVAC products backed by more than 120 years of experience. Although its units aren’t the most energy-efficient on the market, the company has one of the best warranties. Trane offers a great selection of AC and heat pump units with various features, energy efficiency ratings, and noise levels. Prices vary by area, so contact your Trane Comfort Specialist Contractor for an accurate quote.
We suggest getting quotes from multiple HVAC contractors in your area to find the best price.
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FAQ About Trane Air Conditioners
Is Trane a good brand for AC units?
Yes, Trane is a reputable AC manufacturer with more than 120 years of business experience. The company is a recognizable name and produces high-quality HVAC products.
Does Trane offer a lifetime warranty?
No, Trane does not offer a lifetime warranty for its products. The company provides a 10-year limited warranty for most of its units. Its high-end products include a 12-year limited warranty. You must register your product within 60 days of purchase to receive full coverage.
What is the average cost to install a Trane AC unit?
Trane AC unit costs vary by region and dealer. One- and two-stage units cost an average of $5,400–$12,400, including installation. Variable-stage unit pricing must be requested directly through a local Trane dealer.
Our Rating Methodology
We are committed to providing comprehensive and unbiased reviews to our readers. This means earning your trust through transparent reviews and data to support our ratings and recommendations. Our rating system for HVAC providers is on a 100-point system based on seven factors:
- System cost (20 points): We determine if the company’s cheapest option for a full-size AC or furnace starts below $3,100 or if it exists somewhere between $3,100 and $8,500.
- Efficiency rating (20 points): We consider the company’s best available energy efficiency ratings, namely its highest SEER and AFUE ratings.
- Sound rating (10 points): We analyze a company’s lowest possible sound rating in decibels.
- Warranty options availability (10 points): We award the most points to companies with warranties beyond the average 10-year and 5-year warranties available. We also reduce points from a company that only covers three or fewer parts through its warranty.
- ENERGY STAR certified option (10 points): If a company provides ENERGY STAR-certified products, they receive more points than those that do not.
- Reputation (10 points): We factor in how the Business Better Bureau (BBB) scores each company. We deduct points for any alerts or pending lawsuits.
- Customer service & resources (20): We consider what resources and features a company provides in terms of customer service. This includes if the company offers a user-friendly product search tool, FAQs, pricing guides, online manuals, and a mobile app.
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