Trane is a leading heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system manufacturer that has served homeowners for more than 120 years. The company installs high-efficiency heating and cooling systems, including central air conditioners with smart home compatibility and a reputation for reliable performance.
In this review, we look at Trane’s product lineup, features, pricing, installation process, and customer feedback. We also share tips to help you choose the best air conditioning system for your home.
Key Takeaways
- Trane is a good choice for reliable HVAC systems because of its comprehensive product warranty, with high-end models including 12 years of protection for your system’s compressor and 10 years for parts.
- Trane offers energy-efficient air conditioners with Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER2) ratings ranging from 13.4–24, depending on the model.
- The company tests each unit for 16 weeks in extreme conditions to replicate five years of wear and tear, which helps ensure long-term durability and performance, according to This Old House Magazine.
Our Review of Trane Air Conditioners
To help you decide if Trane is the right air conditioner brand for your home, we looked into the company’s products, services, costs, and warranty coverage.
Trane
Overview
Founded in 1913, Trane offers reputable HVAC systems paired with warranties that make this brand a secure investment. Plus, Trane has highly efficient units that can help you save by lower your monthly energy bills. For example, the company’s TruComfort Variable Speed air conditioner uses variable speed technology to continuously communicate with other air conditioning system parts and a Trane thermostat for optimal efficiency.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Offers a comprehensive 12-year compressor warranty plus 10 years for other parts on its premium models
- Uses a rustproof DuraTuff base pan for longevity
- Incorporates cutting edge smart-home technology
Cons
- High-end options require a Trane thermostat to function properly
- Charges a premium for many of its products
- Requires product registration to access a longer manufacturer’s warranty
Warranty Coverage
Trane offers a product warranty that lasts a minimum of 10 years for parts on all its air conditioning models, which is more comprehensive than other brands we’ve reviewed. These warranties help make your investment more secure and long-lasting. Please note that you must purchase a unit from a Trane authorized dealer and register it to receive the full-length warranty.
What Types of Air Conditioners Does Trane Offer?
Trane offers one-stage, multi-speed, and variable-speed air conditioner units, which we describe in more detail below.
- Single-stage units: Trane’s Choice lineup includes its single- or one-stage units. These systems work at fully capacity by running through constant on-and-off cycles to cool your home. They’re less efficient than other options but come at the lowest price point.
- Multi-stage units: Trane’s Priority lineup includes its multi-stage units, which switch between different operating speeds to increase efficiency and cooling capacity, especially during extreme weather. Pricing for these units falls mid-range since they offer more accurate temperature control and better utility bill savings.
- Variable-speed units: With Trane’s Premier line of products, you can invest in a variable-speed air conditioning system. While the most expensive option, these units provide the greatest temperature control and come equipped with Trane’s signature TruComfort system, which uses varying levels of capacity to provide maximum comfort and efficiency.
Each air conditioner also uses Trane’s patented heat pump compressor, the Climatuff, which is the first of its kind in the industry. The component is exclusive to residential units and provides excellent efficiency and minimal noise levels.
Air Conditioner Optional Features
Here’s a list of additional features Trane offers in its air conditioners:
This product helps reduce compressor sounds, making the unit quieter. It’s available for select models.
This patented base pan is designed for durability and will resist cracking and warping.
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 offers four smart thermostats that let you track your energy usage, create season-based temperature programs, and identify trends in your energy use. These thermostats also feature proactive diagnostics, which can help predict and prevent problems with your Trane unit. Note that compatibility varies based on the HVAC unit.
These weather-resistant fasteners are zinc-coated for added protection against corrosion and rust.
This optional component provides additional protection to the unit’s top. It’s limited to certain models.
How Does Trane Test for Air Conditioner Quality?
Trane is a reputable brand that produces quality air conditioning units, as shown by its in-house testing and energy-efficiency and sound standards.
Trane tests each HVAC unit for 16 weeks in its Systems Extreme Environmental Test (SEET) lab in Tyler, Texas. The company exposes systems to cold and heat to replicate five years of wear and tear. This testing ensures your Trane system lasts for years without constant maintenance or repairs. Trane also manufactures many parts in-house to maintain quality standards and ensure system compatibility.
Energy Efficiency
An air conditioner’s Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) rating represents the system’s efficiency as outlined 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 uses 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. Trane’s current air conditioning units and heat pumps have SEER2 ratings that meet the industry’s highest efficiency standard, with ratings ranging from 13.4–24.
Quick Tip
- For optimal efficiency, make sure you select a system that meets the right guidelines for your region. The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) mandates that residential systems in northern states have a minimum SEER2 rating of 14. Southern states must have a SEER2 rating of 15, and the rest of the U.S. must have a minimum of a SEER2 rating of 13.
Sound Rating
Air conditioner sound levels appear in decibel A (dBA), which measures the amount of noise people hear. In general, higher-efficiency air conditioners produce less noise, making sound ratings an important factor to consider when comparing models.
Trane’s less efficient air conditioners typically operate between 71 and 74 dBA, which is on par with the sound of a running washing machine, while its higher-efficiency models range from 64–76 dBA. If quiet operation that matches the sound of a normal conversation ranks high on your priority list, focus on Trane’s premium, high-efficiency models.
How Much Do Trane Air Conditioners Cost?
While researching Trane’s website, we found that the brand doesn’t disclose its heat pump or air conditioner costs. We spoke on the phone with a Trane representative to ask about ballpark costs. While the representative couldn’t give us a rough estimate on its air conditioning units, they did tell us that prices can vary greatly among regions and local Trane dealers. To get an quote, you must reach out to a local Trane dealer.
The representative mentioned that estimates for each air conditioning unit include the equipment, labor, accessories, and services needed for your HVAC installation. Quotes also include the cost of removing your old system, reconnecting your existing ductwork, and cleaning up after installation.
What Does Trane Offer for Warranty Coverage?
Trane offers one of the best warranties of any air conditioner manufacturer we’ve seen. The company’s 12-year limited warranty on the Trane Premier 20 and 18 models covers the compressor. Trane also extends its 12-year compressor warranty to the Priority 17 with WeatherGuard model. Additionally, these models include a 10-year outdoor coil and operational parts warranty.
All other models include a 10-year warranty. However, you must register the air conditioning unit within 60 days of purchase, or it will revert to a five-year limited warranty for all parts, including the compressor.
How Does Trane Compare vs. Other Air Conditioning Brands?
See how Trane air conditioning systems compare to other leading brands based on energy efficiency, sound ratings, and warranty coverage.
| Brand | SEER2 Rating | Sound Ratings | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Trane |
Up to 24 |
64–74 dBA |
12-year compressor, 10-year outdoor coil, and covers functional parts |
|
Carrier |
Up to 21 |
55–72 dBA |
10-year parts warranty |
|
American Standard |
Up to 24 |
64–76 dBA |
12-year compressor, 10-year outdoor coil, and covers functional parts |
|
Ruud |
Up to 20 |
54–74 dBA |
10-year conditional parts and/or replacement |
Is a Trane Air Conditioner Worth It?
Trane offers high-quality HVAC products backed by more than 120 years of experience, which often makes this brand worth the investment. Trane offers a great selection of air conditioners and heat pumps with various features, energy efficiency ratings, and noise levels. Plus, the company has one of the best product warranties we’ve found in the industry.
Prices vary by area, so contact a Trane specialist for an accurate quote. We suggest getting quotes from multiple HVAC contractors in your area to find the best price.
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FAQs About Trane Air Conditioners
Is Trane a good brand for air conditioning units?
Yes, Trane is a well-established and reputable air conditioner manufacturer. With more than 120 years in business, the company is known for producing high-quality HVAC products, like furnaces, air conditioners, and heat pumps, that undergo rigorous testing for performance, durability, and reliability. This commitment to quality has helped Trane maintain a strong reputation among homeowners and industry professionals alike.
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 air conditioning unit?
Trane air conditioner installation costs vary by region and dealer. You must request an estimate 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 evaluate each brand’s average price range for a full-size air conditioning unit or furnace. If their average price falls under $11,000, we give them more points.
- 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 and 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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