Trane Air Conditioner Review (2023)

Trane is a well-known brand in the HVAC industry, and millions across the country trust it. The company has been around since 1885 and provides HVAC equipment, including furnaces, split AC systems, ductless systems, packaged HVAC systems, heat pumps, and more.

In this guide, we’ll discuss the price, features, warranty coverage, and overall quality of Trane air conditioners. We’ll also explain why Trane’s AC systems’ quality, durability, and performance make them worth the higher price tag.

Ready to install a Trane AC unit? Connect with one of the best HVAC installers in your area using the tool below.

Our Review of Trane Air Conditioners

Trane ACs are expensive compared to competing companies, with prices ranging from around $7,000 to a staggering $21,900. While the up-front cost is high, we strongly recommend Trane to any homeowner that can afford this brand.

The efficiency ratings of Trane ACs range from average to good, with SEER2 (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) ratings falling between 13.8 and 21.5. While the maximum efficiency isn’t quite as high as you’d see from companies like Carrier and Lennox, Trane also excels in reliability.

Trane customers rave about the durability of their AC systems, and most see 15 to 20 years of life from them. Plus, Trane systems are known to be super quiet, which is another bonus of investing in a Trane AC system.

While all of Trane’s central air conditioner systems provide great value, we recommend the two most advanced models: the XV18 and the XV20i. Both units are equipped with TruComfort, which allows them to monitor themselves to provide efficiency and maximum indoor comfort. Both use variable-speed compressors and boast impressive energy efficiency ratings and Energy Star certification.

Rating:

Best for Efficiency

4.3/5

Get Quote

Connect with a Local Installer Near You!

Pros and Cons of Trane Air Conditioner Units

The table below includes a quick look at some pros and cons before purchasing a Trane AC.

What Is Trane Air Conditioner Pricing?

Trane air conditioners are relatively expensive, and although they’re worth the money, in our opinion, the cost is something to consider. Most Trane ACs will fall between $7,000 and $21,900. Many are eligible for more than $1,000 in energy efficiency tax credits or rebates, but the effective price is still higher than what you’d see from many competitors.

The table below includes a breakdown of what you can expect to pay based on the system you buy. Trane’s website handily lets you sort models based on three price brackets, and the figures below provide an average price range for each.

We should mention that these prices only include the central AC unit. Your price will be significantly higher if you also need an air handler or ductwork installed. Additionally, the installation labor for your AC can run you an additional $1,000 to $3,000. However, this figure can vary greatly depending on your location, the size of your home, and the HVAC contractor you choose to handle the installation.

Trane Air Conditioner Models Comparison

Trane carries nine models of AC placed under three designations: XV, XL, and XR. XV includes the company’s high-end models, XL are the mid-range models, and XR are the most affordable entry-level ACs.

Our top picks based on efficiency, noise during operation, and potential indoor comfort are the two models in the premium XV category: the XV18 and the XV20i. We’ll discuss the features of each Trane AC model in the following sections.

Trane XR13 Air Conditioner

The XR13 is Trane’s entry-level model, so it has the lowest efficiency of all models (13.8 SEER2) and the lowest price tag available from the manufacturer. It uses a single-stage reciprocating compressor from Climatuff. It’s also the company’s noisiest unit, as the cost is kept low, in part, by avoiding sound-dampening equipment. The unit averages between 71 and 75 decibels when running.

Trane XR14 Air Conditioner

Trane mentions on its website that the XR14 provides the best value for the money. It’s nearly as inexpensive as the XR13, but it has a higher efficiency rating — 14.8 SEER2 — and is a bit quieter — 72 to 73 decibels during operation. This unit uses a reciprocating compressor with one operation speed, so it won’t provide the same level of comfort or efficiency as a higher-end unit with a scroll compressor.

Trane XR15 Side Discharge Air Conditioner

The XR15 Side Discharge AC is the smallest physical model offered by Trane, so it’s a popular option for homeowners with minimal yard space to install an outdoor unit. It’s the least expensive model from Trane that is Energy Star certified, with a SEER2 rating of 16.0. This side discharge model uses a plate fin coil to save space, but all other models use the more efficient and durable spine fin coil.

Trane XR15 Air Conditioner

Trane also manufactures the XR15 in a standard model. It takes up more space in your yard but uses the superior spine fin coil, which helps maintain a higher efficiency and longevity for your system. You can check out the video below to see how Trane’s spine fin coil improves efficiency:

On average, this model is more expensive than the side discharge option, but it’s also available in larger sizes, contributing to a higher overall cost.

Trane XR16 Air Conditioner

The XR16 is the most affordable model from Trane that has a two-stage compressor. The unit can operate at 100% or 70% capacity, which means it does a better job controlling a constant indoor temperature and is more efficient. The unit uses an efficient Climatuff scroll compressor and has the durable spine-fin coil for a longer system lifespan and greater efficiency.

Trane XL15i Air Conditioner

The XL15i is Trane’s least expensive entry in the XL category. This model has all of the high-efficiency features discussed above, including the anti-corrosion, all-aluminum spine fin, the Climatuff scroll compressor, and certification from Energy Star. The compressor is single-speed, so temperature control is good but not outstanding. This unit comes at a price point that includes Trane’s upgraded warranty coverage: a 12-year compressor warranty (as opposed to the 10-year option on lower-end models) plus the standard 10-year outdoor coil and parts warranty.

Trane XL17 Air Conditioner

Like the XL15i, the XL17 features an all-aluminum spine coil, upgraded warranty coverage, and a more efficient scroll compressor. However, the compressor in this model is a two-speed one that can run at 70% and 100% capacity. This provides more even climate control and helps achieve a higher efficiency rating of 17.2 SEER2.

Trane XV18 Air Conditioner

The XV18 is the more affordable unit in the XV Series from Trane. Along with the efficiency and protection features in some of the previous models — spine coil, scroll compressor, and the upgraded compressor warranty — this unit includes a variable-speed compressor, which allows it to function at different levels between 30% and 100% capacity. The result is precise indoor temperature control and maximum efficiency.

The XV18 includes a compressor insulator, bringing the operation noise down to as low as 57 decibels and making it one of the quietest options from the Trane HVAC brand. The XV18 also features Trane Link capabilities, letting you remotely control your home’s climate. The unit also uses Trane’s SmartCharge feature to monitor refrigerant levels and assist in system diagnostics.

Trane XV20i Air Conditioner

The XV20i is our top pick from Trane. It includes a variable-speed scroll compressor for efficiency and a compressor insulator for quiet operation. It also uses the company’s efficient and durable spine coil and includes an upgraded 12-year compressor warranty.

Much like the XV18, this model includes Trane Link connectivity for remote temperature control through your thermostat and Trane SmartCharge to help boost efficiency and streamline diagnostics for ongoing routine HVAC maintenance. This is Trane’s most efficient central air conditioner, with an impressive SEER2 rating of 21.5.

How Does Trane Air Conditioner Compare to Top Competitors?

As mentioned above, the Trane brand is known to be one of the more expensive AC options on the market. However, we recommend it if you can afford it due to its efficiency, durability, and warranty coverage. The table below includes a look at how Trane compares to other top AC manufacturers in terms of pricing, features, efficiency, and more.

What Are Trane Air Conditioner’s Warranty Options?

All Trane ACs come with a five-year base warranty for parts, but that can be extended by registering your product with Trane and purchasing an extended warranty. We’ll briefly explain what’s covered in all of the warranty options from Trane below:

• Base/unregistered warranty: The base warranty for all Trane ACs includes five years of coverage for parts damaged due to manufacturer defects. This doesn’t include the labor to fix or replace the damaged parts.
• Registered warranty: If you register your product within 60 days of purchasing, your base coverage gets extended for five years. The labor for the HVAC repair needed isn’t covered, so this still only applies to parts.
• Extended warranty: Trane also allows customers to purchase extended warranties, which vary based on your coverage. Extended warranties can cover the labor to replace or repair parts, materials and parts for the compressor only, materials and parts for your entire air conditioning unit, or refrigerant loss and replacement. The length of the extended warranty depends on which warranty option you choose.

What Are Trane Air Conditioner Reviews From Homeowners?

When we looked at more than 100 customer reviews on sites like Better Business Bureau, TrustPilot, and Google Reviews, there were many negative reviews and few positive ones. Unfortunately, companies in the HVAC industry are prone to this kind of reporting, and most of Trane’s competitors have similar negative ratings.

Most of the negative Trane air conditioner reviews mentioned issues with tech support and the employees not being knowledgeable enough to answer questions about the systems or provide solutions to issues. There were quite a few negative comments about the warranty coverage not being as advertised. However, based on what we read, it appears that the company did honor the parts-only warranty it mentions on its website.

Some of the negative reviews also stemmed from issues with the third-party Trane dealers that installed the Trane system. These aren’t specifically a negative reflection on Trane, as most national manufacturers use a giant network of installers, so your experience may vary.

All in all, we believe Trane is a trustworthy company. While the reviews reflect poor system performance and issues shortly after installation, we know from experience that this isn’t always the case. The company is known to provide superior quality and system durability to many competitors, so we still feel comfortable recommending Trane if its air conditioners fit your budget.

Features To Consider for Trane Air Conditioners

Trane is considered a premium AC manufacturer for several reasons, and the features it offers on its higher-end models are a great example of why. We’ll explain some features we recommend looking for on Trane ACs below, including why we believe they’re important.

• Spine fin coil: Many ACs use a plate fin coil, but Trane began using superior spine fin coils in the 1960s. Spine fin coils help boost the efficiency of your unit, and they’re more durable, leading to a longer system lifespan and less need for HVAC maintenance and repair.
• Compressor type and speed: Trane ACs are manufactured using either a reciprocating or a scroll compressor. Scroll compressors are more expensive but boost efficiency and reduce ongoing electricity costs. Additionally, Trane offers variable-speed, two-speed, and single-speed compressors. We recommend a variable-speed compressor for maximum efficiency and improved comfort in your living space.
• Trane Link: Some Trane ACs come equipped with Trane ComfortLink connectivity. This lets you connect to your system remotely via a mobile app to control your indoor temperature. Trane Link can help boost efficiency and make maintaining comfort in your home more convenient. It also allows communication between multiple pieces of equipment, like condensers, air cleaners for improved air quality, mini-split cooling systems, and more, to optimize performance and efficiency.
• Trane SmartCharge: SmartCharge is a remote diagnostic tool provided with some Trane ACs. This can help expedite your HVAC technician’s assessment of your system for repair. It also monitors refrigerant levels automatically and will report issues or leaks before they become more problematic and expensive to fix.
• Compressor insulator: Some of the higher-end Trane ACs come with a compressor insulator, which can get the operating noise level of the unit down to a quiet 55 decibels.
• SEER2 Rating: Finally, we recommend considering the efficiency rating of your Trane unit. The higher the SEER2 rating, the more energy savings you’ll see over time.

So, Is a Trane Air Conditioner Worth It for Your Home?

Overall, we strongly recommend Trane if you can afford it. The systems are more expensive than you’ll see from most competitors but are feature-rich, boast high-efficiency ratings, are relatively quiet, and come with great warranty coverage, especially if you register your product.

Additionally, Trane ACs are durable and have a long lifespan. Although models like the XV18 and the XV20i are expensive, we recommend these most due to the high-efficiency ratings and the expected 15- to 20-year lifespan on these premium options.

Methodology: How We Rank Air Conditioner Brands

The experts at Today’s Homeowner provide only the most transparent and accurate information for all your home improvement needs. Our reviews of HVAC companies focus on what matters most to homeowners, including efficiency, sound ratings, cost, and more.

To gather our information, our experts review publicly available information, gather quotes, speak with HVAC contractors, and analyze consumer reviews.

A company can score a total of 100 points across five categories. This score is then converted into a five-star scale. We studied dozens of the best air conditioner brands to develop the following rating methodology:

• Affordability (20 points): Material and labor costs are the two most important factors in assessing affordability. However, we consider more than just these factors and evaluate how air conditioner brands accommodate a range of budgets.

• Efficiency (25 points): An air conditioner’s efficiency directly affects your monthly energy bills. We look to see if air conditioner brands offer high-efficiency units and ensure each unit passes the minimum SEER and EER requirements for each region.

• Sound Rating (20 points): The best air conditioners can cool your home with little to no sound. We rate air conditioner brands based on how quiet their systems are. Companies that offer air conditioners that produce fewer than 57 decibels do the best in this category.

• Products (25 points): We evaluate the company’s brands and whether they offer multiple equipment options and high-efficiency units. Companies that offer split-system, packaged systems, ductless systems, heat pumps, portable units, and window air conditioners score the best in this category.

• Warranty (10 points): The best air conditioner brands back up their products and services with extensive warranties. We research each company’s material and workmanship warranties and evaluate them based on comprehensiveness and length.

We monitor company data on an ongoing basis to keep rankings and information up to date.