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Trane Air Conditioner Review & Buying Guide
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15,000+
Trane
4.6
Average Rating By Homeowner
$5,500
Average Price Including Installation
Trane Air Conditioners At a Glance
Strengths
Areas for Improvement
Trane Air Conditioner Review & Buying Guide
This guide provides a complete overview of Trane air conditioners, including popular models, SEER ratings, key features, warranty information, and what to consider before buying. It also highlights customer feedback and expert insights to help you make an informed decision.
The Bottom Line
Trane air conditioners are known for their reliability, high efficiency, and long lifespan. While they generally come with a higher price tag compared to many other brands, they offer excellent performance, advanced features, and durable components that keep your home comfortable for years.
Trane offers a variety of models, including single-stage, two-stage, and variable-speed units, making it easier to find a system that fits your home’s size, energy needs, and comfort preferences. These units are designed to reduce energy costs while maintaining consistent indoor temperatures throughout the summer.
Customer Insights
Homeowners and HVAC professionals consistently note that Trane air conditioners:
- Deliver long-lasting performance
- Operate quietly, especially in high-end models
- Maintain high energy efficiency
- Include strong warranty coverage
Some considerations include higher installation and maintenance costs due to proprietary components.
Trane Model Series Overview
XR Series – Good
- Entry-level, single-stage models
- Reliable and energy-efficient for most homes
XL Series – Better
- Mid-tier, two-stage models
- Enhanced comfort and efficiency
XV Series – Best
- Top-tier, variable-speed models
- Maximum energy savings, precise temperature control, and quiet operation
Popular Models
- XV20i TruComfort: Variable-speed, top efficiency
- XV18 TruComfort: Two-stage operation for precise cooling
- XL18i: Two-stage, high-efficiency option
- XL16i: Reliable mid-range model
- XR17 / XR16 / XR16 Low Profile / XR14 / XR13: Single-stage, dependable cooling
Quietest and Noisiest Models
- XV-series models are extremely quiet, ideal for bedrooms and living spaces
- XR-series models may be slightly louder but still operate within normal levels
Exclusive Features
- CleanEffects™: Advanced air filtration
- ComfortLink™ II: Smart thermostat integration
- Spine Fin Coil: Corrosion-resistant for durability
- Climatuff Compressor: High-performance, reliable compressor
- TruComfort™: Variable-speed technology for consistent temperature
Warranty
Trane air conditioners typically include a 10-year warranty on parts and compressors when installed by certified professionals, with options for extended coverage.
Is a Trane Air Conditioner Right for You?
Trane is a good choice if you:
- Want high energy efficiency
- Value long-term reliability and durability
- Are willing to invest in professional installation
- Prefer a system with advanced features and quiet operation
Trane Air Conditioner Model Series Overview
Trane offers three main air conditioner tiers, designed to meet a variety of needs, from budget-conscious homes to premium, high-efficiency systems.
Good – XR Series
The XR series represents Trane’s entry-level models and includes units with single- and two-stage compressors. Key features include:
- SEER Ratings: 14.5 to 18
- ENERGY STAR® Certification: Most models included
- Compact Options: Available for smaller homes or tight spaces
- Durability: Corrosion-resistant components for long-lasting performance
- Noise Reduction: Designed for quieter operation
- Proprietary Components: Climatuff compressors and Spine Fin coils for reliability
- Warranty: Slightly shorter than mid- and premium-tier units but still above industry average
The XR series is ideal for homeowners seeking a dependable, efficient system without premium features.
Better – XL Series
The XL series is Trane’s mid-range tier, offering single- or two-stage compressors with enhanced efficiency and features:
- SEER Ratings: 18
- ENERGY STAR® Certification: All units included
- Potential Rebates: Eligible for energy rebates or tax credits in many regions
- Durability: Corrosion-resistant fasteners and premium materials
- Proprietary Components: Climatuff compressors and Spine Fin coils
- Noise Reduction: Quiet operation
- Clean Air Options: Compatible with Trane CleanEffects filtration system
- Warranty: Premium coverage with extended compressor warranty
The XL series combines efficiency, performance, and advanced features, making it a solid choice for most homeowners.
Best – XV Series
The XV series represents Trane’s top-tier air conditioners, featuring variable-speed compressors and premium technologies:
- SEER Ratings: 18 to 22
- ENERGY STAR® Certification: All units included
- Variable-Speed Technology: TruComfort™ automatically adjusts cooling for precise, efficient performance
- Durability & Noise Reduction: Corrosion-resistant components and some of the quietest units on the market
- Advanced Features: CleanEffects air filtration and ComfortLink II communicating technology for improved efficiency and control
- Warranty: Premium coverage with extended protection for parts and compressors
The XV series is ideal for homeowners who want maximum energy efficiency, quiet operation, and precise temperature control.
Model Breakdown and Comparison
Trane models can be compared using two main metrics: Warranty Grade and Overall Grade.
- Warranty Grade: Evaluates coverage terms and exclusions to simplify comparison for homeowners.
- Overall Grade: Considers efficiency, features, and warranty. Higher grades indicate premium performance but often come at a higher cost.
Note: A lower-scoring model isn’t necessarily a poor choice. Entry-level units often have lower grades due to fewer features and a shorter warranty but may be ideal for budget-conscious homeowners. Just as a sports car scores higher than a minivan in performance, it isn’t automatically the best fit for every family.
| Model | SEER Rating | ENERGY STAR | Compressor Type | Decibel Range (dB) | Warranty Grade | Overall Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AVXC20 | 24.5 | Yes | Variable Speed | 59 - 75 | A+ | A+ |
| ASXV9 | 22.5 | Yes | Variable Speed | 71 - 75 | A+ | A |
| ASXC18 | 19 | Yes | Dual Stage | 68 - 74 | A+ | A- |
| ASXC7 | 17.2 | Yes | Dual Stage | 71 - 75 | A+ | A- |
| ASXC16 | 17 | Yes | Dual Stage | 70 - 74 | A+ | A- |
| ASXS6 S-series | 17.2 | Yes | Variable Speed | 66 - 74 | A+ | B+ |
| ASX16 | 16 | Yes | Single Stage | 71.5 - 73 | A+ | B+ |
| ASXH5 | 15.2 | Yes | Single Stage | 71 - 76 | A+ | B+ |
| ASX14 | 15 | No | Single Stage | 70 - 71 | B | C |
| ASX13 | 14 | No | Single Stage | 73 - 77 | B | C |
| ASXH4 | 14.3 | No | Single Stage | 71 - 76 | B | C |
| ASXH3 | 13.4 | No | Single Stage | 68 - 73 | B | C |
| ANX14 | 15 | No | Single Stage | 71 - 74 | B | D |
| ANX13 | 14 | No | Single Stage | 71 - 77 | B | D |
| ASXN4 | 14.3 | No | Single Stage | 71 - 75 | B | D |
| ASXN3 | 13.4 | No | Single Stage | 70 - 76 | B | D |
XV20i TruComfort
The XV20i TruComfort is Trane’s top-of-the-line air conditioner, offering ultra-high efficiency and precise temperature control. This premium unit is designed for quiet operation, long-term durability, and maximum comfort. Key features include TruComfort technology, the ComfortLink II communication system, and compatibility with the CleanEffects air filtration system.
While it delivers exceptional performance, the XV20i may be more powerful than needed for most Canadian homes. Its ultra-high SEER rating comes with a higher price, and Canada’s milder summers may not fully justify the added energy savings. Homes in hotter climates with longer heat waves may benefit most from this unit.
Specifications:
- Compressor: Variable-speed
- SEER: Up to 22
- ENERGY STAR® Certified: Yes
- Decibel Rating: As low as 55 dB
- Tier: Premium
- Ideal For: Homeowners in very warm climates or large homes who want a top-tier, highly efficient air conditioner with advanced features.
XV18 TruComfort
The XV18 TruComfort is a premium, high-efficiency air conditioner slightly below the XV20i. It features a variable-speed compressor with TruComfort technology, Trane’s proprietary compressor and coil, and high SEER performance. Additional design elements reduce noise, resist corrosion, and enhance durability. This model lacks the communicating control board found on the XV20i, but its SEER rating of 18 is ideal for Canadian summers, providing excellent efficiency and value.
Specifications:
- Compressor: Variable-speed
- SEER: Up to 18
- ENERGY STAR® Certified: Yes
- Decibel Rating: As low as 55 dB
- Tier: Premium
- Ideal For: Homeowners looking for a premium, high-efficiency unit with advanced features at a slightly lower cost than the XV20i.
XL18i
The XL18i is the top model in Trane’s mid-tier series. It is a two-stage air conditioner built for efficiency, durability, and long-lasting performance. While it does not include TruComfort technology or the ComfortLink II system, it features a Climatuff compressor, all-aluminum outdoor coil, variable-speed fan motor, compressor sound insulators, and compatibility with the CleanEffects filtration system. ENERGY STAR certification and high SEER ratings make it eligible for potential rebates or tax credits.
Specifications:
- Compressor: Two-stage
- SEER: Up to 18
- ENERGY STAR® Certified: Yes
- Decibel Rating: As low as 73 dB
- Tier: Mid
- Ideal For: Homeowners seeking a high-efficiency, reliable air conditioner with strong design features and long-term cost savings.
XL16i
The XL16i is a high-efficiency, single-stage air conditioner designed for Canadian homes. It features a variable-speed fan that maintains consistent comfort while operating quietly. Compatible with Trane’s CleanEffects system, this model also has ENERGY STAR certification and a SEER rating of up to 18, making it ideal for Canadian summers. Durable components, including Trane’s proprietary compressor and coil, corrosion-resistant materials, and a solid warranty, ensure long-lasting performance.
Specifications:
- Compressor: Single-stage
- SEER: Up to 18
- ENERGY STAR® Certified: Yes
- Decibel Rating: As low as 69 dB
- Tier: Mid
- Ideal For: Homeowners seeking a highly efficient, reliable air conditioner without premium features. Eligible for rebates, this model delivers strong energy savings for larger spaces.
XR17
The XR17 is the most advanced model in Trane’s entry-level series. It is a high-efficiency, two-stage air conditioner with a SEER rating of up to 18 and ENERGY STAR certification. Designed for quiet, consistent performance, it features Trane’s Climatuff compressor, Spine Fin coil, and corrosion-resistant components. Its two-stage operation provides improved comfort and energy savings, making it suitable for larger homes.
Specifications:
- Compressor: Two-stage
- SEER: Up to 18
- ENERGY STAR® Certified: Yes
- Decibel Rating: As low as 74 dB
- Tier: Entry-level
- Ideal For: Homeowners wanting reliable, high-efficiency cooling without premium features. Offers consistent temperatures and potential rebate eligibility.
XR16
The XR16 is a single-stage, high-efficiency air conditioner with a SEER of up to 17. It includes Trane’s patented Climatuff compressor and Spine Fin outdoor coil, providing improved durability, efficiency, and performance. Upgraded fans, corrosion-resistant components, and optional sound insulators enhance its quiet and reliable operation.
Specifications:
- Compressor: Single-stage
- SEER: Up to 17
- ENERGY STAR® Certified: Yes
- Decibel Rating: As low as 71 dB
- Tier: Entry-level
- Ideal For: Homeowners looking for a reliable, efficient system at a lower cost than premium models. Suitable for Canadian homes with standard cooling demands.
XR16 Low Profile
The XR16 Low Profile is a compact version of the XR16, perfect for homes with limited space. Despite its smaller footprint, it maintains high efficiency, ENERGY STAR certification, and all the benefits of standard Trane models, including the Climatuff compressor and corrosion-resistant components.
Specifications:
- Compressor: Single-stage
- SEER: Up to 17
- ENERGY STAR® Certified: Yes
- Decibel Rating: As low as 70 dB
- Tier: Entry-level
- Ideal For: Small homes, condos, or cottages needing high-efficiency cooling in a compact design without sacrificing performance.
XR14
The XR14 is Trane’s best-value air conditioner, combining affordability with high efficiency. It features a single-stage compressor, ENERGY STAR certification, and SEER ratings up to 16. Proprietary components, corrosion-resistant features, and a reliable warranty make it a durable option for Canadian homes.
Specifications:
- Compressor: Single-stage
- SEER: Up to 16
- ENERGY STAR® Certified: Yes
- Decibel Rating: As low as 72 dB
- Tier: Entry-level
- Ideal For: Homeowners seeking a reliable, cost-effective air conditioner with high efficiency suitable for most Canadian homes.
XR13
The XR13 is Trane’s most basic air conditioner, with a single-stage compressor and a mid-efficiency SEER of up to 14.5. While it offers lower energy savings than higher SEER models, it still provides reliable cooling and comes with Trane’s proprietary compressor, coil, and a decent warranty.
Specifications:
- Compressor: Single-stage
- SEER: Up to 14.5
- ENERGY STAR® Certified: No
- Decibel Rating: As low as 75 dB
- Tier: Entry-level
- Ideal For: Smaller homes, cottages, or areas with mild summers where high efficiency isn’t essential. Suitable for homeowners with a limited budget.
Trane’s Quietest and Noisiest Air Conditioners
Ever been enjoying a quiet summer day only to be interrupted by the sound of an air conditioner kicking on? Trane has addressed this issue with several noise-reducing features across their product line.
Noise-Reduction Features
- Quiet-running fans with a blade-down design
- Climatuff® compressor engineered for quiet operation
- Compressor sound insulators
- Variable-speed compressors in premium models, which operate more quietly than single-stage units
Quietest Models
- XV20i TruComfort: As low as 55 dB
- XV18 TruComfort: As low as 55 dB
- XL16i: As low as 69 dB
For context, normal rainfall is around 50 dB and a typical conversation is about 60 dB.
Noisiest Model
- XR13: Around 75 dB, making it the loudest in Trane’s lineup
Premium-tier models are among the quietest air conditioners currently available, providing a more peaceful cooling experience.
Exclusive Features from Trane
CleanEffects™
What it does: CleanEffects is a whole-home electronic air cleaner that removes up to 99.98% of pollutants, dust, smoke, pet dander, mildew, viruses, bacteria, allergens, and other particles from indoor air.
How it works:
- Uses a prefilter to trap larger particles
- Electrically charged medium eliminates microscopic particles such as pollen and pathogens
Why it matters:
- Proven through independent testing as highly effective
- Unique to Trane’s HVAC systems, though other brands have their own versions of whole-home air cleaners
ComfortLink™ II
What it does: ComfortLink II is a communicating control system that optimizes performance and efficiency by allowing components to “talk” to each other and to a compatible smart thermostat.
Benefits:
- Improves cooling precision and energy efficiency
- Ensures all components operate in sync
Considerations:
- Not unique to Trane—other brands like Goodman, Amana, and American Standard offer similar communicating systems
- Requires a ComfortLink II smart thermostat to take full advantage
- Malfunction in one component may affect the entire system
Spine Fin™ Coil
What it does: The Spine Fin coil is an all-aluminum outdoor coil with a patented design that improves heat transfer and corrosion resistance compared to traditional coils.
Benefits:
- Better heat exchange efficiency boosts overall SEER ratings
- More corrosion-resistant than standard aluminum/copper coils
Considerations:
- Cleaning can be more labor-intensive
- Similar coil designs exist from other brands, including American Standard, Lennox, Armstrong, and Napoleon
Trane’s Quietest and Noisiest Air Conditioners
Sitting outside on a peaceful summer day can be jolted by the sound of an air conditioner starting up. Trane has focused on reducing noise across its lineup to provide a more peaceful cooling experience.
Noise-Reduction Features
- Quiet-running fans with a blade-down design
- Climatuff® compressor, engineered for quiet operation
- Compressor sound insulators
- Variable-speed compressors (in premium models), which are naturally quieter than single-stage units
Quietest Models
- XV20i TruComfort: As low as 55 dB
- XV18 TruComfort: As low as 55 dB
- XL16i: As low as 69 dB
For reference, normal rainfall is about 50 dB, and a typical conversation is around 60 dB.
Noisiest Model
- XR13: Around 75 dB, making it the loudest in Trane’s lineup
Premium models are among the quietest air conditioners on the market, providing superior comfort without disruption.
Exclusive Trane Features
CleanEffects™ Air Cleaner
What it does: CleanEffects is a whole-home electronic air cleaner that removes up to 99.98% of airborne particles, including dust, smoke, pet dander, mildew, viruses, bacteria, and allergens.
How it works:
- Uses a prefilter to capture larger particles
- Electrically charged medium traps microscopic particles like pollen and pathogens
Benefits:
- Proven through independent testing to be highly effective
- Improves overall indoor air quality
- Unique to Trane, although other HVAC brands have comparable whole-home air cleaners
ComfortLink™ II Communicating System
What it does: ComfortLink II is the control board for Trane air conditioners, acting as the “brain” of the system to coordinate components and cooling cycles.
How it works:
- Communicates with a smart thermostat and other components
- Ensures all parts work together efficiently for precise temperature control
Benefits:
- Enhances energy efficiency and comfort
- Allows the system to adjust automatically to maintain ideal indoor conditions
Considerations:
- Not exclusive to Trane; other brands offer similar communicating systems
- Full benefits require the ComfortLink II smart thermostat
- Malfunctions in one component can affect the entire system
Spine Fin™ Coil
What it does: The Spine Fin coil is an all-aluminum outdoor coil designed with a patented Spine Fin™ structure for improved heat transfer and enhanced corrosion resistance.
Benefits:
- Maximizes efficiency and contributes to higher SEER ratings
- More resistant to corrosion than traditional aluminum/copper coils
Considerations:
- Cleaning can be more labor-intensive
- Similar coil designs exist from other brands, including American Standard, Lennox, Armstrong, and Napoleon
Trane Air Conditioners: Key Features, Technology, and Buying Considerations
Climatuff® Compressor
Trane’s description: The heart of their air conditioners, the Climatuff compressor delivers superior durability, efficiency, and quiet operation.
Plain language: The compressor pumps refrigerant through the system and changes its pressure and temperature to transfer heat, effectively cooling your home. The Climatuff is proprietary to Trane and designed for efficiency, reliability, and quiet performance.
Performance:
- Found in all Trane air conditioners and heat pumps
- Contributes to high SEER ratings, even in single-stage models
- Comparable in performance to Copeland Ultratech™ compressors used by Rheem, Daikin, and Goodman
Considerations: Replacement costs for a Climatuff compressor can be higher than standard compressors, but Trane’s warranty helps mitigate this expense.
TruComfort® Technology
Trane’s description: Variable-speed technology with 750 stages of comfort that automatically adjusts cooling output for maximum efficiency.
Plain language: TruComfort refers to the variable-speed compressor in premium Trane models, which can make very small adjustments to cooling output (as small as 0.1%) and operate between 30%–100% capacity.
Benefits:
- Reduces energy costs
- Improves temperature consistency and humidity control
- Minimizes hot/cold spots and noise
Note: TruComfort is Trane’s branded name for variable-speed technology, which is widely adopted across the HVAC industry.
Warranty Overview
Standard Terms:
- All models: 10-year parts warranty
- XR models: 10-year compressor warranty
- XL & XV models: 12-year compressor warranty
Registration:
- Must register within 60 days of installation to receive full warranty benefits
- Without registration: 5-year parts warranty; no compressor warranty
Conditions:
- Installation by a licensed HVAC professional
- Annual maintenance by a licensed professional
- Use manufacturer-approved parts
- Follow all manufacturer instructions
Comparison:
- Trane offers separate warranties for parts and compressors, with 12-year compressor coverage on mid- and premium-tier models
- Competing brands (e.g., American Standard, Goodman, York, Amana, Daikin) may offer similar or longer warranties
Trane Exclusive Features
CleanEffects™ Air Cleaner:
- Whole-home electronic air cleaner removing up to 99.98% of airborne contaminants
- Uses prefilter and electrically charged medium to trap dust, allergens, and pathogens
ComfortLink™ II:
- Communicating control board that coordinates system components and connects to a smart thermostat
- Optimizes efficiency and ensures consistent cooling
- Full benefits require the ComfortLink II thermostat
Spine Fin™ Coil:
- All-aluminum outdoor coil with patented Spine Fin™ design
- Better heat transfer and corrosion resistance
- Contributes to higher SEER ratings
- Cleaning may be more labor-intensive
Additional Trane Add-ons and Accessories
Thermostats and Controls:
- ComfortLink II smart thermostats with communicating technology
- Programmable and basic thermostats compatible with most HVAC systems
- Alternatives include Nest and ecobee
Air Filters:
- Whole-home CleanEffects system or more basic filtration options
Humidity Control:
- Humidifiers (steam, power, bypass) and dehumidifiers for maintaining optimal moisture levels
Ventilation Systems:
- Energy Recovery Ventilators (ERVs) and inline ventilators to improve air circulation and balance humidity
Considerations Before Buying
Budget:
- Trane is premium-priced, ranging from $3,500 to $7,500+ installed in Canada
- Entry-level and mid-range brands (e.g., York, Goodman, KeepRite, Daikin, Napoleon) may be more affordable
Longevity:
- Trane units last 15–20 years with proper installation, maintenance, and usage
SEER Rating:
- Ideal for Canadian homes: SEER 16–18
- Trane offers units from 14.5 to 22 SEER
Desired Features:
- Proprietary compressors and coils, TruComfort, communicating control boards
- Other brands may offer inverter technology, self-diagnostics, touchscreen monitors, and customizable climate settings
Warranty Coverage:
- Trane has strong coverage, but brands like Goodman, Amana, and York may provide lifetime or unit replacement warranties
Brand vs. Installation:
- Brand is less critical than proper sizing, high efficiency, features, noise levels, and professional installation
- Work with a licensed, insured, and certified HVAC contractor to ensure optimal performance and warranty coverage
About Trane
- Founded in 1885, initially focusing on low-pressure heating systems
- Expanded into air conditioning by the 1930s
- Acquired by Ingersoll Rand in 2008
- Known for energy efficiency, durability, and long-lasting HVAC systems
FAQs
Are Trane air conditioners good?
Yes. Trane is renowned for reliable, durable, and efficient air conditioners with proprietary components and rigorous testing.
Which Trane model is best?
For Canada, SEER 16–18 is ideal. The XR14 is a strong value option with SEER 16 and ENERGY STAR certification.
How long do Trane air conditioners last?
Average lifespan: 15–20 years. Proper installation, maintenance, and prompt repairs extend longevity.
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