Features Compared To Other Brands
The Trane heat pumps are one of the most highly rated by consumers. One of the qualities that make them such as favorite among consumers is their efficiency. The Trane heat pumps have some of the highest SEER ratings. Their newest models have a SEER rating of between 18 and 20. Although there may be heat pumps with a slightly higher SEER rating, none is as quiet as a Trane. The company produces the most quiet heat pumps. This quieter operation is made possible by the use of variable speed compressor. At 54dB, Trane has the lowest noise levels in the heat pump market. In addition to that, the noise level is comparable to that of a refrigerator.
Other innovative design:
- Two-stage cooling and three-stage heating on some models
- Special louvered panels provide protection for the coils
- Advanced diagnostics on the control board for quick troubleshooting
- Sound insulation on high-end models
Related Article: In-depth Comparison: Trane vs Carrier vs Lennox AC Review
Trane Models Analysis and Recommendation
The following table is updated on May 25, 2023
| Model | SEER | SEER2 | HSPF | HSPF2 | Sound Level | Compressor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| XV20i | 21 | 20.5 | 10 | 9 | 54-76 | Variable |
| XV19 | 19.5 | 19 | 10 | 9 | 43-57 | Variable |
| XL20i (discontinued) | 19 | N/A | 10 | N/A | 72 | Two-Stage |
| XV18 | N/A | 18 | 10 | 8.5 | 54-76 | Variable |
| XV17 | N/A | 17 | N/A | 8.5 | 55-76 | Variable |
| XL17i (Formerly XL18i) | 18 | 17.2 | 9.5 | 8.1 | 72-74 | Two-Stage |
| XL15 (Formerly XL16) | 17 | 16 | 9.6 | 8.1 | 70-74 | Single-Stage |
| XR15 Low Profile | N/A | 16 | N/A | 8.1 | 71-75 | Single-Stage |
| XR16 (Formerly XR17) | 17.25 | 16.2 | 9.6 | 8.1 | 72-74 | Two-Stage |
| XR15 Low Profile | 16 | 16 | 9.5 | 8.1 | 71-75 | Single-Stage |
| XR14 | 14 | 14.8 | 8.2 | 7.8 | 71-76 | Single-Stage |
| XR13 (discontinued) | 14.5 | N/A | 8 | N/A | 75 | Single-Stage |
*TruComfort is Trane’s patent that accurately controls the temperature by 1/2° and eliminates the temperature fluctuation which can keep you from catching cold in summer.
*Trane Communicating System is an optional function for high-end models with a monthly fee. In my opinion, it is not worth the money. You can install a $200-$300 wifi ColorTouch thermostat instead.
Trane XR Series: The lower tier in Trane’s heat pump product line combines solid efficiency with affordable pricing. Single-stage models are available with efficiencies up to 17 SEER (16 SEER2) and 9.7 HSPF (8.1 HSPF2).
Trane XL Series: The XL series includes inverter compressor technology, a variable speed blower and ComfortLink II communicating technology. Efficiencies range from 17-18 SEER and 9.5-9.6 HSPF. The XL18i features a Two-stage Climatuff compressor.
Trane XV Series: In addition to all of the features in the XL series, the Trane XV Series incorporates a variable speed compressor and variable speed blower to precisely track changes in the outdoor temperature. These devices self-adjust in increments of 1/10th of one percent so the actual indoor temperature stays within one-half degree of the thermostat setting. Models are available with cooling efficiencies up to 21 SEER and 10 HSPF.
Take Away For Models
When you’re looking for the most cost-effective heating, the strategy is to find the balance between furnace cost and energy costs. Let’s use the zone map to identify efficiency levels for each that strike that balance:
|
Zone
|
Suggested SEER and HSPF
|
Cost-effective Trane Models
|
| Zone 1 & 2 (hot) | 18-19 SEER/9.5-10 HSPF |
XL18i, XV18, XL20i, XV20i
|
| Zone 3 & 4 (moderate) | 14-15 SEER/8.5 HSPF |
XR15, XL15i, XR14
|
| Zone 5 (cool) | 15-17 SEER/8.5-9.5 HSPF |
XR15, XL15i, XL17i, XR16, XR17
|
| Zone 6 (cold) | (18 SEER/9.5 HSPF) or (AC + Furnace) | XR16i, XL17i, XV18 |
| Zone 7 (very cold) | (18 SEER/9.5 HSPF) or (AC + Furnace) | XR16i, XL17i, XV18 |
| Plan to move in the next few years | 13-14 SEER/8 HSPF | XR13, XB13 or other low-end brands |
Note: In Zones 6 and 7, the coldest zones, a system with an efficient gas furnace and small central air conditioner is also a good option; Trane is one of the premium brands with higher initial cost. If you have the plan of moving house in less than 5 years, we recommend installing some quality but low-end level brands like Payne, Ruud or Armstrong. Looking for more budget brands? You can check our heat pump brands guide.
Cons For Trane
• Trane is a premium brand that’s generally more expensive than its competitors
• A special two-wire connector on some models means a proprietary thermostat must be used with the system
Prices By Model
In order to offer an objective and equal comparison, we set the baseline below:
Each model includes: 3 ton outdoor condenser, 1300-1400 cfm air handler, programmable heat pump thermostat.
Trane Heat Pump Prices By Model
| Trane Models | System Only | System Installed |
|---|---|---|
| Trane XV20i | $9,540 | $14,920 |
| Trane XV19 | $7,360 | $13,410 |
| Trane XV18 | $6,980 | $12,730 |
| Trane XL19i | $6,920 | $12,810 |
| Trane XL17i | $6,540 | $11,980 |
| Trane XR16 | $6,020 | $10,770 |
| Trane XR15 Low Profile | $5,780 | $10,740 |
| Trane XB16 (discontinued) | N/A | N/A |
| Trane XR15 | $5,340 | $9,980 |
| Trane XL15i (discontinued) | N/A | N/A |
| Trane XR14 | $4,750 | $8,980 |
| Trane XR13 (discontinued) | N/A | N/A |
Prices By Size
Before installing your heat pump, an HVAC contractor needs to size your system by “Manual J” calculation. This will take into accounts factors like where you live, how much insulation you have, windows types and directions, and everything else. Then you will get a right-sized heat pump unit ranging from 1.5-ton to 5-ton.
Each Unit includes: Trane XR15 3-ton outdoor condenser, Trane 1300-1400 cfm air handler, programmable heat pump thermostat.
Trane Heat Pump Prices By Unit Size
| Heat Pump Size | Home Size | System Only | System Installed |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.5 ton | 600 - 1000 sf | $2,290 | $7,040 |
| 2 ton | 1001 - 1300 sf | $2,510 | $7,590 |
| 2.5 ton | 1301 - 1600 sf | $2,740 | $8,060 |
| 3 ton | 1601 - 1900 sf | $2,960 | $8,500 |
| 3.5 ton | 1901 - 2200 sf | $3,250 | $8,880 |
| 4 ton | 2201 - 2600 sf | $3,610 | $9,230 |
| 5 ton | 2601 - 3200 sf | $4,220 | $10,890 |
Try this heat pump sizing calculator to get an estimated size for your house.
What Customers Say About Trane?
When researching Trane heat pumps, you’ll find a variety of customer opinions. Satisfaction often hinges on specific factors relating to individual experiences, including installation quality, the model purchased, and customer service.
- Installation Quality:
- Users frequently mention the importance of proper installation. Positive reviewers often attribute their system’s reliability to professional installation.
- Negative reviews sometimes point to poor installation practices, which lead to performance issues.
- Model Selection:
- Various models receive differing feedback. Some customers report excellent efficiency and durability, primarily with higher-tier models.
- There have been mentions of lower-tier models not performing to expectation in some reviews.
- Customer Service:
- Trane’s responsive customer service is a common positive remark from customers who experience issues.
- Conversely, a few customers have reported challenges in service, leading to frustration.
- Operational Costs:
- Operating cost is another highlight, with many customers praising the heat pumps for their energy-saving capabilities.
- However, there are instances where customers expect more savings than they experience.
- Warranty:
- Trane’s warranty offers are often appreciated, giving customers confidence in their investment.
- A small number of reviews express dissatisfaction when certain repairs or issues were not covered.
How to Get the Best Trane Heat Pump Prices
- Firstly, keep in mind that installation quality is always the most important thing for heat pump project. So never sacrifice contractor quality for lower price.
- Secondly, remember to look up the latest tax credit and rebates.
- Thirdly, ask for at least 3 bids before you make the decision. You can click here to get 3 free estimates from your local contractors, and this estimate already takes rebates and tax credit into consideration and filter unqualified contractors automatically.
Lastly, once you chose the right contractor, remember to use the tactics from this guide: homeowners tactics when negotiating with HVAC dealer to get the final best price.
Trane Heat Pump Warranty
When you purchase a Trane heat pump, it’s important to understand your warranty coverage. This ensures you know what to expect in terms of protection and service.
Types of Warranties:
- Base Limited Warranty: Provides coverage without registration. Lasts for a default period after installation.
- Registered Limited Warranty: Extends the warranty period. Must register your product within 60 days of installation.
Coverage Details:
| Warranty Type | Compressor | Outdoor Coil | Internal Functional Parts |
|---|---|---|---|
| Base Limited Warranty | 5 Years* | 5 Years* | 5 Years* |
| Registered Limited Warranty | 10 to 12 Years** | 10 Years | 10 Years |
*Please note that default periods can vary by model. Check your specific model’s documentation for precise warranty periods. **For the compressor, the duration might be either 10 or 12 years, depending on the model.
Extended Warranties: Trane also offers optional extended warranties, which can cover:
- Parts
- Labor
- All other components
To Maintain Warranty Coverage:
- You must regularly maintain and service your heat pump.
- Keep all service records; they might be required for warranty claims.
For full warranty terms and conditions, refer to your product’s warranty document or contact a Trane dealer. Warranty terms may vary based on the model of the heat pump and its installation date. To register your product or file a warranty claim, visit Trane’s official website or consult with your installing contractor.
My local HVAC company in northwest Washington is proposing a Trane (X Large) XV19 + Trane (X Large) XCM + (X Large) 4TXC multi position, high efficiency,
all aluminum indoor Indoor Unit (Coil) + Thermostat – Comfort Control, Trane
Comfortlink II XL1050 + Air Quality – Trane CleanEffects Whole
Home Air Filtration System + piping and venting for $30,500 after taxes and fees. Is this reasonable or highway robbery?
It’s high, but I paid the same approximately. Make sure you get an old pro for the programming, which seems to be the achilles heel of this system. No idea how simple Carrier would be. It’s quite a challenging technology that requires solid understanding of all variables by the contractor. It is an excellent heatpump, but frustration comes to mind, thinking about the programming.
I bought a Trane system with a heat pump in 2018. The cost was $16000. Today I had my annual Trane check up. This is the 3rd time that I have had to replace the drive because mice get into the heat pump. Even tho the parts are warrantied, I still have to pay the labor. I am retired and I am starting to think Trane needs to pay for this labor costs when it is almost every year. Trane cannot seem to fix the problem at the plant.
Hi Katherine,
Most contractors only porvide 1 year warranty for labor cost. And you have to pay more if extending the labor warranty.
Our Trane has had a 100% failure rate. EVERY Year for the past 7 years it has required a major repair. Actually 8 repairs in 7 years. New fan motor, multiple boards replaced, motor condenser, and today, 2 months out of warranty, the compressor died and leaked. Nothing leaves you out in the cold like a Trane. Next week they come to tear the thing out and put a Carrier in. BTW, Consumer Reports also gives Trane low marks.