How to Find Tonnage Size & SEER from Trane Model Number

You can find the Trane tonnage and SEER in the 5^th, 7^th and 8^th characters of the Trane model number. The 5^th character represents SEER in a single number; the 7^th and 8^th characters, also numbers, show the tonnage code.

This guide applies to Trane air conditioners (AC) and heat pumps, which are typically measured in tons (size/capacity) and SEER (cooling efficiency).

Sample Trane Model Number Showing Tonnage and SEER

This explanation works for any Trane AC or heat pump, units measured in tons or tonnage for size/capacity and in SEER for cooling efficiency.

For this discussion, we chose the Trane XL16i central air conditioner. It is available in sizes from 2 to 5 tons. The model number we selected at random is the 4TTX6048J model.

Note: This is the Trane model number, not the Trane serial number, a different number that reveals the manufacturing date and other important information.

Where is the Trane Model Number Listed?

The model number is usually found on the outside cabinet of the unit, often on a metal tag or sticker. It also contains other important information such as:

1. Serial number
2. Voltage
3. Circuit capacity
4. Fuse details
5. And much more

Trane Model Number Nomenclature

OK, here is the breakdown of the Trane model lookup for models from 10 to 19 SEER, which covers most Trane ACs and heat pumps currently in use.

Here is our sample Trane XL16i model number: 4TTX6048J

The model number tells us that this is a 16 SEER AC, and its size is 48,000 BTU or 4 tons.

Character 5 Represents SEER Rating

How can a single number represent SEER ratings over 10? Here’s how.

0 is 10 SEER

1 is 11 SEER

2 is 12 SEER, and so on, up to 9 = 19 SEER

Characters 7 and 8 Represent Tonnage (Size)

Did you know? Tonnage or tons can be represented in terms of BTUs too. And that’s what the Trane number does. One ton equals 12,000 BTU.

So, you’ll need to convert the number to tons.

• 18 = 18,000 BTU = 1.5 tons
• 24 = 24,000 BTU = 2.0 tons
• 30 = 30,000 BTU = 2.5 tons
• 36 = 36,000 BTU = 3.0 tons
• 42 = 42,000 BTU = 3.5 tons
• 48 = 48,000 BTU = 4.0 tons
• 60 = 60,000 BTU = 5.0 tons

All characters and what they represent:

Character 1: This is the refrigerant type, and 4 stands for R410A refrigerant. If your unit is older, it might start with 2, which represents R22 refrigerant, which is no longer used in new ACs.

Character 2: Trane model numbers always have a T for Trane in the second position.

Character 3: The character here shows what type of component it is – a split system AC or heat pump will have a T, as our example does. T for split system AC/heat pump; C for packaged units

Character 4: This position shows the product type or family. X is used for split system ACs and heat pumps. Z is used for packaged heat pumps and Y indicates a packaged AC-only.

Character 5: Here is where you’ll find the SEER rating represented. Our example has a “6” in this space, and that stands for 16 SEER. Wait a minute! The Trane page says this unit is capable of 17 SEER efficiency! Well, here’s the explanation from Trane. This unit was originally a 16 SEER heat pump. But improvements to the design boosted efficiency by 1 SEER. So, the way to read this number is that the unit is “at least” 16 SEER, and it might be a little higher.

Character 6: This spot shows whether the fittings and connections are soldered or brazed.

Characters 7 and 8: This is the size, abbreviated for BTUs. Our example has 48 in spaces 7 and 8. This stands for 48,000 BTU, which is 4 tons.

Characters 9+: Additional information, such as modifications, voltage, and specific functionality.

Here are other sizes for this model. Can you determine their size?

4TTX6018J

4TTX6024J

4TTX6036J

They are, in order, 1.5, 2.0 and 3.0 tons.

Characters 9 and beyond: A Trane model number can be up to 15 characters long. Most are shorter. The 9^th space and beyond includes information about modifications made to the series since it was first introduced, voltage, additional functionality of the unit and a parts ID code.

What About 20 SEER and Higher?

As of January 2023, the minimum SEER rating for new AC and heat pump units is 14 SEER. Some newer Trane models now exceed 19 SEER, with a 20 SEER rating available in a limited selection.

To indicate 20+ SEER models:

• The 5th character still represents SEER but follows a new numbering scheme:
  • 0 = 20 SEER
  • 1 = 21 SEER
  • 2 = 22 SEER
  • And so on…

For example, a Trane 20 SEER model may have the 5th character as “0” in its model number.

While the SEER code is still represented by a single digit, the introduction of models with 20 SEER and higher has adjusted the numbering system. Trane models that are 20 SEER and above use the same system, where higher SEER ratings are represented by increasing numbers starting from 0 = 20 SEER.

Conclusion

Understanding the Trane model number can help you determine critical specifications for your unit, including the SEER rating and tonnage size. By decoding the model number, you can easily assess the unit’s efficiency and capacity to match your cooling needs.

If you are considering purchasing or replacing a Trane unit, always ensure the SEER and tonnage are suitable for your home’s size and your efficiency goals.