Trane makes some of the most expensive AC units you can buy, typically costing over $8,000 after installation. This higher price buys you sturdy construction, smart temperature controls, and systems that often last 20+ years.
Trane really focuses on building units that last. The company builds nearly every part itself and tests its units in extreme conditions. I know of local HVAC dealers that still service Trane AC units from the 1990s, and they still run fine. These dealers tell me they don’t see this level of longevity with other brands.
In this guide, we’ll discuss the pricing, features, warranty coverage, and overall quality of Trane air conditioners. We’ll also explore when Trane’s AC systems’ quality, durability, and performance make them worth the higher price tag.
This site receives compensation from the companies featured in this listing, which may impact where and how products appear. This listing doesn’t feature all companies, products, or offers that may be available.
Our Preferred HVAC Brands
Today’s Homeowner recommends a few HVAC brands to our readers. Below you’ll see our latest suggestions and what makes them stand out. You can also explore our list of the best HVAC companies for help finding a trustworthy service provider.
- Carrier: Best for Noise Level
- Frigidaire: Best for Affordability
- Amana: Best for AC Options
This site receives compensation from the companies featured in this listing, which may impact where and how products appear. This listing doesn’t feature all companies, products, or offers that may be available.
Our Review of Trane Air Conditioners
Trane ACs are expensive compared to competing companies, with prices ranging from around $8,800 to $20,400. While the upfront cost is high, we recommend Trane for homeowners who want the most reliable cooling system on the market and plan to stay in their homes long enough to benefit from Trane’s superior durability.
While you’ll pay more at installation — typically $1,000–$3,500 more than midrange brands — Trane’s quality construction and testing standards mean you’ll likely spend less on repairs over time.
The efficiency ratings of Trane ACs (13.8–21.5 SEER2) aren’t quite as high as those of Carrier or Lennox. Still, Trane makes up for this with better reliability and innovative features, such as its all-aluminum coils that resist corrosion and more quiet operation than other brands. Its TruComfort technology also provides more consistent cooling than basic AC systems, typically keeping your home within 0.5 degrees Fahrenheit of your set temperature.
Pros and Cons of Trane Air Conditioner Units
Below, we outline some pros and cons you should consider before purchasing a Trane AC.
Pros
- Trane manufactures rust-resistant aluminum coils, as opposed to the industry-standard copper coils.
- Most AC systems offer a high-efficiency rating, saving you money on electricity over time.
- Trane’s products use smart technology, including a system allowing users to control their units remotely.
- The company is known for outstanding quality and durability, and it makes most parts in-house.
Cons
- Systems are expensive compared to competitors.
- The company only carries nine AC models, so selection is limited.
How Much Do Trane Air Conditioners Cost?
Trane air conditioners are relatively expensive. Though they can be worth the money, depending on your needs, you should still factor in the cost. Most Trane ACs will fall between $8,800 and $20,400, including equipment, labor, accessories, and services. Many units are eligible for more than $1,000 in energy efficiency tax credits or rebates, but the ultimate price is still higher than what you’d see from many competitors.
The table below breaks down what you can expect to pay based on the system. Trane’s website handily lets you sort models based on three price brackets, and the figures below provide an average price range for each.
| Low-End Models | Mid-Range Models | Premium Models |
| $8,800–$13,600 | $10,800–$16,400 | $13,200–$20,400 |
Note that these prices include the unit, as well as labor, services, and accessories. Your price will be on the higher end if you also need an air handler or ductwork installed, and the labor for your AC can account for $1,000–$3,500. However, this figure can vary depending on your location, your home’s size, and the HVAC contractor you choose to handle the installation.
What Differentiates Trane
Trane differentiates itself in several key areas from other top AC brands, which is also why its products tend to cost more.
Advanced Temperature Control
Trane’s TruComfort system represents a major upgrade from basic air conditioning. While standard units simply turn on and off, TruComfort acts more like cruise control for your home’s temperature.
The system continuously adjusts its output in tiny increments, maintaining precise comfort levels while using less energy. Most homeowners see monthly energy savings of $30–$50 compared to conventional systems. The technology costs more upfront but often pays for itself through years of lower utility bills.
Smart Controls
Trane’s control system creates a network where every component of your HVAC system communicates. The thermostat doesn’t just measure temperature; it receives real-time data from your air handler, compressor, and other components.
This continuous communication helps prevent problems before they occur and optimizes performance based on current conditions. The system integrates seamlessly with most smart-home platforms, letting you monitor and adjust your comfort settings from anywhere using your phone.
All-Aluminum Coils
Trane’s decision to use all-aluminum coils instead of traditional copper sets it apart from most manufacturers. These coils transfer heat 15% more efficiently than standard designs while being naturally resistant to corrosion.
Where copper coils might start degrading after a decade, especially in coastal areas, Trane’s aluminum coils maintain their performance year after year. The design also makes maintenance easier—the coils resist dirt buildup and clean more easily during annual servicing.
In-House Manufacturing
Unlike most brands that buy parts from other companies, Trane manufactures its own compressors and other key components in its own factories. This vertical integration drives up production costs but gives Trane complete control over quality.
By building everything themselves, Trane can maintain stricter standards and catch potential issues before units leave the factory. This approach means you’re less likely to face component failures down the road.
Rigorous Testing Standards
Before any unit leaves the factory, Trane subjects it to extreme conditions that far exceed normal use. Its Systems Extreme Environmental Test (SEET) exposes units to temperatures from 23 degrees below zero to 120 degrees. Trane also conducts extensive stress testing, including impact tests and prolonged run cycles.
One dealer told us: “I’ve seen 25-year-old Trane units still running strong, while cheaper brands often need replacement after 10 years.” This intensive testing explains both the higher price tag and Trane’s reputation for reliability.
How Does Trane Air Conditioner Compare to Top Competitors?
As mentioned, Trane 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 shows how Trane compares to other top AC manufacturers in terms of parts, features, efficiency, and more. You can also look at our Trane Vs. Bryant HVAC comparison and our Rheem Vs. Trane comparison.
| What To Compare | Trane | Carrier | Lennox |
| Parts | Makes its own | Some made in-house, some bought | Mostly bought from others |
| Special features | Smooth temperature control, rust-proof coils | Super-quiet design | Best smart-home controls |
| Energy savings | Up to 21.5 SEER2 | Up to 24.0 SEER2 | Up to 24.0 SEER2 |
| How long units last | 18–20+ years | 15–18 years | 15–18 years |
| Warranty | 10 years for parts, 12 years on compressor | 10 years parts | 10 years parts |
| Best choice for | Homeowners who want an AC that lasts | Homeowners focused on saving energy | Tech-savvy homeowners |
What Are Trane’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 Trane warranty options 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 another five years. Labor for needed HVAC repairs isn’t covered, so this still only applies to parts.
- Extended warranty: Trane also allows customers to purchase extended warranties, which vary based on 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 extended warranty’s length depends on which warranty option you choose.
What Do Homeowners Say About Trane Air Conditioners?
We looked at more than 100 customer reviews on sites such as the Better Business Bureau, Trustpilot, and Google Reviews and noticed 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 mention issues with tech support and employees not being knowledgeable enough to answer questions about the systems or provide solutions. We saw quite a few negative comments about the warranty coverage not being as advertised. However, based on what we read, 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 offered on its higher-end models are a great example of this. Below, we list some features we recommend looking for on Trane ACs and why we believe they’re important.
- Compressor type and speed: 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 it easier to maintain comfortable temperatures. It also allows communication between multiple pieces of equipment, such as condensers, air cleaners for improved air quality, mini-split cooling systems, to optimize performance and efficiency.
- Trane SmartCharge: This 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.
- SEER2 Rating: Finally, we recommend considering your Trane unit’s efficiency rating. The higher the SEER2 rating, the more energy savings you’ll see over time.
Is a Trane Air Conditioner Worth It for Your Home?
Your decision to invest in a Trane air conditioning system should depend on your specific situation and priorities. Trane makes the most sense for homeowners planning to stay put for a while—ideally 10 years or more. These units excel in demanding conditions, such as areas with extreme temperatures or high humidity.
They’re particularly valuable if you have high energy bills and want precise temperature control. The premium price becomes a worthwhile investment when you factor in the longer lifespan and reduced repair needs.
However, other brands might better suit your needs if you’re working with a strict budget or planning to move within the next few years. In moderate climates where basic cooling suffices, you might not need Trane’s advanced features. Consider alternatives if you don’t have access to certified Trane dealers in your area, as proper installation and maintenance are crucial for any high-end system.
Need help picking the right AC unit? Connect with top HVAC pros in your area for expert advice and quotes.
This site receives compensation from the companies featured in this listing, which may impact where and how products appear. This listing doesn’t feature all companies, products, or offers that may be available.
FAQs About Trane Air Conditioners
Trane makes some of the most reliable AC units you can buy. While these units cost more upfront, they often last 20+ years with proper maintenance. One repair technician told us: “In 15 years, I’ve replaced far fewer Trane parts than any other brand.”
Both make excellent units, but they shine in different areas. Carrier’s units reach slightly higher efficiency ratings (up to 24.0 SEER2 versus Trane’s 21.5), but Trane units often last longer. Choose Carrier if you want maximum energy savings, pick Trane if you value longevity.
Most Trane units run 18–20 years with yearly maintenance. Some last even longer—many homeowners report using their Trane ACs beyond 25 years. This longevity compares favorably to the average AC brand lifespan of 12–15 years.
The higher price of Trane units reflects their build quality and durability. Trane manufactures its own parts instead of sourcing them from third parties. Its use of aluminum components prevents rust issues common in other brands. Every unit undergoes extreme condition testing before leaving the factory.
While you’ll pay 15%–20% more upfront, you may find the investment worthwhile through lower repair costs and longer system life.
Methodology: How We Rank Air Conditioner Brands
The experts at Today’s Homeowner provide 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 warranties.
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 5-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.
