Cost of new air conditioning units: Solution Center – Tips, Advice, and Ideas

How Much Do Trane Air Conditioning Units Cost? (2023 Guide)

As an industry leader with some of the most reliable units in the business, Trane is an excellent option for your heating and cooling needs. Trane offers a complete lineup of furnaces, air conditioning systems, heat pumps, and humidity products to ensure your home remains a comfortable oasis all year round.

While Trane air conditioning (AC) units are some of the most expensive models available, their durability, reliability, and efficiency make the brand an industry leader. If you’re in the market for a new AC unit, here’s what you can expect from Trane’s AC unit costs.

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In general, you can expect to pay between $5,540 to $10,980 per HVAC unit, installation costs, and removal of your old unit.

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In general, you can expect to pay between $4,000 and $7,000 including installation, old furnace removal, and labor.

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Heat Pump Installation

In general, you can expect to pay between $3,000 and $35,000, but most homeowners spend between $5,800 and $7,500.

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Highlights

You can typically expect the total installation for a Trane AC unit to cost between $4,600 and $12,000
The cost for your unit will vary depending on the model you choose
Trane units are durable and last longer than competing units

What Is the Typical Cost of a Trane Air Conditioner?

On average, most homeowners pay between $2,200 and $3,900 for a Trane AC unit, but with installation, the total AC installation cost often ranges from $4,600 to $12,000.

The cost of a Trane air conditioning unit hinges on several factors, including the model you choose, the size of your home, and the installation difficulty.

Fast Facts

Unit Pricing

Low

$2,200

High

$3,900

Efficiency

Top SEER Rating

21.5 SEER2

Noise Level

Lowest Sound Rating

55 decibels

Warranty

Parts

10 Years

Compressor

12 Years

Heat Exchanger

20 Years

Trane AC Cost by Model

Like many of the best AC brands, Trane offers an array of air conditioning units. On average, an entry-level Trane AC unit with installation costs between $3,200 and $6,500.

The chart below outlines Trane’s AC lineup to help you decide which option is best for your home. The costs below include the indoor unit (air handler) and the outdoor unit (condenser) of the air conditioner.

Trane AC Model	Energy Efficiency (SEER2)	Installed Cost
Trane XR13	Up to 13.8	$3,500 to $5,000
Trane XR14	Up to 14. 8	$4,800 to $6,800
Trane XR15	Up to 15.6	$6,000 to $8,000
Trane XL15i	Up to 15.6	$6,000 to $8,400
Trane XR16	Up to 16.2	$6,000 to $8,400
Trane XR17i	Up to 17.2	$7,200 to $10,000
Trane XV18	Up to 18	$6,300 to $8,800
Trane XV20i	Up to 21.5	$7,500 to $10,000

Trane Air Conditioner Cost vs. Competitors

Before you purchase a Trane HVAC system, it doesn’t hurt to weigh your choice against other leading competitors. The chart below pits Trane AC units against two leading competitors, Lennox and Carrier, to help you decide which option is best.

Cost Factor	Trane	Lennox	Carrier
Premium unit installed cost	$7,500 to $10,000	$7,000 to $10,000	$6,400 to $8,000
Budget unit installed cost	$3,500 to $5,000	$3,000 to $5,000	$2,900 to $4,800
Top efficiency rating	21. 5 SEER2	25.8 SEER2	24 SEER2
Lowest sound rating	55 decibels	59 decibels	51 decibels
Warranty	10-year parts, 12-year compressor, 20-year heat exchanger	10-year compressor, 20-year or limited lifetime heat exchanger	10-year parts, 20-year or limited lifetime

Which Factors Impact Trane Air Conditioner Costs?

The cost of your Trane AC system depends on several factors, including the efficiency rating you choose, installation costs, and the unit size you need for your home. Here are a few key factors that may affect your Trane AC unit’s cost.

Efficiency Rating

Air conditioning units come with varying Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratios (SEER), usually ranging from around 13 SEER2 to 26 SEER2 — the higher the number, the more efficient the unit is.

For example, an 18 SEER2 unit is approximately 20% more efficient than a 14 SEER2 unit. While the 18 SEER2 will cost you more initially, you’ll be able to recoup the costs over the following years, as you’ll save more on cooling costs. The total savings will depend on several factors, as the system won’t always meet its maximum efficiency rating.

The higher the efficiency rating, the more expensive the unit. For example, consider these models:

Trane XR13 with up to 13.8 SEER2: $3,500 to $5,000
Trane XL15i with up to 15.6 SEER2: $6,000 to $8,400
Trane XV20i with up to 21.5 SEER2: $7,500 to $10,000

If you’ve shopped for an AC unit before, you might notice a change in energy efficiency ratings from SEER to SEER2. The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has specific guidelines surrounding minimum efficiency requirements based on location. As of January 1st, 2023, all HVAC manufacturers must adjust to accommodate the new requirements.

SEER2 is an Energy Star rating and, like SEER, it stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. The number two at the end of the acronym reflects the updated requirements for new heating and cooling systems. While both measurements showcase the total heat removed from a conditioned space throughout the annual cooling season, SEER2 ratings are more accurate.

They utilize a new M1 testing procedure that accounts for field conditions of installed equipment by increasing the systems’ external static pressure by a factor of five. This provides a more accurate view of each system’s efficiency than the previous SEER measurement system.

Installation and Labor

Installation and labor costs make up a considerable portion of the final bill for your Trane AC unit — unless you install the unit yourself — so it’s essential to budget for this. In most cases, installation costs several thousand dollars, usually between $2,000 and $6,000.

Installation costs can fluctuate based on the difficulty of the installation, as some projects require more work than others. For example, suppose you don’t have existing ductwork and want to install a central AC system. In that case, the ductwork installation, which entails major remodeling, will contribute a sizable chunk to the final cost.

If your installer needs to repair or replace existing ductwork, you can expect to pay on the higher end of the spectrum, as it’ll take extra time and labor to complete. Generally, the cheapest installations are those without ductwork installations or remodeling, as that part of the project is expensive.

Labor costs vary from one area to the next. Some contractors set up their pricing systems differently than others, so this factor is highly variable based on your location and installer. You can compare this factor by obtaining quotes from a few local installers.

Location and Climate

In addition to installation costs and efficiency ratings, your location and climate will contribute to the final cost of your AC unit. While these factors don’t directly drive the unit’s price, they determine your AC unit’s standards.

As of 2023, homes in the northern United States must have AC units with no less than 14 SEER ratings. For southern households, the efficiency rating climbs to 15 SEER, as these areas experience higher temperatures and require better energy efficiency. However, while these requirements outline certain efficiency ratings, they solely apply to new installations.

Today’s Homeowner Tips

If you have an older unit with a lower efficiency rating, you don’t necessarily have to replace it. When your old unit taps out, you’ll have to choose a model with an efficiency rating that meets the minimum requirement in your area.

The DOE bases its requirements on average temperatures in the area. In southern areas of the United States, cooling loads demand a larger share of each household’s energy use, so the DOE requires homes to have more efficient units. Conversely, northern parts of the U.S. usually don’t experience long, drawn-out, or overly hot summers, so the energy efficiency requirement is slightly lower.

Here are the costs of Trane units based on the DOE’s efficiency requirements:

Location	Minimum efficiency	Associated Trane Unit	Unit Cost
Northern U.S.	14 SEER	Trane XR14	$4,800 to $6,800
Southern U.S.	15 SEER	Trane XR15	$6,000 to $8,000

Maintenance and Repair

Trane manufactures high-quality products, which usually hold up well over many years. However, you should service the system at least once per year, as this will ensure it remains running at an optimal level. Your HVAC technician might even spot potential problems before they arise and turn a repair job into a replacement.

The average cost for an HVAC tune-up is $200, but you could pay between $75 and $350, depending on where you live and how large your system is. Trane’s repair prices are comparable to competitor brands,

If the unit is still under warranty, replacement parts should be available at no charge. You may also consider a home warranty to cover your HVAC system if your manufacturer’s warranty has expired.

One-Stage, Two-Stage, or Variable Speed

Trane central air conditioners are available in single-stage (one-stage), two-stage, or variable-speed varieties. Variable speed units are the most efficient and will more evenly cool your home than a single-stage unit. Here are the main differences:

Single-stage: One-stage AC units only run 100% on or completely off. They are the least expensive type of AC unit but are also the least efficient and could leave your home with hot and/or cold spots. Single-stage Trane AC units cost between $3,500 and $5,000.
Two-stage: Two-stage air conditioners have two settings: 100% and 30-40%. Since the compressor can modulate the amount of cooling, it can more evenly cool your home and provide energy savings. Two-stage Trane air conditioners range from $4,500 to $8,400.
Variable speed: Variable speed AC unit’s compressors can modulate their cooling from 10-100% in 1% increments. These high-efficiency systems are the most expensive and better for hotter climates. Variable-speed Trane variable-speed air conditioning units cost the most, ranging from $6,000 to $10,000.

A two-stage AC unit usually fits most homeowners’ cooling needs and price range.

Difference between variable speed vs. single or two-speed HVAC systems

Type of Refrigerant Needed

If you’re switching from an older unit that still features Freon or R22 refrigerant, you may encounter different costs with your new unit. R22 has been phased out of production, as it harms the ozone layer upon its release into the atmosphere. Since Freon and R22 are no longer allowed, your new AC unit might feature an entirely different refrigerant.

Trane utilizes R-410A in all its units, so there’s no variation between models. While your AC unit shouldn’t require refrigerant recharges if everything is running smoothly, the system may spring a leak at some point.

If you need to recharge the system, you’ll probably pay around $260, although there might be additional costs for leak repair. Compared to recharging a Freon or R-22 system, this is quite cheap — refilling those units can cost upwards of $600.

Unit Size

The AC unit size you’ll need to cool your home depends on a few factors, including the total square footage, insulation quality, ductwork size and quality, window type, the orientation of your home, and the number of people residing in the house.

Generally, a 1,000-square-foot home size or smaller requires a 1. 5-ton unit, which usually costs around $3,000. A 2,500-square-foot home usually requires a 4-ton system, costing around $4,500. The cost also depends on your chosen model, as some options are pricier than others.

It’s essential to choose a properly-sized system for your home. If you’re unsure which option is best suited to your home, seek professional assistance. A pro can examine the factors specific to your home and offer suggestions regarding the best size and efficiency based on their findings.

Technology

Trane sets itself apart from its competitors with the advanced technology of its Nexia Home Intelligence system. The system allows homeowners to remotely control their heating and cooling systems, meaning they can adjust the temperature whenever and wherever they want — even on vacation or at the office.

Trane also offers advanced digital thermostats for easy, programmable control — although this is fairly standard among its competitors.

These high-tech features are standard in its most efficient models, including the Trane XV18, which costs between $6,300 and $8,800, and the Trane XV20i, which costs between $7,500 and $10,000.

How To Save on Trane Air Conditioner Costs

While Trane air conditioner units are a substantial investment, you can cut costs and maximize your savings in a few ways. Here are a few of the best ways to save on Trane AC unit costs:

Compare your options: Before you choose a contractor for your Trane unit, obtain quotes from a couple of options. This way, you can find the best price and save a few hundred dollars.
Routine maintenance: Staying on top of routine maintenance is essential, as you can nip issues in the bud before they become major problems. So, ensure you service the system at least once a year and complete regular maintenance to keep the system in good shape. Repairs are expensive, so it’s best to be diligent with your maintenance schedule!
Switch to a more efficient model: If you have an old, less-than-efficient AC unit, switching to a more efficient model can save you money! While you’ll spend more initially, you’ll save money over the long run, as the highly efficient systems cost less.
Utilize rebates and tax credits: Consider available rebates and incentives when purchasing a new AC unit. In some cases, your installer will offer rebates, but in others, they’ll be available directly through Trane. In addition, pay attention to tax credits, usually available when upgrading to a more efficient system. While tax credits won’t cut the price at the time of purchase, you’ll be able to take a cut on your taxes for that year.

So, Is a Trane AC Unit Worth the Cost?

Investing in a Trane AC unit can be the perfect upgrade for your home’s cooling needs. Depending on the model, most homeowners will spend between $2,200 and $3,900 for a new Trane AC unit. While expensive, these units are known for their durability, longevity, and reliability — so as long as you take care of them, you should get your money’s worth.

Trane Air Conditioner FAQs

Are Trane air conditioners expensive?

Trane air conditioners are on the expensive end of the spectrum compared to other brands on the market. However, the quality, durability, and longevity of these units reflect the price, so you get what you pay for.

Does installing a new AC unit increase home value?

Generally, adding a new, energy-efficient AC unit to your home adds value. While various factors can affect the added value, adding a modern, energy-efficient unit can add up to 10% to your home’s value.

What is the average cost of a Trane air conditioner?

On average, an entry-level Trane AC unit with installation costs between $3,200 and $6,500. The cost for your home might be higher or lower based on the size of your home, the model you choose, and the installation difficulty.

How much is a new AC unit for a 1,500-square-foot house?

For a 1,500-square-foot home, a 2.5-ton unit is necessary, as it offers enough cooling output to comfortably regulate 1,300 to 1,600 square feet. For a 2.5-ton AC unit, most homeowners pay between $4,00 and $7,000. Of course, pricing highly depends on factors specific to you, such as the brand and model you choose.

What Does Installing a Central Air Conditioning Unit Cost? –

As the weather starts to warm, you may be considering a new central air conditioning installation for your home. If your current air conditioning unit is leaking or making a racket, it’s probably time for a replacement. But what does it cost to replace a central air conditioning unit?

The price of this installation can vary depending on many factors, including what model you’re looking at, how much ductwork in your home needs to be replaced, and other variables as well. If you’re unsure about the price of an AC replacement or installation, here are some things to consider.

Average Cost of Installing Central AC in Kansas City

On average, central air conditioner prices for homeowners can be anywhere from $4,000 to $12,000, though this number can change and fluctuate depending on certain circumstantial factors, which we will discuss later.

For now, one of the main reasons these prices can change is because central air units of different sizes and energy efficiencies will be priced differently. The size of the unit is important for ensuring that all the rooms in your home can be cooled completely and efficiently, even on the hottest days of summer. However, you don’t want the unit to be oversized, because it won’t clear out the humidity in your home as effectively.

Your unit’s seasonal energy-efficient rating (SEER) will also change the price of central air conditioning installation. Federal law requires that all AC units have a SEER of at least 13 to maintain quality, safety features, voltage requirements, and lower operating costs. Generally, the higher the SEER, the higher the installation price will be, but the lower it will cost to operate in the long run due to energy savings.

Keeping these factors in mind, here’s a look at some of the average costs to install central air in your home when taking into consideration the type of unit you need:

AC Size	Average Cost
1. 5-ton	$2,500 to $4,500
2-ton	$3,100 to $5,100
3-ton	$3,400 to $5,400
4-ton	$4,200 to $6,200
13 to 14 SEER	$1,500 to $3,000
15 to 16 SEER	$2,000 to $4,000
17 to 18 SEER	$2,000 to $5,000
19 to 21 SEER	$3,000 to $9,000

Now, remember that these costs can change, especially when considering both unit size and energy efficiency. For example, if you were having a new 3-ton central air system installed that comes with a SEER of 16, and if your 2,000 square foot home needed ductwork, you can probably expect to pay around $7,000. On the low end, this project with a SEER of 13 could be priced closer to $3,000, while a higher-end unit, with a SEER of 21, may end up being closer to $15,000.

The cost of adding central air to your home can be affected by other factors as well, which we will discuss below.

5 Things to Consider When Purchasing Central AC

When installing a new central air conditioner, the cost can be affected by different variables. This is something to consider as you budget for the installation, since you may end up with extra expenses added on top of the cost of the unit.

The cost of installing cooling services in your home can be affected by any number of the following factors.

1. Square Footage of Home

The size of your home can determine how much you will pay for a central AC unit installation. Basically, the more square footage that needs to be cooled, the larger the AC unit your home will need. As units get bigger in size, they cost more to install. For example, an 800-square-foot home may stay in the $2,000 to $4,000 range, while a larger home of 2,500 square feet may cost anywhere from $6,000 to $15,000.

2. Location and Climate

The location of your home, as well as the climate you live in, will also impact how much your central air installation will cost. If you live in a climate that gets relatively hot in the summertime, you may need a larger AC unit that’s capable of working hard enough to cool your house evenly.

On the other end, if you live in a cooler climate where you don’t use your AC unit as much, a smaller unit might be more ideal for you, which would cost less to install than the larger one would.

3. Pre-Installation Evaluation

Before your new central AC unit can be installed, an HVAC professional will need to assess your home to determine what size system would work best, if there are existing ducts or vents to work with, and the most ideal SEER considering the insulation and layout of your home.

The HVAC technician will use a Manual J load calculation to determine how well your home retains heat. This calculation considers the position of walls, square footage, and building materials of your home to determine its cooling capacity. With this calculation in mind, an HVAC professional can help find the central AC unit that’s right for you.

Although a pre-installation evaluation does add to your overall installation cost, it can save you thousands of dollars in the long run by ensuring the right central AC unit is being installed in your home.

4. Ductwork

The cost to install an HVAC system with ductwork will be higher than what it would be without. If your previous air conditioning unit was a forced air system, you may not need new ductwork installed in your home. However, some older houses may not have the proper ductwork capable of handling a brand new AC unit, meaning they will need a ductwork system put into place before the AC installation.

Having ductwork installed is an extra expense, but it’s also necessary to ensure your central air conditioning unit can cool all areas of your home effectively.

5. Labor and Installation

Unless you’re an HVAC expert, you’ll most likely have to hire someone to install your new AC unit for you. A central air installation can be complicated, and if done incorrectly, it may affect the unit’s ability to properly cool your home. Also, an improperly installed air conditioning system can be dangerous, and you could even cause permanent damage to the AC unit, requiring you to purchase another new one sometime down the road.

Additionally, units with higher SEERs are more complicated to install, so you may pay more in labor costs upfront, but you’ll save money in the years to come on your energy bills.

Because of this, the cost of labor should also be factored into how much the AC installation is overall. You’ll want to find a trusted HVAC pro to help you get the job done, one that will offer you a fair price while also maintaining quality workmanship. Having the installation done correctly the first time will save you money down the road on repairs.

There are many benefits of central air to Kansas City residents. Whether you’re looking for a price quote or you need to schedule a new central air installation, Cates Heating and Cooling is here for you. Give us a call today at 913-888-4470 for Kansas residents and 816-944-1844 for Missouri residents.

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