Nobody would want to use their hard-earned money to buy a new air conditioner that will only last for less than expected. Quality is key, so we all want to purchase something that we are sure enough will serve us for decades.
Is a Trane Air Conditioner Good?
Yes, it’s a good AC!
They are the most durable air conditioning units that you will come across. They are good since they rigorously test their heating and cooling system to maintain high quality. Also, if you are the type of person who envies brand recognition, Trane AC units are well recognized.
Trane AC Features you Need to Look Out for
These features include;
Energy Efficiency
Like any other appliances in your home, some modern air conditioners also consume a lot of energy to perform, while others are designed to use less energy. The Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) is best known for measuring the energy efficiency of AC units.
A SEER ratio is calculated over an entire cooling season to know if your air conditioning unit is energy efficient. This is done using a constant indoor temperature and a variety of outdoor temperatures that range from 60 degrees to 100 plus.
SEER ratings, in most cases, usually range from 13-to 22. So if the Trane AC unit shows a higher SEER rating, then this means better energy efficiency, which will, in turn, result in fewer energy bills on your side.
Sound Level
No one wants to buy an air conditioner that produces much noise, especially if you live in a city where too much noise is prohibited.
Having an air conditioning system that won’t annoy and wake the neighbors is essential; that is why this is a feature that you need to look out for when buying the system.
To know whether the type of Trane air conditioner is soundproof, check the nominal sound level as many AC units are rated. The higher the number, the louder the air conditioner.
For instance, the average sound level in decibels for an AC unit meant for a library is 40, while that of a factory is 70.
Quality
Do not put so much effort into finding the most expensive Trane air conditioners. At times you cannot determine quality through prices.
Quality means that the Trane air conditioner you seek to buy needs to deliver a higher efficiency rating than the rest at an affordable price.
Quality is crucial as it will ensure your Trane air conditioning unit serves you for the longest time possible, followed by less maintenance.
How Long Do Trane Air Conditioners Last?
A couple of factors will determine how long your air conditioner will last, but in most cases, the life expectancy of most air conditioners ranges between 15 to 30 years.
As I said, this life span would depend on;
Your location- If you live in an area that experiences high humidity levels, your air conditioner is more likely to wear out sooner. On the other hand, if you live in an area with low humidity levels, your central air conditioner can last longer and maybe beat the average lifespan of 15-30 years.
How frequent you use your AC unit- If your air conditioner is part of your survival hence you tend to use it more frequently, then your HVAC system will not serve you for long. This is because the air conditioner is subject to wear and tear due to running for long.
How frequent you maintain your AC unit- AC unit maintenance is vital as you need to service your unit the same way you would service your car. Proper and regular maintenance prevents wear and tear and ensures the parts to your air conditioner serve you for long.
How Do I Know If My Trane Air Conditioner Needs Replacement?
So how do you know if do to an AC replacement? Here are some of the common signs you need to look out for.
Moisture Building-up
You need to be aware that all air conditioners do create moisture, but a good AC unit will be able to handle the issue properly and still function as required. However, moisture will build up if your air conditioner has problems that need repairs.
Moisture building up could be a refrigerant leak causing your Ac unit to underperform. If this problem is not solved, the built-up moisture gives room for the growth of mold and mildew. An HVAC technician could help you solve the matter and get your air conditioner running as usual.
Limited Air Flow and Lack of Cool Air
Most air conditioners suffer from this problem where no cold air comes out whenever you power on your AC unit. If this happens, be sure that there is a problem with your AC’s air filter, which could clog due to dirt and dust.
If you don’t deal with clogged air filters, then this could force you to replace your old HVAC system with a new unit due to prolonged wear and tear.
Strange Noisy Sounds
If you hear strange sounds such as buzzing, cracking, or clicking sounds coming from your air conditioner, the system is likely malfunctioning. The malfunctioning could be due to refrigerant leaks, compressor issues, loose parts, or broken isolation feet.
However, in most scenarios, a strange noisy sound is frequently caused by a malfunctioning compressor which pressurizes and cools down the refrigerant that cools your home.
Here, your compressor is trying to tell you that there is a problem that needs your attention, and if you do not make haste to solve it, you could end up doing an air conditioner replacement.
Musty Smell
A musty smell is the same for just about any central air conditioner, which makes the indoor air quality in your home feel damp. A musty smell means that there is the presence of mold or mildew growing in your AC unit.
This smell, in most cases, originates from the condensate drain line, drip pan, and evaporator, which are highly vulnerable to the growth of bacteria.
If the musty smell is ignored, it could take more than just cleaning to solve the problem, and you may be forced to replace your HVAC system.
High Energy Bills
If you have noticed an increase in your monthly energy bills, then be sure that your cooling system is working extra hard to get the job done. This problem occurs as your air conditioner ages as it now starts to consume more electricity and perform even less than before.
The only way to solve this problem is to replace your air conditioner with a new AC unit.
Other Factors Affecting the Life Span of Your Trane AC
Installation Quality
Installing an air conditioner needs qualified HVAC technicians to do so. Why? HVAC technicians have been trained to outfit your home with the HVAC system that fits your home. Having a larger AC unit does not necessarily make the unit more efficient.
So HVAC technicians ensure to place the ductwork appropriately, the venting is situated effectively, and many more. If the air conditioning unit is not correctly installed, then you most certainly will have issues with your system in the long run.
Not Changing the Air Filters
If you occasionally adopt the norm of changing the air filters to your air conditioner, your unit stands a chance to last long. Dirty and clogged air filters strain your air conditioning system, thus reducing its expected lifespan.
It is advisable to replace your air filters at least after every 90 days, but this will also depend on where you live and how often your AC unit runs.
If you use your air conditioner more, you will be required to change it regularly, and the same applies to AC systems used in areas with higher humidity levels.
How to Care for a Trane Air Conditioner
Taking care of your air conditioning system ensures it serves you as long as possible and helps you avoid replacing your AC unit or frequent repairs. Taking care of air conditioners also needs commitment and willingness to do so.
To take care of your central air conditioner, you need to pay attention to both the outdoor air conditioning and indoor air conditioning systems. Below are some of the tips for taking care of your HVAC system.
Outdoor Air Conditioner
- Always inspect the unit for proper refrigerant levels and adjust where necessary
- Clear any dirt or debris and clean the inside cabinet of your AC system
- inspect the base pan for restricted drain openings and remove any obstructions that you see
- Inspect the coil and clean it where necessary
- Inspect the compressor and the associated tuning for any damages.
Indoor Air Conditioner
- Inspect the evaporator coil, the condensate drain lines, and the drain pan and clean them if needed.
- Inspect the combustion blower housing for any debris and lint and clean it.
- Check the heat exchanger or heating elements.
- If your air conditioning system is an older model, lubricate the motor.
- Check the fan belt and replace it where necessary.
When the Air Conditioner Is Working
- Listen for any strange noisy sounds
- Search for the source of any unusual smells that you happen to smell
- Monitor the system’s starting characteristics and capabilities
- Monitor the AC unit as per the manufacturer’s specifications
FAQs
How Expensive are Trane Air Conditioner Repairs?
Doing repairs to your central air conditioner will depend on the type of repair you want to do. A leaking coil and refrigerant leak will cost you $1000- $1700. Compressor $1200-$1600 and a failed solder connection on refrigerant lines $800- $1000.
How Long Does a Trane AC Unit Last in Florida?
A Trane Ac unit in Florida can last approximately 12- 17 years if you live in the State’s center compared to the other areas, and you also correctly maintain your system. This is because an AC system found at the center of the State is not subjected to saltwater like other areas closer to the water are.
What is the Average Lifespan of a Trane Air Conditioner?
With proper maintenance, your air conditioning system could last for 15-20 years, but most owners tend to replace their units closer to 10-15 years to upgrade to a more efficient AC model.
Final Thoughts
Your Trane air conditioner is just like any other home appliance you own. It begins to degrade and depreciate the more you use it.
However, you can increase the system’s lifespan with the tips mentioned above. It’s a win-win, you take care of your air conditioner, and it gives you better results.