Trane XL16i Review

The XL16i is a mid-range offering from Trane. It’s equipped with a single-stage Climatuff compressor that promises reliable comfort, durable performance, and highly efficient operation.

This model review will talk about average pricing for the XL16i in Canada, and it will discuss the model’s key features, efficiency, warranty details, and more. To help you decide if this is the right air conditioner for your home, the review will also compare the XL16i to three other models from Trane based on tier, price, and features.

About the Trane XL16i

Average Price (with installation): $4500 - $6000

Top Features

• ENERGY STAR® certification and high-efficiency rating to reduce monthly cooling bills
• High rebate eligibility
• Designed for durable and lasting performance
• Features that protect the unit from corrosion and the elements
• Proprietary Climatuff compressor for increased efficiency and temperature consistency
• Quiet operation
• Better warranty protection than many air conditioners from other brands
• Some sub-models are equipped with a variable-speed fan motor

The Bottom Line

This model is mid-range in terms of price and advanced technologies, but it has a great efficiency rating, ENERGY STAR® certification, and some attractive features and specifications.

The XL16i isn't an economy cooling system, but you could save hundreds of dollars or more on your annual energy bills by upgrading to this high-efficiency model from Trane. Even though it only has a single-stage compressor, it still manages to achieve a SEER rating that’s perfect for Canadian summers.

This air conditioner has been built with lasting performance in mind, and it also promises quiet cooling, easy installation, and reliable operation for many summers.

Finally, the XL16i has been rigorously tested for performance and is backed by one of Trane’s excellent warranties, so this investment comes with peace of mind because the manufacturer stands behind it.

In Depth Review

Trane XL16i Product Specifications:

• Compressor: Single-stage
• SEER: Up to 18
• ENERGY STAR® certified: Yes
• Decibel rating: As low as 69
• Tonnage: 1.5 to 5 tonnes
• Cooling capacity: 18,000 to 60,000 Btus

Features Overview

Trane has a proprietary compressor they use in all their air conditioners, and this is the Climatuff compressor. Its design increases efficiency, reduces noise levels, and improves durability compared to traditional compressors. So even though the XL16i only has a single-stage compressor, it’s still better equipped than competitors to maintain an even temperature.

Another proprietary component on the XL16i is the Spine Fin™ outdoor coil, an all-aluminum coil that has better heat transfer than other coil materials, so it promises better efficiency and improved corrosion-resistance.

Trane air conditioners are built to provide reliable comfort through many cooling seasons, and the XL16i has many protective features to help it withstand bad weather and corrosion. These features include a WeatherGaurd II top and corrosion-resistant fasteners, rust-proof base pan, louvered panels, and a rust-resistant powder paint finish.

Other Key Features

• Compatible with Trane’s whole-home CleanEffects filtration system that will remove dust, allergens, and other contaminants from the air
• Compressor sound insulator for quiet operation
• Shaft-down fan motor mounting improves airflow and performance
• Has a Quick-Sess cabinet that protects the coil
• System design has undergone Trane’s rigorous testing in the Systems Extreme Environmental Test lab

Warranty Information

Like all of Trane’s premium air conditioners, the XL16i comes with a good warranty, as long as you register the unit within 60 days of installation.

The extended registered warranty includes a 10-year parts warranty for the outdoor coil and internal components, plus a 12-year warranty for the compressor.

Unregistered units will still have warranty protection, but it only includes a five-year parts warranty.

The additional warranty coverage could save you a lot over the years on repair bills, so registration is highly recommended. You just have to provide Trane with a few details about yourself, the air conditioner and its installation date, and the dealer who installed it.

Comparable Models by Trane

Model Comparison by Price: Trane XL16i versus Trane XR17

The XL16i and XR17 are in different tiers, and the two models have different pros and cons, but they both fall into the $4,500 to $6,000 price range. However, the XL16i will be pricier because it’s a mid-range model, whereas the XR17 is entry-level.

The XR17 has a more advanced two-stage compressor and the same 18 SEER. While the two models will save you about the same on energy bills, the XR17 is going to produce steadier temperatures throughout the house and fewer hot and cold spots.

One thing about the XR17 is that it doesn’t have as good of a warranty. Whereas the XL16i has a 12-year warranty for the compressor, the XR17 is only covered for 10 years.

Model Comparison by Features: Trane XL16i versus Trane XR14

The XR14 is one of Trane’s most affordable entry-level cooling systems, but when comparing features with the XL16i, the two models aren't that different.

They both have a single-stage Climatuff compressor, the Spine Fin coil, and similar specifications, features, and design elements.

However, the XR14 only has a 10-year compressor warranty. Further, it has a slightly lower SEER of 16, and while it still falls into the ideal SEER range for Canada, it will save you slightly less on energy bills over the years.

Finally, the XL16i has a few extra design elements that the XR14 lacks, including a variable-speed fan motor and the compressor sound insulator.

Model Comparison by Tier: Trane XL16i versus Trane XL18i

The XL16i and XL18i are very similar models, with the major differences between them being compressor type and price.

The XL18i is a step up from the XL16i, so it has a more advanced two-stage compressor and a variable-speed fan motor, which means it offers even quieter operation and improved temperature and humidity control.

The two models have the same SEER rating, but the XL18i will be better at providing a consistent temperature around the house and eliminating hot/cold spots.

Because of the more advanced design components, the XL18i will cost more, but it will qualify for the same rebates as the XL16i.