Trane XL18i Review

The XL18i is a model in Trane’s premium line, so it has some excellent features and specifications, including affordability, easy installation, and guaranteed performance. The XL18i is a two-stage air conditioner, meaning it offers better temperature control, better humidity control, higher efficiency, and quieter operation than a cooling system with a standard one-stage compressor. This model has also been tested extensively for durability, and Trane backs the XL18i with a great warranty should anything go wrong with the compressor or any internal components.

About the Trane XL18i

Average Price (with installation): $5,000 to $6,000

Top Features

• Easy installation could translate to lower installation fees
• High-efficiency rating means lower energy bills
• ENERGY STAR® certification may make it eligible for certain rebates and promotions
• More advanced two-stage compressor
• Many features that improve performance and guarantee temperature maintenance and humidity control

The Bottom Line

As a premium offering from Trane, the XL18i has some winning features that any homeowner will love, including a great efficiency rating and efficient two-stage compressor that will make your home more comfortable during the summer months. Because Trane isn't a premium brand, you can get this model and all its great features at a reasonable price, and installation will be faster thanks to the two-wire connection.

In Depth Review

Trane XL18i Product Specifications:

Compressor: Two-Stage
SEER: Up to 18
ENERGY STAR® certified: Yes
Decibel rating: As low as 69
Tonnage: 2 to 5 tonnes
Cooling capacity: 24,000 to 60,000 Btus
Sub-models: 4TTX8024A, 4TTX8036A, 4TTX8048A, 4TTX8060A

Features Overview

Weather and corrosion protection: The XL18i has been made to last through many summers, and that’s thanks in part to its many weather and corrosion-resistant features, such as a WeatherGaurd top, WeatherGaurd fasteners, rust-proof DuraTuff base pan, and the protective powder paint finish.

Two-stage compressor: Every Trane air conditioner comes equipped with one of their proprietary Climatuff compressors, which are longer lasting, quieter, and more efficient than standard compressors. The XL18i has a two-stage compressor that further increases efficiency and helps to maintain temperature and humidity better.             

Better airflow: The XL18i has a unique all-aluminum coil, and a blade-down fan style that both increase airflow and improve the system’s overall performance

Other Key Features

• Spine Fin coil resists leaks and corrosion
• Galvanized louvered panels to protect the unit
• Can be paired with the Trane CleanEffects filter system for improved indoor air quality
• Sound-reducing features like a compressor sound insulator
• Easy installation thanks to the two-wire connection design

Warranty Information

Upon registering your unit (within 60 days of installation), the XL18i is covered by an excellent warranty. This includes an impressive 12-year warranty for the compressor, plus an additional 10-year warranty for internal parts, including the outdoor coil.  

Comparable Models by Trane

Model Comparison by Price: Trane XL18i versus Trane XR14

One of the most affordable models in Trane’s line is the mid-range XR14, and you could save about $1,000 by opting for this model over the XL18i. The lower price does mean you'll miss out on a few features, as the XR14 only has a single-stage compressor, a SEER rating of 16, and it only has a 10-year internal parts warranty.

Model Comparison by Features: Trane XL18i versus Trane XV20i

The XV20i is Trane’s premium offering, so it comes with more features and technologies than the XL18i. At the top of the list is the variable-stage compressor and SEER rating of 22, which will mean less money on your monthly energy bills and even more precise temperature control and maintenance. It’s also quieter, is compatible with the ComfortLink system that monitors performance, and has TruComfort technology that constantly adjusts settings to ensure your home is always at the perfect temperature.

Model Comparison by Tier: Trane XL18i versus Trane XL16i

Trane’s XL18i and XL16i are both part of their premium series, and these two units are very similar in terms of features and specifications. The major differences between them are the efficiency rating, compressor type, and price. The XL16i is more affordable by a few hundred dollars, and this is because it has a single-stage compressor and a lower SEER rating (16.5). But even if you save some money up front by going with the cheaper XL16i, you could save more than that throughout the cooling system’s life if you opt for the more efficient XL18i.