Trane XC95M Review

This modulating gas furnace is a top-of-the-range offering from Trane. Featuring some of the latest technology, exceptional efficiency and a durable build, the XC95M is a great option if you’re looking for an elite furnace.

In a Nutshell

Average Price (installed): $2800 – $4500

Top Features

• Modulating Gas Valve
• Comfort-R
• ComfortLink II Communicating Capability

The Bottom Line

Packed full of impressive technology and featuring a modulating gas valve that makes this unit the most energy efficient furnace available from Trane today, the XC95M is about as good as you’re going to get from this manufacturer. If you’re looking to upgrade to an elite furnace that will last many years, and you’ve got the budget to do so, the XC95M is a fantastic option.

In Depth Review

Product Specifications:

• Sub-models available: TUHMB060ACV3VB, TUHMB080ACV3VB, TUHMC100ACV4VB, TUHMD120ACV5VB, TDHMB060BCV3VB, TDHMB080ACV3VB, TDHMC100ACV4VB, TDHMD120BCV5VB
• AFUE: Up to 97.3%
• BTU input: 60,000-120,000
• BTU output: 58,380-114,000
• Select models are ENERGY STAR ® certified

Modulating Gas Valve

There are a number of reasons a modulating gas valve provides the highest level of comfort when heating your home. For example, on a cool day, your single-stage furnace would have to give 100% of its total output (reaching the thermostat temperature quickly) and then shut off. This would continue as a cycle all day meaning temperature swings in the home. Although two-stage gas valve furnaces can alleviate this by allowing two different modes of operation, a modulating gas valve can increase or decrease its total output by very small increments almost eliminating temperature swings. A modulating gas furnace also tends to last longer as it’s not constantly turning on and off to heat your home.

Comfort-R

Comfort-R technology works by improving the overall efficiency of the furnace, ensures a thorough heat circulation and allows a quieter start-up and shutdown.

Comfortlink II Communicating Capability

The ComfortLink II Communicating Capability allows this unit to actively communicate its status and settings to Trane’s comfort control. This allows for advanced diagnostics should a problem occur.

Other Key Features

• • Automotive-Grade Gaskets and Insulated Blower Compartment
  • Heavy Steel Insulated Cabinet

Warranty Information

The XC95M comes with a somewhat disappointing warranty package considering its ambition to compete with other premium tier furnaces. Although covered by the standard Trane warranty of a lifetime heat exchanger limited warranty and a 10-year functional parts warranty (upon registration within 60 days) the XC95M does not feature a unit replacement warranty like many premium tier furnaces from other manufacturers.

Comparable Models by Trane

Model comparison by lower price – Trane XC95M versus TRANE XB90

The XC95M and the XB90 are opposite ends of the spectrum when it comes to furnace offerings from Trane. Of course, if you’re considering the XB90, you will be making some large sacrifices when it comes to features and build as opposed to purchasing the XC95M. For example, the XB90 is a single-stage (meaning it has to work on full power to reach the desired temperature and then shut off in cycles) whereas the XC95M has a modulating gas valve, meaning it can slowly increase its output by small increments to ensure your house always stays at the perfect temperature. Also, the XB90 lacks the ComfortLink Communicating Capability, Comfort-R technology, a cleanable filter, variable-speed draft inducer, and automotive-grade gaskets and insulated blower compartment.

Model comparison by features – Trane XC95M versus Trane S9X2

The XC95M and the S9X2 are both premium-tier options from Trane. Although the S9X2 lacks a modulating gas valve and features a two-stage operation, it does include some different features to the XC95M. For example, the S9X2 features a Type 29-FC steel secondary heat exchanger, which is able to reclaim heat from flue gases that are usually lost during operation. It also features Trane’s very own Vortica II Blower, which Trane says distributes airflow throughout your home as quietly as a “whisper.” These are two great models of furnace, and which one you decide to purchase will come down to personal preference on features.

Model comparison by middle tier – Train XC95M versus Trane XV95

If you’re looking to save on the expensive price tag of the XC95M but still want a high-efficiency furnace with lots of features, the XV95 could be a good option. Although you do sacrifice the modulating gas valve for a two-stage operation, and the ComfortLink and Communicating User Interface, the XV95 still has many similar features. For example, it still includes the variable-speed draft inducer, a cleanable filter and the variable-speed blower motor that’s coupled with the Comfort-R technology. The XV95 is definitely worth considering if losing the modulating gas valve is not a deal breaker.