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Goodman versus Trane Air Conditioners - The first thing we need to do when comparing a Trane Versus a Goodman air conditioning system is to make sure we are comparing similar models with similar features. Each manufacturer makes various models from a builder’s grade unit, which is usually the HVAC manufacturer’s cheapest model up to the unit that has bells and whistles, and some of these have bells and whistles for the bells and whistles. You want to make sure you are comparing apples to apples and not an apple to an orange.
The next thing we need to do when comparing HVAC equipment is to look at the HVAC contractor installing the equipment. If you get a lousy installer or contractor, forget about the name brand because the HVAC system WILL NOT FUNCTION CORRECTLY and EFFICIENTLY if the installation is shoddy. Also, the unit will not have the same life expectancy, will fail prematurely, and will need replacing sooner than if the HVAC equipment is installed properly in the first place. Out of any buyers advice about air conditioning and heating equipment that someone can give you this is probably the most important part.
Trane SEER
Goodman SEER
Goodman versus Trane Air Conditioners
Goodman DSXC18 vs. Trane XL20i Premium Models Comparison Matrix - Goodman versus Trane Air Conditioners
Trane XL20i Key Features | Goodman DSXC18 Air Conditioner Key Features |
|---|---|
| Communication Ability (optional) | ComfortNet™ Communication System compatible (optional) |
| Charge Assist™ | |
| Trane Comfort R™ Requires matched indoor variable speed blower for humidity control | Humidity control with a matched indoor air handler |
| Two-row Spine Fin™ coil – All Aluminum condenser coil. | Copper coils with aluminum fins |
| Full-Side Louvered Panels | Full-Side Louvered Panels |
| Two-Stage Cooling (Dual Climatuff® Compressors) | Two-stage Scroll Compressor has two-stage operation for ultimate comfort with lots of diagnostic features for easier troubleshooting |
| Multi-stage Fan – May be an ECM Variable Speed Condenser Fan Motor | Two-Speed Condenser Fan Motor |
| R410A Refrigerant | R-410A refrigerant |
| Weather Resistant WeatherGuard™ Fasteners | Rugged durable cabinet |
| Sound Insulator on Compressors | Engineered for quiet operation |
| DuraTuff™ Rust Proof Base Pan | |
| Enhanced diagnostics with diagnostic memory | Enhanced diagnostics with diagnostic memory to retain historical air conditioner problems and assist technician air conditioner troubleshooting and repair. |
| 10 Year Parts/Coil and 12 year compressor limited warranty | 10 year parts warranty and a Lifetime limited warranty on the compressor |
| Energy Star Rated up to 20 SEER | Energy Star Rated up to 18 SEER |
As one can tell by reviewing the Goodman Versus Trane comparison matrix, things can be a little confusing for the average consumer, especially with all the techno-descriptions, so we’ll do our best to translate all this and break it down for you.
Trane versus Goodman Feature Descriptions
Communication Ability
this is like having a dial-up modem attached to your air conditioner. You can dial in from a remote location and see how your system is doing. Changing settings from a remote location is a plus for this one, so if you like technical gadgets, this option is for you.
Charge Assist (Trane Feature)
The numbers are high from the last time I saw the numbers, but approximately 50% to 75% of air conditioning equipment has improper charges for one reason or the other. That is a new Trane feature to help the HVAC technician get the charge right, which enhances performance and efficiency.
Humidity Control
Trane’s Comfort-R and Goodman offer humidity control for the air conditioner or heat pump installation and basically it works like this – for the first five to 10 minutes when the air conditioner starts the fan will run at a reduced speed. The bonus to this feature is that the evaporator coil will remove more humidity from the air when the fan is running at a slower speed. Humidity removal is vital for comfort in the summertime. Both systems have this feature only with a matched air handler to go with the condenser.
Two-Row Spine Fin Coil (Trane Feature)
This is typically a Trane feature, and it means the coils are spine fin rather than flat fins surrounding a copper tube. Fins increase the surface area of the coils and thereby increase the heat exchange efficiency of the coils. Trane uses all-aluminum coils with spine fins, while Goodman uses copper coils with aluminum fins, which is industry standard. It’s a toss-up with these two options have the heat exchange ratios are very close. However, I would lean towards the copper coils in the Goodman system over the aluminum coils in the Trane as copper is more durable than aluminum. The industry is changing slowly to all-aluminum coils, but everyone is not there yet.
If you are not certain about the coils see our article Copper Versus Aluminum Coils.
Air Conditioner Buying Guide Feature Descriptions | Goodman versus Trane Air Conditioners
Full Side Louvered Panels
These panels are necessary to protect the coils from damage.
Two-Stage Cooling
Trane has two compressors for two-stage operation while the Goodman uses a single two-stage scroll compressor for staging. Both compressor systems are reliable and have proven themselves over time.
Multi-Stage Fan/Variable Speed ECM Blower and Condenser Fan Motors | Goodman versus Trane Air Conditioners
In high SEER equipment, it is recommended to have the variable speed ECM blower and condenser fan motors for efficient operation of both the blower motor and the condenser fan motor. Just because the motor is an ECM blower motor or an ECM condenser fan motor does not mean it is variable speed. That all depends on the control of the motor but an ECM motor can be staged depending on the controls and the ECM motors are more efficient than the standard PSC motors in high use throughout the HVAC industry. This is high SEER equipment in both the Trane and the Goodman so these motors should be ECM motors.
Refrigerant
R-410A is used in both Goodman and Trane so no difference between the two brands with refrigerants.
Weather-Resistant/Sound Features/Base Pan Features
These are self-explanatory and definitely a plus especially on the sound levels which happens to be one of the biggest complaints about new HVAC equipment.
Enhanced Diagnostics
(Goodman Listed Feature) – This is a good feature and these advanced diagnostic features usually help the technician find a problem fast but not always. Trane does require their dealers to attend regular Trane technical seminars and offers NATE classes to help all the technicians become NATE certified in a specific HVAC technical area of expertise. Carrier also offers training seminars for their dealers along with other technical classes including NATE classes.
Goodman versus Trane Air Conditioners Warranties
Both Trane and Goodman warranties are good warranties. Make sure you get a good installer to install either system.
Energy Star Rated
Both Goodman and Trane are Energy Star rated air conditioners.
Buying Experience | Goodman versus Trane Air Conditioners
Trane and Goodman Warranties are both good and similar
Buying a Trane is like going to a cafeteria where you can pick and choose the options and components you want for your air conditioner system. Of course, if you want the rated efficiency on the condenser you would be smart to match it with the appropriate air handler otherwise you would not see the efficiency level rating on the condenser. It would also make sense to get good IAQ and purchase the optional electronic air cleaner and the whole house humidifier which will save you money in the winter.
Of course, all this will add to the final price of the system but why buy a Cadillac without the bells and whistles? The Goodman system is the same as Trane where one can buy it piece by piece. It is always recommended with high SEER equipment that matching equipment is installed. This means the air handler should be matched to the condenser to get the rated efficiency levels listed on the equipment.
Pros and Cons
After looking at all the pros and cons and features of the Trane Air Conditioner and the Goodman Air Conditioner it is a close call and the deciding factor for me will be the contractor. Again, the golden rule for any type of HVAC work is the correct installation of the equipment. Depending on the area where you live the Goodman air conditioner price could beat the Trane air conditioner price for the installation.
Conclusion
One last thing about buying an air conditioner is replacement parts. For the average Trane and Goodman air conditioning unit, there are after-market parts available from many different resources. For these units, the high-efficiency models, many of the parts will be OEM specific or proprietary to each manufacturer so you will have to get parts from the specific manufacturer. When you buy proprietary replacement parts from a manufacturer expect to pay a higher than usual cost for these parts and this is true for both Trane and Goodman.
Goodman versus Trane Air Conditioners | Additional Resources
You may also want to check our reviews of Goodman and Trane Air Conditioners | Trane Air Conditioner Reviews and Goodman Air Conditioner Reviews
Goodman versus Trane Air Conditioners
COVID 19 Home Protection
UVC Light to Kill Viruses and Other Airborne Harmful Things that Affect Health
For additional protection, you can also use UV Light that will kill harmful viruses and bacteria inside the airflow of the air handler. In labs, researchers used a spectrum of ultraviolet light called UVC to kill viruses. This product requires professional installation so it will turn on and off with the blower fan in your air handler but it will offer the protection you need for you and your family from any viruses.
Click the image to the right for purchase options of the UV light to protect your family.
Going to throw a negative for Trane here. Had system installed hanging from garage ceiling in S. Florida. Trane TAM9 Air handler married with 4TWR compressor. Leaked and died in 1 yr of install. Found if you run this in heat pump mode it puts too much pressure on evap coil and causes leaks. I only use the heat strip now, paid big $$$ for “Hard to stop a Trane…” I won’t buy another. Installer wanted $1K to do the warranty work, I told him he was fired as the system he sold only lasted 1 yr. I see others having the same issues with TAM9 systems. My advice for buying a new AC, don’t buy all the gadgets, buy the lowest seer rating, you will get thicker metal on the coils. Look for all copper coils, i.e. no dissimilar metals. It will last you longer. Also no variable speed motors. The simple parts are easy to get and it may cost more in electricity but less in repairs.
I see a lot of sour grape comments concerning the Goodman systems. I sold a house with 2 Goodman heat pumps installed in 2005. Very efficient system with no problems in 16 years. These were 12 SEER units and lived up to the rating. I would never allow anyone to service those units that was affiliated with the other brand equipment. Now that Goodman is much larger than most of the other equipment manufacturers it is easier for them to make better equipment. I will continue to buy their great performing, reasonably priced equipment.
What a great and perfectly timed article for us. We’ve replaced a 20 yo Goodman in the Florida panhandle. I’ve had eight companies provide estimates, and everyone is different! But there were some questions raised. There were Am Standard, Trane, Goodman (Peaden), and Daiken estimates. We’re researching and comparing, but I’ve eliminated the installers who provided poorly written quotes and those who didn’t look at the vents or ducts, and ask about problems. Only one company wants to move the a/c away from our chlorine pool pump, adding a new lineset, and they also want to add a condenser pump instead of the drain onto our pool deck. What is your thoughts don’t the last?
Condensate pumps are appropriate where gravity is a factor. You need a good slope on the pipe to drain the water. If not, then you need a condensate pump.
7-6-21
you say that Trane vs. Goodman in SEER is 24 to 18.
Really, is there that much difference in costs with the two?
Is there a better made unit with 24 or what?
You compared these two; do you have comparisons of these two against Amana, Carrier, Lenox, York, Frigidaire?
Would be great to see the differences between all these guys.
I’m do, maybe in a year or two to replace my York Series 80 Diamond Hvac (1990’s) an am trying to decide which way to go. I live in No. central Ala.
Costs entirely depend on the contractor and the amount of work and quality they do to install the equipment. You can call 10 different contractors and get 10 differents estimates/quotes for the work. We update the articles for various brands and comparisons as time permits.
I had a 10 Seer Goodman System in Florida for 14+ years and its just now time to replace it. Only had to have 2 service calls – both times a blown startup capacitor. Installed a surge arrester and didnt have that trouble again. Will be buying another Goodman for that reason alone.
We live in a 2200 sqft single-family home. Condenser went out in our 2008 Trane XR13. Have been getting quotes from installers. 3.5 Ton Goodman GSX140421 condenser with ARUF47D14 Air Handler 8KW heat strip & Thermostat $3,880. or Grandaire WCA4424GKA Condenser with WAHL424B TXV ECM heat handler, 8KW heat strip, and Thermostat for $3,580. Both of these come with 10-year parts 1-year labor warranty from the installer. $180 permit included in the quote.
I have this quote from another installer:
So you have a 3.5 ton unit in your home at this time. Here is what I can do for you.
3.5 Ton 14 Seer Amana installed $3650.00 that includes 10 years parts warranty and a 1-year labor warranty supplied by Airpliance you can add a 10-year labor warranty for an additional $600.00
or
3.5 Ton 14 Seer Trane installed for $4900.00 that includes 10 years parts warranty and a 1-year labor warranty supplied by Airpliance.
I also can do:
3.5 Ton 15 Seer Amana installed for $5950.00 that comes with a 10-year parts warranty and a 1-year labor warranty supplied by Airpliance you can also add the 10-year labor warranty for an additional $600.00
or
3.5 Ton 15/16 Seer Trane for $7000.00 this comes with a 10 Year parts warranty and a 1-year labor warranty supplied by Airpliance. If you are interested in adding the extra labor warranty to the Trane I will have to get a price for you.
WHO WOULD YOU GO WITH AND WHY?
One of the last two (depends on budget) for efficiency reasons (saving money in the long run with lower utility bills). However, I always get three quotes from three separate contractors who are vetted and have excellent reputations.
I would avoid Goodman systems because they are just built cheaper, the cabinets are thinner metal and are very flimsy, there is a reason Goodman A/C units are cheaper than everyone else, and it is because they use cheaper parts.
We made the mistake of purchasing a Goodman A/C unit and it only lasted 4 years and it was shot both the outside compressor/condenser unit and the indoor air handler unit.
The evaporator coil was leaking by the 4 year mark and the entire unit looked like it had been there for 10 years the unit was so cheaply made. We replaced that poor quality Goodman unit with a Lennox unit and it was like night and day the difference in quality the Lennox was over the cheap made Goodman.
We are now replacing the Lennox as it is starting to show its age and we decided to go with a Train XV20i unit this time.
We will never again purchase a Goodman A/C unit due to the poor quality of the Goodman we had.
Bill, it sounds like that Goodman you purchased was 15-20 years ago (since you had the Goodman for four years and then a Lennox for presumably a its full life). From what I understand, Goodman has come a long way since then whereas some of the other brands have fallen back to the point where there’s not much difference anymore in terms of reliability (if any).
No sir, we had a new Goodman system installed just over 4 years ago. It is still very flimsy and cheaply built equipment. It is very loud in operation, and we’ve suffered 3 complete system failures in that short amount of time. Oh, and that was with a not-so-cheap installation performed by a well known reputable professional company with certified HVAC installers.
Thank you for the review. We have a dealer offering us a Florida Edition Goodman 16 Seer system for about $1000 over the cost of another estimate we got. No-one seems to know anything about this product. Do you? I called corporate and they had no idea what I was asking about.
Never heard that one before. I would be careful with that one.
Thank you for analysis went out town for the fourth of July weekend. When I came back home and opened the door it was really hot in checked my system which is a 18 year old Heil ICP central ac system, compressor shorted to ground. So I decided to go with a new system. One company came did a free estimate uses Trane or Goodman only. Decided to go with Goodman even though I knew of their spotty reputation. Goodman was one thousand dollars cheaper and It have the same warranty as Trane and I knew it was being installed by a reputable HVAC company. After installation I am pleased with operation of Goodman, light years ahead old ICP Heil system and Quiet!!! My compliments to Goodman and Hvac company installers.
Goodman has good warranty BECAUSE you will need it.
you must of had a bad instillation I have checked with at least 10 contractors in my area and goodman is always one they say is the better units even when they dont sell them. I had a trane that lasted 25 yrs with only one minor repair. So I wanted a new trane system but most of the contractors except the trane dealer said they were not like they use to be and need frequent replacement of the aluminum coils. They also said the trane use to use their own parts and still do in some of the a/c but the compressor is about the same as all the other a/c’s, but all the information shows goodman as one of the best systems.
So tired of seeing the “bad installation” excuse. We had a Goodman system installed by a reputable professional installer in our area, and it’s been nothing but problems since day one. First noticed it was much louder than our old system, making a droning hum from an apparently poorly isolated blower motor vibration. What’s worse, in less than 5 years of service, the system has completely failed 3 times. Blower and board failures, with one instance flood damaging our new carpets due to a sensor failure. To top it all off, the system has developed a constant musty smell, all this despite regular service visits, and an expensive UV light installation.
In the end, most actual Goodman owner reviews are reporting similar issues, and that it is junk equipment. In fact, the only defense I see for Goodman typically comes from HVAC techs and installers, who stand to profit greatly from installing cheap, poorly built systems prone to repeated failures, thus requiring frequent service calls. Hmm.
So tired of seeing “greedy HVAC companies ripping off the consumer”. Yes, there are certainly unscrupulous contractors and many unlicensed pretend contractors but do you really think a good reputable contractor is going to do a lousy job installing your system? On purpose? Just to profit from you? ALL INDUSTRIES and services have this problem – unscrupulous people. I’ve done root cause analysis’ for failures of HVAC, Electrical, and Control systems and approximately 25% of the time its from contractor error and 90% of those times it was because of “lowest bid” choice from the consumer (lowest bid oftentimes represents unskilled people doing the work). Approximately 60% of the time it’s because no maintenance schedule was followed after the installation as recommended by the manufacturer and the contractor. A lot of people simply ignore their systems until something goes wrong and then suddenly its everyone else’s fault. Typically, the manufacturer takes the brunt of it and then the so-called greedy contractor. Goodman, in the HVAC industry, is considered builders grade equipment. Most of the parts for Goodman units are not proprietary which means the parts, if needed, are readily available and you don’t have to wait for their factory to make it. The old axiom, “pay me a little now (recommended maintenance) or pay me a lot later (no maintenance and ignore the system)” remains true. Besides, float switches and water sensors are not made by Goodman. 99% of the time I’ve seen flooding from the AC system was because of lack of maintenance or lack of proper maintenance.
I appreciate you taking the time to write this out in the format that you did. We’re getting ready to buy a new system and so many installers are throwing around different brands all the while saying theirs is better and all others are junk. Though not always popular, our installer basically said that there are few differences in the high-end systems. Goodman is cheaper overall, but cheaper doesn’t always equate to a bad system. Your comparisons were very helpful.
Thanks for your great comments about the site/format!! We appreciate it. The most important part is getting a good contractor to install the system. Read our buyers guide to help with getting a new system.