Introducing Our Latest R-454B Energy Efficient HVAC Products
Find out why our newest HVAC equipment is a win for homeowners and the planet.
By Anne Fonda
More and more homeowners are prioritizing energy efficiency and sustainability in their buying decisions. Even if you’re not concerned about climate change, you’re focused on your family’s comfort and your budget.
If you’re considering HVAC replacement, you’re smart to be doing your research and shopping around. Finding an energy-efficient HVAC system is especially important. According to the Department of Energy (DOE), your home’s heating and cooling system can account for up to 50% of your yearly energy usage.
Our latest line of energy-efficient and more sustainable HVAC products is not only compliant with the new refrigerant regulations, but these products may help you save money on your energy bills – especially when you pair them with a smart thermostat to help reduce your energy consumption.
More good news – many of these AC units, electric heat pumps, and air handlers meet or exceed the energy efficiency requirements to qualify for HVAC tax credits and/or heat pump rebates.
Why the Change to a New Refrigerant
Trane’s transition to the next-generation refrigerant in newly manufactured air conditioners and heat pumps complies with the latest regulations on the HVAC industry requiring the use of a refrigerant with a lower global warming potential (GWP).
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has mandated the transition to a low GWP refrigerant. Trane (and much of the residential HVAC industry) has chosen to move forward with R-454B, which has a reduced environmental impact when compared to previous refrigerants. In addition to having a lower GWP, R-454B has no ozone depletion potential (ODP).
Our goal is to make home comfort more sustainable, while still providing the superior quality and reliability you’ve come to count on in a Trane system. Many of these new products offer improved energy efficiency over their predecessors, and some are new innovations.
Curious? Let’s get started.
18 TruComfort™ Variable Speed Air Conditioner (5TTV8)
The 18 TruComfort Variable Speed Air Conditioner replaces the XV17 AC unit. This new unit is both more sustainable and more efficient than the unit it is replacing.
Some highlights:
- R-454B-compliant for a more sustainable future
- Up to 18.1 SEER2 rating for increased cooling efficiency
- Variable speed compressor uses only the energy needed to keep you comfortable
- Runs anywhere from 30-100% capacity for precise temperature and humidity control
- Trane Link communicating technology for optimal system performance
18 TruComfort™ Variable Speed Heat Pump (5TWV8)
Like the TruComfort™ 18 SEER2 AC unit, the 18 TruComfort™ Variable Speed Heat Pump replaces a 17 SEER2 counterpart, the XV17 air source heat pump.
Some highlights:
- R-454B-compliant for a more sustainable future
- Up to 18.1 SEER2 rating for increased cooling efficiency
- Up to 8.5 HSPF2 rating for heating efficiency
- Variable speed compressor, running from 25-100% capacity for precise temperature and humidity control
- Trane Link communicating technology for optimal system performance
TruComfort™ Variable Speed Air Handler (5TEMC)
This TruComfort™ Variable Speed Air Handler replaces the M-Series Communicating Air Handler (TEM8). The new model is compatible with TruComfort™ heat pumps using the newest refrigerant.
Some highlights:
- R-454B-compliant for a more sustainable future
- Variable-speed blower motor for precise heating and cooling
- Comfort-R technology for humidity control for increased comfort
- All-aluminum evaporator coil for enhanced durability
- Trane Link communicating technology for optimal system performance
- Enhanced safety features
20 TruComfort™ Variable Speed Heat Pump with WeatherGuard™ (5TWV0)
The 20 TruComfort™ Variable Speed Heat Pump with WeatherGuard™ replaces the XV20i heat pump. The main change is the TruComfort™ unit is even more sustainable as it uses the new low-GWP refrigerant to heat and cool your home.
Some highlights:
- R-454B-compliant for a sustainable future
- Variable speed for precise heating and cooling
- Up to 22.4 SEER2 for optimal efficiency
- Up to 10.5 HSPF2 for reliable heating
- Trane Link communicating technology for optimal system performance
20 TruComfort™ Variable Speed Air Conditioner with WeatherGuard™ (5TTV0)
The 20 TruComfort™ Variable Speed Air Conditioner with WeatherGuard™ replaces the XV20i air conditioner. The main change is the TruComfort™ unit is even more sustainable as it uses the new low-GWP R-454B refrigerant to cool your home.
This unit family is the foundation for the most energy-efficient air conditioning system we offer.
Some highlights:
- R-454B-compliant for a more sustainable future
- Variable speed compressor for precise cooling
- Up to 23.6 SEER2 and 14 EER2 for optimal efficiency
- Trane Link communicating technology for optimal system performance
Hyperion Variable Speed Air Handler (5TAMX)
The Hyperion Variable Speed Air Handler 5TAMX replaces the Hyperion TAMX Air Handler. This new air handler is compatible with the new, more environmentally friendly refrigerant.
Some highlights:
- R-454B compatible for a more sustainable future
- Variable speed Vortica™ blower motor for enhanced comfort
- Sweat-eliminating cabinet design for durability and improved air quality
- Trane Link communicating technology for optimal system performance
Do I have to get a new heat pump or AC unit with R-454B?
No, you don’t have to. There will still be some units using the older refrigerant, R-410A, in inventory for a while. But they might not be the unit you want. In addition, HVAC technicians will be able to service those units and recharge them as needed, at least in the short term. But since R-410A refrigerant is being phased out, it will be harder to come by and therefore will become more expensive.
Consider all your options carefully before you buy a system, because it will last 15 years or so with proper maintenance.
Work with the HVAC sustainability experts
If it’s time to replace your HVAC system, upgrading to a more energy-efficient and sustainable system makes sense for your wallet and the planet. Work with your local Trane dealer to explore the options and learn how a more efficient system can increase your comfort and save you money on your energy costs in the long run.
Anne Fonda, Content Writer
A Content Writer with Trane Technologies, Anne Fonda researches topics and writes for Trane® and associated residential HVAC brands. She works in collaboration with Trane Technologies subject matter experts, offering easy-to-understand, informative content on complex topics. Her goal is to help consumers make informed decisions on the products and services they need.
She has written for HVAC and other service provider websites for over 16 years. Before transitioning to web content writing, Anne had a 14-year stint as an award-winning journalist. She graduated cum laude from the University of Missouri-Columbia School of Journalism.
When she’s not working, Anne enjoys playing word games, reading, gardening, spending time with family, and visiting gardens and museums.
Expert review by Lori DiFazio, Digital Marketing Manager, Websites; and Nichole Lasky, Equipment Product Marketing Manager