KeepRite N4A5 Performance 14 Model Review

The N4A5 Performance 14 is a no-frills model offered by KeepRite. It doesn’t boast the same special features as a more advanced model, but it comes at a much more affordable initial cost.

This model review of the N4A5 Performance 14 will explain the efficiency, pricing, key features, design elements, and warranty coverage of this air conditioner. All of this will help you decide if it’s a worthwhile investment for your home.

And to conclude, the review will compare the Performance 14 to three other KeepRite models based on the features offered, cost, and tier.

In a Nutshell

Average Price (with installation): $3000 - $4500

Top Features

• Durable design
• Built to resist corrosion and withstand extreme weather conditions
• Dependable single-speed fan motor
• Compatibility with most cooling thermostats, so you have the option for fine-tuning temperature adjustments
• Uses an environmentally friendly R-410A refrigerant that doesn’t deplete the ozone layer
• Comes with industry-standard warranty protection
• Has a scroll compressor that’s superior to a standard compressor

The Bottom Line

The N4A5 Performance 14 is an economical air conditioner that could be great for certain families who have a tight budget for a new cooling system.

However, there are a few reasons why it’s recommended that you consult a professional HVAC installer before buying this model.

For one, it’s a single-stage air conditioner with a single-speed blower motor. Further, it has a standard-efficiency SEER of 14 that doesn’t quite meet the 16 to 18 SEER that’s usually recommended for Canada.

All of this together results in an air conditioner that will perform best in homes with lower cooling demands. For example, it might be suitable if you live in a smaller home or live in a mild part of Canada.

This model won’t reduce your energy bills as much as a high-efficiency air conditioner would, and it might not qualify for high-efficiency rebates.

In-Depth Review

N4A5 Performance 14 Specifications:

• Compressor: Single-stage
• SEER: Up to 14
• ENERGY STAR certified: No
• Decibel rating: As low as 75
• Tonnage: 1.5 to 5 tons

Features Overview

This model may be modest in terms of special features and technologies, but it has been built to last. Different components of the Performance 14, such as the inlet grille panels and filter drier, work together to protect the system from harmful debris, corrosion, and moisture.

Another thing that’s appealing about this model is that it’s powered by a scroll compressor that has fewer moving parts than a traditional compressor. This translates to quieter performance, better efficiency, and fewer maintenance requirements.  

Other Key Features

• Protective inlet grille panels are accessible for easy coil cleaning during maintenance
• Durable galvanized steel cabinet
• Cabinet is protected by a baked-on powder coat finish that’s corrosion-resistant

Warranty Information

The N4A5 Performance 14 is backed by an industry-standard warranty that includes a 10-year parts warranty.

To be eligible for the full 10 years of coverage, you’ll have to register the air conditioner with KeepRite within 90 days of having it installed. If the A/C isn't registered in time, then it will only have a five-year parts warranty.

Registration is well worth it. All you have to do is go online or call and provide KeepRite with your contact information, details about the HVAC installer, the model and serial number, the installation date, and a few other details.

Comparable Models by KeepRite

Model Comparison by Price: N4A5 Performance 14 versus CCA7 Ion 17

The CCA7 Ion 17 is a premium-tier air conditioner with a SEER of 17, so it typically costs between $4,000 and $5,500+ in Canada.

There are a lot of benefits to the pricier model if you can find room in your budget. It has a more efficient, more powerful, and quieter two-stage compressor and two-speed blower motor, so it’s going to provide more consistent cooling throughout the house. It’s also powerful enough to keep just about any home in Canada comfortable.

The higher efficiency rating also means better energy savings in the long run, and the model is ENERGY STAR certified, so it will probably qualify for more rebates than the Performance model.

Because the Ion 17 is a premium-tier air conditioner, it’s compatible with the Ion System Control smart thermostat, it has extra features for quiet operation, and it has an additional 10-year No Hassle Replacement warranty.

Model Comparison by Features: N4A5 Performance 14 versus CVA9 Ion 19

The features included with the Performance 14 are minimal compared to more advanced models like the CVA9 Ion 19, which uses SmartSense™ technology for more customized performance.

The Ion 19 is KeepRite’s most expensive and advanced air conditioner. It has a variable-speed compressor that features five stages of operation for efficient and consistent cooling. It has a SEER of 19, ENERGY STAR certification, a decibel rating as low as 56, and a better warranty.

While the Ion model will cost more to buy, it will save you a lot more on summer cooling bills. It’s also going to be eligible for high-efficiency rebates that the Performance 14 doesn’t qualify for, and that could make it more affordable for people who need more cooling power than what the Performance model offers.

Another thing about the Ion 19 is that it’s compatible with KeepRite’s Ion System Control, a smart thermostat that has some great features and options.

Model Comparison by Tier: N4A5 Performance 14 versus NXA6 Performance 16

In terms of performance and tier, the Performance 14 is part of KeepRite’s value tier, so it comes at a lower initial cost compared to a lot of other air conditioners.

The NXA6 Performance 16 is another value-tier model from KeepRite. It falls into a similar price range, but it will be more expensive because it has a higher SEER of 16 and ENERGY STAR certification.

While the Performance 16 is a single-stage air conditioner like the Performance 14, it’s more efficient and will produce better energy savings in the long run. Plus, the ENERGY STAR certification could increase rebate eligibility, which would make the purchase price of the better model similar to the Performance 14.

Unlike the Performance 14, the Performance 16 falls into the recommended SEER range for Canada, so it will be better equipped to cool larger spaces.