KeepRite NXA6 Performance 16 Model Review

KeepRite’s NXA6 Performance 16 central air conditioner promises low cost and high efficiency. With a SEER rating of up to 16, this model has an impressive rate of efficiency for an economy-level air conditioner. Not only will you save on the purchase price, but you’ll also save on energy costs in the long run.

The NXA6 Performance 16 will be suitable for a lot of homes in Canada, especially for homeowners on a budget, and this model review will help you make a wise investment about a new air conditioner.

This model review of the NXA6 Performance 16 will talk about pricing, warranty, efficiency, and key features, and it will also compare this model to three others in the KeepRite product line.

In a Nutshell

Average Price (with installation): $3500 - $5500

Top Features

• ENERGY STAR® certification and high-efficiency performance could increase rebate eligibility
• Sleek outer design is built to resist corrosion and rusting
• Has industry-standard warranty coverage
• Economical and energy saving
• Standard noise performance
• Built to withstand the elements and material breakdown

The Bottom Line

The NXA6 is a single-stage air conditioner with a single-speed blower motor, so it’s one of the more basic models on the market.

However, it has a few design features that increase efficiency, including the quiet, reliable scroll compressor, the top-down design that increases airflow across the coil and reduces noise, and coil tubing material that’s been selected specifically for increased heat transfer.

While single-stage air conditioners are usually better in smaller spaces, the high-efficiency SEER of 16 means the NXA6 could also perform well in larger homes. It’s also going to cut your energy bills if you're replacing an older and less efficient model.

Finally, while this is already one of the most economical high-efficiency air conditioners on the market, it could also be eligible for rebates that make it more affordable for Canadians on a budget.

In-Depth Review

NXA6 Performance 16 Specifications:

• Compressor: Single-stage
• SEER: Up to 16
• ENERGY STAR certified: Yes
• Decibel rating: As low as 76
• Tonnage: 1.5 to 5 tons

Features Overview

The Performance Series NXA6 is efficient, but efficiency doesn’t mean much if the system is going to break down after a couple of years.

That’s why KeepRite has designed the unit with a galvanized steel cabinet that’s protected by a baked-on powder-coat finish. It also has a number of rust- and corrosion-resistant components, including the aluminum fin, the coated wire grille, and more.

This unit is also equipped with a filter drier that removes moisture and acid from the system that could damage important internal components.

And when it comes time for maintenance, KeepRite has taken steps to make that simpler too. The control panel is easy to access during installation and repairs, and the exterior grille that protects the coil provides ready access for cleaning.

Other Key Features

• Single-speed fan motor operates reliably and consistently
• Environmentally friendly R-410A refrigerant that doesn’t cause ozone depletion
• Compatible with most thermostats
• Compressor is protected by a thick, durable shell
• Each unit is 100 percent run tested at the factory

Warranty Information

While the Performance Series NXA6 is affordable, it’s still good to ensure you're backed up by sufficient warranty coverage. The NXA6 is protected by KeepRite’s 10-year parts limited warranty, and that includes major components like the compressor and coil.

Just make sure you register the unit within 90 days of installation, otherwise it will only be protected for five years.

Registration is highly recommended because of the extra warranty coverage. All you have to do is provide KeepRite with your contact information, details about the licensed HVAC installer, the A/C’s model and serial number, and the installation date.

Comparable Models by KeepRite

Model Comparison by Price: NXA6 Performance 16 versus CSA5 Ion 15

The CSA5 Ion 15 is a premium-tier KeepRite model, and that means it’s going to cost more than the Performance model, despite the fact that the two are very similar in terms of design.

The Ion 15 is a single-stage, single-speed air conditioner with a slightly lower SEER of 15. It also doesn’t have ENERGY STAR certification, and that means it will cost more, won’t save quite as much on cooling bills, and might not be eligible for the same rebates as the NXA6.

Nonetheless, because it’s part of the Ion series, it’s going to cost between $3,500 and $5,500. This is the same price range as the Performance model, but the Ion 15 will be closer to the high end of the range.

So what do you get for the extra money? Two main things: an additional three-year No Hassle Replacement warranty and compatibility with the Ion System Control, KeepRite’s smart thermostat.

Model Comparison by Features: NXA6 Performance 16 versus CVA9 Ion 19

The CVA9 Ion 19 is KeepRite’s most sophisticated air conditioner, and also their most efficient and most expensive.

KeepRite doesn’t focus on special features or technologies, but the Ion 19 is certainly a more advanced air conditioner than the Performance model.

The Ion 19 is a variable-speed model with five stages of operation and a variable-speed blower motor that can make tiny adjustments to the airflow. Air conditioners like this produce the most consistent temperatures, the quietest and most efficient performance, and the best moisture management.

Furthermore, the top-of-the-line model also has a 10-year No Hassle Replacement warranty, compatibility with the Ion System Control, and a SEER of 19.

If you have a larger home or live in a part of Canada with long, hot summers, then the Ion 19 is going to be much more capable of keeping your home cool.

Model Comparison by Tier: NXA6 Performance 16 versus N4A7 Performance 17

The N4A7 Performance 17 is another value-tier air conditioner from KeepRite, but it has a few selling features that the NXA6 doesn’t, and it’s also a little pricier.

For starters, it’s a two-stage model, and that means it can operate at the higher stage when the temperature rises or the humidity sets in, but it’s also got a quieter and more efficient low stage for energy-saving temperature maintenance.

The N4A7 is a little more efficient, with a SEER of 17. While this won’t translate to a huge difference in long-term cost savings compared to the NXA6, the N4A7 will deliver more consistent cooling power to your home.

Beyond those few differences, the two units are comparable in terms of warranties, protective design elements, and longevity features.