KeepRite Performance Series – N9MSB Review

DISCONTINUED: Please note, this model appears to have been discontinued by the manufacturer, although it may still be available for purchase through distributors and contractors for some time.

The KeepRite Performance Series N9MSB is one of the most affordable furnace offerings from KeepRite. This high-efficiency, single stage, fixed-speed blower furnace is designed to deliver heat without lots of extra features, therefore saving you money in the up-front cost. It’s also backed by a 10-year warranty on parts and a 20-year warranty on the heat exchanger.  

In A Nutshell

Average Price (installed): $3,000 - $3,835

Top Features

• High-temperature limit control
• RPJ (Rigid Press Joint) primary heat exchanger
• Sound-reducing features: soft mounted blower and inducer motor 

The Bottom Line

The KeepRite N9MSB is marketed as the value option when buying a high-efficiency furnace. Don’t expect lots of extra features on this furnace, but it does do its job of heating your home very well and will save on upfront costs. It’s also packed by KeepRite’s excellent warranty options.

In Depth Review

KeepRite Performance Series® N9MSB

• Sub-models available: 0401410B, 0401712B, 0601716B, 0601716B, 0801716B, 0802120B, 1002116B, 1002122B, 1202422B
• AFUE: 92.1
• BTU input: 40,000 - 120,000
• BTU output: 37,000 - 112,000
• Not ENERGY STAR ® qualified 

High-Temperature Limit Control

The high-temperature control, also known as a fan limit switch or limit switch, monitors the temperature of your furnace and shuts off the blowers if necessary. The high-temperature control can also shut down the furnace burners if things are getting hot inside the furnace, which helps prevent overheating and potential damage to the furnace.

RPJ (Rigid Press Joint) Primary Heat Exchanger

The advanced RPJ (Rigid Press Joint) aluminized steel heat exchangers help to capture any additional heat that’s generated by your furnace, improving the furnace’s energy efficiency even further.

Sound-Reducing Features: Soft-Mounted Blower and Inducer Motor

The soft mounted blower and the inducer motor help to reduce the vibration and sound that’s emitted from the furnace. The furnace is also well insulated to help contain noise.

Other Key Features

• Air purifier and humidifier compatible for better home air quality and humidity levels
• Dual fuel capable with a compatible heat pump and thermostat, helping to improve the energy saving performance of the furnace

Warranty

The N9MSB comes with a 20-year heat exchanger limited warranty and a 10-year parts limited warranty. Make sure to register your unit though, or else the 10-year parts limited warranty is halved!

Comparable Models by KeepRite 

Model comparison by medium-tier – KeepRite Performance Series N9MSB versus KeepRite ProComfort Series G9MXT

KeepRite specifically designed the performance series to be their most affordable furnaces on the market. If you move up to their medium-tier furnaces, you encounter the G9MXT, which exceeds the N9MSB with an AFUE rating of 96%. The G9MXT also features a two-stage gas valve, which helps further improve the G9MXT’s efficiency and allows for a more balanced heating of your home.

Model Comparison by features – KeepRite Performance Series N9MSB versus KeepRite ProComfort Deluxe Series G9MVE.

KeepRite kept the cost of the N9MSB low by containing a distinct lack of features in the unit. On the other hand, the G9MVE comes with the impressive Observer Communicating Wall Control. This wall control can be accessed remotely from any compatible smart device, via WIFI, allowing you greater accessibility and operation of your furnace.

Model comparison by Premium Tier – KeepRite Performance Series N9MSB versus KeepRite ProComfort Deluxe Series G9MAE

The N9MSB and the G9MAE are on two ends of KeepRite’s spectrum in terms of their furnace offerings. The biggest difference between these two models is their respective efficiency ratings, 92.1% versus 97-98%. The G9MAE offers much better value and lower operating costs in the long-term, but the up-front price is steeper. Also, the G9MAE features a modulating gas valve, which is a vast improvement over the N9MSB’s single stage operation, both in terms of efficiency and comfort. A modulating gas valve will help to heat your home more evenly and also increase the efficiency of your furnace. Again, you will see a substantial difference in the up-front cost of these two units, which is also thanks to the additional technology contained with the G9MAE, such as the ION System Control.