Tempstar Performance 92 – N9MSB Review

The N9MSB is an affordable high-efficiency, single-stage furnace from Tempstar. The N9MSB is not designed with lots of extravagant features which helps make this unit very affordable, and it’s backed by a 10-year parts limited warranty and a 10-year heat exchanger limited warranty.

In A Nutshell

Average Price (installed): $3,500 - $4,335

Top Features

• Advanced RPJ (Rigid Press Joint) aluminized steel heat exchangers
• Air purifier and humidifier compatible

The Bottom Line

The Tempstar N9MSB is a great option for those that want to upgrade to a high-efficiency furnace but are not worried about extra features and the latest technology. With a wide range of units with various BTU ratings, the N9MSB is suitable for large or small homes alike, and its 35-inch height makes it useful for those that need a unit that allows for installation flexibility.

In Depth Review

Tempstar 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 ® rated

Advanced RPJ (Rigid Press Joint) aluminized steel heat exchangers

Designed in such a way that more heat can be moved to the outside surface for an improved heat transfer, the advanced rigid press joint heat exchangers help improve efficiency. They’re also constructed with stainless steel which helps add durability to the unit and also fights corrosion.

Air purifier and humidifier capable

The Tempstar N9MSB is air purifier and humidifier compatible which means that the unit can work in tandem with an air purifier, which is beneficial for improving the air quality in your home and removing unwanted allergens. Also, a humidifier is useful for keeping the air in your home comfortable and preventing it from drying out during the winter.

Other Key Features

• Sound-reducing operation
• High temperature limit control

Warranty

The Tempstar N9MSB is covered by average warranty options, which is to be expected for a furnace at this price point. Its coverage includes a 20-year heat exchanger limited warranty and a 10-year parts limited warranty. Tempstar requires you to register this furnace online after purchase if you would like to receive your full warranty periods, or else these warranty periods are shortened by the company.

Comparable models by Tempstar

Model Comparison by middle-tier – Tempstar N9MSB versus Tempstar N9MSE

The N9MSB and the N9MSE are very similar furnaces. Almost identical in terms of features, the big difference comes when you consider their respective AFUE ratings. The AFUE rating shows how efficient your furnace is, with the respective percentage being equivalent to how many cents in every dollar actually goes towards heating your home. The N9MSB has an AFUE rating of 92%, whereas the N9MSE has a rating of 95%. This means that the N9MSB will cost less up-front but cost more in terms of wasted energy over time. For many, it may be worth a little extra outlay at purchase to have the more efficient N9MSE.

Model Comparison by features – Tempstar N9MSB versus Tempstar F9MAE

If you’re looking to upgrade on features, the F9MAE includes Tempstar’s latest technology. For example, the F9MAE comes equipped with the WI-FI enabled Ion System Control, a sophisticated control centre for your furnace that you can access from any compatible device that’s internet enabled! It also features a modulating operation as opposed to the N9MSB’s single-stage operation, which means that it can operate at a lower stage to save energy but when needed, can smoothly increase the heat in-line with any temperature drops!

Model Comparison by premium tier – Tempstar N9MSB versus Tempstar F9MVE

The Tempstar F9MVE is one of Tempstar’s premium furnace offerings. It beats the N9MSB’s AFUE rating sitting at 96.5% and has a host of other features. For example, the F9MVE features a two-stage gas valve as opposed to the N9MSB’s single-stage operation. Put simply, this means that the F9MVE can operate in low fire and high fire modes instead of one heating mode when the thermostat kicks in. This eliminates unwanted temperature swings in your home, ensures a more even heating across your home and helps keep energy costs down even further.