Tempstar Performance 95 – N9MSE Review

The Tempstar Performance Series N9MSE sits in the range of the low to mid-tier furnace offerings by Tempstar. An affordable high-efficiency gas furnace, the single-stage N9MSE features a 10-year parts limited warranty and a 20-year warranty on the heat exchanger.

In A Nutshell

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

Top Features

• Sound-reducing features
• RPJ (Rigid Press Joint) primary heat exchanger

The Bottom Line

The Tempstar N9MSE’s AFUE rating of 95% is what’s really impressive about this unit. Its highly-efficient operation makes it an excellent option for prospective buyers that want efficiency but are not concerned about the features that often come with premium furnaces, such as advanced diagnostic controls and advanced sound-reducing features.

In Depth Review

• Sub-models available: 0401410A, 0601410A, 0601714A, 0801716A, 0802120A, 1002114A, 1002120A, 1202420A, 1402420A
• AFUE: 95%
• BTU input: 40,000-140,000
• BTU output: 39,000-135,000
• Not ENERGY STAR ® rated

Sound-Reducing Features

The N9MSE is designed to perform as quietly as possible and features a soft-mounted blower and inducer motor. Both the fan and the motor help to reduce the decibel level produced by the furnace ensuring quiet and comfortable warming of your home.

RPJ (Rigid Press Joint) Primary Heat Exchanger

The RPJ primary heat exchanger is constructed with tough stainless steel which helps prevent any corrosion of the heat exchanger and adds increased durability to the unit. The well-built heat exchanger is also designed in a way that moves more heat to the outside surface, resulting in an improved heat transfer and better efficiency.

Other Key Features

• Dual fuel capable with a compatible heat pump and thermostat
• Single-stage gas valve

Warranty

Tempstar’s performance series warranty coverage is less than you might expect when buying a 95% AFUE rated furnace. Instead of a lifetime heat exchanger warranty, with this unit, you will receive a 20-year heat exchanger limited warranty and a 10-year limited parts warranty. Also, remember to register your unit online as soon as you purchase to ensure that your warranty coverage is not cut in length.

Comparable Models by Tempstar

Model comparison by lower price – Tempstar N9MSE versus Tempstar N9MSB

Although the Tempstar N9MSE and the N9MSB are very similar units, their main difference is their respective AFUE ratings of 92% and 95%. Although 3% may not sound like much, the AFUE rating actually corresponds with how many cents in each dollar goes towards heating your home and the rest is wasted energy. As you can imagine, for a slightly higher up-front cost, the 95% N9MSE will save you money over time and may well be the better investment.

Model Comparison by features – Tempstar N9MSE versus Tempstar F9MVE

The F9MVE is one of Tempstar’s most impressive furnace offerings. It’s packed full of additional features that the N9MSE doesn’t incorporate, such as the Observer communicating wall control, which is the heart of this furnace, allowing you programme your furnace just the way you want whether at home or from afar using a WIFI enabled compatible smart device. It also features an energy saving two-stage gas valve, advanced sound-reducing features, and a high-efficiency variable-speed ECM blower motor.

Model Comparison by premium tier – Tempstar N9MSE versus Tempstar F9MAE

The Tempstar F9MAE is the most technologically advanced offering in Tempstar’s furnace range. This furnace features an impressive modulating gas heat performance which allows your furnace to move, at small increments, up and down in heat dictated by the thermostat. This all but eliminates temperature swings in your home and ensures each room in your house is evenly heated. This model also features the impressive ION System Control, is ENERGY STAR qualified and features advanced summer dehumidification technology. With an incredible 98% AFUE rating, expect this unit to be far more expensive than the N9MSE.