| Square Footage | Furnace BTU |
|---|---|
| 1,000-1,200 sq. ft. Home | 40,000 - 60,000 BTU |
| 1,200-1,500 sq. ft. Home | 60,000 BTU |
| 1,500-1,800 sq. ft. Home | 60,000 - 80,000 BTU |
| 1,800-2,500 sq. ft. Home | 80,000 - 100,000 BTU |
| 2,500-3,500 sq. ft. Home | 100,000 to 120,000 BTU |
The Ion Series 96 G96CTN is one of KeepRite’s top-tier furnaces, engineered for superior comfort, energy efficiency, and long-term reliability. With its advanced design and innovative features, the Ion 96 delivers consistent warmth through the coldest winters — all while helping you save on energy bills.
This in-depth review covers everything you need to know about the Ion 96, including its performance, key technologies, warranty coverage, pricing, and how it compares to other KeepRite models.
Average Price (with installation): $4,000 – $5,600
Excellent long-term warranty protection
High-efficiency AFUE for lower heating costs
Variable-speed ECM blower for quieter, more efficient operation
Compatible with the advanced Ion™ System Control smart thermostat
Durable primary heat exchanger design for extended lifespan
Secondary heat exchanger for maximum energy recovery
Noise-reducing cabinet insulation and motor isolation
Two-stage burner for enhanced comfort and energy savings
Wi-Fi connectivity when paired with the Ion System Control
The Ion 96 stands out as one of KeepRite’s most reliable and efficient furnaces. Its two-stage burner and variable-speed ECM blower work in tandem to maintain steady indoor temperatures, reduce operating noise, and optimize humidity control.
These features not only improve comfort but also lower monthly energy costs. When paired with a compatible air conditioner, the variable-speed blower provides superior dehumidification during summer months as well.
Additionally, the Ion 96’s secondary heat exchanger captures extra heat from exhaust gases — a hallmark of high-efficiency, condensing furnaces — ensuring minimal energy waste and greater overall performance.
AFUE: 96.7%
Burner Type: Two-stage
Blower Type: Variable-speed ECM
ENERGY STAR® Certified: Yes
Heating Capacity: 60,000–120,000 BTUs
KeepRite has placed strong emphasis on quiet performance, and the Ion 96 reflects that commitment. Its fully insulated cabinet, isolated blower motor, and soft-mounted gaskets on the blower and inducer motors all contribute to whisper-quiet operation.
For homeowners seeking greater control and convenience, pairing the furnace with KeepRite’s Ion System Control unlocks a host of advanced features. You can program temperature schedules for up to seven days, customize home/away/sleep modes, and adjust temperature, humidity, ventilation, and energy settings from anywhere using Wi-Fi access.
Every unit is factory-tested for reliability and performance
Dual-fuel compatible — can be paired with an electric heat pump to reduce heating costs
Fully insulated cabinet improves efficiency and heat transfer
Compatible with air purification and humidification systems
Rigid press joint primary heat exchanger resists heat, pressure, and cracking for long life
Direct spark ignition eliminates the wastefulness of a pilot light
Pre-painted steel cabinet with tight-fitting door latch for durability and safety
Equipped with high-temperature limit control for added protection
Variable-speed induced draft motor for optimized combustion
Diagnostic access when connected to the Ion System Control
The Ion 96 is protected by one of KeepRite’s best warranty packages:
Lifetime limited warranty on the heat exchanger
10-year No Hassle Replacement™ limited warranty
10-year parts limited warranty
The No Hassle Replacement warranty means that if the heat exchanger fails within the first 10 years, KeepRite will replace the entire unit — a valuable assurance for homeowners.
To receive full coverage, make sure to register your furnace within 90 days of installation by providing your contact details, model number, and licensed HVAC installer information.
The QuietComfort 96 G96VTN is a mid-tier furnace offering many of the same performance features as the Ion 96 — including two-stage operation, a variable-speed blower, and dual-fuel compatibility — but at a slightly lower price range of $3,500–$5,500 installed.
However, it lacks compatibility with the Ion System Control and comes with a shorter 5-year No Hassle Replacement warranty, compared to the Ion 96’s 10 years.
The Performance 95 N95ESU is an entry-level high-efficiency model. It features a single-stage burner and a multi-speed blower, making it less capable of maintaining consistent warmth in large homes or during extreme cold.
Its AFUE is 95%, it is not ENERGY STAR® certified, and the warranty is less comprehensive — a 20-year heat exchanger warranty with no unit replacement coverage.
However, it does offer ultra-low NOx emissions, making it ideal for regions with stricter environmental standards, such as California.
The Ion 98 G97CMN is KeepRite’s flagship model and the most advanced in the lineup. Both the Ion 96 and Ion 98 share ENERGY STAR® certification, premium warranties, and quiet operation, but the Ion 98 has a modulating burner instead of a two-stage one.
This allows the Ion 98 to adjust its heating output in tiny increments for the highest possible efficiency and comfort. Its AFUE rating of 98% means that $0.98 of every dollar spent on gas goes directly toward heating your home — making it the quietest, most efficient, and most precise option available from KeepRite.
The KeepRite Ion 96 G96CTN is an excellent choice for homeowners seeking a balance of performance, efficiency, and advanced control. With its durable components, smart compatibility, and quiet operation, it offers long-term reliability and value.
If you want a furnace that can keep your home consistently comfortable while helping reduce energy bills — and you’re not looking to pay premium-tier prices — the Ion 96 hits the sweet spot in KeepRite’s lineup.
