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Napoleon Air Conditioner Review & Buying Guide
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15,000+
Napoleon
4.6
Average Rating By Homeowner
$5,500
Average Price Including Installation
Napoleon Air Conditioners At a Glance
Strengths
Areas for Improvement
Napoleon Air Conditioner Review & Buying Guide
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about Napoleon air conditioners, including:
- An overview of the brand and its reputation.
- Strengths and areas for improvement.
- Available models and their features.
- Price ranges and warranty information.
- Feedback from Canadian homeowners and HVAC specialists.
- Comparisons with competing brands.
- Answers to common questions to help you decide if a Napoleon air conditioner is right for your home.
Napoleon is a solid option for those looking to purchase a new air conditioner, especially if you prefer supporting a Canadian-made brand. Their cooling systems are built with quality materials, designed for durability, and offer reliable performance.
While Napoleon has a long history in fireplaces, heating systems, and BBQs, they are relatively newer to air conditioner manufacturing. As a result, their units may not yet offer all the advanced features found in more established AC brands. However, the company has steadily improved its production quality and now offers competitive, well-engineered air conditioning units.
This guide will help you:
- Decide if a Napoleon air conditioner fits your needs.
- Understand what you can expect to pay.
- Choose the best model for your home based on performance, efficiency, and features.
The Bottom Line
Napoleon is an excellent choice for homeowners who are already familiar with the brand and want a reliable air conditioner to pair with their Napoleon furnace. Their units are made in Canada from durable materials and are built to last.
The brand uses quality components, such as scroll compressors and microchannel coils, which enhance efficiency and performance—even though they don’t currently offer two-stage or variable-speed models.
However, Napoleon’s selection is limited. With only one model in the 16–18 SEER range, their air conditioners may not be ideal for larger homes or regions with hot, humid summers. Homeowners in these situations might benefit from brands with a wider range of high-efficiency options and additional features.
Overall, while Napoleon may not match competitors in terms of variety, advanced technology, or ultra-high efficiency, they do offer dependable, compact, and environmentally responsible air conditioners. Their units are reasonably priced, efficient to operate, and designed to deliver reliable cooling for many summers to come.
Napoleon Air Conditioner Model Series Overview
Napoleon currently offers just three air conditioner models, which can be categorized into three tiers: Basic, Better, and Best. While the models share many features, their efficiency ratings and suitability for different spaces set them apart.
Basic: NT Series 13
The NT Series 13 is Napoleon’s entry-level air conditioner. It is a single-stage unit featuring:
- Microchannel coils
- WHISPER QUIET operation
- Copeland scroll compressor
- User-friendly design for service and maintenance
- Standard warranty
The key differentiator is its SEER rating of 13, which is relatively low for Canadian climates. This model is best suited for smaller homes, cottages, or houses in milder regions where cooling demands are minimal.
Recommended SEER for Canada is generally 16–18 for the best balance of upfront cost, energy efficiency, and long-term savings.
Better: NT Series 14 SEER
The NT Series 14 SEER is a mid-efficiency, single-stage air conditioner. It features:
- PSC fan motor
- Copeland scroll compressor
- Environmentally friendly refrigerant
- Same general design and service-friendly features as other Napoleon models
The SEER rating of 14 distinguishes it from the entry-level model. However, like the NT Series 13, it is better suited for spaces with lower cooling needs, as it falls short of the recommended SEER for Canada.
Best: NT Series 16 SEER
The NT Series 16 SEER is Napoleon’s most efficient air conditioner. While it does not have ENERGY STAR® certification, it could theoretically qualify.
This unit:
- Costs more than other Napoleon models
- Offers higher energy savings on monthly cooling bills
- Falls within the recommended SEER range for Canada
- Is better suited for larger spaces or homes with higher cooling demands
Aside from its higher SEER and cost, the NT Series 16 shares most design features and specifications with the other Napoleon models.
Model Breakdown and Comparison
Napoleon air conditioners can also be compared using Warranty and Overall Grades, calculated using acprices.ca’s proprietary scoring system:
- Warranty Grades: Reflect the terms, coverage, and exclusions of each model’s warranty, making it easier to compare without reading dense legal documents.
- Overall Grades: Consider factors like efficiency, features, and warranty quality.
A lower grade does not necessarily mean a model is a poor choice. More affordable models typically score lower, while higher-end models often score better but may not be the best fit for every homeowner—similar to how a sports car might score higher than a minivan but isn’t ideal for a family of four.
| Model | SEER Rating | ENERGY STAR® | Compressor Type | Noise Level (dB) | Warranty Grade | Overall Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AVXC20 | 24.5 | Yes | Variable Speed | 59 – 75 | A+ | A+ |
| ASXV9 | 22.5 | Yes | Variable Speed | 71 – 75 | A+ | A |
| ASXC18 | 19 | Yes | Dual Stage | 68 – 74 | A+ | A- |
| ASXC7 | 17.2 | Yes | Dual Stage | 71 – 75 | A+ | A- |
| ASXC16 | 17 | Yes | Dual Stage | 70 – 74 | A+ | A |
| ASXS6 S-series | 17.2 | Yes | Variable Speed | 66 – 74 | A+ | B+ |
| ASX16 | 16 | Yes | Single Stage | 71.5 – 73 | A+ | B+ |
| ASXH5 | 15.2 | Yes | Single Stage | 71 – 76 | A+ | B+ |
| ASX14 | 15 | No | Single Stage | 70 – 71 | B | C |
| ASX13 | 14 | No | Single Stage | 73 – 77 | B | C |
| ASXH4 | 14.3 | No | Single Stage | 71 – 76 | B | C |
| ASXH3 | 13.4 | No | Single Stage | 68 – 73 | B | C |
| ANX14 | 15 | No | Single Stage | 71 – 74 | B | D |
| ANX13 | 14 | No | Single Stage | 71 – 77 | B | D |
| ASXN4 | 14.3 | No | Single Stage | 71 – 75 | B | D |
| ASXN3 | 13.4 | No | Single Stage | 70 – 76 | B | D |
Napoleon NT Series Air Conditioners
Napoleon currently offers three air conditioner models in the NT Series: the NT Series 16, NT Series 14, and NT Series 13. While the units share many features, their SEER ratings, efficiency, and ideal use cases set them apart.
NT Series 16 – Best Tier
Compressor: Single-stage
SEER: Up to 16
ENERGY STAR® Certified: No
Noise Level: As low as 74 dB
Tier: Best
Napoleon’s NT Series 16 is their most efficient and high-tier air conditioner. Though simple compared to high-end units from other brands, it offers reliable performance and several user-friendly features:
- Compact design suitable for smaller spaces or tight installations
- WHISPER QUIET technology with low-vibration compressor for reduced noise
- Chlorine-free refrigerant, safe for the ozone layer
- Microchannel condenser coils that reduce unit size and refrigerant use
- Easy access for service and maintenance
With a SEER in the recommended 16–18 range for Canada, the NT Series 16 delivers better energy savings, can handle larger homes, and provides the best balance of purchase price and operating costs among Napoleon units.
Ideal for: Canadians seeking a high-efficiency, basic, and affordable air conditioner for larger homes or higher cooling demands.
NT Series 14 – Mid Tier
Compressor: Single-stage
SEER: Up to 14
ENERGY STAR® Certified: No
Noise Level: As low as 74 dB
Tier: Mid
The NT Series 14 is very similar to the NT Series 16, with the primary differences being a lower SEER rating and lower price. Key features include:
- Single-stage compressor with microchannel condenser coils
- WHISPER QUIET technology
- Industry-leading filter drier
- Easy service access and maintenance
- Same environmentally friendly refrigerant and warranty as NT Series 16
With a SEER of 14, it is more affordable but won’t save as much on energy bills over time. It’s best suited for smaller homes or locations with milder Canadian summers.
Ideal for: Homeowners looking for a budget-friendly, reliable air conditioner for smaller spaces or homes in milder regions. A professional load calculation is recommended before purchase.
NT Series 13 – Entry Tier
Compressor: Single-stage
SEER: Up to 13
ENERGY STAR® Certified: No
Noise Level: As low as 74 dB
Tier: Entry
The NT Series 13 is Napoleon’s entry-level air conditioner and shares most features with the NT Series 14, including:
- Single-stage compressor with microchannel condenser coils
- WHISPER QUIET technology
- Copeland scroll compressor
- Easy maintenance and service access
With a SEER of 13, this model falls short of Canada’s recommended SEER range and may be suitable only for small homes, cottages, or areas with mild summers. It is the most affordable option but may not qualify for energy rebates.
Ideal for: Smaller spaces or homes in cooler regions where a high-efficiency system isn’t necessary.
Noise Levels – Quietest and Noisiest Units
Napoleon promotes WHISPER QUIET technology, but in reality, all NT Series models operate around 74 decibels, roughly the sound of a vacuum cleaner or washing machine. Single-stage compressors are standard and produce similar noise levels across all three models.
If quieter operation is important, models with two-stage or variable-speed compressors are available on the market, operating closer to 50–60 decibels, though they are typically more expensive.
Exclusive Features from Napoleon
WHISPER QUIET System
Napoleon’s Description:
Aluminum swept fan blades engineered to make your Napoleon air conditioner operate as quietly as a whisper.
What It Really Means:
The WHISPER QUIET system is a key feature across all Napoleon air conditioners. It uses specially contoured swept-wing fan blades designed to:
- Improve airflow
- Increase efficiency
- Reduce operational noise
The fan blades are built with durable aluminum and a plated steel hub, ensuring long-lasting performance compared to standard fan components.
Performance Reality:
Thanks to this design, Napoleon air conditioners operate at around 74 decibels. While this is relatively quiet, it is not as low as some premium models from other brands. For example:
- Carrier’s top-tier variable-speed models operate as quietly as 51 decibels.
Industry Context:
Many other HVAC brands use similar noise-reducing fan designs but give them different names:
- Carrier – Silencer System II
- Lennox – SilentComfort
- Coleman – WhisperDrive™ Comfort System
- York – QuietDrive Comfort System
- Luxaire – SilentDrive™ Comfort System
These systems may include swept-wing fans, sound-control tops, compressor sound blankets, and quiet-mounted components to reduce noise.
Key Takeaway:
While the WHISPER QUIET system improves fan noise, the compressor type has the greatest impact on overall sound.
- Single-stage compressors (used in all Napoleon models) are standard in noise performance.
- Two-stage compressors are quieter.
- Variable-speed compressors are the quietest, though typically more expensive.
Exclusive Features from Napoleon
Feature 2 – Microchannel Coil Technology
Napoleon’s Description:
Napoleon’s all-aluminum microchannel condenser coils are compact and wrap around the inside of the air conditioner, making the units smaller and using less refrigerant.
What It Means:
Condenser coils are essential to an air conditioner’s operation, as they house refrigerant and release heat from your home to cool your space. Napoleon’s microchannel coils are smaller than traditional coils, which means:
- The unit takes up less space and requires less refrigerant
- Heat transfer is improved due to a larger contact area between the aluminum coil and refrigerant
- The system operates more efficiently overall
The aluminum construction is corrosion-resistant, durable, and easier to maintain than copper coils.
Industry Context:
While microchannel coils improve performance, they are not exclusive to Napoleon. Other brands like York, Luxaire, and Coleman also use microchannel coils in some of their air conditioners.
Warranty Overview
Terms and Coverage
Napoleon provides consistent warranty coverage across all their air conditioners:
- 10-year parts warranty
- 10-year compressor warranty
Registration is required for full coverage. If not registered within the 60–90 day window, coverage reduces to 5 years for both parts and compressor.
Keeping Your Warranty Valid
To maintain warranty coverage, homeowners must:
- Use a licensed HVAC professional for installation and annual maintenance
- Keep maintenance receipts
- Promptly address required repairs with a professional
- Follow the owner’s manual and use approved parts
- Keep the unit in its original installed location
- Ensure eligibility if not living in the installation home
How Napoleon’s Warranty Compares
Napoleon’s separate 10-year parts and compressor warranties are better than standard, but other brands may offer more comprehensive protection:
- Goodman – Lifetime compressor + 10-year unit replacement
- American Standard – 12-year compressor + parts and coil coverage
- York – Lifetime compressor
- Amana – Lifetime unit replacement
- Trane – 12-year compressor
- Daikin – 12-year parts + 12-year unit replacement
Is a Napoleon Air Conditioner Right for Me?
Budget Considerations
Napoleon is a mid-range brand, with total installed costs typically between $3,000 – $6,000+ in Canada.
- Economy brands: $3,000 – $5,500 (e.g., York, Goodman, KeepRite)
- Premium brands: $3,500 – $7,500+ (e.g., Lennox, Carrier, Trane, American Standard)
Napoleon’s units are all single-stage, so while they are affordable and reliable, they are not as efficient or quiet as two-stage or variable-speed models. For long-term energy savings, 16–18 SEER units generally provide the best return on investment.
Long-Term Considerations
- If you plan to stay in your home for several years, investing in a high-efficiency unit can save on energy costs and warranty claims.
- If you plan to move soon, it may be better financially to choose a mid-efficiency or entry-level unit, as HVAC systems usually do not increase home value, and you won’t recover the cost of a high-end system.
- Even a mid-efficiency Napoleon unit can be suitable if a professional load calculation confirms it meets your home’s cooling needs.
Napoleon Air Conditioners – Complete Buying Guide
Napoleon air conditioners are made in Canada and offer reliable performance for homeowners looking for durable, mid-range cooling solutions. This guide will help you determine if a Napoleon A/C is right for your home, covering SEER ratings, features, warranties, add-ons, and more.
SEER Ratings – Does Napoleon Have What You Need?
Napoleon has a limited selection of air conditioners, all with single-stage compressors. Only one of their three models falls within Canada’s recommended 16–18 SEER range:
- NT Series 13 – SEER 13 (entry-level)
- NT Series 14 – SEER 14 (mid-range)
- NT Series 16 – SEER 16 (high-efficiency, recommended for Canada)
Most Napoleon units are best suited for smaller homes, cottages, or areas with milder summers. The 13- and 14-SEER models will save less on energy costs compared to higher-efficiency units.
Note: None of Napoleon’s air conditioners are ENERGY STAR® certified, which may affect eligibility for rebates—sometimes saving up to $1,000 on installation.
Napoleon Features
WHISPER QUIET System
- Aluminum swept-wing fan blades reduce operational noise (as low as 74 dB).
- Durable construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- While quieter than standard fans, other brands with variable-speed compressors can operate as low as 50–60 dB.
Microchannel Coil Technology
- Compact all-aluminum coils improve heat transfer and efficiency.
- Use less refrigerant, reducing environmental impact.
- Durable and corrosion-resistant, offering easier maintenance.
- Similar technology is used by York, Luxaire, and Coleman.
Warranty Coverage
- 10-year parts warranty and 10-year compressor warranty (full coverage requires registration).
- Registration must occur within 60–90 days of installation. Without registration, coverage drops to 5 years.
Keeping Your Warranty Valid:
- Must be installed and maintained by a licensed HVAC professional.
- Keep annual maintenance records.
- Address repairs promptly using approved parts.
- Follow manufacturer instructions and maintain the original installation location.
Comparison:
Napoleon offers better-than-standard coverage, but other brands may provide:
- Lifetime compressor warranties (Goodman, York)
- Unit replacement warranties (Amana, Goodman)
- Extended coil or parts warranties (American Standard, Daikin, Trane)
Napoleon Add-Ons and Extras
Thermostats
- Programmable NT Series thermostats (home/sleep/away presets, 7-day schedules).
- No smart thermostats available; smart alternatives like Nest or Ecobee may save more energy.
UVC Air Purifiers
- HomeShield UVC lights kill mold, bacteria, and viruses.
- Available in standard or medical-grade options; installed in ductwork or furnace.
Media Filters
- MERV 11 rating; captures up to 85% of particles as small as 0.3 microns.
- Better for homes with allergies or asthma compared to UVC lights.
HRVs & ERVs
- Ventilation systems for homes with limited airflow.
- HRVs exchange heat; ERVs exchange heat and moisture for better humidity control.
- Choice depends on indoor humidity management needs.
Choosing the Right AC for Your Home
- Budget: Mid-range ($3,000–$6,000+ installed). Economy brands are cheaper; premium brands cost more.
- Efficiency: Single-stage units are less efficient than two-stage or variable-speed compressors.
- Longevity: High-efficiency units provide energy savings and long-term benefits if you stay in your home for several years.
- Contractor Matters: A professional contractor ensures proper sizing, installation, efficiency, and warranty compliance.
Contractors can:
- Perform load calculations
- Properly install your AC
- Match your new system with existing HVAC equipment
- Help with registration, rebates, and adjunct equipment installation
Company Overview
- Founded in 1976 in Barrie, Ontario as a steel fabrication company.
- Manufactures air conditioners, heating systems, and BBQs.
- Known for well-designed, durable products with solid warranties.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Are Napoleon air conditioners good?
Yes. They use quality components and are backed by a 10-year parts and compressor warranty. Professional installation and annual maintenance help extend lifespan.
What’s the best Napoleon air conditioner?
For Canadian homes, the NT Series 16 is the best choice. It balances price, long-term energy savings, and can handle larger homes better than the 13- or 14-SEER models.
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