Technological breakthroughs redefining thermal comfort and energy efficiency in the commercial sector
The field of commercial heating is entering a new era. Between the growing pressure to reduce carbon emissions, the constant search for energy savings, and the increasing demands for occupant comfort, innovations in HVAC continue to push the limits of performance. At AirGreen, we’re at the heart of this technological revolution, as key players in the installation, maintenance, and repair of commercial heating systems across Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore, and the South Shore.
In this article, we dive deep into 7 commercial heating innovations that are set to become the cornerstones of thermal infrastructure by 2030 — innovations we’ve already begun implementing in several commercial buildings throughout the Greater Montreal Area.
1. The rise of high-efficiency commercial heat pumps
The surge in high-performance commercial heat pumps is one of the most significant changes of the decade. We're witnessing a strong shift toward reversible systems capable of providing both heating in winter and cooling in summer, with increasingly high seasonal efficiency ratings (SEER and HSPF).
At AirGreen, we favor the installation of advanced models like the Bosch BOVA or Goodman DZ20VC, equipped with inverter compressors and next-gen refrigerants (R-32, R-454B) to maximize energy efficiency while minimizing environmental impact.
2. The integration of smart heating systems
Smart control systems connected to Building Automation Systems (BAS) allow real-time modulation of heating power based on zone occupancy, outdoor weather conditions, and internal usage.
For example, during a recent installation of a FUJITSU Airstage V-II system in an office building in Laval, we integrated it with a local AI-powered solution that automatically adjusted settings, reducing energy costs by over 25% within just three months.
3. The rise of accessible commercial geothermal systems
Once considered a luxury for large-scale projects, commercial geothermal heating is becoming increasingly accessible thanks to compact vertical drilling and hybrid air-to-water geothermal heat pumps.
We recently took part in a pilot project on the South Shore, where a sports complex was outfitted with a geothermal loop coupled with air-to-water heat pumps. The result: consistent thermal comfort and an annual reduction of 38% in GHG emissions.
4. The use of low Global Warming Potential (GWP) refrigerants
By 2030, heating systems will have to meet increasingly strict environmental impact standards. This includes phasing out old refrigerants like R-410A in favor of new-generation refrigerants.
At AirGreen, we’ve already taken the lead by installing more and more systems that use R-32 or R-454B, refrigerants with a much lower GWP, in line with Quebec’s energy transition standards.
5. New-generation hybrid rooftop units (RTUs)
Commercial rooftop units (RTUs) are also evolving. Today’s hybrid models combine natural gas and heat pump technology, with digital management of operation cycles and integrated heat recovery modules.
We recently installed a Trane Voyager 3 hybrid unit on a neighborhood grocery store in Saint-Eustache, on the North Shore. The system automatically switches from heat pump mode to gas based on outdoor temperatures while maintaining over 95% efficiency.
6. Micro-cogeneration and industrial process heat recovery
In high-energy-use facilities (e.g., industrial kitchens, laundromats, etc.), heat recovery from equipment and on-site micro-cogeneration allow simultaneous production of heat and electricity.
At AirGreen, we helped retrofit a municipal building in Longueuil with a system that recovers heat from cold storage rooms to preheat boiler water, resulting in a 30% reduction in gas consumption.
7. Smart radiant systems and thermoregulated materials
Commercial radiant floor heating, radiant panels, and active walls are increasingly popular in modern commercial buildings — especially those targeting LEED or BOMA BEST certifications.
In a daycare in Montreal, we installed a zoned hydronic radiant floor system, paired with a central Zephyr inverter heat pump, ensuring consistent comfort and precise temperature control room by room, while reducing annual energy consumption by 42%.
What this means for your commercial projects
These innovations aren’t just trends. They’re profoundly transforming how commercial buildings manage thermal comfort. As a company specialized in commercial HVAC systems across Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore, and the South Shore, we’re already integrating these transformations into our projects.
Why choose AirGreen for your commercial heating installations?
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Full expertise in central heat pumps, geothermal systems, rooftop units, and hybrid heating solutions
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Thorough understanding of provincial grants and environmental standards in Quebec
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Ability to manage complex, tailor-made projects from diagnostics to ongoing maintenance
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Strong, responsive local presence with recent projects in Boisbriand, Brossard, Saint-Lambert, Laval-des-Rapides, and more
Practical tips for building managers
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Assess your future heating needs now — systems installed before 2010 are often outdated.
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Request a full thermal analysis of your building.
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Take advantage of available grants for high-efficiency equipment upgrades.
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Opt for scalable systems that integrate AI and renewable energy sources.
AirGreen, your partner for a warmer and greener future
By 2030, innovation in commercial heating won’t be a luxury — it’ll be a necessity. AirGreen is ready to guide you through this transition with practical, local, and sustainable solutions.
Contact us today to discuss your project, request a free evaluation, or schedule an on-site technical visit.