R-32 in commercial heating systems: a step toward energy efficiency and environmental sustainability
In a context where businesses in Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore, and the South Shore are striving to optimize energy costs while complying with increasingly strict environmental standards, choosing the right heating technology has become a strategic decision. At AirGreen, we’ve been supporting property managers, and owners of commercial and industrial buildings for years in their transition toward more efficient and environmentally responsible HVAC solutions. Today, we’re focusing on a groundbreaking refrigerant that’s transforming industry standards: R-32.
Why is the choice of refrigerant in a commercial heating system so important?
The refrigerant plays a key role in heat transfer within an HVAC system. Its performance directly impacts the unit’s energy efficiency, lifespan, environmental impact, and even its eligibility for government grants. Long dominated by R-410A, the market is now shifting toward greener alternatives, with R-32 emerging as a major contender.
R-32: a significant breakthrough in heating systems
R-32, now used in more and more wall-mounted, central, and commercial heat pumps, offers several technical and environmental advantages that make it extremely attractive for commercial use.
Better energy efficiency
Compared to R-410A, R-32 achieves a higher coefficient of performance (COP), translating into a significant reduction in electricity consumption. In a recent project in a commercial building in Longueuil, we replaced an outdated R-22 system with a 36,000 BTU Fujitsu KZAH central heat pump using R-32. The result: a 27% drop in annual energy bills, with no compromise on thermal comfort.
Reduced environmental impact
The global warming potential (GWP) of R-32 is 675, about three times lower than R-410A. For businesses committed to reducing their carbon footprint or certified under BOMA BEST, that’s a major advantage. We’ve seen strong interest from building managers in Montreal for systems running on R-32, especially in projects aiming for LEED certification.
Grant-eligible technology
In Quebec, several programs support the adoption of green technologies in the commercial sector. These include Hydro-Québec’s LogisVert program, as well as municipal incentives offered in Laval and Longueuil. Many R-32 systems qualify for these programs. During an installation of a multi-zone Bosch BIVA IDS Premium R-454B system in a medical clinic on the North Shore, our client received over $5,000 in grants, thanks to careful planning and our help with the application process.
Case study: office building retrofit in Montreal
One real-world example clearly shows the benefits of commercial heating with R-32. In January, we were brought in to modernize the HVAC system of a four-story building in Rosemont–La Petite-Patrie. The previous setup, with aging R-410A heat pumps, could no longer meet the building’s needs. We proposed a solution consisting of four 60,000 BTU GOODMAN R-32 units, integrated into a centralized system with zoned management.
Challenges encountered:
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Uneven airflow between floors.
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Significant energy loss due to outdated insulation.
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Integration difficulties with the existing infrastructure.
AirGreen’s solutions:
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Installation of a redesigned ductwork system with rigid ducts and improved insulation.
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Smart thermostat programming with zoned temperature control.
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Coordination with other trades to complete the installation in just 12 days, without disrupting tenant operations.
Result:
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Consistent thermal comfort on every floor.
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More than 30% savings on heating costs.
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Increased property value for resale or future leasing.
Practical advice before adopting an R-32 heating solution
1. Analyze your building’s actual needs
A full thermal analysis is essential before starting any project. At AirGreen, we conduct precise load calculations based on surface area, building orientation, occupancy, and insulation. This ensures the system is perfectly suited — neither oversized nor undersized.
2. Consider long-term savings
You have to look beyond just the initial cost. Seasonal efficiency, available grants, and preventive maintenance should all be part of the equation. Our experts always provide a detailed cost-benefit comparison over the short, medium, and long term.
3. Choose a certified and experienced installer
While R-32 offers excellent performance, it does require specific expertise. Our technicians are fully trained and certified to work with next-generation refrigerants, ensuring a safe, code-compliant installation.
Why trust AirGreen with your commercial heating projects?
At AirGreen, we don’t just sell equipment. We offer tailored solutions based on years of HVAC experience, projects completed across Greater Montreal, and full-service support — from initial study to post-installation service.
Our commitment:
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Always offer the most advanced technologies available, such as R-32 and R-454B.
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Fast, clean, professional service, even in complex environments (clinics, sports centers, commercial spaces).
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Complete transparency on pricing, grant options, and warranties.