Practical strategies to optimize commercial heating while reducing your energy costs
Winter in Québec, especially in Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore and the South Shore, places heavy demands on commercial heating systems. For businesses, building managers, or retail owners, the priority is clear: maintaining optimal thermal comfort without skyrocketing electricity bills. At AirGreen, we’ve helped numerous companies through real-life energy-efficient heating installation projects, and today, we’re sharing 8 proven and effective solutions to get through winter economically and sustainably.
1. Choose a high-efficiency central heat pump
Modern central heat pumps offer outstanding performance, especially models using next-generation refrigerants like R-32 or R-454B, found in units such as the Bosch BOVA BIVA-RM or Goodman R-32. These systems allow you to heat large areas efficiently while consuming less energy.
At AirGreen, we recently installed a Bosch BOVA 5 Ton unit in a warehouse in Laval, cutting heating bills by 38% compared to the previous oil-based system. Thanks to its variable-speed compressor, the unit adjusts its output in real time to match the building’s actual heating demand.
2. Use Inverter technology for continuous performance
Inverter equipment — found especially in FUJITSU KZAH R-32 heat pump models — allows the compressor to run continuously, reducing power spikes and overall consumption. These systems are ideal for businesses with long opening hours such as restaurants or supermarkets.
For instance, a retail shop in Longueuil saw its monthly expenses drop by more than $400 after replacing its old forced-air unit with a wall-mounted FUJITSU Inverter heat pump, installed by our team.
3. Divide the building into heating zones
Instead of heating an entire building uniformly, it’s often smarter to zone the space. This means using multiple wall-mounted units or mini VRF systems to heat only the occupied areas.
We recently installed a Gree GMV6 multi-zone VRF system in a medical center on the South Shore, allowing each office to control its own temperature. The results were impressive: personalized comfort and a 30% reduction in overall energy costs.
4. Integrate smart thermostats
A high-performance heating system is only as good as its temperature control. Smart thermostats like those from Ecobee or Honeywell T10 offer precise temperature management, with programmable schedules, occupancy sensors, and energy overuse alerts.
In Montréal, a gym operated by a local business reduced its costs by 18% simply by switching to a smart thermostat connected to the central heat pump installed by AirGreen the previous year.
5. Schedule a thorough HVAC maintenance before winter
An annual professional maintenance of your heating system is non-negotiable. Clogged filters, dirty coils, or miscalibrated compressors can increase heating costs by 10 to 25%.
Our technicians in Montréal and Laval perform comprehensive equipment cleanings every fall for our commercial clients. One of them, a 4-story hotel in Boisbriand, avoided a major breakdown thanks to a preventive maintenance visit that also boosted their central heat pump’s efficiency.
6. Take advantage of available grants
The LogisVert program from Hydro-Québec offers generous rebates for replacing oil or gas systems with energy-efficient electric solutions such as heat pumps.
A warehouse on the North Shore received over $7,000 in rebates after installing a Goodman R-32 system. Thanks to our tailored support, the company was able to submit all required documentation on time, making the grant process much smoother.
7. Replace outdated systems
Heating systems over 15 years old are often very energy-hungry. By replacing these units with next-generation models, you can save more than 40% within just a few months.
We recently replaced an old warm-air system in an industrial bakery in Longueuil with a GREE Versati IV 5 Ton central heat pump, which also provides domestic hot water. The result: a dramatic reduction in operating costs and significantly improved working comfort.
8. Insulate and seal the building properly
Even the best heating system will only perform if the building retains heat properly. That’s why it’s crucial to check insulation, weather stripping, windows, and ventilation ducts.
AirGreen partners with building envelope contractors to offer our clients a complete solution. In a recent project at a retail space in Saint-Bruno-de-Montarville, we combined the installation of a FUJITSU heat pump with a re-sealing of joints and caulking, which significantly enhanced the unit’s performance.
Why choose AirGreen for your commercial heating needs?
At AirGreen, we do more than just sell equipment. We offer a complete end-to-end service, from the initial thermal assessment to final commissioning, including equipment selection, grant application support, professional installation, and preventive maintenance.
Our certified technicians operate across Greater Montréal, including Laval, Longueuil, the South Shore and the North Shore, with deep knowledge of local weather conditions and the specific requirements of each commercial sector.
Conclusion: a smart investment for a stress-free winter
Lowering your heating bills this winter is not about luck or guesswork. It’s the result of informed technical decisions, high-performance equipment, and a reliable, experienced partner like AirGreen. The 8 solutions shared here come from our real-world experience, client feedback, and years of successful HVAC projects.
Looking to optimize your commercial heating this winter? Contact us today. Let’s work together to prepare your building for the cold — intelligently and energy-efficiently.