Chauffage d’un commerce de détail : 5 conseils pour garder vos clients au chaud sans exploser votre budget
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Heating a Retail Business: 5 Tips to Keep Your Customers Warm Without Blowing Your Budget

Smart Commercial HVAC Solutions for Controlled Winter Comfort

When temperatures drop in Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore, or the South Shore, commercial heating becomes a top priority for any retail business. Creating a warm, inviting environment for your customers—without driving up your energy bills—is a challenge we tackle every day at AirGreen. With our deep expertise in commercial heating and years of real-world installations, we’ve developed an efficient approach tailored to the realities of doing business in Québec.

Here are 5 practical tips, drawn directly from our experience, to heat your retail space smartly this winter—without sacrificing customer comfort or your bottom line.

Evaluate Your Current Heating System: Efficiency and Suitability

Before making any improvements, it’s essential to perform a comprehensive assessment of your current heating system. Too often, we step into businesses equipped with oversized or outdated HVAC systems that consume far too much energy without ensuring consistent thermal comfort.

At AirGreen, we always start with a free technical visit that includes:

  • A review of your actual heating needs based on the layout and square footage of your business

  • A diagnostic of your current system’s energy performance

  • Precise recommendations for improvements or necessary replacements

👉 Real example: In Laval, we upgraded a 1,200 sq. ft. clothing store’s outdated forced air system to a Goodman R-32 central heat pump with smart zone control. The result: a 38% reduction in heating costs after just one winter.

Choose an Energy-Efficient Central Heat Pump Designed for Commercial Spaces

One of the most effective solutions for retail spaces is the installation of a high-efficiency central heat pump. Modern models like the Bosch BIVA IDS Premium R-454B or the Goodman R-32 deliver reliable heating performance while keeping energy consumption low.

Why choose a heat pump for your business:

  • Fast, consistent heating, even in large open areas

  • Lower energy bills thanks to inverter technology

  • Eligibility for substantial government grants, such as Hydro-Québec’s LogisVert program

👉 AirGreen installation on the South Shore: In a Brossard hair salon, we installed a 36,000 BTU Bosch heat pump, providing even comfort all the way to the front windows. The client received a $2,470 grant and now saves $130 per month on energy costs.

Optimize Heat Distribution with Smart Zoning

For retail stores where foot traffic varies by area, even heat distribution is key. Many businesses waste energy by heating low-traffic zones just as intensely as high-traffic ones.

Our AirGreen zoning solutions include:

  • Motion sensors to adjust temperatures in real-time

  • Independent control for each room or section

  • Smart connected thermostats (remotely programmable)

👉 Installation in Montréal: In a bookstore in the Plateau area, we divided the space into three zones (entrance, shelves, and checkout) with variable air volume diffusers and a Fujitsu KZAH R-32 heat pump. The result: increased comfort and a 27% drop in energy costs.

Don’t Neglect HVAC Maintenance: A Key Factor for Performance

Regular HVAC maintenance is crucial to keep your systems running efficiently, avoid breakdowns during the peak of winter, and extend your equipment’s lifespan.

Our commercial maintenance services include:

  • Thorough coil and filter cleaning

  • Airflow verification, electrical checks, and duct inspections

  • System balancing to eliminate cold zones

We recommend scheduling at least two maintenance visits per year, especially before the cold season.

👉 Service call in Longueuil: During a preventive maintenance visit, we detected a minor leak in a heat exchanger. Thanks to a quick repair, the client avoided a breakdown in the middle of January.

Take Advantage of Available Grants and Cut Your Costs

One of the best ways to optimize your commercial heating system is to tap into energy grants available throughout Québec. These programs support the adoption of energy-efficient technologies and can cover up to 50% of your equipment and installation costs.

Grants available for commercial heating:

  • LogisVert by Hydro-Québec

  • Transition énergétique Québec (TEQ)

  • Municipal programs for retail businesses in Montréal, Laval, and Longueuil

👉 AirGreen makes it easy: We handle eligibility analysis, paperwork, and application submission. Our clients typically receive $1,800 to $4,000 depending on the type of installation.


AirGreen: Your Commercial Heating Partner in Québec

For over 10 years, we’ve supported retail businesses across Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore, and the South Shore in upgrading to reliable, efficient heating systems. Our approach stands out thanks to:

  • Full expertise in commercial HVAC systems

  • Certified and experienced installers

  • Tailored solutions for every type of retail space, from boutiques to large stores

  • Personalized assistance in securing energy rebates


Bonus Tips to Optimize Your Store’s Heating System

  • Install automatic door closers: Air curtains or door closers keep warm air inside.

  • Insulate storefront windows: Window film or thermal curtains can reduce heat loss by up to 15%.

  • Set heating schedules based on business hours: No need to heat at full capacity overnight or when closed.

  • Invest in a scalable HVAC system: Plan for the future—especially if you’re considering expanding your business.


Trust AirGreen to Heat Your Store Smartly

At AirGreen, we understand that every retail business is unique. That’s why we offer personalized, reliable, and long-lasting solutions that combine thermal comfort with cost control. Our many successful installations across the region reflect our commitment to delivering outstanding service to every client.

Own a retail store in Montréal or anywhere in Québec? Let us handle your heating project with the care and expertise it deserves. We understand your needs, budget, and energy-saving goals.

Contact us today for a free, no-obligation assessment of your commercial heating system.

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