Choosing a commercial air conditioner is a strategic investment. Yet behind the promises of so-called “economical” models lie compromises that few companies dare to discuss. At AirGreen, we’ve installed, repaired, and replaced commercial air conditioners across Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore, and the South Shore, and what we’ve observed may very well make you reconsider your choice.
So-called “economical” air conditioners: short-term savings, long-term costs
On the market, many commercial air conditioners are marketed as “economical.” This often means a low upfront price, but rarely long-term value. These models often sacrifice:
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Material quality
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Actual energy performance
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Long-term durability
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Eligibility for government rebates in Quebec
We’ve often been called to intervene in offices, retail stores, restaurants, or warehouses where a cheap air conditioner was installed just a few years earlier — and many of these systems had already lost performance or had completely broken down.
Case study: A forced replacement in Laval
A striking example: an SME located in an industrial park in Laval chose a so-called “economical” solution from an unknown brand, offered at a discounted rate by a competitor. By the third year, the system was showing signs of failure: abnormal noise, rising electricity costs, loss of cooling capacity. The manufacturer, based overseas, offered no local support.
Our team of HVAC experts performed a full system replacement with a Bosch BOVA commercial heat pump, a much more robust system eligible for Hydro-Québec rebates. The result: an immediate 28% drop in summer electricity bills and superior cooling performance across all critical zones of the building.
Why these “economical” commercial air conditioners fail
Low-cost models can be tempting for building managers focused on upfront budgets. However, they often come with significant technical flaws:
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Low-grade compressors, leading to premature failure
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Generic electronic boards, highly sensitive to voltage fluctuations and temperature changes
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Undersized or oversized BTU capacity, causing the unit to overwork
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Lack of recognized energy certifications, like SEER or HSPF required in Quebec
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No compatibility with smart control systems like programmable thermostats
The hidden costs of poor-quality commercial systems
At first glance, a commercial unit priced 25% cheaper may seem like a great deal. But based on what we’ve seen on the ground, here’s what typically happens:
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Maintenance costs increase as early as the second year
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Frequent breakdowns, leading to expensive repairs
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Poor energy efficiency, resulting in higher utility bills
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Average lifespan of 5 to 7 years, compared to 12 to 15 years for quality systems
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Ineligibility for government programs like LogisVert or Rénoclimat
We’ve even discovered that some supposedly “economical” models do not meet Quebec’s minimum energy performance standards, which can pose problems during inspections or when applying for grants.
What we recommend at AirGreen
We don’t sell cut-rate systems. At AirGreen, we prioritize:
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Reputable brands like Bosch, Lennox, Fujitsu, Mitsubishi, Trane, and Gree
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Systems tested and validated for Quebec’s climate
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Tailored solutions based on building type and actual energy use
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Equipment eligible for government rebates for commercial buildings
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Professional HVAC installation by our certified technicians
Real field projects: Montréal, Longueuil, South Shore
In Longueuil, we recently equipped a medical clinic with a Fujitsu Airstage V-II system featuring zoned distribution. The previous cheap system couldn’t regulate temperatures independently in different rooms. Today, each exam room benefits from optimal thermal comfort, while maintaining controlled energy use.
In Montréal, a neighborhood café in Rosemont was using a budget commercial air conditioner that overheated during heatwaves. We installed a Bosch BOVA 36,000 BTU system, quiet, efficient, and connected to a mobile app for remote management. The owner noticed a major difference within weeks.
How to avoid traps when choosing a commercial air conditioner
Here are the top mistakes to avoid when selecting your HVAC system:
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Choosing solely based on purchase price
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Ignoring energy performance ratings
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Overlooking the BTU capacity vs. square footage match
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Selecting a brand without a local presence in Quebec
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Installing without conducting a proper thermal assessment
The importance of post-installation maintenance
Even the best commercial air conditioners need regular HVAC maintenance. At AirGreen, we offer preventive maintenance contracts that include:
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Cleaning of heat exchangers
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Pressure and refrigerant checks
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Inspection of electronic controls
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Thermostat calibration
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Detailed reporting for the building manager
This extends system lifespan, prevents unexpected failures, and maintains stable energy use over time.
Why trust AirGreen for your commercial system
We’re much more than installers. We are your long-term HVAC partner, offering:
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Local expertise in commercial buildings of all sizes
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Rapid interventions across the North Shore, South Shore, Laval, and Montréal
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Independent technical advice, free of sales pressure
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Deep knowledge of government programs and grants
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Integrated solutions: air conditioning, ventilation, heat pumps, multizone systems
Conclusion: save smart, not cheap
Real savings don’t come from a “cheap” air conditioner but from a high-performance, durable, and properly installed system. At AirGreen, we believe smart investments begin with an honest evaluation of your real needs and are delivered through precise installation and professional follow-up.
Looking for a reliable commercial air conditioner for your building in Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore, or the South Shore? Contact us today for a free, no-obligation assessment.