An invisible yet powerful energy shift: why new wall-mounted air conditioners are game changers
In the residential and commercial HVAC sector, technological advancements are no longer just marketing promises. They now translate into measurable performance that has a direct impact on electricity bills, thermal comfort, and environmental footprint. At AirGreen, we’ve seen this evolution first-hand, particularly through our many wall-mounted air conditioner installations in the Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, North Shore, and South Shore regions.
This article dives deep into the differences between old wall-mounted air conditioners and today’s high-efficiency models, through a factual and data-backed comparison. Our goal is simple: to help you clearly understand the gains you can achieve by replacing an old unit with a more efficient new one.
A measurable energy difference: up to 30% in savings
The evolution of SEER and HSPF: key performance indicators
The performance of air conditioners is mainly measured by two key indicators:
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SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) for cooling mode.
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HSPF (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor) for heating mode (in the case of wall-mounted heat pumps).
An old wall-mounted air conditioner installed between 2005 and 2010 generally had a SEER between 10 and 13. In comparison, recent models from brands like Fujitsu, Gree, Sharp or Tosot installed by AirGreen now reach SEER ratings of 20 to 25, which is almost double the energy efficiency.
Let’s take a real example:
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Old unit (SEER 12): consumes about 1,000 kWh to cool a typical home during summer.
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New model (SEER 22): for the same cooling, it uses about 545 kWh.
👉 Result: savings of around 455 kWh, which translates into up to 30–40% less energy, while maintaining the same indoor temperature.
Case Study: Replacement in Saint-Hubert (South Shore)
In 2024, we replaced an old 12,000 BTU Panasonic wall-mounted AC (SEER 13) installed in 2008 with a 12,000 BTU Fujitsu KZAH R-32 (SEER 24, HSPF 12.5) in a home in Saint-Hubert. The outcome:
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Annual summer energy usage dropped by 480 kWh.
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Notable improvement in airflow distribution thanks to a more powerful fan.
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Received $1,340 LogisVert grant.
R-32 and other new refrigerants: more efficient, less polluting
Lower environmental impact
Older refrigerants like R-410A have a Global Warming Potential (GWP) of 2088. Newer models often use R-32, with a GWP of just 675. This means:
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Less environmental impact in case of leaks.
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Less refrigerant volume required for the same capacity.
At AirGreen, we’ve adopted these technologies as soon as they became available in the Quebec market. Almost all our latest models use R-32 or R-454B, such as the Bosch BIVA IDS Premium or various models from Fujitsu and Gree.
Built-in smart technologies: optimized efficiency and comfort
Inverter compressors: real-time adjustments
Unlike old fixed-speed compressors, today’s Inverter compressors adjust their output continuously based on thermal needs. This allows for:
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Fewer on/off cycles → less energy consumed.
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More stable temperatures → greater comfort.
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Longer compressor lifespan.
Smart connectivity
New wall-mounted air conditioners are often compatible with:
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Wi-Fi control via mobile app.
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Advanced scheduling options.
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Voice control via Alexa or Google Home.
By replacing a 10-year-old unit, our clients gain access to a new level of comfort customization and control at home.
Available subsidies and financial incentives
Hydro-Québec’s LogisVert Program
New wall-mounted air conditioners installed by AirGreen are often eligible for LogisVert grants, offering up to:
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$1,704 for an 18,000 BTU unit.
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$1,860 for a 24,000 BTU model.
These incentives make energy transitions not only profitable in the long run but also affordable in the short term. We assist our clients at every step: grant applications, documentation, performance verification.
Installed by certified professionals: the key to long-lasting performance
Case Study: Laval – Gree Extreme 18,000 BTU
In January 2025, we installed an 18,000 BTU Gree Extreme in a single-story home in Laval, replacing an old Daikin from 2007. The client was looking for:
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Better heating performance.
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Quieter operation.
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Access to the LogisVert grant.
Outcome:
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Installation time: 1 full day, with optimized ductwork.
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Results after 2 months: Hydro-Québec bill reduced by 28%, noise cut in half, better comfort during January-February.
Should you replace an old unit?
When to consider replacement
Here are some signs your old wall-mounted air conditioner may need replacing:
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SEER under 14.
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Uses R-22 or R-410A with no current compatibility.
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Frequent malfunctions or strange noises.
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Noticeably high electricity consumption.
AirGreen tips
Before any replacement, we carry out:
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A full analysis of thermal needs.
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A free assessment of your current unit’s condition.
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A simulation of estimated energy savings.
Our mission is simple: to offer you a tailored, efficient, and long-lasting wall-mounted air conditioner, without unnecessary oversizing.
Why choose AirGreen?
We are not just installers. At AirGreen, we are recognized HVAC experts with:
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Field experience across Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, North Shore, and South Shore.
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Custom installations tailored to each building’s architecture.
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Deep knowledge of brands like Fujitsu, Gree, Sharp, Bosch, Tosot, Zephyr, and more.
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Grant applications always properly submitted and approved.
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A professional, responsive after-sales service.
Conclusion: don’t let an old air conditioner waste your money
An outdated wall-mounted air conditioner might still be running, but it often hides significant energy costs, lost comfort, and missed subsidy opportunities. With today’s high-efficiency models, you can save up to 30% annually, improve your indoor comfort, and shrink your environmental footprint.
AirGreen is here to support you every step of the way, from initial diagnosis to full replacement, offering reliable brands, high-quality installations, and personalized service.
Request your free quote today to see how a new wall-mounted air conditioner can transform your space… and your savings.