Choosing between a wall air conditioner and a window air conditioner might seem straightforward at first glance, but when living in Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, on the North Shore or South Shore, several local and technical factors need to be considered. The Quebec climate, the characteristics of your building, energy efficiency standards, and not to mention the available grants, all influence your choice of the best air conditioning system for your home.
At AirGreen, we help our clients make this crucial decision every day. Thanks to our hands-on experience with numerous wall air conditioner installations in both urban centers and suburban areas, we are well-positioned to provide you with precise guidance while considering the unique reality of your Montreal home.
The Wall Air Conditioner: A Durable, Aesthetic, and High-Performance Solution
The wall air conditioner, often confused with a heat pump, is now the preferred choice for most residential projects in Montreal and surrounding areas. This system stands out for:
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Significantly higher energy efficiency: Modern models like the Gree Lomo, Sharp ZU1, or Fujitsu KZAH offer high SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) ratings, which means better performance at lower energy costs.
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Exceptional acoustic comfort: Unlike window air conditioners, which are often noisy, wall units are discreet both inside and outside.
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Flexible installation: Whether you live in a condo in the Plateau, a century-old house in Outremont, or a duplex in Longueuil, wall air conditioners adapt to almost all building configurations.
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Access to substantial grants: With programs like Hydro-Québec's LogisVert, many wall units qualify for financial assistance, which can amount to $2,172 depending on the model and BTU size installed.
Real-Life Example: Installation in Rosemère on the North Shore
Recently, our team installed a Gree Extrême 18,000 BTU wall air conditioner in a single-family home in Rosemère, a region often characterized by dense vegetation and multi-story homes. The challenge: maintaining aesthetic appeal on the exterior while ensuring adequate cooling power for the entire ground floor and upper level. The result: a discreet installation, total customer satisfaction, and a successful LogisVert grant application.
The Window Air Conditioner: A Temporary Solution, More Affordable but More Constrained
Still popular in certain parts of Montreal—particularly in rental apartments on the Plateau or in Hochelaga—the window air conditioner remains a compromise choice for those looking for a budget-friendly short-term solution. Here are its main characteristics:
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Simple installation, no technician required: Just a power outlet and a sliding window are enough. However, energy efficiency is limited.
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No available grants: Unlike wall units, window air conditioners are not eligible for financial assistance programs.
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Loss of light and insulation: The unit partially blocks natural light and reduces the thermal efficiency of the window during hot periods.
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Significant noise: The motors built into the structure often generate noticeable noise levels.
Testimonial from a Client in Verdun
A client contacted us after using a 8,000 BTU window air conditioner for three summers in their second-floor apartment in Verdun. While it did provide localized cooling, the constant noise and inability to cool more than one room convinced them to switch to a 12,000 BTU wall heat pump. After our installation, they noted even thermal comfort, a 50% reduction in energy consumption, and increased property value.
Key Factors to Consider Before Making Your Choice
Before opting for either system, we recommend evaluating:
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Your home’s configuration: Square footage, number of floors, orientation, insulation.
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Your heating and cooling needs: Some wall units also function as auxiliary heaters.
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Your overall budget, including long-term energy savings and available grants.
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Your status as a homeowner or tenant: Long-term investments like wall heat pumps are more advantageous for homeowners.
Grants and Long-Term Savings: A Decisive Argument
It’s important to note that wall air conditioners are now supported by several financial incentives offered by Hydro-Québec and the provincial government. At AirGreen, we assist our clients in all administrative steps to maximize the available aids.
In 2024 and 2025, several models we installed—like the Fujitsu KZAH 15,000 BTU or the Gree Extrême 18,000 BTU—make customers eligible for grants ranging from $1,704 to $2,172, depending on the zone and configuration of the home.
Why Choose AirGreen for Your Wall Air Conditioner Installation?
Our strength lies in our on-the-ground expertise. Every installation is customized, optimized, and executed according to the highest standards of the HVAC industry. Whether you are in Montreal, Laval, on the South Shore, or the North Shore, we offer:
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A comprehensive thermal assessment before every project.
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Carefully executed installations, with no compromises on aesthetics or performance.
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Complete technical and administrative support for your grants.
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Trusted brands, selected based on your energy profile and specific needs.
Conclusion: Our Recommendation for Montreal Homes
For the vast majority of residences in the Montreal region, the wall air conditioner is the best option. It combines performance, durability, aesthetics, acoustic comfort, and return on investment through grants. The window air conditioner can be a stopgap, but it remains a temporary solution.
At AirGreen, we are confident that choosing the right HVAC system is a smart investment for your daily comfort. Don’t hesitate to contact us for a free evaluation and personalized advice, whether you are in Laval, Brossard, Repentigny, or right in the heart of Plateau-Mont-Royal.