Smart HVAC solutions by AirGreen for optimal summer comfort in heritage homes on the South Shore
In older apartments across Longueuil—often poorly insulated and built before modern energy efficiency standards—keeping cool in the summer can be a real challenge. At AirGreen, we took on this challenge by strategically installing energy-efficient wall-mounted air conditioners, combined with targeted interior insulation improvements.
The Context: A Typical Heritage Apartment in Old Longueuil
This intervention took place in a second-floor 4 ½ apartment within a century-old triplex in Longueuil, on the South Shore of Montréal. The tenant, who had been living there for over a decade, experienced intense heat waves each summer, especially in the afternoons due to a south-facing orientation and poorly insulated walls.
With a limited budget, a full thermal envelope upgrade wasn’t an option. The tenant needed a solution that was affordable, effective, and quick to install, without compromising the aesthetic of an apartment featuring original wood moldings.
AirGreen’s Assessment: Maximize Efficiency with a Strategically Placed Wall-Mounted Air Conditioner
Our technicians began with a full thermal analysis of the unit, evaluating heat loss and gain room by room.
The findings:
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Exterior brick walls with no internal insulation
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Single-pane windows in two rooms
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Significant heat buildup in the kitchen and living room by late afternoon
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A plaster ceiling that retained heat
Our recommendation: install a 12,000 BTU Gree Lomo wall-mounted air conditioner with Inverter technology, sized perfectly to cover the open-concept living room and kitchen space, while keeping energy consumption low.
Clean, Quick Installation Without Major Building Modifications
The installation was carefully planned to minimize visual impact and preserve the original architectural features. Key steps included:
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Wall-mounting the indoor unit above the living room doorway for even airflow
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Discreet brick wall drilling for condensate drainage and refrigerant line routing
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Dedicated electrical connection with a separate breaker in the main panel
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Use of a low-profile white cable cover that blended with the existing trim
The result: a clean, discreet HVAC installation completed in a single day, with no major alterations.
Boosting Insulation Without Major Renovations
To maximize the impact of the wall-mounted air conditioner, we advised the client on several simple yet effective improvements:
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Weatherstripping on older windows
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Thermal blackout curtains for sun-exposed rooms
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Rigid foam insulation panels (R-5) behind furniture against exterior walls
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Use of a reversible ceiling fan to circulate cool air
These minor changes, combined with a modern HVAC unit, led to an indoor temperature drop of 6 to 8°C on heatwave days, with average consumption below 500 watts.
Performance, Comfort, and Budget Under Control
The tenant immediately noticed a remarkable improvement in comfort, with significantly lower humidity and even air distribution throughout the space.
Total cost of the intervention, including the wall-mounted air conditioner, materials, labor, and insulation advice: under $3,000—a modest investment for long-lasting comfort.
Financial Incentives Available in Longueuil
This Gree Inverter wall-mounted air conditioner qualifies for Hydro-Québec’s LogisVert program, allowing the client to receive a $1,174 grant, significantly reducing the net cost of the project.
We guided the client through the entire process: gathering documentation, before/after photos, and submitting the application to Hydro-Québec.
Why AirGreen is Your Best HVAC Partner on the South Shore
This project highlights our unique expertise in HVAC installations for heritage and older homes. Instead of offering generic solutions, we analyze each context, tailor the unit’s power needs, and optimize energy performance for every installation.
At AirGreen, we serve Longueuil, Montréal, Laval, the South Shore and the North Shore with a dedicated team known for precision, thoroughness, and attention to detail.
We offer:
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Personalized technical evaluations
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Energy-saving advice adapted to older buildings
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Clean, safe, certified installations
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Full support for grant eligibility and applications
Tips for Owners of Older Apartments
Own or live in an older apartment in Longueuil or elsewhere on the South Shore? Here are a few tips to get the most out of your wall-mounted air conditioner:
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Clean the filters every 2 months
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Keep curtains closed during the day to reduce solar gain
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Avoid blocking the indoor unit with furniture
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Use a smart thermostat to schedule operation cycles
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Have your system inspected annually by HVAC experts
Conclusion: Refreshing Comfort Is Possible—Even Within Old Walls
This project proves that you can absolutely enjoy optimal summer comfort in an old apartment, without spending a fortune or undertaking major renovations.
With a well-planned HVAC installation, targeted insulation upgrades, and professional support, AirGreen transforms overheated living spaces into cool, comfortable, and healthy environments.
Contact us today to schedule a home evaluation and explore our cost-effective solutions for cooling your home in Longueuil, Laval, Montréal, or across the South and North Shores.