A GREE ducted unit custom-prepared for discreet air distribution in a renovated residence
In LaSalle, in the Montreal borough, AirGreen completed a specialized HVAC installation around a GREE ducted system, also called ducted conduit, slim duct, or ductable. This project stood out due to a particularly important preparation step: the indoor unit was assembled and configured on site with a custom metal plenum and several circular outlets intended to supply different zones of the residence.
The construction photo shows a key moment before the final integration into the structure. The unit is placed on the floor on cardboard protection, surrounded by tools, packaging materials, and finishing elements still open. This scene accurately reflects the reality of a successful ducted project: before the system disappears into a ceiling, false ceiling, or technical area, the air distribution, connections, clearances, sealing, and future access must be precisely prepared.
Unlike a wall-mounted heat pump visible in the room, a ducted system is designed to work in the background. Once the work is finished, occupants mainly see the air vents, while the unit, ducts, and connections remain hidden. This approach is perfect for clients who want effective comfort without altering the interior aesthetics of their home.
In this project in LaSalle, the goal was to create an integrated heating and cooling solution capable of distributing air to several rooms from a well-positioned GREE indoor unit. For AirGreen, this type of installation requires expertise that goes far beyond simply connecting a device: a complete system must be designed.
Why a GREE ducted system was suitable for this project in LaSalle
LaSalle has many residences where homeowners progressively renovate their interior space: opening walls, modernizing bathrooms, finishing basements, adding false ceilings, improving insulation, or transforming existing rooms. These projects often create an ideal opportunity to integrate a GREE ducted heat pump.
The main advantage of ducted systems is their discretion. Instead of installing a wall unit in each area, the system distributes air through ducts and grilles. This solution is especially appreciated when the client wants to keep walls clear, avoid a visible device in a living room, or ensure more uniform comfort across multiple spaces.
The GREE ducted range offered by AirGreen includes several options, such as the FM low static pressure ducted systems, the high static pressure configurations, and the All Match Slim Duct R32 series. Available capacities may include models of 9,000 BTU, 12,000 BTU, 18,000 BTU, 21,000 BTU, 24,000 BTU, 30,000 BTU, and 36,000 BTU, depending on the chosen combination, building needs, and duct network configuration.
In this LaSalle residence, the choice of a GREE ducted system met several priorities:
- achieve a more discreet air distribution;
- reduce the visual impact of the HVAC equipment;
- supply multiple outlets from the same indoor unit;
- take advantage of a solution compatible with ongoing renovation;
- prepare a clean and well-sealed duct network;
- maintain a professional approach for future maintenance.
An essential floor preparation before final integration
The image shows the GREE indoor unit before its final installation. This step is important because it allows our technicians to work precisely on the plenum and duct outlets before the device is placed in a more confined space.
A large metal distribution box mounted on the unit is clearly visible, with several round outlets positioned on top. These outlets allow for the connection of flexible or rigid ducts that will channel air to the targeted rooms. Each outlet must be aligned, fixed, sealed, and sized according to the expected airflow.
This preparation directly influences the system's performance. A poorly designed plenum can create pressure losses, air noise, temperature differences between rooms, or less efficient circulation. Conversely, a well-made plenum contributes to more stable distribution and quieter operation.
At AirGreen, we treat this phase as a central part of the HVAC installation. The ducted system is not just a machine: it is an air architecture. The unit must be compatible with the network, and the network must be coherent with the house.
The role of the plenum in a ducted installation
The plenum is a transition piece between the indoor unit and the ducts. It receives the air treated by the heat pump and distributes it to the different outlets. In a slim duct system, its design must be particularly careful, as the available space is often limited.
In this project in LaSalle, the metal plenum was adapted to allow several well-spaced outlets. This helps limit turbulence and better distribute the airflow. The connections must also be strong, because once the unit is installed in a ceiling or enclosed area, corrections become more difficult.
A good plenum must meet several criteria:
- offer a smooth transition between the unit and the ducts;
- limit air losses;
- reduce vibrations;
- allow a clean connection of the ducts;
- adapt to the building structure;
- remain compatible with service access.
In a residence, these details are rarely visible once the work is completed. Yet, they often explain the difference between a system that simply works and a system that offers truly comfortable daily living.
Low pressure, high pressure, and airflow: a choice that should not be improvised
GREE ducted systems come in different static pressure configurations. This concept is essential. A low static pressure unit is better suited for short and simple networks. A high static pressure unit may be necessary when the ducts are longer, when there are multiple outlets, or when the resistance to airflow is higher.
In the case of this installation in LaSalle, the presence of several outlets on the plenum required serious consideration of the airflow. Each outlet must receive a sufficient amount of air, but without creating excessive noise. It is therefore necessary to take into account the length of the ducts, the bends, the diameter of the outlets, the position of the grilles, and the final balancing.
A ducted system is never chosen solely based on BTU capacity. Two devices with the same capacity can yield very different results if the static pressure, ducts, and grilles are not suitable. That is why AirGreen conducts a complete analysis before confirming the solution.
R32 and energy efficiency: a modern solution for residential projects
The GREE All Match Slim Duct R32 series is part of a new generation of HVAC equipment aimed at better efficiency and more flexible integration. The refrigerant R32 is used in several recent models and allows for good performance in compact and well-designed systems.
Depending on the models, some GREE ducted heat pumps can offer heating performance suitable for Quebec winters, with possible operation at very low temperatures, down to about -30 °C for certain configurations. For clients in Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore, and the South Shore, this point is important because a heat pump must be evaluated for both heating and cooling.
Eligibility for subsidies always depends on the exact model, the indoor-outdoor combination, energy certifications, AHRI data, and the criteria in effect at the time of installation. AirGreen supports its clients in validating this information before purchase, so the decision is based on concrete data and not assumptions.
An HVAC installation that combines on-site workshop, technical precision, and architectural integration
Working in a residence under renovation: coordination and protection of the construction site
The photo also illustrates an important reality: the installation took place in a renovation environment. You can see wall openings, cordless tools, protective materials, packaging, and a passage area to a bathroom. In this context, our teams must work methodically to avoid damaging surfaces, keep rooms accessible when possible, and coordinate the HVAC installation with other stages of the construction site.
A HVAC installation in a renovation residence requires good organization. The unit sometimes needs to be prepared before the ceiling is closed. The ducts must be installed before certain finishes. The drain must be planned before access disappears. Refrigerant and electrical connections must be coordinated with existing constraints.
In LaSalle, this coordination allowed the system to be integrated logically, while keeping a clear vision of the final result: discreet comfort, well-positioned grilles, and a hidden but accessible unit.
Sealing connections: a detail that influences overall performance
In a ducted installation, airtightness is essential. The air treated by the unit must go to the rooms, not into walls, ceilings, or unused cavities. Every connection between the unit, the plenum, and the ducts must therefore be properly fixed and sealed.
In this project, the metal plenum was prepared to receive several ducts. The joints, screws, transitions, and contact surfaces were carefully treated. This work may seem technical, but it has very concrete consequences: less loss, better available pressure, more stable operation, and more uniform comfort.
Homeowners often compare heat pump models by brand, BTU, or price. These factors matter, but the quality of the installation matters just as much. An excellent device poorly connected can disappoint. A well-chosen and well-installed system can transform home comfort.
The importance of air return
For a GREE ducted system to work properly, it is not enough to blow air into the rooms. The air must also be allowed to return to the unit. The air return must be sized and positioned to avoid restrictions.
Insufficient air return can cause:
- reduced airflow;
- higher noise;
- less stable performance;
- less efficient cycles;
- discomfort in certain rooms;
- increased wear of certain components.
During our installations in LaSalle, Montreal, Longueuil, Laval, on the North Shore and the South Shore, we place great importance on this part of the system. The air return is sometimes less visible than the supply vents, but it is just as important.
Condensate drainage and finish protection
In cooling mode, a heat pump produces condensation. In a ducted installation, drainage must be designed with particular care, especially when the unit is intended to be hidden in a ceiling or technical space.
The drain must be well sloped, well connected, and accessible for inspection. When the configuration requires it, a condensate pump may be necessary. In a renovation project, future finishes must also be considered: once the walls are closed, poor drainage can cause costly damage.
At AirGreen, we plan for this part from the design stage. A discreet system should never become a hidden risk source.
Acoustics: comfort you can also hear
A well-installed ducted system should remain discreet to the ear. Noise can come from several sources: unit vibration, turbulence in the plenum, airspeed too high, poorly secured ducts, or poorly chosen grilles.
In this installation in LaSalle, preparing the plenum and duct outlets helped promote a more orderly distribution. The choice of layout, the quality of fittings, and network balancing help reduce unwanted noise. For occupants, this translates into more natural comfort, without harsh drafts or annoying vibrations.
Mistakes to avoid with a GREE ducted system
A ducted system can offer excellent comfort, but it requires serious installation. Here are the mistakes we always try to avoid:
Multiplying outlets without calculating airflow
Adding multiple outlets on a plenum is not enough. You must ensure that each outlet receives the correct airflow according to the room served.
Choosing the wrong static pressure level
A device poorly matched to the system can lack airflow or create too much noise. Static pressure must be validated before installation.
Forgetting maintenance access
The unit can be hidden, but it must remain accessible. Filters, the drain, connections, and internal components must be able to be inspected.
Neglecting duct insulation
Poorly insulated ducts can cause heat loss and condensation. This is especially important in ceilings, attics, or unconditioned areas.
Closing the walls too early
In a renovation project, connections, drainage, sealing, and operation must be confirmed before finalizing surfaces.
AirGreen’s expertise for GREE ducted installations
AirGreen is a GREE Elite dealer, with specialized expertise in ducted systems, duct networks, load calculations, static pressure, air balancing, and after-sales service. We work on residential, commercial, and multi-unit projects in Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, LaSalle, on the North Shore and the South Shore.
Our approach is based on a clear estimate, a design adapted to the building, and careful execution. We know that a client choosing a ducted system often wants more than a high-performance device: they want an integrated, discreet, durable, and well-thought-out solution.
We also pay great attention to communication. Before the work, we explain the available options, site constraints, elements that may influence the price, and important technical choices. During installation, our refrigeration technicians work rigorously to protect the site and ensure a professional finish. After installation, we remain available for HVAC maintenance, adjustments, and service.
A result designed for invisible comfort every day
This installation of a GREE All Match Slim Duct R32 ducted system in LaSalle perfectly illustrates the value of an integrated HVAC solution. The system is prepared with multiple duct branches, a suitable plenum, an air distribution logic, and special attention to invisible details that determine the final quality.
Once the finishing touches are completed, the client enjoys more uniform comfort, preserved aesthetics, and a system designed to operate quietly. This is what makes ducted solutions so relevant in well-planned renovation projects.
For AirGreen, this type of project perfectly represents our way of working: adapting technology to the building, respecting site constraints, and delivering a HVAC installation that combines performance, discretion, and reliability.