An installation designed for the alleys of Montreal: performance, silence and easy maintenance
In Rosemont–La Petite-Patrie , the brick backyards and green alleyways impose their own HVAC installation logic. Today, we are installing a CANAIR wall-mounted heat pump (residential range, single zone), configured to ensure four-season comfort in a typical neighborhood plex. The goal is clear: to provide economical heating in spring and fall, stable air conditioning in summer, and reliability that can survive Montreal winters.
Customer context and selection criteria
The owner wanted:
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Reduce your energy bill in mid-season and limit the use of electric baseboard heaters.
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Keep the yard clear and make winter maintenance easier.
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Minimize noise for the immediate neighborhood specific to narrow alleys.
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Maintaining the aesthetics of a newly painted brick facade.
Our recommendation is a CANAIR single-zone wall-mounted heat pump , ideal for a living area (living room/kitchen) or an entire open floor plan. Its heating operating range comfortably covers the mid-season, while its inverter control stabilizes indoor temperatures and noise levels.
Outdoor installation: raised, stable and protected
The outdoor unit is placed on a raised steel base fixed to solid slabs, in order to:
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clear the device above snow and runoff water,
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prevent dust from being picked up when starting up,
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improve frost evacuation during winter defrosting,
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facilitate periodic cleaning of the base.
We maintain generous frontal clearances for intake and exhaust ventilation, essential in a courtyard corner. The brick side walls require special attention: we maintain a useful distance on each side and direct the airflow to prevent recirculation. Anti-vibration pads under the structure limit the transmission of vibrations into the masonry.
Refrigeration and electrical path: clean, short and insulated
The refrigerant connections route remains concise: exit on the right side of the unit, sheltered passage under the gallery, then penetration into the brick via a single hole with vapor barrier and sheath . The lines are continuously insulated , protected by discreet capping and fixed at regular intervals to prevent any sagging. Estimated total length: 4 to 6 meters depending on the position of the wall head inside, which limits pressure losses and optimizes seasonal efficiency .
The power wiring follows the same sheltered route and reaches the disconnect switch located in an accessible area but not exposed to the weather. The assembly is marked to facilitate HVAC maintenance visits.
Condensate management: simplicity and reliability
To reduce maintenance, we prefer a gravity drain from the interior head when the configuration allows it. Outside, the drain is clear of snow and away from traffic areas. If a pump is necessary (interior configuration constrained), we install it with an overflow alarm and maintenance access .
Installation details that make the difference
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Torque tightening and nitrogen leak test before deep vacuum.
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Compliant vacuum draw , followed by stabilization and weighing of the fluid (if additional charge required depending on the length).
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Calibration of fan curves for silence/flow balance, crucial in alleys.
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Functional tests in hot and cold conditions, with temperature and intensity recording.
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Finish : fireproof fillings and aesthetic covers, without visual overload on the brick.
Why choose a CANAIR wall-mounted heat pump for a Rosemont plex?
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Compactness : the indoor unit fits high on the wall, near a corridor or open area, without duct work.
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Fine regulation : the inverter continuously adjusts the power, reducing cycles, noise and consumption.
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Accessible maintenance : washable filter, direct access to the external coil for annual cleaning .
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Suitable for alleys : directed blowing and raised structure to take into account snow , leaves and restricted space.
Result: stable comfort and controlled bill
Upon commissioning, the temperature quickly stabilizes in the service area. In summer, air conditioning lowers humidity and prevents overheating in southwest-facing rooms. In mid-season, the heating mode covers the majority of needs, which reduces the use of baseboard heaters . Over a typical year, a plex household can save significantly on its electricity bill by transferring a portion of its heating to the heat pump.
Best practices for Montreal alleys
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Clearances : Aim for 12–18 in. on the sides and 60 in. in front of the unit to ensure flow.
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Raising : Maintain 30–45 cm above finished level for snowy winters.
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De-icing : Maintain a drainage path for defrost water.
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Maintenance : Gently rinse the condenser in spring; clean the internal filters every 2–3 months of use.
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Protection : Avoid enclosed shelters; a snow guard or deflector may be considered if a roof drips directly above.
Grants and Compliance
Depending on the seasonal performance of the chosen configuration and the address, the project may be eligible for certain assistance programs. The criteria generally relate to air conditioning efficiency and low-temperature heating performance. We assist the client in documenting the installation (technical sheet, detailed invoice, photos) and in optimizing the file with the relevant programs in Greater Montreal (Montreal, Laval , Longueuil , North Shore , South Shore ).
HVAC Maintenance: The AirGreen Plan
Annual maintenance extends lifespan and maintains performance:
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checking the blowing pressures and temperatures,
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coil check and cleaning if necessary,
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inspection of line insulation and fixings ,
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test the drain and pump if present,
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Updated service log for warranty.
Pitfalls to avoid
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Enclose the device in a box without ventilation: this causes recirculation of hot air and a loss of efficiency.
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Supporting a structure on a weakened brick: prefer an independent structure or suitable anchors.
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Multiple tight bends and excessive lengths: this reduces usable capacity; keep runs short and sweet .
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Flat drain : constant minimum slope and frost-protected outlet.
What the customer gains
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Immediate and measurable comfort .
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Easy to maintain equipment, installed cleanly.
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Controlled noise to preserve the tranquility of the alley.
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A local HVAC partner who knows the realities of Montreal plexes .