Four-season comfort in a heritage complex in the Plateau: how we installed a Fujitsu wall-mounted headboard above a passageway, integrated into a molded decor, for a uniform, discreet and energy-efficient breeze.
A typical Montreal interior, high expectations
On one floor of a plex in Plateau-Mont-Royal , the living room connects directly to the kitchen through a large molded opening. The owners wanted an HVAC solution capable of heating in the off-season and cooling efficiently in the summer, without altering the original woodwork or cluttering the space. We recommend a Fujitsu wall-mounted heat pump , Altair R-32 range , for its compactness, low noise level and performance in the Montreal climate.
Why the Fujitsu Altair R-32 range in this context
The Fujitsu Altair (R-32) wall lights are distinguished by:
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an inverter compressor capable of finely adjusting the power to maintain a stable setpoint;
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an R-32 fluid with reduced GWP compared to previous generations;
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high-performance defrosting electronics and maintenance of useful capacity when temperatures drop;
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an interior set with a sober design suitable for the heritage interiors of the Plateau .
Depending on the surface area and orientation, we generally size between 9,000 and 12,000 BTU for a plex living area with an open kitchen, taking care to cover the solar gains of the facade and the ceiling height.
Actual site constraints
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Installation high above a passage : the proximity of the lintel requires strict clearances to avoid air recirculation.
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Old woodwork and moldings : integration must preserve the aesthetics, without visible interior trunking.
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Side windows overlooking a typical Plateau backyard: opportunity for gravity drainage and a short route for connections.
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Exterior access via metal staircase: logistical planning for the installation of the condenser and securing the work.
Our step-by-step HVAC installation method
1) Positioning and clearances
We place the Fujitsu head centered on the passage lintel, with sufficient clearance below for opening the panel and tilting the filters. The blowing angle is adjusted to sweep the living room rather than directly impacting the kitchen area. This adjustment limits drafts in the opening and evens out the temperature.
2) Drilling and routing of connections
Behind the unit, a single controlled slope drilling allows the following to be extracted:
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pre-insulated refrigeration lines ;
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the communication cable ;
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the condensate pipe .
The exterior route is very short (approximately 2 to 4 m ), ideal for performances. The connections are protected by a discreet technical cover , matching the rear facade. Inside, no trunking is visible: the aesthetics of the moldings are preserved .
3) Condensate management
The installation height allows for gravity drainage to the exterior. We check the continuous slope, add a discreet inspection point and an anti-odor siphon if required, to prevent any air return and facilitate maintenance.
4) Power supply and protections
We connect the equipment to a dedicated circuit that complies with the Canadian Electrical Code , with a circuit breaker sized according to the outdoor compressor's rating plate. Connections are channeled, marked, and tested to ensure long-term safety and reliability .
5) Testing, sealing and commissioning
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Network nitrogen test ;
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Deep vacuum draw and hold test;
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Load and parameters validated according to Altair range specifications;
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Measurement of delta-T in cooling and heating, adjustment of the shutters to optimize diffusion in the living room.
Result: consistent comfort, aesthetics respected
The air distribution covers the living area without creating flow on the occupants or on the dining table. The noise level is low , the unit blends into the decor. Access to the filters is preserved despite the high installation, which facilitates seasonal HVAC maintenance .
Sizing: benchmarks for a Plateau plex
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9,000 BTU : compact living room, small open kitchen, north/east orientation.
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12,000 BTU : average living room, open kitchen and south/west exposure, single glazing on the courtyard side.
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18,000 BTU : large floors with double living room or deep connecting rooms.
These benchmarks remain indicative: we integrate solar gains , insulation , infiltration , ceiling height and occupancy habits .
Good usage practices
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Stabilize the setpoint : variations of ±1 to 2°C are sufficient for comfort.
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In summer, tilt the shutters slightly upwards for natural stratification; in mid-season, blow horizontally to sweep the area.
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Leave the doors between rooms half-open to encourage transfers.
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Clean filters every 4 to 8 weeks depending on urban dust.
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In winter, do not obstruct the condenser (snow, objects) and maintain adequate clearance .
HVAC Maintenance: Our Protocol
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Disassembly and cleaning of filters, inspection of the exchanger.
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Check the gravity drain and rinse the inspection point.
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Checking the condenser supports , defrost drain and fins.
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Operating readings: intensity, supply/return temperature, perceived static pressure.
Annual maintenance maintains seasonal performance and extends lifespan.
Grants and eligibility in Greater Montreal
High-efficiency R-32 wall-mounted heat pumps are often eligible for assistance programs . Eligibility depends on the exact model , low-temperature operating range , and certifications (e.g., ENERGY STAR where applicable). We prepare the complete file and support our customers in Montreal , Laval , Longueuil , the North Shore , and the South Shore to maximize the amounts.
Technical points to remember for installation above a passageway
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Respect upper and front clearances to avoid recirculation.
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Precise adjustment of the fins to avoid a direct jet into the corridor.
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Short connection paths = lower losses and better responsiveness.
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Gravity drain preferred to reduce noise and maintenance (no pump).
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Invisible interior integration: no visible capping, preserved woodwork.
Why AirGreen for this type of project?
We understand the realities of Montreal's building industry : moldings, remodeled walls, access via exterior stairs, brick facades, and co-ownership constraints. Our approach integrates performance , silence , aesthetics , and service . Each installation is calibrated to last, with particular attention to HVAC maintenance and ease of access to components.
Internal keywords : heat pump , wall-mounted air conditioner , HVAC installation , HVAC maintenance , Montreal , Laval , Longueuil , North Shore , South Shore .