A project designed for four-season comfort, sound discretion and durability in an urban environment
Client context and objectives
In a typical brick plex in Montreal's inner city , the owners are looking for a stable, all-season heating and cooling solution that can operate efficiently even in the coldest weather, while preserving the aesthetics of the rear façade and the use of the patio door opening onto the courtyard. At AirGreen , we recommend a Gree Clivia R32 wall-mounted heat pump (recent R-32 range), known for its energy efficiency , reliability in cold weather and quiet operation —critical criteria in a dense neighborhood like Rosemont–La Petite-Patrie .
Why the Gree Clivia R32 for this type of home
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R-32 refrigerant : better efficiency potential and reduced environmental footprint compared to R-410A generations.
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Extreme cold operating range : stable heating performance when the temperature drops; ideal for Greater Montreal winters.
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Silence : outdoor unit and indoor head optimized to limit noise pollution in a shared courtyard.
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Grant compatibility : high-efficiency wall-mounted heat pumps are generally eligible for current Quebec programs; we support our clients in preparing the files.
Technical overview of the installation
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Machine type : wall-mounted heat pump (mini-split) , one indoor head.
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Exterior mounting : high-height galvanized wall brackets to free traffic in front of the patio door, secure defrost clearances and protect equipment from snow accumulations.
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Refrigeration connections : horizontal then vertical route in discreet black sheath/covering on the brick; high density insulation and butyl tape at the junctions.
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Power supply : service switch installed nearby, rigid black conduits ensuring clean routing, compliance with the conductor gauge and dedicated circuit breaker according to the Quebec Electrical Code .
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Vibration management : silent blocks under the compressor base + rubber washers at the brackets to cut structural transmissions to the masonry.
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Estimated lengths : refrigerant line assembly + communication cable of approximately 5 to 7 meters , sized to limit refrigeration pressure losses and guarantee the COP announced by the manufacturer.
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Wall penetration : masonry drilling with sheath , controlled slope, fire-resistant foam and UV seal for a continuous envelope.
Key steps and points of vigilance for AirGreen
1) Facade analysis and choice of clearances
We begin by mapping the required clearances around the condenser (rear, sides, front and bottom). On this project, the major constraint is the patio door : the unit is positioned above it , on reinforced brackets , in order to preserve the opening, circulation and daily ergonomics. This height also offers an acoustic advantage (dispersion of noise above the plane of the ears) and protects against snow accumulations .
Remember : in urban areas like Montreal , we avoid positions near reverberating corners and windows of neighboring rooms; the height and direction of the blowing reduce nuisances.
2) Structural fixing on brick
The brackets are anchored to the brick wall with calibrated mechanical anchors and spacers to ensure perfectly plumb support. We check for cracks, weak joints or detached areas. A laser level guarantees horizontality, essential for:
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correct lubrication of the compressor,
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defrosting evacuation ,
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and the longevity of the anti-vibration mounts .
3) Clean and sustainable refrigeration path
The black casing standardizes the path of the refrigeration copper pipes and the communication cable , protects the insulation from UV rays and prevents thermal bridges . The bending radii are respected to prevent any shrinkage (risk of pressure loss). At the crossings, we apply mastic and membranes for exemplary air and water tightness .
4) Electricity and compliance
The disconnect box is placed within easy reach of the outdoor unit. We use armored cable or rigid conduit depending on the environment, waterproof connectors , and we size the gauge according to the nominal intensity of the chosen Clivia R32 (9k, 12k, 18k or 24k BTU). Our team validates the grounding and labeling at the panel.
5) Commissioning and checks
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Vacuum draw down to 500 microns (or better) with probe to check for moisture and contaminants.
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Nitrogen leak test , then release of R-32 contained in the unit.
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Control of currents , suction/discharge temperatures and superheat/subcooling .
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Setting priority heating mode for the cold season, checking automatic defrosting .
Result: immediate comfort and tidy facade
The raised condenser frees up access to the terrace and makes traffic safer. The covered refrigeration line blends into the brick; the noise measured at the edge of the patio door remains very low , which allows you to enjoy the yard even when the machine is running. Inside, the wall-mounted head (not visible here) distributes the air evenly thanks to its motorized sweep and precise temperature control .
AirGreen Best Practices for Longevity
Defrosting and water management
In winter, the Clivia R32 performs defrost cycles. We maintain clearance under the unit for drainage and, if necessary, we install a drip deflector to prevent scratching of traffic surfaces. On the roof or balcony, we provide trays or directed drainage .
HVAC Maintenance
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Cleaning the filter and inner head camber: every 2–3 months during use.
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Rinse the evaporator/condenser, check the fasteners, check the currents and inspect the insulation: annual .
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Preventive diagnosis before winter to confirm heating efficiency and the condition of the outdoor fan .
Montreal winter: recommended settings
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Activate the vanes to direct hot air downward and circulate the air near the windows.
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Use the frost protection function when the residence is unoccupied.
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Keep a clear perimeter around the outdoor unit (snow, objects, vegetation).
What we optimized on this project
1) Height and vibrations
The installation above the patio door requires impeccable stability . We add spacers and dampers to eliminate solid-borne noise that can travel through the masonry . The result: discreet operation that can be heard from the kitchen and the terrace.
2) Short and neat route
An optimized refrigeration path (≈ 5–7 m ) reduces losses and facilitates maintenance. The black UV cover ensures careful visual integration , appreciated by the co-ownership and the neighborhood .
3) Electrical safety
The easily accessible disconnect , grounding , and panel labeling enhance safety for all operators (owner, electrician, inspector).
Quick FAQ for a similar project in Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, North Shore, South Shore
What is the installation time?
Typically, one day for a standard wall-mounted heat pump ; complex configurations (long runs, difficult access, multi-zones) may require more.
What about permissions?
In plex or co-ownership , we provide sketches and technical sheets for the union or the municipality if necessary.
What savings?
As a supplementary or primary heating system depending on the building envelope, the heat pump can significantly reduce the bill compared to 100% electric systems; we model the scenarios according to your usage profile.
Grants?
We confirm the eligibility of the chosen configuration and support the customer in their file when programs are available.
AirGreen: a local, precise and sustainable service
We design , install , and maintain HVAC systems tailored to the climate realities of Greater Montreal . Whether it's a compact plex project or a multi-level configuration, our team offers technical solutions that respect aesthetics, safety , and long-term performance .
Need an on-site evaluation in Rosemont, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore, or the South Shore? Our team will recommend the most suitable heat pump (Gree, Fujitsu, Midea, Sharp, etc.) and will assist you from start to finish : selection, installation, HVAC maintenance , and follow-up.
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