An HVAC modernization designed for four-season comfort in a typical Montreal plex
Context and objectives of the project
In a plex in Rosemont–La Petite-Patrie , our client wanted an HVAC solution capable of providing reliable heating in winter and precise cooling in summer, without invasive work. We selected a GREE MultiZone heat pump , FreeMatch R32 range , to supply several interior spaces with a single compact and quiet outdoor unit. The approach aims to:
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room-by-room comfort (zoning);
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substantial energy savings ;
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discreet integration into the facades and the courtyard;
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reliability in extreme cold typical of the Montreal climate.
Why GREE FreeMatch R32 for this plex
The FreeMatch R32 can power 2 to 5 indoor heads (wall-mounted, console, cassette), making it ideal for stacked units and typical Montreal layouts (double living room, bedrooms overlooking the courtyard, kitchen at the rear). Key benefits:
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R-32 refrigerant : better performance potential and reduced environmental footprint compared to older generations;
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Inverter modulation : optimized consumption, smooth starts, increased longevity;
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Low temperature operating ranges suitable for Greater Montreal ;
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Flexible zoning : fine distribution between living room, bedrooms and office;
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Reduced noise level both outside and inside.
Sizing and configuration selected
After thermal readings and heat loss assessment, we program a three-zone configuration (living room, master bedroom, office) with a GREE FreeMatch R32 outdoor unit. The total capacity is distributed to avoid oversizing ; each head is adjusted to the actual load of the room. This method guarantees:
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a long and stable operating cycle, limiting jolts;
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regular air quality and better controlled humidity levels ;
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more predictable energy bills .
AirGreen Tip : In MultiZone, the combined BTU output of the heads must not exceed the simultaneous capacity of the outdoor unit. Our team fine-tunes the system to combine comfort and efficiency.
Outdoor installation: winter robustness first
We install the outdoor unit on a raised galvanized steel structure with anti-vibration pads , in order to:
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maintain clearance above the snow and promote the evacuation of frost;
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protect the crankcase from accumulations and sludge;
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preserve the peace of the neighborhood by reducing vibration transmissions.
The unit is positioned at a constant distance from a stone wall to comply with the clearances required for suction and front blowing. The chosen orientation facilitates:
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service access (taps, electrical housing, filters);
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free passage in court;
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air circulation during defrost cycles.
The electrical connection is made via a whip in an external protective sheath, with a dedicated circuit breaker according to the equipment nameplate and the current electrical code . The refrigeration lines are continuously insulated and covered until they penetrate the casing, ensuring both aesthetics and protection against UV and shock.
Route of connections and finishes
The route of the connections is streamlined to minimize the equivalent length and pressure losses; the bends are made with a bend to preserve the integrity of the copper tubes. The holes are sealed (low expansion foam + membrane) to guarantee:
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air and water tightness ;
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the continuity of the vapor barrier ;
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the absence of thermal bridges.
Gravity-based condensate management is preferred when the natural slope allows it; failing this, we integrate a low-noise lifting pump with an accessible maintenance tank.
Commissioning: rigor and traceability
Our AirGreen protocol includes:
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Nitrogen test and pressure-stabilized leak test ;
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Deep vacuum draw , followed by a lift test ;
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Charge opening and subcooling/superheat check ;
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Electrical control (continuity, tightening, intensities);
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Configuration of indoor units (ventilation, shutters, recording of optimal settings);
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Customer training : daily use, winter/summer instructions, filter maintenance.
Each step is recorded in a commissioning sheet , useful for warranty and monitoring.
Result: controlled comfort, preserved facade
The facade and access points are preserved thanks to discreet capping and the thoughtful installation near the fence . The compact, vertical outdoor unit with a double fan offers an excellent power/size ratio , perfect for the narrow courtyards so common in Montreal. The user benefits from:
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stable heating down to the usual negative temperatures;
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targeted refreshing in living areas;
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a significant reduction in the bill compared to independent electric convectors.
HVAC Maintenance: Maintaining Performance
Regular HVAC maintenance is crucial to maintaining performance:
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Cleaning and vacuuming of the head filters (every 4 to 8 weeks in season);
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Annual inspection by our technicians: coil, fans, connections, vacuum gauge, measured loads;
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Winter check : clear snow around the unit, approximately 30 to 60 cm on all sides;
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Control of supports , leveling and condensate flow .
Winter Tip : Maintain clearance under the unit and do not block the front airflow. Avoid direct snow guards that could recirculate air; we offer specially designed deflectors if needed.
Grants and Compliance
High-efficiency R-32 heat pumps may be eligible for financial assistance programs when performance and installation criteria are met. We support our clients in:
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eligibility verification ;
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preparation of documents (detailed estimate, site photos, serial numbers);
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submission of requests and follow-up until payment.
What this installation changes on a daily basis
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Uniform temperature from the living room to the bedrooms;
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Rapid response to mid-season weather variations;
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Silence and nighttime comfort thanks to low noise modes;
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Simple control : remote controls, time programming, Wi-Fi integrations available depending on the heads chosen.
The AirGreen “pluses” on this project
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Room-by-room load study , no guesswork;
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Care of finishes (hoods, seals, alignments) for clean integration ;
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Instrumented commissioning and reference photo file ;
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Priority assistance and maintenance in Montreal, Laval , Longueuil , North Shore and South Shore .
Points of attention to remember for your project
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Proper sizing takes precedence over the “size” displayed in BTUs;
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Clearances around the outdoor unit are non-negotiable;
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Annual maintenance prevents performance losses and extends lifespan;
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Careful routing of refrigeration lines determines overall reliability .
Conclusion
This MultiZone GREE FreeMatch R32 heat pump installation in Rosemont–La Petite-Patrie illustrates our approach: pragmatic engineering , clean finishes , and comprehensive support—from equipment selection to commissioning and maintenance . For a sustainable and efficient HVAC project in Greater Montreal , AirGreen remains your trusted partner.
