An interior head perfectly positioned above a patio door for consistent comfort in the living area
Project background
In Rosemont–La Petite-Patrie , in the heart of Montreal , we are modernizing an open living area (living room/dining room) in a typical plex with a rear terrace. The owner's goal: four-season comfort without noise, a controlled energy bill and a neat HVAC installation that respects the interior aesthetics.
We selected a Gree wall-mounted heat pump , Clivia R32 range , renowned for its discreet design, fine modulation and heating performance in cold weather. The work is carried out in two zones: the interior head installed high on the wall above the patio door , and the exterior condenser positioned on the terrace, in the immediate vicinity of the drilling.
Why the Gree Clivia R32 range for this accommodation
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R-32 : Next-generation refrigerant with a lower GWP than R-410A, promoting energy efficiency.
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Inverter : variable speed compressor, stable temperature maintenance and reduced cycles.
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Capacity range : 9,000 to 24,000 BTU , suitable for Montreal apartments and ground floors of plexes.
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Low noise level : a decisive advantage for installation in an open area.
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Precise controls : fine adjustments of setpoints, night modes and dehumidification useful in humid summers.
The sizing is based on a load calculation (area, orientation, insulation of typical brick walls, window tightness, occupancy). In this living area, a power of 12k to 15k BTU provides a balance between rapid temperature rise and prolonged operation at low speed.
Location choice: high wall above the patio door
The location of the inner head meets three requirements:
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Air diffusion : at this height, the flow runs along the ceiling then descends gently, which evens out the temperature in the room.
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Visual discretion : the Gree's clean lines blend in above the doorway without encroaching on the furniture.
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Short refrigeration path : the opening is located just behind the head, with an outlet opening onto the terrace - ideal for limiting pressure losses and reducing installation time.
We respect the recommended clearances at the top and sides to avoid any air recirculation and to facilitate filter maintenance.
Refrigeration path and condensate management
The refrigeration path follows a direct wall-to-wall trajectory. The insulated copper connections and the communication cable pass through the masonry via a sealed hole (duct, air barrier sealant). The total visible length is short, approximately 3 to 5 meters up to the condenser.
The condensate drain is configured to flow outward with gravity : controlled slope, regular anchors, protected outlet. This silent solution eliminates the need for a pump and reduces maintenance. In the event of early frost, we provide adequate clearance and, if exposure requires it, a nozzle directed toward a safe runoff area.
Power supply and safety
As with most wall-mounted heat pumps , the main power supply is provided to the outdoor condenser . The indoor head is connected by a shielded communication cable. The condenser is connected to an approved outdoor disconnect switch , which is itself powered by a dedicated circuit breaker in the electrical panel. We verify the rating, grounding, and labeling. This diagram complies with the Quebec Electrical Code and simplifies maintenance work.
Implementation steps (AirGreen method)
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Thermal balance of the living area and selection of the appropriate BTU capacity.
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Tracing : positioning of the head, drilling point, routing of the connections, location of the condenser on the terrace.
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Drilling and installation of the sheath , air barrier/vapor barrier sealing.
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Passage of refrigeration connections, shaping of flares, brazing and protection of insulation.
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Deep vacuum , leak testing and refrigerant charging according to Gree specifications.
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Electrical connection with disconnector, checking of tightening and polarities.
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Commissioning : cooling/heating tests, temperature readings, superheating and subcooling control.
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Occupant training : cleaning filters, useful settings (night mode, ventilation, dehumidification).
Result: immediate comfort and even diffusion
The high wall installation above the patio door ensures wide diffusion throughout the room and adjacent hallway. At low settings, the breeze is barely perceptible and the noise level disappears into the domestic atmosphere. In summer, dehumidification improves the feeling of freshness; in mid-season and in moderate cold, the heating mode reduces the use of electric baseboard heaters.
Specific features of Montreal buildings taken into account
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Plex and condos with rear terrace: logistical access via the patio door, safe handling of equipment.
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Brick/plaster walls : clean drilling, maintaining the integrity of the air barrier.
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Close proximity : selection of a low-noise condenser and suitable orientation to protect the backyard.
HVAC Maintenance: The Recipe for Longevity
An annual HVAC maintenance plan protects performance:
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washing the filters and dusting the internal exchanger;
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condenser inspection, coil cleaning, blade check and clearances;
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pressure , insulation and electrical tightening control;
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checking the drain and its slope.
We offer scheduled visits in Montreal , Laval , Longueuil , North Shore and South Shore to preserve the warranty and keep operating costs low.
Grants and Eligibility
Recent R-32 wall-mounted heat pumps that perform well in cold weather are often eligible for assistance programs in Quebec. Eligibility depends on low-temperature performance, capacity, and installation by a qualified contractor. We assist our customers with pre-verification , serial number collection, photo documentation , and the required detailed invoices .
Technical details of this installation
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Type : single-zone wall-mounted heat pump for open living area.
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Brand : Gree .
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Range : Clivia R32 (model of the range).
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Head position : high wall , centered above the patio door .
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Refrigeration path : short (≈ 3–5 m ) directly through the wall to the terrace.
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Condensates : gravity drainage to the outside.
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Power supply : condenser with nearby disconnect switch , dedicated circuit.
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Objectives : four-season comfort, discreet aesthetics, reduced operating costs.
Practical advice for a successful project in Montreal
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Have a load calculation done to aim for the correct BTU capacity.
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Anticipate the location of the head: high wall, sufficient clearances, air flow towards passage areas.
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Choose a short route to the outside to limit pressure losses and facilitate maintenance.
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Provide a compliant power supply (dedicated circuit breaker, disconnect switch).
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Include annual maintenance in the budget to stabilize performance and consumption.
AirGreen, your local partner
Our team operates weekly in Rosemont–La Petite-Patrie , Le Plateau , Le Sud-Ouest , Laval , Longueuil , on the North Shore and the South Shore . Our signature: precise HVAC installation , transparent advice, impeccable finishes. Whether you are considering a Gree , Sharp , Fujitsu or Midea heat pump, we configure systems adapted to the Montreal climate and the constraints of plexes.
Ready to improve the comfort of your living space? We assess your home, recommend the right capacity, optimize the location, and manage grant applications where applicable. A clear plan, tangible results.