High-end comfort for a concrete condo: careful installation under slab, short back-to-back path, controlled acoustics and simplified maintenance for lasting efficiency in the heart of Montreal.
The context: a condo with exposed ceilings, high standards
In Griffintown (Le Sud-Ouest) , we are working on a recent condo with exposed concrete ceilings and gypsum partitions. The main living space quickly overheats in the summer due to the south-facing windows, while in the off-season, humidity and temperature variations affect comfort. The client wants a discreet , efficient and quiet solution, compatible with the condominium regulations.
Why a Gree wall-mounted heat pump (R-32) here?
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High seasonal efficiencies : Gree 's new R-32 ranges optimize SEER/SCOP thanks to the reduced refrigerant charge and inverter compressor.
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R-32 : Better specific refrigeration capacity and lower GWP than R-410A, which helps reduce the environmental footprint while improving performance.
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Quiet : Staged fan speeds and noise-reducing blade profiles—essential in an open plan.
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Potential eligibility for assistance : Depending on the capacity and certified ratings, this type of equipment may be eligible for subsidies . We validate the criteria on a case-by-case basis for Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, North Shore and South Shore .
Thermal analysis and correct sizing
We take into account surface areas, orientation, types of glazing, air infiltration, and occupancy habits. In an open-plan condo living room-kitchen, the right range is often between 9,000 and 12,000 BTU/h . We avoid oversizing: a machine that modulates at low speed for a long time better regulates humidity, maintains a consistent temperature , and consumes less than an oversized appliance that cycles.
Constraints of a concrete building and choice of location
The concrete slab ceiling requires precise clearances. We position the head under the slab , with:
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Superior clearance maintained despite proximity to the ceiling to avoid recirculating air.
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Side clearance for diffusion into the living area and hallway.
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Laser alignment of the plate and anchors adapted to the metal uprights of the partition.
The integrated local thermostat displays the setpoint (here 72), practical for confirming the serving temperature at a glance.
Refrigeration path: optimized “back-to-back” configuration
We configure a back-to-back route : the lines + power + gravity drain outlet go through the wall directly behind the unit. Estimated total length 1 to 1.5 m , high density continuous insulation.
Concrete benefits :
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optimized pressure losses and flow rates,
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less soldering therefore increased reliability ,
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interior aesthetics without visible trunking .
Outside, the condenser is mounted on anti-vibration galvanized brackets to the brick wall of the building's interior courtyard. We maintain a low clearance against snow accumulation and direct the defrost drain so that water does not stagnate on sidewalks or balconies.
Electricity and co-ownership compliance
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Dedicated circuit from the condo panel with appropriate breaker.
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Disconnector installed near the condenser, height compliant.
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Communication/power cable routed with refrigeration lines, sleeve sealed to prevent air bridges.
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Co-ownership regulations : color of exterior cladding harmonized with the facade and route validated with the union, for integration without dispute.
AirGreen commissioning: method and quality control
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Nitrogen leak test (controlled pressurization).
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Deep vacuum with digital vacuum gauge up to ≤ 500 microns stable, ensuring the absence of moisture.
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Opening the valves and controlling the rise.
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Functional tests in cold then heating: Delta T return/insufflation, intensity, pressures, inverter stability.
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Comfort settings : shutter orientation, auto speed, Dry mode for heavy days.
Result: uniform blowing in the living area, noise contained at conversation level, and effective dehumidification without overcooling.
Points of attention specific to concrete condos
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Vibration transmission : we place anti-vibration pads on the condenser brackets and check the torque tightening to avoid any resonance in the structure.
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Condensate management : continuous slope towards the outside; in the rare cases where the drain cannot be gravity-fed, we integrate a condensate pump with an anti-overflow tray - here gravity is preferred.
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Drilling : clean penetration, fire-tight sleeve if required by building regulations.
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Access : plan interventions within hours permitted by the co-ownership, protection of common areas and elevators.
Recommended use for optimal comfort
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Summer setting : 23–24°C, ventilation in auto mode to limit noise and consumption.
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Dry mode on humid days; the device treats humidity with a slight temperature reduction.
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Winter/off-season : economical supplement compared to electric baseboards, with a setting around 20–21°C.
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Diffusion : Leave the door to the adjoining office/bedroom ajar so that the flow reaches the neighboring rooms.
HVAC Maintenance: What We Do and What You Can Do
Our annual visit includes:
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thorough cleaning of the evaporator , fan wheel and condensate tray (bio-enzymatic treatment),
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checking the drain , connections and condition of the insulation ,
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performance control (Delta T, intensity, abnormal noises).
Between two interviews , the occupant can:
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rinse the filters every 4 to 8 weeks,
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keep the suction area clear,
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avoid setting the temperature too low in summer which creates condensation on the walls.
Common pitfalls… and our solutions
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Oversizing : short cycles, discomfort; we size finely according to actual loads.
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Head too close to the ceiling : recirculation and noise; we maintain the required clearance under the slab.
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Badly inclined drain : risk of leaks; slope measured and flow test at commissioning.
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Poorly positioned condenser (blocked air flow, neighbors): we check the clearances and the direction of the airflow so as not to disturb the occupants or the environment.
Deadlines and progress
For a back-to-back wall installation in a condo, we generally complete the installation in one day : protection of the premises, drilling, refrigeration and electrical connection, vacuuming, testing and user training . The administrative steps with the co-ownership are accompanied by our team.
Grants and support
Several R-32 ranges meet the efficiency criteria of current programs. We verify eligibility and prepare the necessary documents for Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, North Shore, South Shore . The goal: reduce the net cost of the project and prioritize equipment that performs well in both hot and cold weather.
Why AirGreen for your HVAC installation in Montreal
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Condo/plex expertise : thousands of installations with constraints of concrete slabs, alleys, balconies and brick facades.
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Recent equipment (R-32 / R-454B) , selected for reliability and after-sales service .
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Uncompromising commissioning process and responsive customer support .
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Proactive HVAC maintenance that protects your investment, maintains efficiency and indoor air quality.
Naturally integrated keywords : heat pump , wall-mounted heat pump , wall-mounted air conditioner , HVAC installation , HVAC maintenance , Montreal , Laval , Longueuil , North Shore , South Shore , Gree , R-32 , Griffintown , Le Sud-Ouest .