Precise comfort in a Montreal apartment: a Gree wall head integrated to the millimeter, soft diffusion and controlled silence.
Context: modernizing an apartment with typical architecture
At AirGreen , we work in homes with deep moldings and embrasures, common in the Plateau-Mont-Royal . Here, the owner wanted a discreet HVAC solution, efficient in both heating and cooling , without visual overload on the renovated walls. We recommended a Gree R-32 range wall-mounted heat pump, sized for an open main room with a window alcove, and coupled with an extreme cold outdoor condenser.
Why Gree (R-32) for this project?
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Inverter technology : continuous modulation, stable comfort and significant energy savings .
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R-32 refrigerant : higher seasonal efficiency and reduced charge compared to R-410A.
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Silent mode : ideal for apartments overlooking the street.
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Precise temperature sensors , discreet display on the front for precise control of the setpoint.
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Wide range of capacities (BTU) to adjust the heat flow to the geometry of the rooms on the Plateau (often high ceilings, load-bearing walls).
Reading the site and positioning the inner head
The head is placed at the top of the wall , to the right of the window frame. This choice maximizes controlled stratification and limits the visual impact:
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Ceiling clearance respected for free suction.
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Blowing direction offset from the corner to avoid recirculation of hot/cold air.
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Metal support on dowels adapted to the plaster/wood of the century-old building.
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Remote control on wall mount within easy reach, practical for everyday use and during maintenance.
The result: the headboard blends into the decor. The shutters provide a horizontal and vertical sweep that covers the living area, including the window niche.
Refrigeration path and condensate management
We have opted for an ultra-short rear cross member :
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Core drilling with a hole saw with a vapor barrier sleeve .
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Continuous gravity slope of the drain towards the outside: no risk of stagnant water in the partition.
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High density insulated copper connections , carefully taped to prevent any internal condensation .
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On the facade side, minimalist UV capping aligned with the molding, almost invisible from the street.
When gravity is not possible (interior courtyards, reverse slopes), we integrate a silent condensate pump with float contact; here, the natural slope makes the pump unnecessary, reducing maintenance and noise.
Electricity and compliance
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Dedicated circuit from the main panel, rating and breaker conforming to the plate of the selected Gree assembly.
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Local outdoor cut-off near the condenser for service.
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Routed in UV and impact resistant sheath; conductor identification to facilitate any subsequent HVAC maintenance .
Commissioning: AirGreen quality protocol
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Nitrogen test and leak detection.
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Deep vacuum until stabilization.
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Refrigerant release, superheat/subcooling control.
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Setpoint calibration, mode testing, automatic shutter sweeping and display verification.
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Customer discount: best practices for use, filter cleaning, seasonal benchmarks.
Perceived comfort: what a good investment changes
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Blowing directed along the ceiling to promote mixing and avoid drafts .
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Destratification in heating: the shutters direct the hot air towards the occupied area.
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Noise reduction thanks to the perfectly flat turntable, silent blocks and inverter modulation.
BTU Sizing: Just the Right Amount, Where It's Needed
Our load calculation takes into account surface area, orientation, infiltration (sash windows, gaps), occupancy rate, and appliances. In this type of space, we generally aim for 9,000 to 12,000 BTUs for a large open room; 18,000 BTUs if the unit serves multiple zones. Avoiding oversizing remains essential for compressor longevity and mid-season performance .
Integration into the building: Plateau-Mont-Royal particularities
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Load-bearing brick walls and transverse joists: identification with an endoscope before drilling.
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Moldings and window returns: acrylic putty finish and retouched paint for a clean line.
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Access to the courtyard and exterior stairs: logistics designed to limit disruption to the condominium.
AirGreen Best Practices for a Successful Wall Head
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Leave 5–7 cm under the ceiling and 12 cm at least on the sides.
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Gravity drain with slope > 1%, vapor barrier on the periphery of the sleeve.
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Radius of curvature of the connections respected, no pinching.
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Overall length optimized to keep SEER/HSPF at its highest.
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Technical photos and serial numbers archived for tracking and support programs.
HVAC Maintenance: Maintaining Performance
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Clean filters every 6–8 weeks during use.
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Annual inspection: internal battery, turbine, electrical connections, drain .
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In winter, keep the condenser clear of snow to ensure ventilation and defrost cycles.
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Update settings if the manufacturer offers optimizations.
We offer maintenance plans tailored to condominium buildings in Montreal , Laval , Longueuil , North Shore and South Shore .
Grants and Eligibility
Recent R-32 and inverter heat pumps may be eligible for certain assistance programs when efficiency and cold weather performance thresholds are met. We assist in preparing the application: technical data sheets, proof of installation, photos, and advice for optimal BTU selection .
Result: visual sobriety, tangible comfort
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Even diffusion without drafts on the occupants.
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Quiet operation, perfect for teleworking and resting.
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Aesthetics respected: aligned head, discreet capping , remote control attached properly.
And for your project?
Whether it's a wall-mounted heat pump , a wall-mounted air conditioner , a multi-zone or a central solution, our team designs custom HVAC installations for typical buildings in Greater Montreal, ensuring safety , performance and durability .
Useful keywords: heat pump , wall-mounted heat pump , wall-mounted air conditioner , HVAC installation , HVAC maintenance , Montreal , Laval , Longueuil , North Shore , South Shore , Plateau-Mont-Royal , Gree , R-32 , Inverter .