Two side-by-side units, exemplary finishing and a transition plan to R-32: AirGreen construction site on brick facade
Customer context
In a typical Rosemont–La Petite-Patrie duplex, the owner wanted to stabilize the comfort of the living areas and reduce the energy bill. An old Sharp “Eco Inverter” unit still provided service for one zone, but the family wanted to add a new independent zone and begin a transition to a new generation refrigerant (R-32) . We therefore installed a Gree wall-mounted heat pump – residential R-32 range and integrated the assembly neatly into the facade, without disturbing the existing equipment .
Site reading and implementation strategy
The facade is made of red brick with a concrete base , sufficient clearance and openings (windows) nearby. This configuration leads us to:
-
fix the Gree condenser on wall brackets to the base to clear it from the ground and snow accumulations;
-
maintain the position of the old Sharp unit , respecting the necessary clearances between devices in order to avoid any air recycling;
-
streamline the routes : short refrigeration connections, well-aligned vertical capping (color coordinated with the facade elements), dedicated disconnect and clean cabling under sheath;
-
organize electrical cohabitation via two dedicated circuits, clearly identified on the panel and protected outside.
This approach guarantees performance , quiet operation and simplified maintenance over time.
Equipment selection: Gree R-32, sized for the living area
Gree R-32 wall-mounted heat pumps cover from 9,000 to 24,000 BTU (and more depending on the series). After taking measurements and calculating the load , we select a capacity adapted to the main room in order to obtain:
-
a high COP at actual loads;
-
reliable heating in cold weather typical of Greater Montreal;
-
a contained noise level , both indoors and outdoors.
Why R-32? This fluid enables competitive seasonal efficiencies and reduces the required refrigerant charge for equivalent performance, facilitating compliance with efficiency programs. The installation remains scalable : the customer plans to gradually replace the old technology with a 100% R-32 solution over the years.
Installation Details — What Makes the AirGreen Difference
Supports and anchors.
The Gree condenser is installed on sturdy galvanized brackets , leveled and separated by anti-vibration pads . The fixings are anchored in the concrete of the base for long-lasting resistance to freeze/thaw cycles.
Installation height and snow removal.
The base of the units is located above the anticipated snow drift . This choice improves the quality of defrosting in winter and protects the exchangers.
Compact refrigerated routes.
The insulated copper lines follow a vertical capping then a short horizontal section (≈ 2 to 4 m visible ) before entering the envelope. The bending radii are respected to preserve the integrity of the tubes and limit losses . The clip-on covers allow for rapid inspection during HVAC maintenance .
Careful electrical management.
Each unit has its own external disconnect box . We install dedicated, calibrated circuit breakers with clear identification at the panel. The routing is watertight and mechanically protected .
Controlled drainage.
The indoor head associated with the Gree is configured for a gravity drain . When the architecture requires it, we add a condensate pump with vapor barrier and service access.
Sealing of the envelope.
Sealed holes (elastomeric sealant, air barrier) to prevent air and moisture infiltration . This treatment directly contributes to the overall performance of the building.
Commissioning and controls
-
Extended vacuum draw at recommended thresholds;
-
Leak test and pressure verification;
-
Control of power supply currents and voltage ;
-
Blown/intake temperature measurements and speed stabilization ;
-
Fine adjustment of speeds and flaps;
-
Customer training (proper use of modes, filter cleaning , HVAC maintenance schedule).
Cohabitation of equipment: good practices and safety
The facade houses two condensers . To guarantee performance and longevity :
-
we maintain sufficient front and side clearances for each device;
-
we slightly offset the heights of the bases to avoid frost and blowing interactions ;
-
we direct the defrost lines to prevent the formation of an ice slab under the units;
-
We electrically separate the circuits to facilitate future diagnosis and limit any nuisance in the event of a device stopping.
Result: the existing Sharp continues to serve a secondary area, while the Gree R-32 supports the main living area with better efficiency .
Results obtained
-
Rapid cooling from the first cycle and stable heating at low temperatures;
-
Very low perceived noise level on the stage side, including during defrosting ;
-
Clean aesthetics : aligned capping, controlled wiring, compact housings;
-
Easy maintenance thanks to removable covers and clearances around the units.
What we recommend for a brick facade in Montreal
-
Height : Aim for 45–60 cm above finished ground to reduce snow hazards;
-
Clearances : strictly respect rear/side/front distances to avoid air recycling ;
-
Water management : plan the flow of defrosting water so as not to hinder access;
-
Route : short connections and few bends to preserve seasonal efficiency ;
-
Electricity : dedicated circuits, grounding , disconnect within reach.
These practices apply to Montreal as well as to Laval , Longueuil , the North Shore and the South Shore .
Grants and Eligibility
High-efficiency R-32 wall-mounted heat pumps may be eligible for incentives when criteria (SEER/SCOP/HSPF, low temperature range down to −25°C/−30°C , relevant certifications) are met. We support our customers in:
-
technical verification of the selected series;
-
HVAC installation documentation ;
-
preparing the file for provincial/federal programs.
Temporary cohabitation with an older unit does not prevent the gradual transition to an entirely R-32 park.
Pitfalls to avoid (feedback from the field)
-
Undersized brackets : use certified brackets with buffers .
-
Cross air discharges between two units: provide offset and clearances .
-
Unsealed holes : source of infiltration and losses ; use air barrier and suitable mastic.
-
Poorly thought-out capping : too many bends = losses , difficult inspections; prefer a straight route .
-
Poorly directed drain : risk of water or ice on the driveways; ensure a slope and adequate discharge.
HVAC Maintenance: Recommended Schedule
-
Every 3 months during use: dust the filters of the inner head;
-
Annual : cleaning of the condenser batteries , checking of the fixings and sealing of the capping, testing of the electrical protections ;
-
Before winter : check the clearance under the units and the defrost drain ;
-
Before summer : inspection of drains and upgrading of comfort parameters .
In short
-
Gree wall-mounted heat pump – R-32 range installed on brackets ;
-
Clean vertical capping , short path (≈ 2–4 m), adjacent disconnect ;
-
Controlled cohabitation with an existing Sharp Eco Inverter ;
-
Rigorous commissioning and user training;
-
Ideal solution for residences in Montreal , Laval , Longueuil , North Shore , South Shore .
Need a turnkey HVAC installation in Greater Montreal?
We size, install, and maintain your heat pump with meticulous workmanship and comprehensive support for grants . Let's talk about your project.