A narrow backyard, an exterior steel staircase, and a clean, stable, and durable AirGreen installation
In Plateau-Mont-Royal , in a typical backyard bordered by a slatted fence and an exterior metal staircase , our team installed a new-generation Gree wall-mounted heat pump with R-32 refrigerant . The available space was limited: narrow passage, bordering vegetation, and frequent traffic toward the alley. We designed an HVAC system optimized for four-season comfort , quietness , and longevity —without compromising access to the steps or the aesthetics of the yard.
The context: urban constraints of the Plateau
The buildings in this area have compact and functional backyards. They often feature:
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External steel stairs leading to the upper floors;
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Fences that limit clearances around equipment;
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Tight footpaths and planting areas.
In this context, the objective is twofold: to place the condenser away from shocks and snow, while maintaining free ventilation for performance and durability.
The choice of equipment: Gree R-32, efficiency and sobriety
The Gree R-32 range offers an excellent efficiency/reliability ratio for residential wall-mounted heat pumps . The inverter compressor precisely modulates power, ensuring:
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Stable heating during prolonged cold weather in Montreal;
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Efficient air conditioning and appreciable dehumidification in summer;
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Controlled consumption thanks to high SEER/HSPF values associated with the new generation R-32.
Model : The unit belongs to the Gree R-32 wall-mounted family . We keep photos of plates and serial numbers in the AirGreen customer file for warranty purposes and, if necessary, for grant applications .
A location designed to last
To accommodate the staircase and the passage, we chose a raised structure in aluminum/galvanized steel :
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Anchored feet and rigid crossbar for secure support;
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Clearance under the unit limiting the accumulation of snow, water and debris;
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Level adjusted so that the defrost flow is by gravity towards the permeable area of the yard.
The unit is offset from the flight of stairs to maintain air circulation and prevent hot/cold air from being projected towards the staircase. We have validated peripheral clearances in accordance with Gree specifications: unobstructed suction at the rear and sides, unobstructed front discharge.
Refrigeration connections and power supply
Our technicians carried out a short and protected course :
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Insulated refrigerant connections (HVAC class) with careful elbows to reduce pressure losses ;
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Clean exterior cladding along the wall, for a discreet finish and UV protection ;
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Nitrogen leak test followed by deep vacuum with recording of values;
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Service switch near the unit, dedicated circuit and clear identification on the electrical panel .
This methodology eliminates the risk of micro-leaks , guarantees nominal performance and facilitates future maintenance.
Montreal Water and Winter Management
In winter, wall-mounted heat pumps release defrost water . We have planned:
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Free flow under the frame, with sufficient slope of the slabs;
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A clear space to prevent ice from forming near the steps;
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A seasonal check recommended by our HVAC maintenance team.
For blowing snow episodes, the height of the raised stand protects the fan and coil from accumulations .
Acoustics and neighborhood
On the Plateau, the proximity of homes requires noise control :
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The Gree R-32 unit remains silent at low speeds thanks to inverter control ;
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The rigidity of the support and the damping pads limit vibration transmission;
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The orientation of the blowing prevents any air recycling against the enclosure, guaranteeing peace of mind and performance.
Result: constant comfort, reduced bill
The customer now benefits from:
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Consistent comfort in both summer and winter in living areas;
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Substantial energy savings compared to electric baseboards;
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Discreet operation suitable for court life and summer dinners.
Grants and procedures
Gree R-32 high-efficiency wall-mounted heat pumps are generally eligible for incentives based on power , certification (e.g., Energy Star Cold Climate ), and location . Our team supports homeowners in Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore, and the South Shore for:
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Check model eligibility and performance;
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Compile the documents (detailed invoice, photos, serial numbers );
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Submit the file and follow the payment.
AirGreen Best Practices for a Yard with Stairs
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Maintain 12–18 in. of clearance at the rear/downstream as prescribed and never obstruct the blowing.
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Avoid closed trays without drainage: defrost water must drain freely.
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Protect connections against shocks (garden tubs, tools).
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Gently clear vegetation around the unit in spring and fall.
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Schedule annual HVAC maintenance : coil cleaning, current monitoring, checking fasteners and crawl space under the unit.
Progress of a typical project with AirGreen
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On-site technical visit and taking of measurements (staircase heights, passage width, clearances).
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Sizing of BTU power according to volumes and insulation; choice of the most relevant Gree R-32 range.
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Detailed quote with options (smart thermostat, reinforced support, maintenance plan).
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Installation in a typical day, respecting access and leaving the yard clean .
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Instrumented commissioning and customer training on the correct settings.
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Administrative support for grants and archiving of plates/numbers .
AirGreen: local HVAC expertise
We operate weekly in Plateau-Mont-Royal and throughout Greater Montreal . Our teams understand urban constraints (exterior staircases, narrow courtyards, alley access) and deliver neat , reliable , and scalable installations. Whether you are considering a Gree wall-mounted heat pump , a multi-zone , or a central solution , we provide turnkey support : advice, installation, maintenance, and financial assistance procedures.
