Immediate comfort in a modern hallway: a careful interior installation that changes everything
In this single-family residence in Brossard , our team installed a Gree wall-mounted heat pump (R-32) to stabilize the temperature in a vestibule/entrance that's open to the rest of the house. The goal is twofold: maintain consistent comfort year-round and reduce energy costs without noise or drafts. The space presents typical constraints—freshly finished light walls, integrated millwork, limited clearances—that require precise, aesthetic, and durable HVAC execution .
From load study to final test: AirGreen method for a flawless HVAC installation
Our approach combines sizing , meticulous installation , and documented commissioning . Here's how we proceed, step by step, to ensure the heat pump delivers its full potential in a high-end residential environment.
Thermal analysis and sizing
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Use and air volume : The vestibule serves as a buffer zone between the exterior, the garage, and the living area. It is subject to frequent cold influxes in winter.
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Losses and gains : presence of a narrow side window , northeast orientation, recessed LED lighting with low heat output, very light reflective wall finishes.
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Target capacity : For this type of open room communicating with the hallway and kitchen, a range of 9,000–12,000 BTU/h is generally suitable. We choose 12,000 BTU/h , favoring efficient inverter modulation at low speed to keep noise to a minimum.
Machine choice: Gree R-32, reliability and efficiency
Gree R-32 units are distinguished by:
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High-frequency inverter compressor for reduced consumption and rapid temperature rise.
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R-32 refrigerant , with lower global warming potential than R-410A and lower charge at equivalent capacity.
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High seasonal efficiencies (competitive SEER2/HSPF2), ensuring tangible savings in air conditioning and supplemental heating.
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Quiet operation , ideal for passageways and open areas.
Depending on the configurations and applicable technical data sheets, these models are often eligible for energy support programs (e.g. certain components of Hydro-Québec's LogisVert ) when the efficiency criteria are met.
Interior layout: precision and aesthetics
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Positioning : the wall head is centered on a partition overlooking the hall, at a standard height (≈ 210–220 cm from the floor finish). This height allows for optimal air diffusion along the corridor, without blowing directly onto the occupants.
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Clearances : Follow the manufacturer's side and top clearances to ensure air intake and facilitate maintenance.
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Visual integration : the glossy white appliance blends into the light paint ; the vestibule finishes (built-in cupboards, benches and niches) remain clear to avoid air recirculation .
Refrigeration and drilling
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Single hole behind the mounting plate (≈ 65 mm) , with direct outlet to the adjacent exterior.
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Pre-flared insulated copper refrigeration lines , short useful length (≈ 2–3 m) to minimize pressure losses and improve efficiency.
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Discreet capping matching the exterior walls (thin profile) to protect the technical package (liquid, gas, drain, communication cable).
Condensate management: gravity-fed, clean and safe
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Gravity drainage with continuous slope > 2%, avoiding water pockets and odors.
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Anti-drip device and anti-vibration collars to neutralize noise and micro-movements.
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No lift pump required here due to the favorable output level — one less source of maintenance.
Power supply and electrical protection
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Dedicated circuit to main panel, compliant circuit breaker and approved conduit wiring .
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External side proximity stop (disconnect) for interventions.
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Grounding checked, polarity and communication tested before charging.
Commissioning: protocols and controls
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Nitrogen leak test (pressure scale), followed by a vacuum < 500 microns.
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Stabilization and vacuum leak test , then power supply and soft start.
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Reading temperatures (supply/return), superheat/subcooling , checking airflow and inverter modulation .
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Antifreeze settings, automatic defrosting , and recovery after failure validated.
Result: controlled comfort and daily savings
The vestibule—often the weak point of the house—becomes a powerful buffer zone . Blowing air destratifies the stairwell and stabilizes the hallway; in summer, air conditioning prevents heat from entering adjacent rooms.
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Comfort : stable temperature, better controlled humidity , imperceptible noise at rest.
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Savings : the heat pump covers the off-season and part of the winter; the central heating starts less often.
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Sustainability : reduced refrigerant charge (R-32), short lines, clean installation for easy maintenance.
AirGreen Usage Tips
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In winter, favor a continuous setting of 21–22°C rather than on/off cycles.
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Activate the dehumidification mode during the off-season to limit condensation near entrances.
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Keep some space in front of your head (no high coat racks, no furniture) so as not to disrupt the air intake.
Recommended HVAC maintenance
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Filter cleaning : every 4–6 weeks with regular use; more frequently if there are pets or heavy traffic.
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Annual maintenance by our technicians: electrical inspection, leak test, defrosting check , deep cleaning of the exchanger, and disinfection of the tank.
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Outdoors: Ensure that the condenser (placed on a slab or supports) remains clear of snow and debris.
Mistakes to avoid (feedback from the field)
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Placing the head too high under a recessed false ceiling : risk of recirculation and reduced efficiency.
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Drain without slope or with breaks: cause of odors and overflow alarm.
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No need for multiple drillings: we favor a direct route and an impeccable finish .
Deadlines and coordination
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Technical visit and quote within 24–48 working hours.
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Typical installation : 4 to 6 hours for a simple area with a short route.
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Same-day commissioning , rapid user training (remote control, modes, basic maintenance).
Why AirGreen for your HVAC installation in Brossard, Montreal, Laval, North Shore and South Shore?
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RBQ certified team , trained on the latest R-32 heat pumps .
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Residential expertise : vestibules, open areas, finished basements, condos.
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Selection of proven brands (Gree, Midea, Fujitsu, Sharp, etc.) and subsidy advice .
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HVAC after-sales service and maintenance that extends the life of your investment.
Are you considering a similar wall-mounted heat pump for a hallway, living room or upper floor? AirGreen designs and builds custom systems for homes and condominiums throughout Montreal , Laval , the North Shore and the South Shore .