A compact installation under the canopy, designed for longevity and service access — by AirGreen
Background and objectives
In Le Sud-Ouest (Montreal) , a plex owner wanted stable comfort in both summer and winter without cluttering the backyard, while minimizing exposure to the elements. We recommended a GREE wall-mounted heat pump , R32 generation with Inverter , for its fine modulation, reliability and compact size. The intervention aimed for three concrete results: silence , efficiency and easy maintenance .
The installed equipment
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Brand: GREE
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Type: wall-mounted heat pump (mini-split)
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Technology: Inverter (variable speed), A2L R-32 refrigerant
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Configuration: wall-mounted outdoor condenser + indoor head (main living room)
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Safety and compliance: external circuit breaker/proximity lock, air clearances respected, service marks
Inverter modulation reduces on/off cycles, stabilizes temperature, and limits consumption. A2L R-32 charging meets current efficiency and environmental impact requirements.
HVAC Installation Details
Fixing and positioning
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Galvanized wall brackets anchored in concrete , with anti-vibration pads to filter sound transmissions to the structure.
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Installation under a canopy (balcony slab) to protect the unit from driving rain, direct radiation and falling ice from neighboring roofs.
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Height calculated to remain above water/snow accumulations and clear the defrosting area.
Refrigeration and electricity route
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Short refrigeration connections (≈ 1.5 m visible), continuous insulation up to the piercing, finishing tape at the transitions.
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Communication and power wiring gathered and protected, with external disconnect box within easy reach for maintenance.
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Single hole with vapor barrier and waterproof seal to prevent infiltration into the concrete wall.
Condensate management
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Gravity drainage from the indoor unit, controlled slope behind the wall, discreet outlet outside passage areas to prevent ice formation in winter.
Airflow and defrosting
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Respect for lateral and frontal clearances despite the alcove; the orientation of the fan prevents the recovery of hot air during defrosting and promotes the evacuation of water towards the bottom of the wall.
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Commissioning check: high vacuum, vacuum resistance, pressure/temperature readings and dew point check on connections.
AirGreen Site Challenges and Solutions
1) Concrete alcove, low air circulation latitude
The condenser had to operate under a balcony slab , with potentially constrained air return.
Our response: choice of a location off-center from the side wall, increased frontal clearance, and orientation calculated to break recirculation during defrost cycles.
2) Possible structural vibrations
The wall is made of concrete , transmissive if fixed to the bare surface without decoupling.
Our approach: anti-vibration pads under pads, torque-controlled tightening, and load distribution via shouldered plates.
3) Compact path of the links
The distance between the inside and outside head is short, requiring a tight turn.
Solution: large radius elbows, radius respected on the insulation, and additional mechanical protection at the support areas.
Results for the client
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Stable comfort : continuous modulation, uniform fresh air in summer, efficient heat supplement in mid-season.
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Silence : perceived noise limited thanks to decoupling and shelter under the awning.
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Aesthetics : minimal clutter in the courtyard, discreet technical passage.
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Maintenance : direct access to disconnection and service cover; easy cleaning of the battery.
Why choose GREE for a wall-mounted heat pump ?
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High seasonal air conditioning efficiency , very good low speed performance.
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Robust inverter electronics and parts available locally.
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Compatibility with recent R32 ranges (Vireo, Livo, Sapphire, etc.), guaranteeing scalability and compliance with current standards.
Good HVAC Maintenance Practices
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Inner head filters : Clean every 4–8 weeks during use.
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Clearances around the unit: Remove leaves, dust and objects within 30–60 cm.
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Gentle rinsing of the external exchanger in spring (low pressure water, never high pressure).
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Annual visit : electrical checks, tightening, measurement of superheating/subcooling, inspection of the defrost cycle and sealing .
Grants and procedures
Depending on the power, efficiency and operating range , certain assistance may apply in Greater Montreal (energy efficiency programs). We support our clients to verify eligibility and prepare applications for Montreal , Laval , Longueuil , the North Shore and the South Shore .
Tips for planning your project well
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Location : choose a location sheltered from falling ice and runoff, with unrestricted airflow .
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Defrosting : check clearances under the awning; provide a free drainage path in winter.
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Refrigerated length : request calculation if the line exceeds the standard length; refrigerant top-up and loss corrections may be required.
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Commissioning documentation : require readings (high vacuum, pressures, temperatures) and service labeling.
AirGreen in Greater Montreal
We install, maintain and repair heat pumps throughout the territory: Montreal , Laval , Longueuil , North Shore and South Shore . Our signature: clean paths , durable fixings , rigorous testing and customer service close to local realities.
Do you want an installation as compact and neat as in the Southwest? Let's talk about your facade, your rooms, and your savings goals: we'll design a clean, efficient, and sustainable layout.