Two condensers on stainless steel wall brackets: a compact and durable configuration for a Montreal plex
At AirGreen , we adapt each HVAC installation to the morphology of Montreal's plexes. In Villeray–Saint-Michel–Parc-Extension, we are carrying out a double exterior installation: two Gree wall-mounted condensers installed side by side on galvanized/stainless steel brackets , fixed in the solid brick under a balcony. The owner's objective: to modernize the summer and off-season comfort of two dwellings, free up yard space, reduce noise transmitted to the neighborhood and protect the units from snow accumulations.
Client context and objectives
The building is a typical brick apartment building, with a long balcony upstairs, a narrow courtyard, and shared circulation. The expectations are clear:
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Stable comfort for two apartments, each served by a dedicated wall-mounted heat pump ( two-zone / two mono-split configuration).
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Sound discretion on the stage side.
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Zero encroachment on the ground to preserve the passage and the bicycle corner.
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Increased longevity despite freeze/thaw cycles.
We use Gree outdoor units from the residential wall-mounted range (typical capacity per dwelling: 9,000 to 12,000 BTU depending on the calculated loads), renowned for their seasonal efficiency and their resistance to the cold of Greater Montreal.
The technical choices that make the difference
Support: sized brackets and anchoring in the brick
Support determines reliability. We select heavy brackets with large plates, mechanically anchored in the brick (and not in the joint), respecting the center distances and the load-bearing capacity. Key points:
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Load and overhang validated for each device, margin included for frost and wind.
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Level and anti-vibration : pads under each condenser sole; controlled tightening torque.
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Clearances around the ventilation vents and at the rear to prevent recirculation of cold air during heating.
Under the balcony, this approach protects the machines from snow and direct runoff, while maintaining clear technical access.
Facade installation: easy ventilation and maintenance
Installing two condensers side by side requires managing the air intake/discharge :
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Center distance between machines respected to avoid thermal interaction.
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Unobstructed air discharge under the balcony soffit.
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Sufficient height to allow free passage and protect against shovel blows in winter.
We provide a simple access hatch (clear top, stainless steel screws) for maintenance, pressure reading and wiring checks.
Refrigeration and electrical routing
Each device powers a dedicated internal head. Our practices:
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Drillings through the brick with a slight slope towards the outside, with vapor barrier and elastomeric sealing.
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Vertical aluminum cladding matching the brick for refrigerant connections and condensate drain in air conditioning mode.
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14/4 cable (communication/power) in rigid sheath with stainless steel flanges; external disconnect switch within easy reach.
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Dedicated circuit breakers for the electrical panel, clearly identified per dwelling.
The short route to the inner heads limits pressure losses and fluid top-ups, which optimizes energy efficiency .
Condensate and frost management
The drains exit behind each condenser and follow the cowling. Points of attention:
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Continuous slope and insulation of cold sections to prevent freezing.
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Tips protected against splashes and insect nests.
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Under the balcony, natural drainage reduces icing; however, we maintain clearance under the frame for evacuation during defrost cycles.
Instrumented commissioning
The performance of a heat pump depends on its commissioning. Our protocol:
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Nitrogen test and electronic leak detection.
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Deep vacuum (controlled microns) to dry the circuit.
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Opening of valves, stabilization, reading of parameters at the manifold.
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Supply/return temperatures , intensities , instantaneous consumption and temperature difference per dwelling.
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Adjustable fan speeds and sweep for draft-free comfort.
Results: comfort, silence and clear facade
Comfort per accommodation
Each apartment benefits from independent control : stable setpoint, continuous modulation, and auxiliary heating reduced to a minimum during the off-season. In summer, the indoor units maintain a comfortable humidity level, improving the feeling of freshness without over-ventilating.
Controlled noise
The Gree units in this wall-mounted range offer low noise levels . The high installation on brackets reduces structural transmission to the brick and moves the sound source away from occupants in the courtyard. The distance between machines limits the cumulative nuisance.
Aesthetics and freed up space
No plinth on the ground, no obstacle to traffic in the courtyard. The simple cladding and the alignment of the brackets give a clean and rational facade.
Grants and operations in Quebec
In Greater Montreal (Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, North Shore, South Shore), high-efficiency wall-mounted heat pumps may be eligible for financial assistance programs when the certification criteria are met (cooling performance, seasonal efficiency, proper pairing of components). We assist owners in verifying AHRI numbers , collecting evidence and submitting applications.
AirGreen tips for a facade with bracketed condensers
Good usage practices
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Stable setpoints rather than temperature fluctuations.
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Clear the ventilation openings (no objects leaning against them, no hanging bins).
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In winter, avoid blocking the underside of the machines with storage.
HVAC Maintenance
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Gentle rinsing of outdoor heat exchangers in spring; be careful of debris brought in from the balcony.
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Clean the interior head filters every 4 to 8 weeks during peak season.
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Annual inspection : tightening of screws, condition of silent blocks, checking of refrigeration parameters and drain.
Mistakes to avoid
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Undersized brackets or brackets anchored in the joint : risk of tearing.
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Machines stuck together: recirculation and loss of efficiency.
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Forgetting UV protection and line insulation: premature aging and parasitic condensation.
Why entrust your project to AirGreen?
Our team is familiar with the constraints of plexes : protruding balconies, short facade distances, close proximity. We deliver:
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Load study and choice of capacity (9K, 12K, 15K… depending on actual needs).
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Clean and safe HVAC support engineering and installation .
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Certified commissioning with reading of values.
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Maintenance monitoring and assistance for grants .
In Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, North Shore and South Shore , this approach guarantees discreet, efficient and easy-to-maintain wall-mounted heat pumps , without sacrificing the aesthetics of the facade.