An exemplary exterior installation on a brick facade: performance, silence and durability
At AirGreen , we work weekly on HVAC installations in Greater Montreal. This project in Chomedey (Laval) features a Gree Inverter wall-mounted heat pump designed to provide four-season comfort, stable efficiency in cold weather, and simplified maintenance. The project is taking place on the rear facade of a brick house typical of Laval's suburban neighborhoods: the location, mounting, sealing, and protection of the connections were planned to the millimeter to ensure the longevity of the equipment.
Customer context and performance objectives
The owner wanted:
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Efficient air conditioning in summer and reliable heating support in winter to reduce your electricity bill.
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Quiet operation under an existing window, without vibrations and with controlled noise.
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A clean, aesthetic and easily maintainable installation, compatible with subsidies when the chosen model is approved (Energy Star, high seasonal efficiency).
We validated the heat load of the main area to be treated (calculation method by room and orientation), then recommended a Gree Inverter 1 zone wall-mounted heat pump . This family of devices is distinguished by its fine modulation, its variable speed compressor and its good efficiency in heating mode in the Montreal climate.
Exterior installation details (condenser)
Choice of location
The outdoor unit is mounted on galvanized wall brackets at an optimized height: sufficiently clear of the ground to prevent snow and debris, yet close enough to facilitate maintenance. The installation under the window facilitates access while respecting the side and rear clearances required for air sweeping.
Vibration absorption and noise level
Each pad rests on anti-vibration pads . The Gree Inverter fan automatically modulates its speed: the combination of modulation + mechanical decoupling limits the transmission of vibrations to the masonry, a crucial point under an opening.
Protection and aesthetics of connections
The line path (refrigeration, communication, and power) is covered with a light-colored exterior capping . This UV-stabilized trunking protects the pipe insulation, streamlines the route, and prevents water intakes. The bend radius is respected at each change of direction to preserve the load and eliminate stress points.
Condensate management
The gravity drain from the interior head is directed outwards, with a continuous slope and a discreet outlet at the bottom of the facade (PVC pipe visible at the foot of the wall), in order to avoid any stagnation. In frost zones, we provide sufficient clearance from the discharge point to prevent ice from forming in contact with the wall.
Electricity and safety
In the immediate vicinity of the condenser, we installed an outdoor disconnect box (local disconnect required by code), connected by a waterproof whip . The circuit breaker rating at the main panel is sized according to the unit's nameplates and the circuit length. This arrangement simplifies future maintenance operations while ensuring safety.
Installation and commissioning methodology
1) Drilling and crossing
The drilling is carried out at a controlled angle to promote drain flow, then equipped with a bulkhead to protect the insulation from the lines. We seal with facade-compatible mastic to ensure air and water tightness.
2) Brazing and refrigeration preparation
The dehydrated copper connections are flared/brazed according to the configuration, continuously insulated and protected by capping. Before any connection, we carry out a nitrogen leak test (controlled pressure). The deep vacuum is then lowered until stabilization (typical objective: low microns and vacuum resistance) to ensure the absence of moisture and air.
3) Configuration and testing
After releasing the fluid from the outdoor unit, we check the exchange surfaces , verify the intensities and temperature differences in cold/heat modes. A prolonged modulation test allows us to validate the installation in conditions close to real use.
Why Gree Inverter for Chomedey?
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Extended modulation : variable speed allows power to be finely adapted to demand, improving comfort and consumption.
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Seasonal efficiency : Inverter models in this range have competitive SEER/HSPF ratings, which are useful for eligibility for certain subsidies in Quebec when the reference is certified.
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Winter reliability : design thought out for cold climates with defrost management and capacity maintenance at low temperatures (depending on the exact series selected).
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Simplified maintenance : quick access to components, connection covers, local disconnection and clearances respected.
Interior: diffusion, comfort and discretion
On the interior side, the wall head is positioned to sweep the living area without blowing directly onto the occupants.
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Height : high enough to optimize air mixing and limit short returns.
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Condensates : continuous slope of the drain and anti-siphon collars if necessary.
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Aesthetics : clean crossing, interior trim and controlled leveling.
Construction site challenges and AirGreen solutions
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Brick facade under window
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Challenge : limit the vibrations felt upstairs and guarantee the evacuation of free air.
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Solution : reinforced brackets , elastomer pads, checking clearances, directing the blowing away from obstacles.
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Mixed route and weather constraints
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Challenge : protect the insulation from UV/snow and prevent water infiltration by capillarity.
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Solution : continuous capping , watertight joints, controlled slope, drain outlet protected from runoff and frost at the foot of the wall.
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Aesthetics and maintenance
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Challenge : maintain a clean visual line and simple technical access.
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Solution : neat grouping of connections, disconnect box within reach, lateral clearance for future interventions.
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Good technical practices that we systematically apply
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Support : anchors sized to the type of masonry, checked with a torque wrench.
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Waterproofing : compatible sealant and sleeve around the crossings.
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Refrigeration : nitrogen test + deep vacuum with vacuum holding, then subcooling/superheating check according to the manufacturer's recommendations.
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Electrical : compliance with gauges, cable clamps, service loops and clear identification on the panel.
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Documentation : provision of usage instructions, HVAC maintenance schedule, and optimization advice (instructions, shutters, filters).
Maintenance and longevity
An HVAC maintenance plan extends life and maintains performance:
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Cleaning of the filters and exchangers of the interior head (1–3 months depending on dust/animals).
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Seasonal inspection of the outdoor unit: clearance around the grille, cleanliness of the fan, visual inspection of the connections and the disconnect box .
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Complete annual check by our technicians: operating parameters, connection tightening, drain condition and updating of usage recommendations.
Grants and Savings: What You Need to Know
Depending on the exact reference and its performance certifications , several programs may apply in Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, North Shore and South Shore . We support our clients in verifying eligibility (certifications, low temperature performance, proof of installation, detailed invoices). The objective: to reduce the acquisition cost and accelerate the return on investment thanks to the energy savings generated by the heat pump .
Results in Chomedey: immediate comfort and installation ready for winter
The customer benefits from stable comfort with a quiet and well-protected Gree Inverter outdoor unit, homogeneous indoor diffusion and an installation designed to last: robust supports, waterproof capping , controlled gravity drain and accessible disconnection . This project illustrates our approach: a careful, compliant HVAC installation designed for the climate of Laval and more broadly of Greater Montreal .