A precise construction site in a narrow corridor: four-season comfort, careful aesthetics and minimal nuisance
Context of the residency and objectives of the project
In a typical Côte-des-Neiges–Notre-Dame-de-Grâce (Montreal) apartment, our client wanted to improve the comfort of a living space where air circulation was limited: a hallway serving the bedroom and the main room. The constraints: low textured ceiling, frequent traffic, ceiling fan light fixture in the immediate vicinity, and the impossibility of multiplying the openings. We recommend a Gree Livo R32 wall-mounted heat pump for its compactness, its resistance to cold, and its ideal performance/price ratio for the housing stock in the area.
Why the Livo R32 range for this type of apartment?
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Cold climate performance : The Livo R32 maintains stable capacity when the thermometer drops — a tangible asset for Montreal , Laval and the North Shore .
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R-32 refrigerant : reduced carbon footprint and increased efficiency compared to the older generation R-410A.
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Low noise levels : perfect for narrow passage areas and an adjacent bedroom.
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Discreet format : a low-protrusion interior header fits above the door frame without compromising aesthetics.
Key steps in HVAC installation
1) Millimeter-precise implantation of the inner head
We positioned the high wall unit above the lintel to promote even air stratification toward the bedroom and the main room. The space coexists with a ceiling fan-light: we calibrated a functional clearance to avoid any mechanical conflict (blades/shutters) and any parasitic vibration. Adjustable temporary supports were used to maintain perfect level before final anchoring—a crucial point in a hallway where a few millimeters count.
2) Condensate management: invisible gravity
In this type of corridor, the slope is limited. We design a discreet gravity path , housed behind the casing, to evacuate the condensation water to the outside without an apparent pump. The result: increased reliability, zero additional noise and simplified HVAC maintenance .
3) Short and clean refrigeration path
To limit pressure losses and preserve interior aesthetics:
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Single opening above the frame, towards the nearest exterior wall.
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Sheathed and insulated refrigeration connections , protected by white capping to match the paint.
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Optimized total length (≈ 3–4 m), guaranteeing performance and balanced pressure of the R-32 fluid.
4) Dedicated power supply and compliance
We draw a dedicated circuit (15/20 A depending on the capacity chosen) with a residual current device (RCD) if required. The proximity disconnect is placed outside, near the compressor, in accordance with the code. Low voltage communication between units is channeled and labeled, for ease of maintenance.
5) Commissioning and balancing
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Deep vacuum until stabilization.
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Leak check and load according to manufacturer's specifications.
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Measurement of supply/return temperatures and adjustment of the airflow to propel temperate air along the corridor without creating an uncomfortable draft at the entrance to the room.
Result: controlled comfort in a complex space
The hallway becomes a natural plenum that distributes heat in winter and coolness in summer. The existing ceiling fan can still be used at low speed to circulate the air in summer, without disturbing the unit. The entire project maintains a minimalist visual signature: flush capping, a single hole, and no audible condensate pump.
Usage tips to maximize effectiveness
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Auto mode in mid-season , but favor Heating in winter and Cooling in summer for fine control.
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Horizontal louvers oriented to push air toward the living area; moderate vertical angle to avoid blowing directly toward the bedroom at night.
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HVAC maintenance : filter cleaning every 4 to 6 weeks during peak periods; annual inspection of the outdoor unit and refrigeration circuit.
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Doors ajar : In air conditioning mode, leave the doors half open to help with air transfer without overloading the unit.
Managing constraints specific to Montreal corridors
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Limited ceiling height : we avoid bulky models and set the template precisely to maintain a comfortable passage.
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Nearby obstacles (ceiling lights/fans): our technicians validate the sweep radius and the travel of the shutters to prevent any contact.
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Night noise : selection of a silent profile (“Quiet” mode) and anti-vibration dampers on the outdoor unit anchors.
Expected performance and savings
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High seasonal COP thanks to the R-32 Inverter compressor: reduced operating costs compared to traditional electric convectors.
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Cold resistance adapted to winter peaks in Montreal, Longueuil and the South Shore : maintaining capacity without excessive use of electrical backup.
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Air quality : washable filtration that captures dust and allergens — a welcome plus in apartments near busy roads.
Grants and Eligibility
R-32 efficient wall-mounted heat pumps are generally eligible for assistance programs in Quebec, subject to performance criteria and installation by a licensed contractor. We support our customers in Laval , Longueuil , North Shore and South Shore : cost estimates, file preparation and technical certifications.
Preventive maintenance: our annual protocol
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Disassembly and thorough cleaning of the evaporator (coil, turbine, tray).
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Gravity flow control and drain disinfection.
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Checking tightening torques, line insulation and wiring.
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Inspection of the outdoor unit: clean evaporator, intact blades, clear clearances (snow/foliage), tray and defrost.
What this installation changes on a daily basis
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Quick comfort : the blowing in the corridor creates a “column” effect towards the bedroom and the living room.
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Visual and sound discretion : the whole thing blends into the environment, with perceived noises < whispered conversation in night mode.
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Simplified maintenance : filters accessible from the front, no lifting pump to monitor, clear access to the external capping for any intervention.
When to favor a similar configuration
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Apartments and condos with central corridor circulation .
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Presence of a ceiling fan nearby: feasibility if the clearances and opening angle of the shutters are respected.
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Need a short refrigeration path , with single drilling and clean finish.
Possible options and variants
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Capacity 9,000 to 18,000 BTU depending on the heat load of adjacent rooms.
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Remote wall thermometer for more accurate monitoring of the living area.
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Colored capping (black/ivory) for special exterior facades.
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Multi-zone if the apartment requires a second head (additional bedroom, office).
Why entrust your project to us?
Our team, specialized in HVAC installation in Greater Montreal, is adept at handling tricky configurations: narrow hallways, limited openings, cohabitation with light fixtures, and aesthetic requirements. We deliver a clean, efficient, and durable result, backed by an installation guarantee and proactive HVAC maintenance service. Whether you are in Montreal , Laval , Longueuil , the North Shore , or the South Shore , we size the equipment, optimize the route, and handle grant applications.
