Four-season comfort for a condo with balcony: GREE condenser on raised support , electrical supply under sealed conduit and ultra-short refrigeration path for maximum efficiency in downtown Montreal
Background and objectives
In a modern condo in Griffintown (Le Sud-Ouest) , we are installing a GREE R-32 wall-mounted heat pump to air condition the main living area and provide stable supplemental heating during the off-season. The client is looking for a solution:
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discreet on the balcony,
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quiet for the immediate neighborhood,
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efficient despite urban constraints (corridor winds, restricted spaces),
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durable and easy to maintain HVAC .
Our selection is a GREE – Livo R32 range in single zone , perfectly suited to open-plan condos in Montreal , Laval , Longueuil , North Shore and South Shore .
Why the GREE R-32 range here
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Seasonal efficiency optimized by inverter and R-32 (better thermodynamic properties than R-410A, reduced load).
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Extreme cold operating range adapted to the climate of Greater Montreal.
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Low noise level on the balcony and interior sides, essential in dense environments.
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Easy maintenance : clear access to components, washable filters on the wall head.
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Potential eligibility for provincial support programs based on configuration effectiveness.
Exterior installation: millimeter precision on balcony
The condenser is placed on a raised galvanized steel support mechanically anchored to the concrete slab of the balcony. This choice:
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lifts the unit off the ground (≈ 30–40 cm) to release defrosting in winter and facilitate cleaning;
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relieves vibrations using pads and spacers;
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maintains sufficient clearances for rear air intake and front blowing.
On the left, the power supply runs in a sealed conduit to an external disconnect box that complies with the Canadian Electrical Code. The routing is clean and accessible for any work.
The refrigeration path is deliberately very short : direct outlet behind the indoor unit, crossing of the dividing wall towards the balcony, connection to the condenser less than 2 to 3 meters cumulative lines. Less length means less pressure losses , better modulation and increased seasonal efficiency .
Interior integration and air diffusion
The wall-mounted head is installed high on the living room wall, free from the lintel to promote recirculation. The damper is adjusted to bring air to the center of the open area without blowing directly onto the workstations. Access to the filters remains easy for regular maintenance. The orientation of the vent reduces the stratification effect under the ceiling.
Technical installation details
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Support : galvanized frame, mechanical anchors on slab, level and plumb checked by laser.
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Vibrations : anti-vibration pads under the feet, insulating washers at the clamping points.
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Electrical : circuit dedicated to the housing panel, rating/circuit breaker according to the nameplate; proximity cut-off on the balcony.
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Refrigeration : progressive bending, calibrated expansions with a torque meter; deep vacuum then stabilization and leak testing.
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Condensate : gravity drain from the indoor head to the outdoors with a continuous slope ; the condenser defrost drain is directed to a free-flowing area to avoid ice.
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Finish : discreet conduit covers, UV silicone seals, watertight cable glands at the crossings.
Specific challenges in high-rise buildings and our solutions
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Limited space : the raised support helps to preserve the useful surface area of the balcony and prevents accidental contact.
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Corridor winds : blowing direction and maintaining clearances minimize recirculation of hot air in air conditioning mode.
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Structural noise : anti-vibration cutouts and controlled torque tightening limit transmission through the slab.
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Water management : drain layout so that defrosting does not disturb occupants or neighbors; if necessary, add a winter extension.
Sizing and capacity selection
We size the machine based on load calculations : surface area, exposure, glazing, infiltration, occupancy density and internal appliances. In the majority of condos with a living room of 30–45 m², a capacity of 9,000 to 12,000 BTUs more than covers the needs. The Livo R32 offers a very favorable efficiency/price ratio and fine modulation to avoid short cycles.
Commissioning: key checks
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Supply/return temperatures in cooling and auxiliary heating.
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Compressor intensity and modulation stability.
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Superheat/subcooling within recommended ranges.
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Defrost control in simulation (if cold period).
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Setting modes and remote control (times, Eco, Sleep).
Result for the occupants
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Rapid cooling , controlled humidity in summer.
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Gentle and constant supplemental heating in spring and autumn.
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Low noise level on the balcony and inside.
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Aesthetics : clean integration, clear and easy to maintain equipment.
HVAC usage and maintenance tips
Recommended settings
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Summer: setpoint 23–24°C , Auto fan ; let the machine modulate continuously.
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Winter (top-up): 21–22°C ; avoid frequent stops, favor modulation.
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On balcony: keep a clear perimeter around the condenser (plants, furniture).
Periodic maintenance
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Filters : Vacuum every 4–6 weeks with heavy use; gentle wash if buildup.
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Batteries (evaporator/condenser): periodic professional cleaning to preserve the exchange surface .
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Electricity and tightening : annual check, inspection of the circuit breaker and connections.
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Drain : check the slope and cleanliness, especially at the beginning of summer and before winter.
Regular HVAC maintenance maintains seasonal performance and secures warranties.
Grants, Compliance and Documentation
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High-performance R-32 heat pumps may be eligible for assistance programs in Quebec depending on their efficiency ratings, home type, and configuration. We prepare technical data sheets , serial numbers, and installation photos to facilitate the application process.
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All work complies with the Canadian Electrical Code and recognized refrigeration practices (vacuum drawing, accompanying nitrogen during brazing when required, leak tests).
What sets our Griffintown facility apart
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Ultra-short refrigeration path for optimal performance.
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Raised support anchored to slab: free defrosting, easy maintenance, safety.
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Waterproof electrical conduit and proximity cut-off : compliance and reliability.
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Neat and discreet finish , perfectly suited to city center condominiums.
When to consider an alternative configuration
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Multiple closed rooms to be treated: MultiZone GREE FreeMatch R32 solution (2–3 heads) for room-by-room control.
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House with existing ducts : R-32/R-454B central heat pump for overall comfort.
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Living area > 50–60 m² : higher capacity (18–24 kBTU) or addition of a second head.
Technical summary report
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Type : single-zone wall-mounted heat pump .
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Brand : GREE – Livo R32 range .
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Exterior installation : raised galvanized support , waterproof electrical conduit , clearances respected.
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Route : direct wall crossing, reduced line length , gravity drain .
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Location : Griffintown (Montreal) , configuration reproducible in many condos in Montreal , Laval , Longueuil , North Shore and South Shore .
Ready for controlled comfort in an urban environment
We support your project from selection to commissioning , then to annual maintenance . Our team guarantees a clean, efficient and durable HVAC installation , adapted to the requirements of condominiums in Greater Montreal.