Precise comfort in an urban bathroom: a compact wall unit that works silently
In an apartment in Plateau-Mont-Royal , our team optimized the comfort of a bathroom adjoining the bedroom by installing a Gree Livo R32 wall-mounted heat pump . The goal is clear: to stabilize the temperature and humidity of a small space, without encroaching on circulation or interior aesthetics. The result: stable comfort , healthier air, and controlled electricity consumption – all with a discreet integration above the mirror and vanity.
Why a wall-mounted heat pump in a bathroom?
In densely populated downtown Montreal , bathrooms and adjoining rooms often suffer from temperature fluctuations and humidity spikes . A properly sized R32 wall unit addresses these constraints:
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Heating and air conditioning in one unit , ideal for 4-season use.
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Effective dehumidification , limiting fogging on mirrors, odors and mold growth.
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Fine power modulation (inverter technology), for constant comfort and energy savings .
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Low noise level , essential near rest areas.
Focus on the Gree Livo R32: the right balance for urban residential
Gree 's Livo R32 range stands out for its reliable electronics, stable modulation and compact design. For a home on the Plateau, we chose this series for its thermal responsiveness , its ease of HVAC maintenance and its seasonal efficiency adapted to urban occupancy profiles (absences during the day, marked needs in the evening and at night).
Key assets:
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R-32 refrigerant with lower GWP than R-410A.
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Inverter regulation to limit overconsumption during restarts.
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Dedicated comfort modes (dehumidification, night, frost protection depending on configuration).
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Filtration accessible on the front for quick cleaning by the customer.
Design & preparation: make it clean… and sustainable
We prepare each HVAC installation with a rigorous method:
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Electrical check : dedicated circuit with protection adapted to the power of the unit; continuity and polarity test.
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Positioning the template : above the lintel of the French window, in order to benefit from unobstructed air diffusion along the ceiling while avoiding immediate air returns towards the mirror.
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Condensate management : gravity route with regulatory slope to the external discharge point; inspection and non-return plugs to secure the flow.
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Through drilling : controlled angle (2–3°) to protect the envelope and promote evacuation; interior/exterior sealing with HVAC mastic and collar.
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Finish : discreet capping matching the wall and reduced path (short route) to maintain a sober aesthetic in the bathroom.
During commissioning, we protect furniture and surfaces (towels and protective tarps) and validate the drain flow with a water test. The unit is then calibrated : verification of airflow, supply/return temperatures, pressures and indoor/outdoor card communication.
Visible and relevant details of the intervention
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High ceiling installation , centered in relation to the mirror, for controlled air stratification and efficient sweeping of the room.
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Recessed lighting nearby: we adjust the shutter angles to avoid direct blowing on the light fixtures and limit areas of turbulence.
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Window blackout : taking into account the roller blind to avoid creating an air short circuit between the air outlet and the cold window in winter.
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Short route : refrigeration connections and cabling directed laterally; reduction of pressure losses and anchor points.
Sizing: low power, high comfort
For a bathroom and an adjoining space (walk-in/bedroom), we prefer a class 9,000 to 12,000 BTU depending on the internal inputs, the orientation and the level of insulation. The Livo R32 perfectly covers this need:
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Fast ΔT after shower or bath thanks to dehumidification mode.
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Low modulation in nighttime maintenance for appreciable silence .
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Optimized seasonal performance in urban air conditioning (internal loads and glazing).
Challenges encountered and AirGreen solutions
1) Control of condensates in the bathroom.
The proximity of a water point requires increased safety : drain slope measured at the level, anti-insect tip on the outside and anchor collars along the route to avoid pockets of water.
2) Space constraint above the mirror.
We adjusted the unit's seating height to clear the louver, maintain the blowing angle, and retain the maintenance area for cleaning the filters.
3) Risk of direct blowing on the user.
Setting of horizontal/vertical shutters and memorization of “comfort” angles to separate the flow from standing areas (sink/mirror).
Commissioning & Checks
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Vacuum drawing on the refrigeration network (500 microns) and leak test .
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Measurement of temperatures (supply/return) and pressure differences within nominal ranges.
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Subjective acoustic control at 1 meter and 3 meters; validation of low/auto modes.
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Configured user settings : time programming, night mode, ventilation levels.
HVAC Maintenance: Maintaining Performance and Air Quality
We provide a simple maintenance schedule :
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Filters : clean every 4 to 8 weeks depending on use.
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Drain evacuation : pre-summer and pre-winter purge.
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Outdoor unit (balcony/courtyard side): clearing of fins, gentle cleaning, preventive de-icing in winter if accumulation.
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Annual AirGreen visit : refrigeration inspection, terminal tightening, sensors, parameter updates.
Regular maintenance maintains performance and limits consumption on the electricity bill.
Tips for using a bathroom
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Use the dehumidification mode after showers to lower humidity faster than a simple fan.
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Avoid blowing directly towards the mirror to limit re-condensation.
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Maintain a clear air path around the unit (no high shelf in front of the shutter).
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Program a gentle nighttime setting to reduce temperature fluctuations in the adjoining bedroom.
Grants and Compliance
High-performance R32 wall-mounted heat pumps may be eligible for certain energy efficiency assistance programs, subject to certain criteria (certifications, power, low-temperature performance, installation by a licensed contractor). We validate eligibility for each project and provide the required compliance documents for your procedures.
What the customer gains immediately
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Immediate and uniform thermal comfort .
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Drier air after showers, clear mirrors faster.
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Quiet operation , compatible with urban lifestyles.
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Optimized consumption thanks to modulation and the right power.
AirGreen: your HVAC partner for Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, North Shore and South Shore
We design custom solutions for apartments, condos, and plexes in Greater Montreal. Whether you're considering a wall-mounted heat pump , a MultiZone , a central system , or annual HVAC maintenance , we'll guide you from thermal analysis to commissioning with a high level of finish and responsive post-installation support .
For this project on the Plateau-Mont-Royal , the Gree Livo R32 stands out as a balanced solution: efficient , compact and designed for the city.