A balcony-corridor layout that maximizes open air without encroaching on circulation space
In a brick duplex in Plateau-Mont-Royal , we installed a GREE wall-mounted heat pump (R-32 range) with an outdoor condenser located on a narrow balcony-hallway . The goal: to provide four-season comfort upstairs, while respecting air clearances and occupant circulation. This real-life case illustrates our approach to HVAC installation in a dense urban environment, where every detail—supports, positioning, wiring, condensate drainage—must be designed to last.
Why the GREE R-32 range for Montreal
The latest GREE wall-mounted heat pumps operating with R-32 refrigerant are distinguished by:
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their high seasonal efficiency and a responsive inverter compressor;
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heating stability in cold weather (down to approximately −25°C depending on the configuration chosen);
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a compact design, adapted to the narrow courtyards and balconies of Montreal plexes.
The result: economical heating in winter, precise cooling in summer, and a solid basis for grant eligibility when efficiency criteria are met.
Architectural context: balcony-corridor, brick, metal railing
The site presents the typical characteristics of Plateau plexes:
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brick facades and windows overlooking an exterior passage;
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metal guardrail bordering the corridor;
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occupant circulation and access to a side door .
In this type of environment, the management of the air discharged by the condenser and the safety of passage are paramount. We therefore chose a location at the end of the corridor , on the clear side, away from the door and walking areas.
Installation and supports: stability, leveling and longevity
To free the ground and raise the unit above any residual snow or ice , we opted for:
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raised supports made of galvanized steel, firmly anchored to the concrete;
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anti-vibration pads to reduce sound transmission to the floor;
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precise leveling ensuring the correct flow of condensates produced in air conditioning mode.
This configuration protects the equipment from water splashes, makes it easier to clean the balcony and maintains proper clearances on the front and sides.
Ventilation and clearances: the key in a confined space
In a narrow corridor, the main risk is the recirculation of hot (winter) or warm (summer) air around the condenser. We have:
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positioned the unit so as to leave a generous frontal air corridor ;
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respected the side and rear clearances recommended by GREE;
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validated that the air discharge is carried out towards the opening of the corridor, away from any obstruction .
This treatment limits performance losses and prevents untimely shutdowns due to abnormally high suction temperatures.
Refrigerated and electrical route: short, clean, protected
The brick environment allowed us to make a direct and short breakthrough towards the interior. The connections were:
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continuously insulated , under discreet capping matching the colors of the site;
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fixed at regular intervals to avoid any floating ;
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connected to a dedicated circuit breaker with a proximity switch according to the rules of the art, for easy switching off during maintenance.
A short path reduces pressure losses and improves the effective capacity of the wall-mounted heat pump .
Condensate management: clean and without nuisance
Even though the outdoor condenser doesn't have a permanent drain like an indoor evaporator, air conditioning mode can generate water on the fins. We expect:
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a facade gutter naturally protected by the raising of the supports;
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a controlled inclination preventing any stagnation on the balcony;
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if necessary, a diversion so that water does not flow into passage areas.
These precautions maintain a dry and safe space for occupants.
Acoustics and vibrations: comfort for neighbors guaranteed
In plexes, the proximity of neighbors requires minimizing noise and vibrations:
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anti-vibration pads under the feet;
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tightening the fasteners to the correct torque to avoid mechanical harmonics ;
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control of the passage of pipes in the wall, with packing to avoid buzzing .
The measurements taken after commissioning confirm a discreet noise level , compatible with the use of the balcony in the evening.
Commissioning and quality controls
At the end of the installation, we systematically carry out:
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Nitrogen leak test and deep vacuum .
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Checking currents , voltages and communication between units.
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Validation of temperatures in air conditioning and heating mode.
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Setting functions (defrost, auto restart, ventilation ranges).
These steps ensure that the GREE R-32 heat pump delivers its full performance from day one.
Results for the client
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Reliable heating in cold weather and even cooling in summer.
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Controlled consumption , particularly interesting on the Plateau where the surfaces are compact.
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Passageway preserved and aesthetics respected.
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Solid basis for eligibility for grant programs when the installed model meets the required efficiency thresholds.
What to Avoid — and How We Avoided It
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Stick the unit against the door : we have kept a safe setback for traffic.
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Undersize the front clearances : the unit is oriented towards the corridor opening for a clean air sweep .
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Leave exposed connections unprotected : everything is covered and secured .
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Forget about future maintenance : clearances and proximity switch make service visits easier.
Maintenance recommended by AirGreen
To maintain longevity and performance :
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clean the internal filters every 2–3 months during the usage season;
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defrost and gently rinse the outdoor heat exchanger in spring if debris is deposited there;
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schedule annual HVAC maintenance (checking pressures, probes, connections, condensates, mechanical tightening).
Practical advice for plex owners
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Anticipate airflow : a balcony-corridor can be suitable if the front facade of the unit is clear .
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Choose R-32 : better performance and reduced charge compared to older refrigerants.
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Think about winters : an elevated area and a space protected from snow accumulations are assets.
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Call on a local team : the constraints of Montreal plexes require specific expertise .
Installation summary sheet
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Brand: GREE
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Range: R-32 (wall-mounted heat pump, single zone)
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Location: Plateau-Mont-Royal (Montreal)
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Support: raised pedestals with anti-vibration pads , concrete anchoring
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Route: short brick drilling, discreet capping ; isolated connections
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Condensates (summer): natural flow, passage area preserved
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Objectives: 4-season comfort, energy saving , maintaining circulation space
At AirGreen , we know the plexes of Greater Montreal and their intricacies. Our team delivers carefully designed installations , designed to perform in extreme cold , easy to maintain and adapted to your spaces — in Montreal, Laval , Longueuil , on the North Shore and the South Shore .