A Montreal balcony project carried out with precision: four-season comfort, compliance with HVAC standards and careful integration with the brick architecture.
Why this installation changes the customer's daily life
In a typical plex in Rosemont–La Petite-Patrie , we installed a latest-generation Gree wall-mounted heat pump with R-32 refrigerant . The goal: to ensure efficient air conditioning in the summer and efficient heating in the winter while remaining discreet, reliable and economical. The site imposed the classic constraints of Montreal back balconies: concrete slab , steel railing , brick wall , passage of refrigeration connections through the masonry, and management of condensate drainage in all seasons.
Our technical approach to this brick balcony
Architectural context and access constraints
The outdoor condenser is positioned on the rear balcony, facing a brick wall typical of the area. Access is via the shared metal staircase. We first plan the transport maneuvers (step protection, time windows to avoid disturbing neighbors), then level the installation area.
Support, clearances and anti-vibrations
We opted for a raised, anchored and leveled aluminum base , with anti-vibration pads under the feet — an ideal choice on balcony slabs:
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useful height to stay above the snow accumulation ;
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limitation of the transmission of vibrations to the structure;
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ease of maintenance under the device.
Peripheral clearances are respected to ensure optimal ventilation and facilitate service. The fan on the facade remains clear of the guardrails.
Drilling and routing of connections
The single hole through the brick was made with a core drill and sleeve to protect the connections and prevent any transfer of moisture.
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Estimated total length of refrigeration connections: 4 to 7 m between the indoor head and the condenser, reasonable for a balcony-wall installation.
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Continuous insulation and careful taping of the lines; holding collars at the outlet, with bends respecting the minimum radius.
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Communication and power cable running with the lines for a compact and readable result.
The visual appearance on the balcony is a priority: compact beam, clean outlet cap , sealing with freeze/thaw resistant polyurethane mastic .
Condensate management and slope
The indoor unit is drained by gravity with a minimum slope of 2% , avoiding water pockets. Outside, we provide a controlled drip point and, if required, a winter heating cable (optional) for sites exposed to thaws/frost, to prevent icicles on the slab.
Electricity and protections
The heat pump is powered by a dedicated, code-compliant circuit . A proximity circuit breaker (fuse/disconnect box) is accessible without obstructing movement on the balcony. Grounding is verified, tightened to the correct torque, and cable routing is protected when exiting the wall. We evaluate the nominal current (A) and line length to correctly size the conductors.
Commissioning and controls
After vacuuming to ≤ 500 microns , we ensure that the vacuum is maintained and that there is no infiltration. This is followed by opening the valves, checking the leaks with an electronic detector, checking the blowing temperatures , seasonal pressures and setting the silent modes for the neighborhood. The customer receives a clear user guide (defrosting instructions, filter cleaning, maintenance plan).
Why a Gree R-32 for a Rosemont plex?
New generation efficiency and refrigerant
Gree's R-32 range offers high cooling and heating efficiencies , low noise levels and a reduced environmental footprint compared to R-410A. In practice, this means:
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Stable comfort even during rapid temperature changes;
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Lower energy bills thanks to inverter technology;
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Compatibility with current and future regulatory expectations.
Winter performance
The recent Gree R-32 series are designed for the Montreal climate , with a heating capacity in low temperatures . On a semi-exposed balcony, the choice of a raised support and a clear orientation limits the accumulation of snow and improves defrost cycles.
Eligibility and Programs
Depending on the BTU capacity and certified performance , these wall-mounted heat pumps may be eligible for programs in effect in Quebec. We assist our clients with documentation and file preparation , both in Montreal and in the cities of the North Shore, South Shore, Laval and Longueuil .
Site-specific execution details
Safety and neighborhood
The intervention was scheduled outside of peak hours in the alleyway. Straps and guards were used on the railings to avoid marking the paintwork. The outdoor unit's noise levels are low, preserving the acoustic comfort of the neighbors.
Masonry protection
The drilling respects the jointing pattern ; the brick is neither cracked nor chipped. Interior and exterior waterproofing is achieved with a double barrier (sleeve + seal). This prevents air infiltration and water migration while improving energy efficiency.
Winterization
To allow for snow accumulation and frost , we maintain clearance under the unit. On the front, nothing obstructs the intake or exhaust. A snow guard can be added if the upper balcony drips onto the unit; here, the upper slab is sufficiently offset.
Result: comfort, silence and controlled consumption
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Fast and even air conditioning in living areas.
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Efficient heating in the off-season and in winter, reducing dependence on existing systems.
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Noise reduction thanks to anti-vibration pads and night mode .
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Preserved aesthetics : compact connection bundle, clean passage, perfectly level unit.
AirGreen Tips for Balcony Installations in Montreal
To do
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Choose a raised support with anti-vibration devices to limit the resonance of metal balconies.
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Check the blowing direction and clearances to avoid recirculation of hot air in winter.
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Maintain the drain slope and provide controlled drainage away from passages.
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Schedule annual HVAC maintenance : battery cleaning, electrical check, leak test, service report update.
To avoid
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Random drilling in the brick : aim for the mortar beds , and systematically protect with a sleeve .
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Overly tight connections or tight angles that strain the copper and insulation.
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Installation flush with the slab: in winter, snow blocks defrosting and the device strains.
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Non-compliant electrical extension cords: the heat pump requires a dedicated circuit .
Maintenance and longevity: our recommended plan
An annual preventative maintenance plan extends lifespan and maintains seasonal performance :
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Cleaning the filters and the inner head turbine.
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Gentle disinfection to limit allergens and odors.
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Inspection of connections, current measurement and control of inverter parameters .
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Checking the support fixings and the condition of the pads .
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Drainage test and inspection of wall seal .
We record each visit in a maintenance log given to the customer, useful for warranty and efficiency programs.
Why entrust your project to us?
At AirGreen , we are experts in HVAC installations in confined spaces: balconies , exterior staircases , walkways and brick walls . Our team plans every detail— logistics , acoustics , energy —for a reliable , clean and sustainable result. We operate in Montreal , Laval , Longueuil , on the North Shore and the South Shore , with solutions adapted to the realities of local plexes and condominiums.
Project summary sheet
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Type : Gree wall-mounted heat pump ( R-32 generation).
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Site : balcony on concrete slab in Rosemont–La Petite-Patrie ; brick wall; metal railing.
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Installation : raised aluminum base , anti-vibration pads , protected drillings, compact beam and careful sealing.
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Route : short wall outlet, isolated connections, gravity drain with controlled slope.
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Objective : efficient air conditioning , efficient winter heating , low noise , controlled aesthetics.
For a similar project — Montreal , Laval , Longueuil , North Shore , South Shore — we offer a complete technical assessment and product recommendations tailored to your home.
Useful keywords
heat pump , wall-mounted heat pump , wall-mounted air conditioner , HVAC installation , HVAC maintenance , Montreal , Laval , Longueuil , North Shore , South Shore .