Four-season comfort in the heart of a flat roof in Plateau-Mont-Royal : this is how we transform a cramped and windy space into an efficient and discreet technical area, while respecting urban planning regulations and HVAC best practices.
A project designed for comfort and discretion
In a condominium in the Plateau, the association wanted to modernize the heating and air conditioning systems of two residential units, focusing on winter performance, low noise , and careful visual integration . We proposed the installation of two Gree Vireo R32 wall-mounted heat pumps on the flat roof, with openwork wooden screens to preserve the aesthetics and limit wind resistance, without compromising the ventilation of the condensers.
Urban context and site constraints
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Flat roof in white membrane, access via hatch.
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Very narrow technical space between protective walls, requiring precise management of clearances for air flow.
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Presence of roof elements (evacuation outlets, guardrails, drip edges) and close proximity: priority to noise reduction and safety.
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Routing of refrigeration lines to two dwellings on the lower level: need for a watertight route and anti-vibration supports.
Why the Gree Vireo R32 for the Plateau?
The Vireo R32 range perfectly meets the needs of a dense district like the Plateau: compact condenser, good performance at low temperatures , A2L (R-32) fluidizer with low GWP and optimized consumption.
Key benefits for occupants
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Four-season comfort : stable heating even in extreme cold and gentle air conditioning during heat waves.
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Silence : modulating fans and night mode, ideal for terraces and neighboring windows.
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Energy efficiency : inverter modulation, reducing operating costs and promoting eligibility for certain aid programs when the criteria (efficiency, nominal temperatures) are met.
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R-32 (A2L) : new generation refrigerant compliant with current requirements, handled with strict safety protocols.
Load study and choice of capacities
Each apartment has south-west-facing glass surfaces, typical of the Plateau-Mont-Royal . We carry out a room-by-room sizing (sensible/latent load, infiltration, orientation) and select suitable capacities (9k to 18k BTU per person depending on the area). The objective: long cycles, a comfortable humidity recovery rate in summer and an advantageous COP in winter.
Internal distribution
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Wall units strategically positioned in the living area, with unobstructed air return.
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Gravity drainage of condensate where possible; otherwise, silent micro-pump with flow limiter and alarm.
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Native infrared controls and Wi-Fi option for smart control.
Flat Roof Installation Details: AirGreen Method
Our signature is precision of execution. On this project, the two condensers are raised on galvanized frames fixed to membrane-compatible EPDM rubber soles , for:
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preserve the watertightness,
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allow snow removal ,
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respect the free height for convection and avoid snowdrifts.
Clearance and airflow management
The wooden screens are perforated to prevent hot/cold air recirculation. We maintain the Vireo's recommended side and rear clearances to maintain efficiency and reduce compressor wear.
Refrigerated lines and routes
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Total length per system of approximately 12 to 15 meters , with wide bends to preserve the capillary.
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High-density class 1 insulation , vulcanized joints and UV tape; addition of vapor barrier at the envelope penetrations.
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Light grey ducts on the roof and on the interior facade of the technical courtyard for a harmonious finish.
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Nitrogen leak tests , deep vacuum (< 500 microns) and stabilization before opening the charging valve.
Electricity and compliance
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IP-65 disconnect boxes in the immediate vicinity of each condenser, armored cables and cross-section sized for maximum current draw.
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Circuit breakers dedicated to the electrical panel of the dwellings, with clear markings.
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Strict application of the rules relating to A2L (R-32) refrigerants : volumes served, natural ventilation of the area, prevention of ignition sources, labeling and commissioning documentation.
Acoustics, vibrations and neighborhood
In an environment like the Plateau, acoustics are crucial. We add:
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Anti-vibration pads under chassis;
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Anti-vibration hoses on connections;
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Night mode programmed in sensitive ranges;
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Careful positioning to avoid blowing towards neighboring terraces.
Result: a very low perceived sound level at the perimeter of the roof and no structural transmission to the lower ceilings.
Commissioning and quality control
Our certified technicians perform:
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Checking the expansions and anchor points of the linesets;
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Superheat/subcooling measurements and load current validation;
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Calibration of remote controls and Smart scenarios (time slots, night savings);
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Delivery of a maintenance log : filters, coil cleaning, annual inspection.
Results for co-owners
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Significant reduction in operating costs compared to traditional electric convectors.
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Consistent comfort in the main rooms, with precise humidity control in summer.
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Discreet integration: the condensers disappear behind the openwork cladding, while remaining fully accessible for maintenance.
HVAC Maintenance: Maintaining Performance
To maximize the lifespan of Gree Vireo heat pumps :
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Clean air filters every 4 to 8 weeks during periods of heavy use;
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Gentle rinsing of outdoor coils in spring and after pollen season;
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Professional annual inspection: pressures, connections, drainage, firmware updates if applicable;
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Clearing the roof in winter to avoid snow accumulations in front of the exchangers.
Grants and Eligibility
New generation high-efficiency wall-mounted heat pumps with refrigerant may be eligible for certain financial assistance programs in Quebec, depending on their power , efficiency and nominal temperatures . We guide our clients on the current criteria and prepare supporting documents (technical sheet, detailed invoice, installation photos).
Practical tips for a flat roof in Montreal
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Allow for a minimum elevation of 30–45 cm to clear snow.
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Ensure free flow of rainwater (no obstacles in front of the drains).
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Choose openwork screens rather than solid ones to combine aesthetics and performance .
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Anticipate maintenance : secure access, gateway if necessary, and disconnection within reach of technicians.
Why AirGreen for your HVAC installation in Plateau-Mont-Royal?
We understand the constraints of flat roofs and condominiums in Montreal : access logistics, neighborhood, A2L standards, and carpentry finishes that respect the spirit of the neighborhood. Our team provides support from sizing to after-sales service , with clear language and realistic deadlines .
A transparent, results-oriented approach
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Detailed quote and power scenarios compared;
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Explanation of seasonal yields and behavior in extreme cold ;
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Preventive maintenance plan to ensure long-term reliability.
Frequently Asked Questions (Plateau-Mont-Royal & Flat Roofs)
Does the Vireo R32 heat up well in January?
Yes. We select configurations that maintain useful heating at low temperatures; inverter regulation prevents uncomfortable variations.
Do wooden screens affect performance?
No, if they are openwork and if the clearances are respected. We size them to preserve the air flow .
And the noise for the neighbors?
We combine anti-vibration pads , thoughtful positioning and night mode . Perceived levels remain very low in the immediate environment.
Are you in Plateau-Mont-Royal , Laval , Longueuil , on the North Shore or the South Shore and considering a wall-mounted heat pump ? Our team will advise, size and install with the same rigor, from the first call to commissioning .
Useful keywords : heat pump , wall-mounted heat pump , wall-mounted air conditioner , HVAC installation , HVAC maintenance , Montreal , Plateau-Mont-Royal , Laval , Longueuil , North Shore , South Shore .