Precise comfort in a Montreal apartment with narrow passages
In this Villeray–Saint-Michel–Parc-Extension apartment, we are installing a Midea wall-mounted heat pump in a transom above a door frame . The layout of the space—narrow hallway, frequent traffic, adjoining library—requires a compact, quiet layout capable of serving two adjoining rooms without disrupting traffic flow. Our mandate: to deliver a clean, durable HVAC system optimized for Montreal's climate.
Client background and objectives
The client wanted to replace an energy-intensive electric heater with a four-season solution that stabilizes the temperature, reduces noise, and limits visual clutter. The high installation above the door meets these criteria: it frees up wall space, promotes destratification in heating, and facilitates airflow to the next room.
Equipment selection and sizing
We chose a Midea single-zone inverter rated at 12,000 BTU/h (ideal range for 40–55 m² depending on insulation). The reasons for this choice:
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Fine modulation of the compressor to maintain the setpoint smoothly;
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Low noise level suitable for passage areas;
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High seasonal efficiency ( Energy Star profile in AHRI certified combinations) with efficient heating capacity down to approximately −25°C , relevant for Montreal .
This selection opens the door to subsidies when the indoor/outdoor unit pair meets the program criteria: we provide the AHRI references and accompany the file.
Interior installation: millimeter precision above a door
Positioning and fixings. We place the bracket on studs located behind the plasterboard, with suitable anchors and level control on two axes. The lateral and upper clearances prescribed by Midea are respected to avoid air recycling . The height above the molding preserves the full opening of the door.
Air diffusion. To cover two volumes, we program:
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a vertical shutter slightly lowered in winter to bring the heat back to the level of the occupants;
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a wide horizontal sweep in summer to distribute fresh air into the adjacent room, with the door open;
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an average flow rate limiting air currents during passage.
Finishes. The unit fits flush with the cornice line ; no interior sheathing is visible. The proximity of a bookcase requires the shutter to be wedged to prevent it from pushing back onto the shelves.
Refrigeration path, drilling and evacuation of condensates
Short route. The copper connections and the communication cable exit directly behind the unit through a single outwardly inclined hole (Ø ~65–75 mm), which reduces pressure losses and simplifies maintenance. The total route of the lines remains less than 10 m , preserving the nominal fluid load.
Gravity drainage. Condensate is drained by gravity , silent and reliable, without an internal pump . The pipe is insulated up to the discharge point to prevent parasitic condensation in the partition. Outside, the outlet is protected and oriented to prevent any runoff onto passageways.
Exterior capping. The connections are covered on the facade with a discreet cladding in a matching light color ; the cuts are sealed (mastic + weatherstripping) to prevent air and moisture infiltration .
Power supply and compliance
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Dedicated circuit to the panel with circuit breaker sized according to the nominal intensity of the Midea;
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Grounding checked, tightening checked, clear identification of conductors;
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Service switch and maintenance socket near the outdoor unit;
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Compliance with applicable RBQ requirements and CSA best practices.
AirGreen Commissioning Methodology
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Flaring and brazing of copper connections, visual inspection of the spans.
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Nitrogen test (350–400 psi) and electronic detector control.
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Deep vacuum ≤ 300 microns and resistance test.
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Opening the valves , checking for superheat and subcooling according to the actual length.
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Air settings : vane angle, speeds, seasonal settings.
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Transfer to the customer : HVAC usage and maintenance instructions.
Construction site constraints and solutions
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Limited clearance above the doorframe: choice of a compact template , precise positioning of the bracket and orientation of the insufflation plenum to avoid turbulence at the right of the molding.
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High- traffic area : moderate flow setting and sweeping that avoids any direct blowing on the occupants while carrying the air to the next room.
Measurable results
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Thermal stability : reduced temperature range between the two parts;
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Silence : low and eco modes preferred in the evening, noise core attenuated by the high installation;
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Savings : in mid-season, the heat pump covers most of the heating needs, limiting the use of baseboards ;
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Aesthetics : no interior sheathing , discreet exterior cladding, sealed drilling.
Good HVAC Maintenance Practices
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Filters : vacuum every 4–6 weeks, wash quarterly;
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Exchanger : annual gentle cleaning to maintain efficiency ;
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Drain : spring flushing and slope control;
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Outdoor unit : clear of snow and debris, check silent blocks ;
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Annual AirGreen inspection : refrigeration parameters, electrical tightening, health of insulation.
Pitfalls to avoid
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Undersize the device: high speed, premature wear, noise ;
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Neglecting clearance above a door: air recycling and reduced performance;
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Uncontrolled drainage : risks of odors, backflow and stains;
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Too long a route or tight bends: pressure losses and reduced efficiency .
Support for subsidies and AirGreen service
We manage the eligibility verification (low temperature range, AHRI references), the creation and submission of files for clients in Montreal , Laval , Longueuil , North Shore and South Shore . Our commitment: advice, compliant HVAC installation , HVAC maintenance and rapid troubleshooting for the longevity of your equipment.
Assessment and operating advice
This Midea wall-mounted heat pump installed above a door makes the most of every available centimeter, ensures efficient distribution between two rooms, and reduces annual consumption. To get the most out of the package:
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in winter , turn the shutter downwards and use a moderate setting ;
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in summer , favor a wide sweep and a medium flow ;
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Activate the semi-annual maintenance reminders : a clean exchanger means lasting performance .