A compact, clean and durable installation — perfect for Laval’s typical side yards
Project context and client expectations
At AirGreen , we were commissioned to modernize the comfort of a single-family home in Sainte-Dorothée (Laval) . The need was clear: a high-performance heat pump to provide air conditioning in the summer and supplementary heating in the spring/fall, with a neat HVAC installation in a narrow passage on the side facade. The client wanted a discreet device, a low noise level and a durable installation despite the proximity of the ground and fences.
Equipment selection and justification
The site is suitable for a MRCOOL wall-mounted heat pump (mini-split) . This residential range is appreciated for its compact condenser, limited rear clearance , and accessible maintenance . We have chosen a single indoor head / single condenser configuration to optimize consumption and ease of maintenance.
Key points that motivate this choice:
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Small footprint : ideal along vinyl siding with a narrow corridor.
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Quick maintenance : direct access to the service valve and electrical cover.
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Modulated comfort : inverter technology with fine power modulation to reduce on/off cycles.
Site preparation and constraints management
The lateral passage requires installation on slabs rather than on wall brackets to avoid vibrations transmitted to the structure. We retain:
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Two leveled and compacted concrete slabs on a stone bed, with anti-vibration pads under the condenser feet.
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Orientation of the air discharge towards the axis of the passage to limit recirculation.
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Respect clearances around the unit (maintenance access, air circulation, winter snow removal).
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Condensate management : gravity path planned on the interior side, with continuous slope and insulation of sensitive sections to prevent frost.
Refrigeration connections and power supply
We install a short and direct route : wall outlet to the right of the condenser, insulated refrigerant connections and protective sheath up to the facade inlet. The connections are crimped/flared to the torque , with leak tests (nitrogen + vacuum gauge) before opening the valves.
Electrical side:
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Circuit dedication to the main panel, sized to match the unit's current rating.
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Adjacent outdoor disconnect (required by code), cable protected by UV-resistant flexible conduit.
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Grounding and polarity check checked before powering up.
Visible details of the production (AirGreen quality)
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Seated on slabs with precise wedging: limits settlement, reduces vibrations and facilitates snow removal.
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Anti-vibration pads under each foot: real improvement in acoustic comfort for neighbors and occupants.
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Finishing the connections : continuous insulation, sealing tape at the outlets, tight caps and cable glands.
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Short path (≈ 3 to 4 m): minimal pressure losses and optimized efficiency .
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Designed drilling height **:** allows for a gravity slope for the drain and keeps connections out of splashes.
Results: comfort, silence and aesthetics
The MRCOOL condenser fits neatly along the siding, without any visual overload. The noise level in nominal mode remains low in the yard, the vibration is almost imperceptible thanks to the pads and the mineral bed. Inside, the head ensures regular blowing , efficient drying in air conditioning mode and a reliable mid-season top-up .
Best practices and advice for homes in Laval and surrounding areas
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Slabs vs. brackets : In a narrow passage, slabs reduce vibration transmission into the building and simplify service.
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Snow clearances : Provide a minimum clearance of the unit and a free zone of 60–90 cm all around to avoid the suction of powdery snow.
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Connection protection : UV-resistant outer sheath and service loop to limit mechanical stress.
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Annual HVAC maintenance **:** condenser washing, filter cleaning, crawl space and drain check.
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Acoustics : anti-vibration pads + stable slab = clear reduction of low frequencies perceived by neighbors.
Grants and Eligibility
Grant programs in Quebec require an eligible appliance and professional installation by a licensed contractor. Eligibility varies depending on the refrigerant , efficiency , and cold operating range . AirGreen systematically verifies these criteria (Montreal, Laval , Longueuil , North Shore , South Shore ) and advises on the best performance/cost ratio to access aid when the model allows it.
Why AirGreen for your HVAC installation in Laval
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Certified team : technicians trained in recent mini-splits, sealing and vacuuming procedures traced.
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Rigorous finish : clean cable management, sealing of crossings, durable leveling .
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After-sales service : maintenance reminder, rapid diagnosis in the event of an alert, accessible parts.
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Local expertise : adaptation to Greater Montreal winters , recommendations on snow guards , clearing and de-icing.
Key steps of our method (operational summary)
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Technical visit and clearance measurements .
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BTU sizing according to insulation, orientation and sensible/latent load.
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Installation on slabs, wedging and level control .
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Drilling and passage of connections with continuous insulation.
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Brazing/flaring with torque, nitrogen and deep vacuum .
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Electrical connection , disconnector and functional tests.
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Calibration : superheat/subcooling check, defrost tests .
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Delivery to the customer: instructions for cleaning filters , snow removal and HVAC maintenance .
Maintenance and longevity
A well-installed mini-split in a Laval side passage can exceed 10–15 years with:
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Cleaning the condenser in spring,
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Dusting the filters every 2–3 months in summer,
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Annual inspection (electricity, pressure, drain),
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Winter clearing after heavy snowfall.
What if your home is in Montreal, Longueuil, North Shore or South Shore?
Our AirGreen team covers the entire Greater Montreal area. The conclusions drawn here (slab foundation, pads, short path, waterproof finishes) apply to homes in Montreal , Longueuil , the North Shore , and the South Shore , with adjustments based on wind direction, snow depth, and facade configuration.
Take action
Are you considering a similar HVAC installation in Laval or the surrounding area? We assess your home, size the right heat pump , and ensure a clean, efficient, and durable installation. AirGreen will assist you from quote to annual maintenance.