A condo balcony intervention designed for comfort, compliance and longevity
Project context: condo in Laval-des-Rapides, restricted space and co-ownership rules
At AirGreen , we are regularly called upon to work on condominium balconies in Greater Montreal. This project, located in Laval-des-Rapides , perfectly illustrates our expertise when space , noise and union regulations constraints intersect. The client wanted a compact and efficient four-season heating and air conditioning solution for their main living area, while respecting distances, condensate management, the safety of downstairs neighbors and stability against crosswinds. We chose to install a Sharp Eco Inverter ( Plasmacluster range) in a wall-mounted heat pump configuration.
Client Objectives
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Stable summer/winter comfort in the condo's open area (living room + dining room).
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Exterior and interior noise levels comply with the requirements of the co-ownership.
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Discreet aesthetics on the balcony and clean connection passage inside.
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Simplified HVAC maintenance , with secure access to the outdoor unit.
Choosing equipment and its relevance for a condo balcony
The Sharp Eco Inverter is a great value for compact residential spaces. Inverter technology continuously adjusts power, reducing on/off cycles, which limits vibration and noise emissions —a major benefit in condos . The Plasmacluster function also contributes to superior indoor air quality by reducing particles and odors.
Why a wall-mounted heat pump here?
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Minimal pipe passage and direct crossing from the exterior wall to the interior head.
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High energy efficiency , particularly in mid-season, with excellent SCOP/SEER depending on the range.
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Reduced footprint on the balcony, thanks to a raised support which frees up circulation.
Please note: for new or replacement projects geared towards extreme cold and subsidies , we recommend favoring recent R-32 or R-454B ranges (e.g. Sharp ZU1 or Midea28 ), which offer extended performance in very cold weather and better compatibility with current aid programs.
Installation details: stability, evacuation and silence at the forefront
Every balcony is unique. Here, the metal railing, the ceramic floor covering and the plastered facade required precise execution to guarantee solidity and watertightness .
Support and anti-vibration
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Installation on a raised aluminium frame (usable height ~35–40 cm) with anti-vibration pads under the soles to distribute the load and protect the balcony covering.
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Frame bracing and stainless steel hardware to withstand frequent side winds at height.
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Tightening to the prescribed torque on the bolts and alignment checks of the exchanger to avoid structural noise.
Refrigeration and capping process
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Single hole through the exterior wall, countersunk and sealed with UV compatible sealant and vapor barrier to prevent infiltration.
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Refrigeration connections (insulated annealed copper) over a very short route of approximately 3 to 4 m between the outdoor unit and the indoor head — an advantage for efficiency (reduced pressure losses).
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White exterior capping to protect and unify the visual appearance of the bundle (fridge + cable + drain), with curvature radii respected to avoid pressure losses.
Electrical management and security
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Disconnect box located near the unit, securely mounted on the base, with waterproof sheath and clearance for maintenance.
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Dedicated circuit from the panel (manufacturer's rating), grounding checked and terminal blocks tightened to the recommended torques.
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Clear labeling for future intervention (technician, trustee, inspection).
Condensate drainage and winter
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Prioritized gravity drainage towards the exterior with a continuous slope ; when gravity is not possible, we integrate a silent and accessible condensate pump .
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Peripheral clearance of the unit respected for air sweeping, with attention to the return near the guardrail in order to avoid any recirculation.
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Useful elevation for episodes of blown snow and to keep the exchanger clean; access to the tray and the grilles remains easy for maintenance.
Co-ownership regulations: compliance without compromise
In Laval, as in Montreal , Longueuil , North Shore and South Shore , unions often demand:
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Sound levels below specific thresholds;
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Consistent aesthetics (capping colors, discreet fittings);
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Condensate management without dripping to neighbors;
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Secure maintenance access.
We systematically submit a technical file (product sheet, noise levels , installation plans, simplified electrical diagram) to the board of directors when required, and we manage the exchange until final approval .
Commissioning: AirGreen methodology
Careful commissioning extends equipment life and ensures performance .
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Deep vacuum with micro-vacuum gauge until stabilization (target ≤ 500 microns depending on context) and prior leak test with nitrogen.
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Opening of valves , balancing and pressure control in cold/hot mode.
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Checking the absorbed intensity and correlation with the nameplate.
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Checking the flow of condensates , then calibrating the remote control parameters (programming, silent night mode if available).
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User briefing : filters, cleaning, winter instructions (clearances, natural de-icing), recommended annual HVAC maintenance .
Result: immediate comfort and controlled silence
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Stable temperature in the open area, smooth starts thanks to the inverter .
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Measured exterior noise level in line with union expectations, with no vibration transmission to the slab.
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Minimal visual impact : the raised unit remains clear for maintenance, the cabling is tidy and protected.
Tips for use and maintenance to maximize lifespan
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Maintain a clearance of at least 30–40 cm around the grilles; avoid placing objects (chairs, deckchairs) against them that could disrupt the suction.
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Cleaning of internal filters every 4 to 8 weeks depending on ambient dust.
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Annual AirGreen inspection : operating pressures, electrical connections, condition of insulation, calibration and updating of seasonal recommendations.
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In winter, periodically check for ice buildup under the unit and clear the area if necessary.
Common pitfalls avoided on this project
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Undersizing the support: we choose approved aluminum frames , with anti-vibration pads adapted to the load.
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Poorly positioned drilling : our layout reduces the length of the connections and avoids tight bends .
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Poorly thought-out drainage : gravity was prioritized; otherwise a dedicated mini-pump would have been integrated with service access.
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Forgetting clearance towards the guardrail: the layout takes into account air intake and safety.
Alternatives and scalability: thinking long term
For multi-room needs or enhanced cold weather performance , we frequently offer:
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Sharp ZU1 (R-32) for excellent low temperature performance;
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Midea28 ( R-454B , down to −30°C) for those looking for subsidies , high SEER/SCOP and new generation refrigerant;
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Gree Livo/Clivia R32 for excellent value for money, with wide availability Montreal – Laval – Longueuil – North Shore – South Shore .
Why AirGreen for your HVAC installation in Laval-des-Rapides and throughout Greater Montreal?
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Certified team accustomed to co-ownership contexts .
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Turnkey service : analysis of regulations, choice of equipment, installation, commissioning , documentation for the union .
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After-sales follow-up and HVAC maintenance to maintain performance and warranty.
Need a quick estimate? We schedule a technical visit in Laval , Montreal , Longueuil , North Shore and South Shore to validate the layout, clearances and optimal BTU sizing for your home.
Project summary sheet
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Machine type : Sharp Eco Inverter wall-mounted heat pump (mini-split), Plasmacluster function.
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Installation : condo balcony on raised aluminum support with anti-vibration .
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Route : short connections (~3–4 m) via wall crossing ; exterior white capping .
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Electrical : Disconnect box within reach; dedicated circuit and ground.
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Maintenance : easy access, clearances respected, complete commissioning procedure.
And what next?
If you're planning an upgrade to a new generation R-32/R-454B eligible for financial assistance , we'll guide you to the best brand-model combination for your condominium and budget—including, if needed, a Midea28 recommendation to combine high performance with eligibility under current programs.
AirGreen — Heat Pumps, Air Conditioning & Heating in Laval-des-Rapides, Montreal, Longueuil, North Shore and South Shore.
Careful, compliant and durable HVAC installation , designed for your daily comfort.