Outdoor unit on condo terrace: stability, silence and longevity in an urban environment
AirGreen feedback — project context
In a condo in Griffintown ( Le Sud-Ouest district), we are installing the outdoor unit of a Sharp Eco Inverter wall-mounted heat pump . The client's goal: to benefit from 4-season comfort without encroaching on the outdoor living space, to reduce vibrations perceived in the building, and to ensure an HVAC installation that complies with co-ownership rules (flow, noise, service access).
Outdoor installation: a raised support to protect and last
Support and anti-vibration
We place the condenser on a raised aluminum base , anchored and detached by anti-vibration pads . This technical choice:
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keep the device away from the drainage surface of the terrace to avoid rising damp and dirt;
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limits the transmission of structure-borne noise to the slabs;
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facilitates defrosting and runoff in very cold weather.
The mount is laser leveled , reducing wear on the fan bearings and ensuring even water drainage from under the chassis.
Clearances and airflow
We scrupulously respect the clearances around the grille (free front face, clear side walls) in order to optimize:
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efficiency (no recirculation of hot air),
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the static pressure around the exchanger,
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accessibility for seasonal cleaning and diagnosis.
Finishing and protection of connections
The refrigerant connections and the power cable run in a UV-stable external duct , with sealed passages in the wall. The flares are made to a controlled torque ; a nitrogen test verifies the tightness before deep vacuum (≤ 500 microns) and charge opening.
The fittings are positioned so as to remain accessible without exposing the piping to the elements.
Water management and condominium requirements
Runoff and defrosting
In heating mode, a heat pump defrosts periodically. We have planned:
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a runoff section directed towards the permeable area of the paving stones,
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a clearance under the unit to prevent ice from forming at the base of the condenser,
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if necessary, the possibility of adding a recovery bin oriented towards the evacuation authorized by the union (option recommended for balconies overlooking a pedestrian walkway).
Noise and neighborhood
Anti-vibration pads , rigid anchoring and leveling reduce the perceived noise level. The fan is oriented to blow away from the balcony's relaxation areas. These precautions facilitate the equipment's acceptability by the neighborhood, a crucial point in Montreal , Laval and Longueuil where the terraces are close together.
Why Sharp Eco Inverter technology for a condo in Griffintown
Performance and stability
Modulating inverter technology adapts power to actual needs, which:
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limits consumption peaks ,
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maintains a stable temperature inside,
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reduces component wear .
Winter reliability and summer comfort
Sharp's latest line of condensers are designed to operate reliably in heating during the shoulder seasons and in sub-zero temperatures, while delivering efficient air conditioning with good humidity control in the summer—essential in glass-enclosed downtown condos.
Simplified maintenance
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Direct access to service valves and crankcase for annual checks;
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Easy cleaning of the exchanger (low pressure rinsing recommended);
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Clear reading of the indications on the facade ( EnergyGuide label, service markers), useful for monitoring HVAC maintenance .
Coherent interior/exterior integration
Short and clean path
The condenser is positioned at the right of the interior wall head, limiting the length of lines and pressure losses . This “offset back-to-back” diagram:
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reduces the additional refrigerant charge,
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improves system responsiveness,
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simplifies any subsequent intervention.
Drainage of internal condensates
On the interior side, depending on the configuration, we favor a gravity drain with a continuous slope; when the slope is not possible (load-bearing walls, complex paths), we integrate a silent mini-condensate pump with overflow safety . In this project, the geometry of the condo allows for reliable gravity drainage to the exterior.
Our AirGreen quality protocol
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Nitrogen sealing during brazing to prevent internal oxidation.
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Regulatory pressure leak test .
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Deep vacuum and stabilization ; ascent control.
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Electrical check (polarity, earth continuity, load currents).
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Control of blown/exhausted temperatures and adjustment of shutter sweep .
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Submission of a photo report and usage instructions.
Tips for using condominiums (Greater Montreal)
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Maintain clearance around the condenser (remote summer storage).
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Avoid high-pressure jets directly on the battery; prefer a gentle rinse .
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In winter, clear snow and ice from under the unit if there is any accumulation.
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Schedule annual maintenance : cleaning, insulation check, tightening, flow test.
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Keep the heating setpoint stable to benefit from a favorable COP .
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In air conditioning, aim for 24–25°C and activate dehumidification when indoor humidity exceeds ~55%.
Results achieved for the client
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Silence and low vibrations perceived on the terrace thanks to the raised support and the pads.
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Aesthetics in accordance with the union's requirements: compact size, clean trunking, discreet passage through the wall.
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Energy efficiency and stable comfort in the living room, summer and winter.
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Easy maintenance : front access, identified paths, clearances respected.
Why entrust your project to AirGreen?
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Specialists in HVAC installations in dense environments ( Montreal condos, Laval multiplexes, houses in Longueuil , North Shore and South Shore ).
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Selection of recent brands and parts available locally .
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Documented methodology , clear deadlines and support for subsidies when the equipment meets the criteria (high seasonal efficiencies, new generation refrigerants).
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Structured after-sales service : HVAC maintenance reminders, seasonal optimization, priority assistance during heat waves or cold spells.
Quick Facts — Moving to Southwest (Griffintown)
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Type : wall-mounted heat pump ( Sharp Eco Inverter outdoor unit).
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Installation : raised aluminum support , anti-vibration pads, clear front face.
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Route : short lines to the inner head; UV chute; sealed drilling.
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Water management : controlled runoff; tank option if required by the co-ownership.
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Objectives : 4-season comfort, controlled noise , simplified maintenance, condo-friendly aesthetics.
For your project in Montreal , Laval , Longueuil , on the North Shore or the South Shore , our AirGreen team carries out a technical visit , provides a precise quote and takes care of the complete HVAC installation up to the first maintenance .