Two outdoor units for two zones, an HVAC installation designed to last
At AirGreen , we support many duplex and triplex owners in Greater Montreal who want to improve the comfort of each home without increasing the electrical infrastructure or footprint. In Villeray–Saint-Michel–Parc-Extension , we are installing a Sharp Eco Inverter wall-mounted heat pump —actually two twin mono-split systems —to independently serve two areas of a residential building. The goal: four-season comfort with controlled consumption, in a small, partially covered outdoor space.
Context and objectives of the project
The building has a narrow side courtyard and a concrete canopy that protects the facade. The owner wanted:
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Efficient heating at low temperatures and stable air conditioning in summer.
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A silent , reliable and easy to maintain system.
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A clean installation that respects the rendered masonry and does not obstruct traffic.
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An independent solution per dwelling , without interaction between thermostats.
The Sharp Eco Inverter range perfectly meets these expectations: inverter technology, reliable heating mode in cold weather , discreet operation, filters and exchanger easily accessible for periodic HVAC maintenance .
Why the Sharp wall-mounted heat pump is suitable for Montreal plexes
Sharp wall-mounted heat pumps combine fine compressor regulation with stable electronics to offer:
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High energy efficiency in heating and cooling, reducing operating costs.
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Temperature stability in rooms of varying sizes (open living room, bedrooms, offices).
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Maintained air quality thanks to filtration and treatment functions (Sharp's signature Plasmacluster technology, depending on configuration).
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Compatibility with grant programs when required seasonal performance is achieved (points to be validated according to the exact model and address of the project).
For a duplex , two separate mono-split systems offer a decisive advantage: each dwelling manages its own setting , without compromise between occupants or energy interference.
Key Steps in HVAC Installation
1) Positioning and supports
The two condensers are placed on galvanized steel bases anchored in concrete. This elevation:
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Prevents accumulation of water, snow and ice at the base of the device.
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Guarantees regulatory clearances for air intake and discharge.
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Facilitates access to maintenance (exchanger cleaning, service checks).
The concrete canopy acts as a natural snow shield , while limiting direct sunlight and driving rain on the machines. We have nevertheless maintained sufficient lateral spacing between the two units to prevent the recirculation of hot air in summer and optimize defrosting in winter.
2) Refrigeration holes and paths
Each system has its own independent passage to the corresponding indoor unit. The refrigeration path is deliberately short and straight in order to:
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Minimize pressure losses and stabilize refrigeration pressure .
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Reduce the weld length and therefore the potential weak points.
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Take care of the aesthetics : the connections are grouped and protected, with waterproof sealing on the wall to prevent water infiltration .
3) Condensate management
Condensate from the indoor unit is drained by gravity . This choice, when the configuration allows it, eliminates the noise, maintenance, and risk of breakdown associated with pumps. Outside, the drain is discreetly channeled to avoid splashing onto walkways.
4) Power supply and safety
Each condenser is powered by a dedicated 240 V circuit , sized according to the machine's nominal current and the protection rating recommended by the manufacturer. An external disconnect box , installed in the immediate vicinity and at an accessible height, allows safe isolation during maintenance work.
5) Refrigeration procedure
In accordance with the rules of the art:
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Brazing under nitrogen to protect the interior of the copper tubes.
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Leak test with dry nitrogen, followed by a deep vacuum to remove residual moisture.
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Commissioning with reading of parameters (pressure, intensity, supply/return temperature) to validate actual performance .
Results: independent comfort and measurable effectiveness
From the moment of start-up, both units benefit from a rapid start-up , uniform blowing and a very low noise level . The inverter reduces the frequency of on/off cycles, which improves acoustic comfort and the longevity of the compressors.
Energy-wise, owners expect:
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Lower costs compared to electric baseboard heaters and portable air conditioners.
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A return on investment accelerated by mid-season use and careful management of instructions.
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Building enhancement : two dwellings equipped with modern, well-installed heat pumps rent better and are better preserved.
Visible technical details and best practices applied
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Two Sharp Eco Inverter condensers : mono-split x2 configuration for complete independence.
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Raised galvanized supports : easy snow removal, clear ventilation, easy maintenance.
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Awning/balcony : additional protection against the weather; clearances respected around and in front of fans.
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Short refrigeration path : direct penetrations behind each unit; airtight sealing.
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Condensate management : discreet gravity drain ; controlled outlet to prevent soil erosion.
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Electricity : Outdoor disconnection within easy reach; dedicated circuits compliant with Code.
These choices are not trivial: they determine winter performance , the reliability of defrosting and the lifespan of the equipment. A well-chosen but poorly installed machine quickly loses its advantages. Here, the installation optimizes air circulation and preserves the structure of the building.
AirGreen Recommended HVAC Maintenance
To maintain the performance of your wall-mounted heat pumps :
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Clean or replace indoor unit filters every 1 to 3 months during peak periods.
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Clear the front of the condensers (leaves, dust, snow).
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Check drains every spring to prevent overflows.
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Schedule an annual inspection : electrical checks, condition of insulation, temperature checks, coil washing if necessary.
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Monitor for unusual noises or performance losses: early intervention prevents costly breakdowns.
Grants and Eligibility
Several grant programs are available in Greater Montreal (e.g. municipal, provincial), subject to the seasonal performance of the chosen model and installation by a licensed contractor . We support our clients in:
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Check eligibility of selected Sharp Eco Inverter model (SEER/HSFP/SCOP required).
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Prepare supporting documents (detailed invoices, installation photos, serial information).
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Optimize power selection (BTU) to reconcile comfort, efficiency and financial assistance criteria.
AirGreen Tips for Similar Projects
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Size by zone : a mono-split per dwelling or per large open area maximizes the precision of the instructions.
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Anticipate winter : favor raised supports and a site protected from the prevailing wind and falling ice.
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Take care of the lengths : a short refrigeration path and a gravity drain simplify maintenance and make the system more reliable.
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Respect the clearances : between two machines, the space prevents recirculation and pressure alarms during heat waves.
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Plan access : think about maintenance from the design stage to reduce costs over time.
Conclusion
This HVAC installation in Villeray–Saint-Michel–Parc-Extension demonstrates that it is possible to equip a Montreal plex with efficient, discreet and durable Sharp Eco Inverter wall-mounted heat pumps , even under an awning and in a restricted work area. By focusing on suitable supports , intelligent refrigeration paths and a well-designed power supply , we deliver a comfortable and economical system for each dwelling, ready to face the winters of Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore and the South Shore .