Four-season comfort on a tiled terrace: a neat installation ready for Montreal's winter
At AirGreen , we have just installed a Sharp wall-mounted heat pump (ZU1 range, R-32 refrigerant) in a residential building in Saint-Laurent . The outdoor unit is installed on a tiled terrace, backed by a light-coated wall. This context requires a clean, quiet and durable integration , capable of withstanding winter conditions while respecting the aesthetics of an urban condo. Here is how we designed, executed and validated this HVAC installation so that it delivers stable, energy-efficient and discreet comfort .
Site context and client objectives
The owner wanted:
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Heat and cool the main living area with a compact wall-mounted solution.
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Keep a clear terrace , without vibrations transmitted to the floor.
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Ensure reliable operation in winter , with proper management of defrosting and condensates.
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Minimize the visual and noise impact on the co-ownership.
The Sharp heat pump (ZU1 series, R-32) meets these requirements precisely: high efficiency, quiet operation, advanced filters and optimized inverter technology . The presence of Plasmacluster treatment on the Sharp series combines with stable control electronics for improved indoor air quality .
Why Sharp's ZU1 range for Saint-Laurent
The ZU1 range (new generation R-32 ) is distinguished by:
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Competitive seasonal performance for the Montreal residential market.
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A low temperature heating range , suitable for cold spells.
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A discreet and very quiet wall head , ideal for condos.
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Compatibility with energy efficiency programs when the configuration reaches the required thresholds.
Beyond performance, the ZU1 is a rational choice for those looking for reliability and reduced operating costs in Montreal, Laval, Longueuil as well as the North Shore and the South Shore .
Implementation details: a mechanism designed to last
External positioning
We installed the condenser on a raised aluminum support with blue anti-vibration pads . This elevation:
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Keeps the unit above snow accumulation and ice.
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Promotes the release of air around the exchanger.
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Reduces the transmission of vibrations to the tiled floor.
The rear setback and side clearances have been respected to optimize the air flow, a determining factor for the efficiency and longevity of the compressor.
Crossing and refrigerated journey
The connections were run in a direct line through the wall located behind the condenser. This short route choice limits pressure losses, simplifies maintenance and maximizes the COP . The refrigeration copper pipes are continuously insulated , jointed and capped for a clean finish and UV protection .
Condensate management and defrosting
On tiled terraces, managing water from winter defrosting is crucial. We have planned:
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Directed gravity flow , without retention under the device.
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A free space under the support to prevent ice from forming against the feet.
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A slope control to prevent backflows.
No condensate pump was required: gravity does the work, increasing reliability and reducing maintenance.
Discreet interior, even diffusion
The wall head is positioned high on the wall , allowing efficient air sweeping in the main area. The blade settings aim for diffusion without direct air current on the occupants. The electrical connection is dedicated and compliant, with appropriate protections according to the nameplate. We always favor a current reading at commissioning to validate the concordance between load, line length and manufacturer parameters.
Quality of execution: what we systematically check
For each HVAC installation , we apply a rigorous protocol:
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Nitrogen leak test and deep vacuum (microns) until stabilization.
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Opening of the load and validation of pressures according to the ambient temperature.
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Electrical measurements : current, voltage, ground continuity.
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Acoustic check : absence of support resonance, effective anti-vibration shims.
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Simulated defrosting test (weather dependent) and observed flow .
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Remote control configuration : modes, instructions, scanning, eco timer.
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Usage advice given to the customer (continuous heating in cold weather, filter maintenance, management of summer scenes).
This protocol guarantees commissioning that respects manufacturer tolerances and ensures optimal performance from day one.
Results: comfort, silence and controlled bills
From the very first cycles, the temperature stability resulted in a consistent feel throughout the room. In heating mode, the inverter ramp limits consumption peaks and promotes predictable electricity bills . In summer, dehumidification improves the feeling of freshness without excess cold air, a significant advantage in the well-insulated condos of Saint-Laurent.
Practical advice for a tiled terrace
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Winter clearance : Keep a clear perimeter around the condenser to avoid air recirculation and vacuumed snow.
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Drainage : Check that water drains freely; a tile slopes gently towards a drain is ideal.
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Seasonal protection : Do not use a full cover in winter (risk of condensation and corrosion). A snow guard or deflector is recommended if there are prevailing gusts of wind.
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HVAC maintenance : gentle cleaning of the crankcase, rinsing of the fins as needed (low pressure), internal filters washed every 4 to 8 weeks depending on use.
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Noise : Anti-vibration pads and the rigidity of the support are generally sufficient; in case of resonance of the guardrail, we add spacers.
Grants and Eligibility
High-efficiency R-32 wall-mounted heat pumps are often eligible for assistance programs when seasonal performance and extreme cold heating criteria are met. We support our clients in Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore, and the South Shore to validate eligibility, gather documentation, and optimize the financial package (detailed billing, serial numbers, installation photos).
Common pitfalls… and how to avoid them
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Lines that are too long or unnecessary loops → we favor a direct and continuous isolated route .
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Support too low → risk of ice; we systematically raise on sturdy feet .
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Poorly managed condensates → we plan a gravity flow and a release under the device.
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Vibrations → suitable pads , torque tightening, acoustic control.
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Aesthetics → clean hood, stainless steel screws, finishing levels aligned with demanding co-ownerships.
Preventive maintenance: the key to lasting performance
To maintain high efficiency and air quality , we recommend:
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Annual visit : refrigeration inspection, checking intensities, cleaning exchangers.
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Filters : wash regularly; replace if worn.
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Clearance : terrace and railings free of bulky objects.
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Remote control : realistic instructions (heating between 20-22°C; in summer 23-25°C) for measurable savings .
We offer AirGreen maintenance plans covering Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore and the South Shore, with priority intervention during peak periods.
Why entrust your project to AirGreen?
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Certified team specializing in wall-mounted and central heat pumps .
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Multi-brand selection (Sharp, Gree, Fujitsu, Midea, Hitachi, Zephyr, etc.) to recommend the right machine to the right place .
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Meticulous execution : high vacuum, continuous insulation, clean finishes.
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Complete support : load study, subsidy advice, HVAC maintenance .
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Coverage of Greater Montreal: Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, North Shore, South Shore .
Conclusion
This Sharp wall-mounted heat pump installation (ZU1 range) in Saint-Laurent illustrates our way of working: precise site analysis , intelligent installation on a tiled terrace, controlled defrost management and careful finishing . The result: four-season comfort with contained operating costs , all with exemplary respect for the constraints of an urban condo.
Do you have a similar project in Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, on the North Shore or the South Shore? We plan, install and maintain systems designed for your space, your uses and your budget.