A wall bracket installation that frees up floor space, reduces noise and simplifies maintenance
Background and objectives
In Saint-Léonard , brick housing dominates and the service alleys are narrow. The client wanted a compact HVAC system to provide air conditioning in the summer and supplement heating in the spring and fall, without occupying the driveway or detracting from the aesthetics of the facade. We recommended a Sharp wall-mounted heat pump – ZU1 series (R-32) , known for its efficiency in cold climates and its great discretion. The outdoor unit is guyed on wall brackets above the snow level, with a local electrical disconnect for safe maintenance.
Why the Sharp ZU1 (R-32) range
Sharp 's ZU1 range covers the typical capacities of a Montreal home ( 12k to 24k BTU/h ). Its advantages:
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R-32 refrigerant : better volumetric efficiency and optimized charge.
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Reliable low temperature heating (down to −25°C to −30°C depending on configuration), a key criterion for Montreal , Laval and the North Shore .
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Low noise level both outside and inside, ideal for condominiums and plexes .
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Accessible components, facilitating annual HVAC maintenance .
Sizing is never left to chance: we evaluate thermal loads (glazing, infiltration, insulation, exposure) to determine the necessary BTU power. An appliance that is too large multiplies short cycles; an appliance that is too small struggles in heat waves. Here, the ZU1 range allows for fine-tuning of capacity to the reality of the home.
Installation on a brick wall: stability and silence
The condenser is fixed on galvanized brackets with mechanical anchoring, offset to maintain an air gap between the battery and the wall. This configuration:
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clears the traffic area and frees the ground ;
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keeps the device above the snowpack and gravel splashes;
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reduces perceived internal vibrations thanks to anti-vibration pads and torque-controlled tightening;
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improves defrosting in winter through optimal air circulation.
The external disconnect switch allows the power supply to be cut off during maintenance, in accordance with installation regulations. We systematically check the flatness , the strength of the brick support and the potential corrosion of the fixings.
Refrigerated and electrical path: short, sealed, clean
The refrigeration lines (closed-cell insulated copper) pass through the masonry via a sheathed opening , with a sleeve and vapor barrier to prevent any infiltration. Outside, a discreet cover protects the connections and cables; inside, the wall head is positioned to circulate the air in the living room without direct drafts.
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Typical total length: 4 to 8 m , favorable to seasonal performance (less pressure losses).
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Nitrogen brazing to prevent internal oxidation.
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Leak test with high pressure nitrogen, then high vacuum to 500 microns with stabilization.
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Wiring with dedicated circuit breaker and grounding according to the requirements.
Condensate management: priority to gravity
We favor gravity drainage from the interior head to a discharge point. If the architecture prevents a slope, we integrate a compact lifting pump , with a check valve and overflow alarm. On the exterior, the discharge opening respects the clearances to prevent frost and splashing onto the masonry.
Key steps in our HVAC installation
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On-site survey : wall thickness, type of brick, possible crossings, distances to openings.
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Choice of location of the inner head (free blowing, easy recovery).
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Installation of brackets : anchors suitable for solid/pierced brick, load verification and leveling .
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Fixing the Sharp condenser and installing the external disconnect switch .
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Drilling with sleeve, line passage and UV cover.
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Brazing under nitrogen, pressure test , high vacuum , opening of valves.
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Electrical connection and functional controls (intensities, pressures, supply/return temperatures).
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Calibration of comfort parameters (sweeping, setpoint, fan speed).
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Customer training : filters, operating modes, maintenance points.
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Photo file given to the owner for co-ownership and guarantees.
Challenges encountered and solutions
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Installation height : the unit is placed high enough to clear the passage and snow; we use light scaffolding and lifting straps for safe handling.
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Structural noise : adding pads and respecting distances prevents transmission to the frame; the blowing is directed away from reflective surfaces.
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Waterproofing of the crossing : masonry-compatible sealants + external flap ensure maximum durability.
Results for housing
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Immediate comfort in summer, with regular diffusion and better controlled humidity than with a window unit.
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Energy savings thanks to the inverter and more efficient R-32 .
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Simplified maintenance : direct access to the condenser, disconnect switch within reach, removable cover.
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Aesthetics preserved: discreet cover, clean and aligned installation.
Recommended HVAC maintenance
To maintain high performance and longevity of the heat pump :
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Clean the internal filters every 4–8 weeks during use.
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Annual inspection : exchanger, fans, tightening, condition of insulation, load test and pressures.
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Exterior clearances : Check that no objects are obstructing the front of the unit.
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Drain check : flow test, cleaning of the siphon and the tray.
We offer HVAC maintenance plans tailored to condominiums in Montreal , Laval , Longueuil , North Shore and South Shore .
Grants and Compliance
High-efficiency wall-mounted heat pumps designed for cold climates may be eligible for provincial financial assistance , subject to conditions (seasonal performance ratings, compliant installation). We support our clients in:
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eligibility verification and documentation ;
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the service complies with electrical and mechanical requirements;
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commissioning carried out by a certified team.
Good practices and pitfalls to avoid
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Do not oversize : a 24k BTU is not systematic; a load calculation remains essential.
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Respect the clearances around the condenser to avoid recirculation of hot air.
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Prevent frost : adequate height, rigid support, free drainage under the unit.
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Quality UV coating : protects insulation and extends line life.
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Accessible disconnect switch : essential for the safety of workers and inspections.
Why choose AirGreen for Saint-Léonard
Our team understands the specifics of brick buildings and service alleys. We provide:
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precise sizing ;
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installation on rigid brackets with anti-vibration ;
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complete tests (pressure, vacuum, operating parameters);
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responsive after-sales service covering Montreal , Laval , Longueuil , North Shore and South Shore .
This Sharp wall-mounted HVAC system strikes the ideal balance between performance, quietness, and respect for the local architecture. Your home gains year-round comfort, with a system ready for winter and optimized for summer.