A careful HVAC upgrade for a brick plex – four-season comfort, controlled consumption
Building context and objectives
In a typical Rosemont–La Petite-Patrie plex with a brick facade, two apartments seek to gain comfort in both summer and winter, without increasing the electricity bill or distorting the aesthetics. We recommend and install Sharp wall-mounted heat pumps (ZU1 series, R-32 refrigerant) , recognized for their efficiency and reliability in Montreal's climate.
Equipment Choice: Why Sharp ZU1 Series
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R-32 technology : better environmental profile and higher performance compared to R-410A.
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Capacity range adapted to Montreal apartments (usual ranges of 12,000 to 24,000 BTU depending on the room).
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Cold weather performance suitable for Greater Montreal , with useful capacity maintained in negative temperatures, ideal for winter backup.
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Quiet operation and fine regulation modes for nighttime use.
Desired result: a compact, discreet HVAC installation capable of providing heating and air conditioning all year round, with contained operating costs.
Outdoor installation: clean, robust, durable
We fix each condenser on galvanized wall brackets on the brick.
Notable points:
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Installation height of approximately 2.5–3 m above the ground to clear traffic areas and limit dust extraction.
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Continuous and aligned beige capping (horizontal trunk between units and vertical risers), ensuring protection of refrigerant connections and a clean finish.
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Vibration management using anti-vibration pads and level adjustment using a dynamometer to avoid resonances in the masonry.
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Service clearances respected: rear and side space for airflow and maintenance.
Route of connections and power supply
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Neat through- hole with vapor barrier and sealing for airtightness.
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Optimized line lengths (wall-to-wall connections, estimated short to medium), which reduces load losses and improves efficiency.
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Dedicated power supply with appropriate circuit breaker, conduits and external cables in sheath; disconnect box positioned within regulatory reach.
Condensate management and interior execution details
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Gravity evacuation preferred when the slope allows for reliability and silence.
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When required, condensate pump with silencer and accessible maintenance.
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Wall-mounted heads positioned for cross-flow airflow, away from obstacles and heat sources.
Multi-housing coordination: two independent zones
The building receives two separate outdoor units , each associated with a dedicated indoor head. Advantages:
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Independent control for each apartment.
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Clear billing and personalized settings based on occupancy.
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Functional redundancy : if one is under maintenance, the other remains operational.
Specific challenges and AirGreen solutions
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Masonry anchoring : we use a mechanical anchoring system suitable for solid/hollow bricks, with spacers and sealing for a distributed and durable load.
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Facade aesthetics : choice of matching capping , straight paths, invisible fixings from a distance, passages aligned with architectural lines.
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Working height : safe intervention on ladders and platforms; tightening torques and pull-out tests carried out.
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Climate protection : minimal roof overhang clearance and sheathed wiring against snow accumulation and runoff water.
What the customer gains on a daily basis
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Stable summer/winter comfort thanks to the reversible heat pump mode .
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Reduced noise inside and out in the backyard.
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Controlled energy bill thanks to the inverter and good setpoint settings.
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Simple HVAC maintenance : cleaning filters, annual inspection of connections, checking supports and drain.
Recommended maintenance (annual plan)
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Spring : cleaning the batteries, checking the condensate flow, checking the capping.
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Autumn : electrical inspection, tightening, defrosting test, clearing of leaves and vines.
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Continuous : Internal filters cleaned every 4–8 weeks depending on usage.
Grants and Eligibility
Recent high-efficiency R-32 wall-mounted heat pumps are generally best suited for current programs in Quebec when efficiency and cold weather performance criteria are met. We confirm on a case-by-case basis, prepare proof of installation, and provide certification of specifications.
AirGreen Best Practices for Montreal Plexes
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Locate holes away from fragile joints and load-bearing elements.
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Short paths to limit losses; large radius bends.
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Effective defrosting : respect rear and sub-base clearances for drainage.
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Winter prevention : tips for clearing snow around units and maintaining a clear space for air intake.
Why choose us?
At AirGreen , we are experts in HVAC installation in dense urban environments: restricted access, old masonry, condominiums. Our team plans, executes and documents each step to deliver a discreet, efficient and durable result — compliant with standards and ready for the extreme cold of Greater Montreal .
Quick Facts
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Brand / range : Sharp – ZU1 series (R-32 wall-mounted heat pump ).
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Configuration : two independent single-zone systems.
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Exterior installation : galvanized wall brackets , aligned beige capping , anti-vibration.
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Building : brick plex, Rosemont–La Petite-Patrie .
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Services : HVAC installation , commissioning, HVAC maintenance and energy optimization advice.
And for your project in Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, North Shore or South Shore
We evaluate the heat load , the housing configuration and budget objectives to recommend the most appropriate heat pump (capacity, noise levels, Wi-Fi options, guarantees). We coordinate the installation schedule with the co-owners and provide a completion report useful for grant applications.
Need reliable comfort and a lower bill? We are ready to respond quickly throughout Greater Montreal .