More winter comfort, less noise: careful installation under the balcony that protects the equipment and optimizes performance
Project background
In Sainte-Dorothée, in the west of Laval , we are modernizing the heating and air conditioning of a single-family home with a Sharp wall-mounted heat pump (ZU1 series, R-32 refrigerant) . The client's goal: stable comfort all year round, a lower energy bill and a clean, discreet and durable HVAC installation despite the snowy winters of the greater Montreal area.
Why the Sharp ZU1 series for this home
The ZU1 series is distinguished by:
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fine modulation inverter technology, ideal for maintaining temperature smoothly;
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Plasmacluster treatment which contributes to better indoor air quality when combined with the Sharp wall head;
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capacities adapted to current residential needs: 12,000, 15,000, 18,000 and 24,000 BTU ;
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the use of R-32 , a new generation refrigerant with a lower GWP than R-410A;
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quiet operation of the condenser, appreciated in residential areas.
In this house, the load calculation (insulation, surface area, orientation, infiltration) directs us towards a power in the range of 12k–18k BTU for the main zone. We always size the heat pump based on a thermal balance, never “by eye”, in order to ensure optimal efficiency in both heating and cooling.
Chosen configuration: wall-mounted condenser, protected under the terrace
The outdoor condenser is fixed on galvanized steel wall brackets , positioned at a height which:
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places the unit above the snow and ice level , reducing the risk of clogging in defrost mode;
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facilitates the flow of defrost water to the ground;
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limits the projection of debris.
The location, sheltered under the balcony , offers several advantages:
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attenuation of noise perceived by occupants and neighbors;
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natural protection against direct weather;
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better longevity of exposed components.
We add anti-vibration pads to the brackets to eliminate the transmission of resonances to the wall. Clearances around the unit are maintained to ensure proper air intake and safe maintenance.
Refrigeration path and power supply
The refrigeration path is short and straight: the insulated copper connections exit the wall in the immediate vicinity of the condenser. We encase the lines in a UV-resistant gray casing for a clean finish and mechanical protection. The total visible length is approximately 2 to 3 meters , which reduces pressure losses and facilitates future maintenance work.
Electrically, the unit is connected to an approved outdoor disconnect switch (disconnect box) located within easy reach of technicians. The power cable runs in a waterproof flexible conduit to the disconnect switch, then to the indoor panel on a dedicated circuit breaker, in accordance with the Quebec Electrical Code. Circuit identification and safety labeling are carried out during commissioning.
Defrosting and runoff management
In heating mode, the heat pump periodically defrosts the outdoor coil; the water drains to the floor. Under a balcony, it is crucial:
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to clear the area under the unit to prevent ice buildup;
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to slightly orient the device for gravity flow ;
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to avoid any contact of defrosting water with sensitive surfaces (balcony floor, steps).
We leave a clear space in front and recommend, in case of very snowy winters, periodic snow removal of the area under the unit to maintain the free air volume.
Key steps of installation (AirGreen method)
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Thermal validation and choice of capacity (BTU) according to the area to be treated.
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Marking the routes: location of the interior head, wall outlet, anchor point of the brackets, position of the disconnector.
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Anchoring of wall supports (dowels, sealing, leveling) and installation of anti-vibration devices .
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Passage of refrigeration connections, communication cable and internal condensate drain (towards the outside by gravity when possible, otherwise dedicated pump).
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Compliant brazing and flaring , deep vacuum, leak testing and refrigerant charging according to the manufacturer's instructions.
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Electrical connection , polarity checks and grounding.
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Commissioning : settings, heating and air conditioning testing, temperature differential and superheat/subcooling control.
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Customer training : basic maintenance, filters, good winter practices (snow removal, defrosting).
Result: stable comfort, controlled consumption
Thanks to inverter modulation, the interior temperature remains uniform without sudden cycles. In mid-season, the heat pump covers most of the heating needs and, in summer, it provides efficient air conditioning with contained electricity consumption. Positioning under a balcony limits exposure to precipitation and extends the life of the components.
Best winter practices for Laval, the North Shore and all of Greater Montreal
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Maintain 15 to 30 cm of free space under the base of the condenser for frost drainage.
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Avoid accumulation of snow blown directly onto the unit.
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Schedule occasional snow removal after storms.
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Do not cover the unit when in operation; instead, use a correctly sized snow shield if the site is very exposed.
Recommended HVAC maintenance
Annual maintenance protects the compressor and maintains performance:
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cleaning of the outdoor coil, inspection of the fan;
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pressure , insulation and fittings checks;
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checking the disconnector and the tightness of the connections;
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washing and replacing the inner head filters ;
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updating parameters (e.g. defrost curves if available).
We offer HVAC maintenance plans tailored to residences in Montreal , Laval , Longueuil , South Shore and North Shore to preserve the manufacturer's warranty and ensure consistent performance.
Grants and Eligibility
High-efficiency wall-mounted heat pumps using R-32 and performing well in cold weather are generally eligible for certain assistance programs in Quebec. Eligibility depends on power, low-temperature performance, and installation by a qualified contractor. We assist our clients with pre-verification and document preparation (detailed invoices, serial numbers, installation photos).
Technical details of this pose
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Machine type : single-zone wall-mounted heat pump .
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Brand : Sharp , ZU1 series (R-32) .
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Mounting : galvanized wall brackets with anti-vibration pads .
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Power supply : dedicated circuit with accessible external disconnect switch .
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Refrigerated route : short, grey hood, approximately 2–3 m visible.
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Environment : under balcony, clear area for air intake and exhaust.
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Customer objective : four-season comfort, reduced consumption and acoustic discretion.
What this achievement says about our approach
Every home in the greater Montreal area has its own constraints: concrete walls, wooden decks, basement windows, winter access. Our team adapts the HVAC design to the building rather than the other way around. Here, choosing a wall rather than a slab on the ground prevents movement due to freeze-thaw and frees up the passageway. The care taken with wiring , covers , and disconnections secures maintenance and keeps the facade clean.
Tips for choosing the right wall-mounted heat pump
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Have a load calculation done: the correct BTU capacity avoids oversizing, which is a source of discomfort and short cycles.
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Choose extreme cold models, with R-32 , with solid guarantees.
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Evaluate the outdoor location : clearances, perceived noise, prevailing wind, defrosting.
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Request documented commissioning (vacuum, tests, readings) and training in use.
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Include annual maintenance in your budget: it’s the best lever for longevity.
AirGreen: Your Local HVAC Partner
We operate weekly in Laval , Longueuil , the South Shore , the North Shore and all of Montreal . Our strength: teams specialized in HVAC installation , clear recommendations and impeccable finishes. Whether it's for a Sharp , Gree , Fujitsu , Midea or other recognized brand heat pump, we deliver systems designed for our climate, ready for harsh winters and humid summers.
Want a system as clean and quiet as the one in Sainte-Dorothée? Contact us: we'll assess your home, suggest the right capacity, position the equipment intelligently, and handle grant applications where applicable. Your comfort, our business.