Four-season comfort in a condo: performance, silence and careful finishing
Background and objectives
In Laval-des-Rapides , we installed a Sharp ZU1 (R-32) wall-mounted heat pump in a light-filled corner condo. The owner was looking for reliable heating in winter and precise air conditioning in summer, with clear constraints: visual discretion , compliance with co-ownership rules , and noise reduction for neighbors.
Why Sharp ZU1 (R-32) range for this project
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Efficiency in cold climates : Sharp ZU1 models are designed to maintain a good level of heating in low temperatures, ideal for the greater Montreal area.
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R-32 refrigerant : better mass efficiency than R-410A with reduced environmental impact , perfectly in line with new generations of residential equipment.
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Quiet and comfortable : optimized interior fan, directional shutters that prevent direct air currents on the occupant, and night profiles adapted to condo living.
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Compactness : a wall unit that fits in without encroaching on living space and facilitates annual maintenance.
Preliminary study and preparation of the site
Thermal survey and site audit
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Analysis of solar gains (large exposed blue window) and losses linked to glazing.
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Evaluation of air circulation in an open room where longitudinal blowing is desired to homogenize the temperature.
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Validation of the rules of the co-ownership syndicate : intervention slots, aesthetics of the cappings on the facade, and acceptable noise level for the outdoor unit.
Sizing and positioning
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Choose a BTU output suitable for the main open area, with room for summer peaks.
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High installation of the interior head, in the upper corner near the window, in order to exploit the Coanda effect and to run along the bay window, a critical area where temperature differences are most noticeable.
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Compliance with service clearances : easy access to the casing, filters and electronic card.
Installation completion
Inner Head Pose
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Fixing on wall plate with anchors adapted to the support.
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Level setting to ensure condensate flow and avoid micro-vibrations.
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White vertical capping aligned with the window frame for discreet integration; clean routing of refrigeration connections to the exterior exit point.
Refrigeration connections and sealing
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Very short path between the indoor unit and the outdoor unit: reduction of pressure losses and fluid volume.
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Sets of flared fittings tightened to the prescribed torque , application of dedicated esterified oil and leak test with a pressure gauge.
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Deep vacuum (< 500 microns), stabilization, then opening of the valves to preserve the cleanliness of the circuit and the longevity of the compressor.
Condensate management
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Gravity drainage to the outside: no additional pump, less noise and less maintenance.
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Controlled slope, vapor barrier at the penetrations and careful sealing of the drilling to prevent any infiltration.
Power supply and protections
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The dedicated power supply reaches the outdoor unit via a circuit breaker identified on the panel.
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Check polarity , tighten terminals, and ground according to Quebec codes.
Installation of the outdoor unit (balcony)
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Installation on anti-vibration supports with standard clearances for air recirculation.
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Orientation which limits sound reflection and the rejection of hot air towards the facade in air conditioning mode.
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Discreet facade passage, harmonized capping , and maintenance markers for future visits.
Commissioning and calibrations
Performance checks
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Control of supply/return temperatures , calculation of superheating and subcooling .
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Measurement of absorbed intensity and comparison with nameplates.
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Defrost test in heating mode to optimize comfort in humid/cold periods.
Comfort settings
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Orientation of the shutters to sweep the glazed area and reduce stratification.
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Programming of silent night profiles , useful in co-ownership.
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Enable automatic restart in case of power failure.
Result: controlled comfort and preserved aesthetics
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Even temperature in the living room, disappearance of cold areas near the window.
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Silence inside and out, in line with the union's expectations.
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Aesthetics : the white finishing sheath blends into the frame and the color of the woodwork, for an almost invisible presence.
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Energy efficiency is guaranteed, thanks to the R-32 , the short path and the fine air adjustments.
AirGreen Usage Tips
In air conditioning
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Stabilize the set point (23–24°C) and let the unit modulate automatically : fewer cycles, more savings.
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In the middle of the afternoon, partially close the blinds to limit solar gain on the bay window.
In heating
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Favor continuous operation at a stable setpoint (20–21°C) in cold weather to avoid frequent starts .
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Keep the outdoor unit clear (snow, leaves): air must circulate freely.
Recommended HVAC maintenance
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Clean filters every 4 to 6 weeks during heavy use.
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Annual maintenance by AirGreen: electrical inspection, pressures, evaporator disinfection protocol, control of anti-vibration devices , examination of condensate drainage and verification of the defrost profile .
Good practices in co-ownership
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Respect quiet schedules with Quiet mode.
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Choice of supports adapted to the balcony to avoid the transmission of vibrations.
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Complete documentation provided to the customer: wiring diagrams, maintenance sheets and warranty reminders.
Quick FAQ (useful questions)
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Can a second head be added later? Yes, if a multi-zone system is planned from the outset; otherwise, a second dedicated wall-mounted heat pump is installed.
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Grants : Many high-efficiency R-32 heat pumps are frequently eligible. We validate eligibility based on current programs.
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Noise : the orientation of the discharge and the night mode significantly limit nuisances in urban areas.
AirGreen in Greater Montreal
Every week, we support clients in Montreal , Laval , Longueuil , on the North Shore and the South Shore . Our teams size, install and maintain wall-mounted , multi-zone and central heat pumps, with constant attention to quality workmanship and durability .
Technical highlights of the installation
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Type : single-zone wall-mounted heat pump .
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Brand / Range : Sharp — ZU1 (R-32) .
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Context : corner condo in Laval-des-Rapides, large bay window.
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Route : short connections with vertical white capping ; gravity evacuation of condensates.
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Quality : deep vacuum, controlled tightening torques, shutter calibrations, night profiles activated.