Installation of a Sharp ZU1 wall-mounted heat pump in Plateau-Mont-Royal

A Sharp condenser on a flat roof for four-season comfort in a duplex in the Plateau

At AirGreen , we have just completed the installation of a Sharp wall-mounted heat pump (ZU1 series) in a duplex in the Plateau-Mont-Royal . The context: a typical Montreal building with a flat roof , tree-lined streets, high urban density and demanding winters. Our mandate was clear: to ensure reliable heating in extreme cold and efficient air conditioning in the summer , while preserving the interior aesthetics and the tranquility of the occupants.

Why a “wall-mounted head + rooftop condenser” configuration?

In the Plateau plexes, the facades are narrow, protected and often governed by urban planning constraints. The most relevant option is to place the head inside the living room and to install the condenser on the roof , which:

• Frees up the facade and avoids clutter in the backyard;

• Reduces inward vibration transfer through detached support ;

• Optimizes the route of the refrigeration connections by using a technical column which opens onto the roof;

• Improves air diffusion inside, with the head positioned high to cover the main living area.

Installation details: technical precision on a snowy roof

The project was carried out during the winter, in the snow. We adopted a rigorous installation for the Sharp ZU1 condenser:

• Galvanized steel support on anti-vibration pads , sized for group load, wind shear and snow load ;

• Clearance above snow level to prevent grids from clogging and to facilitate defrosting cycles;

• Routing of refrigeration connections in a white UV-stable cover , laid in a straight line on the roof to minimize pressure losses and protect the insulation;

• Carefully observed radius narrowing at elbows to preserve copper integrity and inverter compressor performance;

• Condensate management in heating mode : preferred gravity path; clear drip zone under the appliance to avoid any accumulation of ice;

• Waterproof electrical disconnection near the condenser, with circuit breaker dedicated to the panel and compliant earthing .

Inside, the wall-mounted head has been positioned above a bay window , ensuring optimal airflow without disturbing the window dressing. The upper clearance is respected to prevent the recirculation of hot air towards the return, guaranteeing stable performance and uniform comfort .

The Sharp ZU1 series: efficiency, silence and healthier air

The Sharp (ZU1 series) perfectly meets the expectations of urban housing:

• Inverter Compression : fine modulation of power, reduction of starts and lower consumption ;

• R-32 refrigerant : reduced environmental footprint compared to older blends and better volumetric efficiency ;

• Operation in extreme cold : efficient heating during prolonged periods below zero, with intelligent defrost management;

• Careful acoustics : the roof condenser and the low-noise interior head preserve the peace and quiet of the living areas;

• Air quality : advanced filtration (Sharp's own Plasmacluster technology), beneficial for reducing household dust and allergens.

Key steps of our AirGreen method

1. Survey and calculations
   Analysis of the envelope (orientation, glazing), sizing in BTU to cover the thermal loads of the living room and adjacent rooms, verification of line lengths and pressure losses.

2. Implementation plan
   Choosing the shortest drilling path between the head and the technical column; laying out the roof covering to avoid puddles and insulation breaks.

3. Setting up the supports
   Anchors and soles placed on a flat surface, with non-slip interface to protect the membrane and distribute the load.

4. Brazing and vacuum drawing
   Brazing under nitrogen , leak test, deep vacuum and stabilization, then opening of valves and commissioning according to the pressures provided by the manufacturer.

5. Setup and testing
   Checking intensities , blowing temperature, defrost cycles, drainage control in heating mode.

6. Discount and advice
   Explanation of modes (heating, air conditioning, dehumidification), seasonal instructions , HVAC maintenance frequency.

Results: immediate comfort and controlled consumption

From the moment it is put into operation, the temperature stability is noticeable, with uniform diffusion even into the corridor. The heating mode maintains a feeling of comfort even when the outside temperature drops and the roof is covered in snow. The air conditioning mode will benefit, in summer, from a heat exchange favored by the elevation and the absence of obstacles around the condenser.

Points of attention specific to Montreal flat roofs

• Installation height : This must take into account drifted snow and snowdrifts. Insufficient clearance compromises defrosting and increases consumption.

• Drainage : Provide a free flow area under the appliance; avoid gutters blocked by ice.

• Covering and insulation : Use UV-stable covering ; carefully protect joints to prevent water infiltration and preserve the refrigeration insulation.

• Vibrations : anti-vibration pads and controlled tightening of the fixings limit transmission to the ceilings of the accommodation.

• HVAC maintenance : seasonal cleaning of the exchangers and checking of the parameters guarantee longevity and performance.

What we recommend to Plateau co-ownerships

• Secure roof access plan for annual maintenance;

• Intervention log to record pressures, intensities and comments at each visit;

• Targeted snow removal around the condenser during extreme episodes, without pushing the snow against the unit;

• AirGreen maintenance contract to cover inspection, cleaning, electrical verification and recalibration of parameters.

Grants and Eligibility

High-efficiency R-32 wall-mounted heat pumps are generally included in the assistance programs applicable to Greater Montreal (Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, North Shore, South Shore), subject to the criteria in force: heating efficiency and low-temperature performance. We guide our clients in putting together the file and providing proof of compliant installation .

Why AirGreen

We master the architectural specificities of the Plateau plexes: protected facades , restricted access , flat roofs exposed to the wind. Our teams plan the implementation to maximize efficiency , minimize the visual impact and ensure the durability of the system, with rapid intervention and structured after-sales support .

In short: an HVAC system designed for the city, ready for winter

This Sharp ZU1 installation in Plateau-Mont-Royal combines energy efficiency , silence and winter robustness . The flat roof condenser frees up the facade and ensures optimal heat exchange; the interior head offers immediate comfort in the living area; the whole is protected, cared for, and ready to perform 365 days a year .