Precision that makes the difference: a well-positioned Sharp wall head for stable, quiet and energy-efficient comfort in a typical Montreal plex.
Why this installation matters
In this Rosemont–La Petite-Patrie home, we are replacing an old, inefficient portable air conditioner with a Sharp wall-mounted heat pump (ZU1 series, R-32 refrigerant) . The goal: to achieve reliable heating in extreme cold and uniform cooling in the summer , while reducing the electricity bill. Our work focuses on aesthetics , condensate management and low-temperature performance – essential points in Montreal's housing stock.
Analysis of the location and positioning of the inner head
Architectural context
We are on the top floor of a plex with moderately high ceilings, light-painted walls, and an angle close to a curtain rod: the typical configuration of many Rosemont units. Here, the Sharp ZU1 head is installed high on the load-bearing wall , about 2.20 m from the floor , with adequate ceiling clearance to promote the Coanda effect and proper air stratification.
Justification for placement
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Diffusion : the motorized vane directs the air horizontally at start-up to push the coolness to the center of the room, then slightly downwards in heating mode to cancel the stratification.
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Noise : Distance from rest areas and curtain; head operates around 19–24 dB(A) at low speed, ideal for a mixed living/bedroom.
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Access : the location simplifies maintenance (accessible washable filters) and reduces the length of the refrigeration path between the head and the external condenser.
Salient technical details of the installation
Drilling and refrigeration connections
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Wall crossing behind the head, slight gravity slope towards the outside (≈ 1 cm/m) for condensate drainage in cooling mode.
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Discreet white capping on the exterior, matching the coating for a clean finish.
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Estimated length of connections: 4 to 6 m including the anti-vibration loop near the condenser.
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Closed cell refrigeration line insulation , UV vinyl tape and vapor barrier cap to prevent condensation on the duct.
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Compliant shielded communication wiring , dedicated circuit breaker for the electrical panel according to the nameplate.
Condensate management
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Prioritized gravity drainage (reliable, quiet). The slope and diameter are sized to prevent backflow. No condensate pump required: less maintenance, no risk of additional noise.
Support and anti-vibration
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Sharp mounting plate anchored to studs, checked with a laser level. Spacers to compensate for wall flatness; anti-vibration pads on the condenser to limit structural transmission to the brick.
About the Sharp ZU1 (R-32)
Yield and cold climate
The ZU1 range is designed for Greater Montreal : stable, low-temperature heating with a latest-generation inverter compressor and R-32 refrigerant (lower GWP than R-410A). The result: advantageous COP in mid-season, capacity maintenance when the thermometer drops.
Comfort and silence
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Large fan and micro-adjusted blades for even flow.
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Optimized defrosting : short cycles, comfort maintained.
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Night mode : progressive creeping, ideal in closed rooms.
Air quality
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Multi-layer filtration and easily removable shutters. We recommend quarterly HVAC filter maintenance and annual thorough cleaning (coil, condensate tray, turbine).
Important note: when the precise reference (12 k, 18 k, etc.) is not displayed on the front, we confirm the BTU capacity on the plate and the condenser data sheet to perfectly size the refrigeration load and electrical protection.
Sizing: what we systematically check
Actual heat load
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Orientation and solar input of the room.
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Infiltration rate (windows, weatherstripping, technical chimney).
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Internal gains (occupants, equipment).
Recommended capacity
In this case, the main room and an adjacent corridor require a capacity of around 12,000–15,000 BTU depending on the losses. The selected ZU1 covers this load without oversizing : the unit works continuously at low speed , which reduces consumption and extends the service life .
Outdoor route and urban integration
Condenser
The condenser is installed on wall brackets above snow level, with snow guards if required by the environment. Rear and discharge side clearances comply with the Sharp manual to avoid air recirculation. In the narrow streets of Rosemont, we direct the blowing so as not to disturb neighbors or terraces.
Aesthetics and co-ownership
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White slides in harmony with the painted masonry.
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Compact path limiting the visual impact on the alley side.
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Compliance with district regulations (height, façade footprint, runoff management).
AirGreen Installation Sequence
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Taking measurements and validating the holes.
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Deep vacuum (≤ 300 microns), nitrogen leak test and stabilization .
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Load release , torque connections to Sharp specifications.
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Functional tests : supply/return temperatures, intensity, internal static pressure, defrosting check .
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Finish : capping, exterior silicone sealing, UV collars.
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Handing over of instructions : remote control, eco programs , anti-frost modes, HVAC maintenance .
Result: measurable comfort from the first hour
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Cooling : rapid drop in temperature without any draft felt near the sofa.
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Heating : constant warm blowing , floor that remains comfortable.
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Noise : normal conversation 1.5 m from the head, no vibration transmitted to the load-bearing wall.
Local subsidies and compliance
High-performance wall-mounted heat pumps operating on R-32 and offering low-temperature capacity maintenance are generally eligible for provincial or municipal programs when the nominal performance at −25°C/−30°C and the required certification are met. We verify each file according to the address (Montreal, Laval , Longueuil , North Shore , South Shore ), the configuration and the models selected, then provide the necessary supporting documentation for applications.
Maintenance: Simple plan to maintain yields
To be done by the occupant
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Vacuum filters every 4–6 weeks during use.
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Clear the condenser (leaves, snow) and keep 30–60 cm free around it.
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Remote control : program a stable temperature (avoid large oscillations).
To do by AirGreen (annual)
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Complete cleaning of the indoor unit: evaporator, turbine, tank.
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Electrical inspection and tightening of connections.
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Refrigerant check (overheating/subcooling), firmware update if applicable.
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Condition report with photos and recommendations.
Common Pitfalls We Avoid
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Head too close to the ceiling : restricts the flow and increases the noise. Here, the clearance is correct .
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Condensate pump not essential : we chose gravity , which is more reliable.
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Oversizing : This leads to short cycles, fouling, and discomfort. Our load calculation prevents this.
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Dark capping in the sun : heating of the lines. Light curtains preferred.
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Low condenser in the inner courtyard: snow/ice immersion. Elevation and clearance respected.
Instructions for use for optimal comfort
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Heating : set between 21–22°C , Auto ventilation , shutters slightly downwards.
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In cooling : aim for 24–25°C , Dry mode on humid days to stabilize humidity.
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Doors open to the corridor**: the flow benefits the adjacent rooms.
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Active listening : if you hear an unusual variation in rpm continuously, it is often a clogged filter ; cleaning is sufficient in the majority of cases.
Why AirGreen for your projects in Montreal and surrounding areas?
We operate weekly in Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, on the North Shore and the South Shore . Our strengths: precise sizing , clean execution , compliance with local regulations , and subsidy support . For plex, condo or single-family home types, the Sharp ZU1 wall-mounted heat pump is a robust choice : efficiency, silence, modern R-32 refrigerant, and careful integration.
Summary sheet (Rosemont project)
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Type : Sharp wall-mounted heat pump ( ZU1 range, R-32)
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Positioning : top of wall, transverse diffusion, gravity drain
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Route : direct rear drilling, connections ≈ 4–6 m , white capping
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Noise : very low at low speed, ideal for living rooms
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HVAC Maintenance : Filters 4–6 weeks, Annual AirGreen Service
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Grants : eligibility assessed by address and configuration
Need a similar HVAC installation in Montreal , Laval , Longueuil , on the North Shore or South Shore ? We guide you from choosing the capacity to commissioning and maintenance , for lasting comfort all year round.
Express FAQ
Can the wall head heat the entire floor?
In a well-partitioned plex, it effectively covers the open area and helps adjacent rooms open doors. For distant closed rooms, we recommend multi-zones or strategic additions .
Do I need a special diet?
We size the dedicated circuit breaker according to the capacity. Consumption remains moderate thanks to the inverter compressor .
What happens at -25°C and below?
The ZU1 maintains useful heating ; at extreme peaks, additional heating may be appropriate depending on the insulation. The initial sizing takes this into account.
By entrusting your wall-mounted heat pump installation to AirGreen , you benefit from methodical work , a clean finish and clear follow-up . This Rosemont project illustrates our approach: every detail counts for constant comfort, winter and summer.