An exemplary winter assembly: constant performance, neat lines and anti-snow protection
At AirGreen , we have just installed a Sharp wall-mounted heat pump – ZU1 range (R-32) in a single-family home in Sainte-Rose, Laval . The client's objective was clear: to achieve four-season comfort with controlled consumption , without compromising the aesthetics of the white vinyl siding facades. The project took place in the middle of winter, with significant snow accumulations ; we therefore designed the installation to guarantee reliability in extreme cold and protect the condenser against climate-related risks.
Why the Sharp ZU1 for a Laval home?
The Sharp ZU1 range (R-32 refrigerant) is designed for our Quebec winters. It offers very good energy efficiency , stable operation at low temperatures and a contained noise level , all qualities suited to a quiet residential area like Sainte-Rose.
Key advantages of the ZU1:
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Inverter technology to precisely modulate power and reduce on/off cycles.
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Optimized heating performance down to negative temperatures, with rapid and controlled defrosting.
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R-32 : lower GWP refrigerant than R-410A, contributing to a reduced environmental footprint .
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Compatibility with Quebec grant programs targeting high-efficiency appliances.
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Compact design that fits discreetly into the light facades typical of residential areas.
Installed capacity: monosplit wall configuration sized for the main living area; BTU selection was made based on the actual surface area, solar gains and insulation of the house, ensuring sizing without overcapacity.
Outdoor installation: elevation, clearances and frost resistance
The installation of the Sharp condenser was at the heart of our winter strategy.
Site selection and support:
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Raised aluminum stand with anti-vibration feet, placing the base well above the snow level and roof edge drifts.
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Front clearance respected to avoid obstructing suction and blowing; existing wall planters do not interfere with airflow.
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Thaw drainage planned to an ice-free area to prevent slabs from reforming under the unit.
Roof load and snowfall management:
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The location is offset from the roof runoff lines . If snow cornices are present, we recommend adding or verifying a snow guard over the area to protect the condenser from heavy snowfall.
Access and security:
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Installation of a telescopic ladder and temporary anchorage to work safely at height when passing connections and fixing the capping at the roof edge.
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Respect the distances to the gas meter and vents; the standard clearance is maintained to avoid any conflict of combustion or evacuation air.
Refrigerant connections: short route, white appearance and perfect sealing
In order to limit pressure losses and preserve aesthetics, we have favored a direct vertical route :
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Vertical white capping , matching the vinyl covering, guaranteeing a clean finish and easy maintenance .
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Optimized connection length (approximately 8 to 10 meters from the condenser to the wall head located upstairs), with controlled bends to preserve the refrigerant flow.
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Continuous insulation of refrigerant lines with anti-UV tapes at the end points and careful sealing at wall penetrations (external sealant and sheath).
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Communication and power cables run in the same path, properly decompressed at the unit entrance to avoid any stress on the terminal blocks.
Drainage and management of condensates in cold climates
Inside, the wall head is positioned to promote gravity drainage of condensate to the outside. On the facade, the drip point is offset from the circulation area to prevent ice formation near access points. This approach eliminates the need for a lift pump , resulting in less maintenance and no additional noise emissions .
Electricity and start-up: compliance and reliability
Our licensed installers carried out the electrical connection in accordance with the Canadian Electrical Code :
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Dedicated circuit breaker and external disconnect within easy reach.
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Grounding checked, polarizations controlled , tightening to the prescribed torque .
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Nitrogen leak test , deep vacuum , residual humidity control and stabilization before opening the fluid.
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Heating mode setting to validate the blowing temperature, defrost cycle and operating pressures.
The result: stable operation , very low noise levels perceived at the front and rapid hot air blowing into the living area.
AirGreen finish: clean, durable and reversible
We deliver each project with clean finishes and complete documentation :
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Stainless steel collars and fasteners to withstand freeze/thaw cycles.
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Waterproofing touch-ups around the holes to eliminate any risk of infiltration.
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Seasonal HVAC maintenance tips (cleaning filters , inspecting capping , clearing snow around the condenser).
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AirGreen installation guarantee and support for product registration .
Subsidies and profitability
The Sharp ZU1 (R-32) falls into the category of high-efficiency appliances generally eligible for programs such as Rénoclimat and Hydro-Québec 's initiatives for efficient heat pumps . We support our customers in:
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verification of eligibility criteria ,
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preparation of documents (detailed invoices, conformity photos),
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the inspection schedule if required.
The savings generated by inverter modulation and anti-snow boost (which prevents losses due to obstruction) translate into a solid return on investment over the life of the equipment.
Practical tips for homes with vinyl siding
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Always raise the condenser 40 to 60 cm above the finished ground to anticipate snow drifts.
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Avoid downspouts and dryer vents that blow humid air; prefer a quiet facade.
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Clear the unit after each storm: one meter of free space around the condenser preserves airflow and reduces defrosting .
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Plan the passage of the lines in a suitable colored capping (white on white vinyl) for maximum discretion .
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Have maintenance carried out by a professional: inspection of the fan , battery , pressures and firmware (if applicable) once a year.
Results obtained
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Uniform heating of the living areas on the ground floor and on the upper floor, with a stable temperature despite cold spells.
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Outside noise almost imperceptible on the courtyard side.
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Aesthetics respected : aligned capping, straight lines, no unnecessary visual protrusions.
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Simplified maintenance : direct access to disconnect and service connections, free clearance for quick maintenance.
Why AirGreen for your heat pump project in Laval, Montreal and Longueuil?
We combine implementation engineering , mastery of standards and attention to detail . Our team operates throughout Greater Montreal (Laval, Longueuil, North Shore , South Shore ) with HVAC solutions adapted to the realities of each neighborhood. From thermal analysis to after-sales service , we take care of the performance , durability and aesthetics of your installation.
Project sheet
| Element | Detail |
|---|---|
| Place | Sainte-Rose, Laval |
| Kind | Monosplit wall-mounted heat pump |
| Brand / Range | Sharp – ZU1 (R-32) |
| Implementation | Raised condenser on aluminum support, vinyl facade |
| Course | Direct vertical in white capping, ~8–10 m connections |
| Drainage | Gravity , remote drip point |
| Climate points | Protection against snowfall; clearances respected |
| Benefits | 4-season comfort, silence , energy saving , neat aesthetics |
AirGreen – Highly polished wall-mounted heat pump solutions and HVAC installation in Montreal , Laval , Longueuil , on the North Shore and the South Shore .