Sharp condenser on raised support: controlled integration on terrace for four-season comfort
At AirGreen , we have just completed the HVAC installation of a Sharp ZU1 wall-mounted heat pump ( R-32 refrigerant, Eco Inverter technology) in an apartment in the Verdun district of Montreal. The outdoor condenser rests on a raised, self-supporting support placed on a terrace membrane , near a patio door . This choice responds to the realities of Verdun buildings: compact outdoor spaces, frequent traffic to the terrace and the need to protect the waterproofing while ensuring quiet operation .
Project objectives and client expectations
The owner wanted:
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reliable heating down to −25°C and efficient air conditioning in summer;
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a raised outdoor unit , protected from snow and defrost water;
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a contained noise level to preserve the peace and quiet of the neighborhood and the adjoining room;
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a clean installation near the patio door, without obstructing passage or harming aesthetics.
The Sharp ZU1 , with its inverter compressor and R-32 charge (GWP lower than R-410A), is a sustainable and energy-efficient solution, ideal for residential buildings in Greater Montreal .
External installation: stability, clearances and respect for the membrane
The condenser is installed on an aluminum frame equipped with anti-vibration pads . This configuration:
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distributes the load without puncturing the membrane;
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keeps the unit clear of snow drifts and puddles when defrosting ;
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limits the transmission of vibrations to the structure;
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respects the clearances required around the ventilation grille for optimal heat exchange .
We have maintained a clear corridor in front of the patio door to ensure safe circulation and prevent any air from flowing back into the opening. The refrigeration lines and power supply take a short route, via a sealed crossing and discreet UV-resistant capping , guaranteeing durability and a neat finish.
Indoor unit: uniform diffusion and constant comfort
The wall-mounted head is positioned in the main living area, at a height calculated to sweep the volume and push the tempered air to the adjacent rooms. The motorized shutters precisely direct the flow, while the inverter modulation maintains a stable temperature , smoothly, with a very low noise level - an asset for teleworking and rest.
Useful technologies for everyday life
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Eco Inverter DC : continuous power adaptation, reduced consumption and limited component wear.
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R-32 refrigerant : better volumetric efficiency and more favorable environmental balance .
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Plasmacluster (Sharp signature) on compatible heads: improvement of indoor air quality .
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Extreme cold mode : heating down to −25°C , suitable for Montreal winters.
Key steps in AirGreen installation
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Technical pre-visit : validation of electrical capacity , identification of partitions and the most direct route between units.
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Setting up the support : leveling, load distribution via pads, access control around the patio door.
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Crossing and sealing : clean drilling, weather-stripping sleeve , freeze/thaw compatible sealing, installation of capping .
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Refrigeration connections : brazing under nitrogen flushing , deep vacuum, leak test .
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Electrical connections : dedicated circuit breaker, accessible external disconnect switch , safety tests.
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Commissioning : parameter control (superheating/subcooling), heating and air conditioning tests.
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Customer provided with : usage tips, good HVAC maintenance practices and seasonal calendar.
Construction site challenges and applied solutions
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Immediate proximity to an opening : orientation of the unit and respect of clearances to avoid blowing towards the door and limit the noise perceived inside.
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Sensitive membrane : use of a self-supporting support with wide pads ; no invasive fixing.
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Sun exposure : recommend a lightweight sun visor (without obstructing airflow) to maintain summer performance.
Expected performance and savings
The Sharp ZU1 series wall-mounted heat pump offers high seasonal efficiencies (SEER/HSPF depending on capacity) and fine modulation which:
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reduces consumption compared to fixed speed devices;
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improves acoustic comfort ;
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promotes eligibility for grants when efficiency and cold weather heating criteria are met.
We support our clients in Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, on the North Shore and the South Shore to structure financial assistance files and optimize investments.
AirGreen Best Practices for Terrace Installations
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Raise the condenser (45–60 cm minimum) and ensure that the defrost water drains away .
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Protect the membrane : self-supporting supports, shock-absorbing pads and even distribution of support.
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Avoid directing the blowing towards doors/windows ; maintain rear and side clearances .
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Minimize the length of refrigeration lines to maintain nominal capacity .
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Install an accessible disconnect switch for work and check the tightness of the terminals during maintenance visits.
Recommended preventive maintenance
To ensure durability and maintain performance :
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clean the filters and dust the exchangers 3–4 times/year depending on use;
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clear the perimeter of the condenser (leaves, snow, objects);
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check the condition of the support , pads and capping ;
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Schedule annual HVAC maintenance : operating measurements, electrical inspection, condensate drain testing and adjustments.
Why AirGreen in Verdun and Greater Montreal?
We are experts in the plex , terrace and flat roof contexts typical of Montreal. Our team delivers clean , compliant construction sites designed for the Quebec winter . From the selection of the wall-mounted heat pump to commissioning , we offer a turnkey service with monitoring and maintenance .
Conclusion
This Sharp ZU1 installation in Verdun illustrates a successful integration on a terrace : performance , silence , membrane protection and four-season comfort . With AirGreen, each project is sized to last, to be easy to maintain and to enhance the home in Montreal and throughout Greater Montreal .