Installation of a Sharp ZU1 wall-mounted heat pump in Villeray–Saint-Michel–Parc-Extension

Four-season comfort and controlled blowing: an interior installation by AirGreen at VSMPE

At AirGreen , we work weekly in Montreal plexes and condos to modernize comfort with discreet and efficient HVAC systems. In this Villeray–Saint-Michel–Parc-Extension home, we are installing a Sharp wall-mounted heat pump ( ZU1 range, R-32 refrigerant) whose interior head blends into the decor while delivering a precise and quiet airflow. The client's objective is clear: air condition the living room in the summer, heat in the off-season and reduce operating costs without compromising aesthetics.

What we install inside

The Sharp wall-mounted unit is positioned high under the ceiling , above the central living room opening. This placement optimizes air stratification , limits direct drafts on occupants and improves heat distribution to adjacent rooms. The sleek facade, the Plasmacluster indicator and the adjustable shutter ramp ensure fine adjustment of the blowing.

• Type: wall-mounted heat pump (mini-split)

• Brand: Sharp

• Range: ZU1 ( R-32 , Inverter, Plasmacluster Ion)

• Functions: efficient heating by inverter , dehumidification, active filtration, automatic restart

• Acoustics: very low noise operation at the lower landing, ideal for open living rooms

To further enhance comfort, we've installed a removable air deflector on the main flap. This accessory reduces the sensation of direct airflow when the unit is operating in high-speed cooling mode—a detail that makes a difference in everyday living spaces.

An invisible and optimized connection path

When the structure allows, we prefer a back-to-back route : the refrigerant connections (insulated copper), the gravity drain and the communication cable exit directly behind the interior head to join the condenser outside the brick wall. This short route reduces pressure losses and facilitates maintenance.

• Single Ø 2-3" drilling with sleeve and vapor barrier ; watertight sealing on the inside and outside.

• Estimated line length : ~ 2 to 3 m , limiting refrigerant charge additions and preserving seasonal efficiency .

• Drainage : continuous gravity slope towards the outside; no condensate pump → less maintenance and zero additional noise.

• Wiring : dedicated power supply from the external device via 14/3 cable (or depending on power), 4-conductor protected communication; service shutdown and waterproof external box .

What the Sharp ZU1 changes in a Montreal plex

In the typical interconnected apartments of Montreal , the combination of adjustable shutters and deflector allows air to be directed along the ceiling to sweep the corridor and better serve the bedrooms. The result: a uniform temperature , fewer 2-3°C differences between rooms and better controlled humidity during the July heat waves.

The ZU1 range is illustrated by:

• an inverter compressor that continuously adapts the power;

• a low temperature heating range adapted to the local climate;

• R-32 refrigerant , with a lower GWP than the old R-410A;

• the Plasmacluster Ion module, appreciated for purifying the ambient air and limiting cooking odors common in through-unit dwellings.

Key steps in our HVAC installation

1. Location validation : compliant side and top clearances, easy access for maintenance, no major visual obstacles.

2. Anchoring : wall plate on solid frame; check with gauge that the device is perfectly level for a drain without stagnation.

3. Drilling and passage : drilling inclined outwards (2-3°) for natural evacuation of condensates; edge protection to avoid damaging the line insulation.

4. Brazing and flaring : calibrated flares; torque on the dynamometer to avoid micro-leaks.

5. Leak tests : pressurized nitrogen , then high vacuum < 500 microns; vacuum resistance checked before fluid release.

6. Power-up and commissioning : setting of blowing slopes , auto-restart , schedules ; customer demonstration.

Each intervention is carried out under RBQ 5645-9605-01 license , in compliance with CSA standards and the Canadian Electrical Code .

Tips for use in a living room

• In summer , target 23–24°C and leave the speed in auto : the Inverter reduces power after initial reduction, limiting noise and jolts .

• As supplementary heating during the off-season, 22°C with the shutter tilted downwards to break the stratification.

• Use dehumidification on muggy days; 45–50% RH is often enough to restore comfort without overcooling.

• Clean the filters every 4 to 6 weeks ; annual maintenance by our teams checks the tightening, the charge and the condensates.

Grants and budgets

High-efficiency wall-mounted heat pumps like the Sharp ZU1 generally meet the criteria of energy efficiency programs in Quebec. We assist our clients in verifying eligibility (model, capacity, performance) and preparing the necessary documents . The investment is amortized by:

• lower consumption compared to electric convectors;

• four-season use (cooling in summer, heating in spring/fall);

• extended lifespan through careful installation and regular HVAC maintenance .

Common Mistakes to Avoid — and Our Approach

• Interior head too low : accentuates the breath on the occupants; we maintain a higher clearance for optimal mixing.

• Drain without slope : source of untimely flows; we validate the gravity slope before closing.

• Multiple unnecessarily visible drillings : we favor back-to-back drilling to keep the walls intact and minimal capping on the exterior side.

• Undersizing : we size the BTUs according to volume, solar gain, orientation and use; a 12k is often sufficient for a well-insulated Montreal living room, but we confirm by load calculation .

Result for the customer

As soon as it is switched on, the device blows widely and gently ; the deflector eliminates the sensation of cold air on the sofa. The noise level is almost imperceptible at low speed. The home gains in comfort and value , while lowering energy costs .

Why AirGreen ?

We combine accurate diagnosis , clean execution and responsive after-sales service . Our team masters the reference brands ( Sharp, Fujitsu, Gree, Midea, etc. ) and adapts each HVAC installation to the real constraints of Montreal buildings (plexes, condos, houses). We also offer HVAC maintenance plans to maintain performance and the manufacturer's warranty .

Are you considering a wall-mounted heat pump in Montreal, Laval or on the South/North Shore?

We support you from audit to financing, right through to commissioning and maintenance. An AirGreen installation ensures a reliable , aesthetically pleasing , and energy-efficient system—exactly what residents of urban neighborhoods like Villeray–Saint-Michel–Parc-Extension are looking for.