An elegant integration into a heritage dining room: modern performance, preserved moldings
In this Westmount home, we are installing a Sharp ZU1 (R-32) wall-mounted heat pump above traditional wainscoting with crown molding . The project requires a discreet and aesthetically pleasing HVAC installation , while providing precise comfort for a living space used from morning to night. Our mandate: optimize air diffusion in a cross-circulation volume (adjoining kitchen and hallway), minimize visual impact , and prepare the system for harsh Montreal winters .
Why the Sharp ZU1 is a good fit for Westmount's residential architecture
Next-generation efficiency and refrigerant
The ZU1 series uses R-32 , a new-generation refrigerant that achieves high seasonal efficiencies and reduces the carbon footprint compared to older generations. For the occupant, this means controlled electricity consumption and temperature stability for both air conditioning and supplemental heating.
High level acoustic comfort
In a dining room opening onto a hallway, noise becomes immediately noticeable. The Sharp wall-mounted fan head is known for its low noise level and precise motorized shutters . We validate the direction of the airflow so that the air flows along the wall and does not directly hit the table, avoiding unpleasant drafts.
Premium finish: when technology respects the decor
Wall moldings require positioning to the millimeter . We use the template of the plate to place the head flush with the crown , while maintaining the required service clearances . The routing of the lines is invisible from the room ; the exit is made by crossing directly to the outside to limit the length and protect the interior aesthetics .
Salient installation details
Refrigerated and electrical route
-
Single hole behind the head, with vapor barrier sleeve and controlled slope to ensure gravity drainage of condensates.
-
Optimized line length (typical configuration ≤ 5 m ) to reduce pressure losses and preserve efficiency .
-
Compliant interconnection cable and power supply; externally, a disconnect switch near the condenser facilitates maintenance.
-
Fixing to solid uprights, anti-vibration spacers to prevent the transmission of vibrations to the molded partition.
Condensate management: gravity first and foremost
Thanks to the installation height and the wall facing outside, the evacuation is done by gravity , without a pump. We integrate:
-
an insulated pipe with a continuous slope;
-
a discreet access point for periodic rinsing;
-
a splash-proof exit on the exterior cladding.
Air positioning and diffusion
The head is placed high , aligned under the cornice. The horizontal shutters direct the air above the table to irrigate the room, while the vertical sweep covers the adjacent corridor. The result: even distribution and rapid temperature increases in the off-season.
Steps of our AirGreen on-site method
1) Technical survey and sizing
We analyze:
-
the surface area of the dining room and its internal features (presence of occupants, cooking nearby);
-
the permeability of the corridor leading to the other rooms;
-
the anchoring area compatible with the moldings and the structure.
The ZU1 capacity retained covers the loads without oversizing the equipment (avoids short cycles, noise , and overconsumption).
2) Tracing and protection of the decor
Before any drilling, we protect the paneling, cornices and furniture. The tracing respects the axes of the moldings so that the device appears designed for the room .
3) Brazing, deep vacuum and control
-
Brazing under nitrogen to prevent internal oxidation.
-
Vacuum drawing until a stable deep vacuum level is reached, guaranteeing the longevity of the compressor .
-
Pressure resistance and leak testing before opening the fluid.
4) Commissioning and adjustments
We configure:
-
summer/winter setting , Dry mode for humid days;
-
sweeping so that the flow runs along the wall, avoiding any direct air current on the guests;
-
automatic recovery after interruption and sound limitation for quiet evenings.
5) Invisible finishes
Inside, there are no visible ducts; outside, there is neutral-coloured capping and a clean vertical path to the condenser on anti-vibration brackets . The whole thing remains discreet , durable and easy to maintain.
Results obtained from the client
-
Targeted comfort during meals, without direct breath.
-
Thermal stability in everyday life, including when the door to the corridor remains open.
-
Quiet in normal operation; the ZU1's low noise level blends with the muffled acoustics of wood materials.
-
Minimal visual impact : the head blends above the picture rail, the finishes respect the Westmount style .
HVAC Use and Maintenance Tips
Daily good practices
-
Leave interior doors ajar to facilitate air distribution.
-
In summer, prefer a reasonable setting (22–24°C) to maintain performance .
-
Use Dry mode on muggy days to dehumidify effectively.
Annual HVAC maintenance
-
Clean filters every 4–6 weeks during heavy use.
-
Inspection of electrical connections, search for acoustic anomalies , verification of gravity drain .
-
Outside: keep the condenser clear (vegetation, snow) and check that defrosting is carried out freely.
Regular HVAC maintenance keeps the wall-mounted heat pump at its peak performance and protects the warranty .
Grants and eligibilities (Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, North Shore, South Shore)
Recent R-32 wall-mounted heat pumps like the Sharp ZU1 are generally eligible for current programs when seasonal performance and cold weather operation criteria are met. Our team takes care of:
-
confirm eligibility according to installed capacity and series;
-
gather documentary evidence (serial numbers, photos, forms);
-
maximize the assistance available for residences located in Montreal , Laval , Longueuil , on the North Shore and the South Shore .
Pitfalls to avoid in interiors with moldings
-
Drillings too low : they compromise the slope of the drain and generate risks of dripping .
-
Fixings on unreinforced plaster : they cause vibrations and micro-cracks around the cornices.
-
Interior chutes are not necessary: they weigh down the decor. A short, direct route is preferable.
-
Frontal blowing towards the table: it creates a sensation of cold. The tangential sweep along the wall restores a soft and uniform comfort.
Why choose AirGreen?
-
Mastery of heritage interiors : we adapt the technique to paneling, cornices and woodwork.
-
Execution requirement : nitrogen brazing, deep vacuum , leak testing , fine tuning.
-
Long-term monitoring : planned HVAC maintenance , usage advice, parts availability and local after-sales service .
-
Coverage of Greater Montreal: rapid interventions in Montreal , Laval , Longueuil , North Shore and South Shore .
Westmount Project Quick Facts
-
Type : single-zone wall-mounted heat pump .
-
Brand : Sharp .
-
Series : ZU1 (R-32) .
-
Location : above the picture rail, under the ceiling molding.
-
Condensates : gravity drain with continuous slope.
-
Route : direct crossing, discreet external capping , condenser on anti-vibration brackets .
Would you like a HVAC installation that is as neat as possible in your home, whether in Montreal , Laval or Longueuil , on the North Shore or the South Shore ? Our team manages everything: advice , installation , subsidies and maintenance .