A wall-mounted head positioned between an exterior door and an accent wall: precise placement for better air distribution
For this project completed in Saint-Roch-de-Richelieuthe most visible issue was directly in the room: choosing the location of a GREE indoor unit without disrupting the existing layout while maintaining the clearances required for operation and maintenance.
The installation photo shows a white wall-mounted head positioned in the upper part of the wall, to the right of a glazed exterior door and just before a large dark accent wall. On the left, a curtain rod already occupies a significant portion of the area above the door. On the right, the change in wall color creates a clear visual boundary. We therefore had a relatively defined area in which to install the unit.
Rather than mechanically centering the heat pump on the entire wall, we worked with the room's actual architecture. The head GREE remains high enough to promote good air distribution, but it is still accessible for filter cleaning andHVAC maintenance. Its white casing blends into the light-colored surface, while the adjacent black wall creates a clean contrast without making the unit the dominant element in the room.
This indoor unit is part of a GREE Free Match R32 3-head heat pump. Behind this discreet installation is therefore a multi-zone system capable of serving three areas of the property from a single outdoor unit.
Why the location of each head becomes even more important in a three-zone system
In a simple installation, a single indoor unit must be positioned correctly. With a three-head system, this operation must be done three times while coordinating everything with a single outdoor condenser.
Each room has its own constraints:
- ceiling dimensions and height;
- location of windows and doors;
- sun exposure;
- presence of furniture;
- walls available for the lines;
- exterior access;
- possibility of draining condensate;
- desired airflow direction.
In this room Saint-Roch-de-Richelieuthe proximity of the exterior door was particularly advantageous. A glazed opening is often an area where solar gains and heat losses can be greater than through an insulated wall.
Installing the unit in this area makes it possible to directly treat part of the room exposed to temperature variations while directing its airflow toward the interior rather than toward the door.
A high installation, but with headroom above
A common mistake is to push the indoor unit as close to the ceiling as possible to make it less visible.
This is not necessarily a good strategy.
A wall-mounted heat pump generally draws room air in through its upper section. If the clearance is insufficient, the unit may have more difficulty circulating the volume of air specified by its design.
In the photo of this project, we can clearly see that space was left between the GREE head and the ceiling. This distance must always be verified according to the manufacturer's instructions and the model of indoor unit actually installed.
We therefore seek a balance among four objectives:
- position the head high enough for good reach;
- keep the air intake unobstructed;
- allow the front panel to open;
- keep the filters accessible.
A beautiful installation that becomes almost impossible to clean after a few months is not a good installation.
The accent wall also required an aesthetic decision
The large dark wall visible on the right changes the appearance of the room. Installing the head directly on this surface would have created a much stronger contrast with the white casing.
Instead, we used the adjacent light-colored section.
The result is understated: the heat pump remains visually integrated into the main wall, while the transition to the dark wall remains intact. No exposed duct is visible around the unit in the photo shown, reinforcing the impression of a clean finish.
For us, aesthetics never replace technical criteria, but they are part of the project when several functional locations are possible.
In homes and condos in Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore, and the South Shore, we regularly encounter this kind of compromise involving trim, windows, cabinets, ceilings, curtains, and decorative walls.
Why three heads can be more effective than a single oversized head
When a homeowner wants to cool several rooms, the idea of installing a very large heat pump in a central area may seem economical.
The problem is air distribution.
A wall-mounted unit does not effectively push air through several closed doors, corridors, and changes in level. A large head in the living room may quickly reach its setpoint temperature while a distant bedroom remains too warm.
With a 3-head heat pump, each zone has its own indoor unit. This provides, among other benefits:
- to bring the heating or cooling source closer to the room concerned;
- to adjust setpoint temperatures individually;
- to reduce the need to circulate air throughout the entire residence;
- to better match capacity to the loads of each area;
- to limit the number of outdoor units.
The Free Match system is specifically designed for this multizone approach. GREE states that the range can accommodate different indoor-unit options and includes self-diagnostics, intelligent defrosting, automatic voltage adaptation, and G10 inverter technology.
One outdoor unit does not mean one capacity for the entire house
The outdoor unit distributes its capacity among the units calling for heating or cooling.
That is why sizing a multisplit system does not simply consist of arbitrarily adding up three capacities listed on the heads.
The documentation for the GREE Free Match R32 The GREE Free Match R32 documentation presents five outdoor units. The 18,000 BTU/h model is limited to two indoor units. The 24,000 BTU/h model accepts two to three heads. The 30,000 and 36,000 BTU/h models can accommodate up to four, and the 42,000 BTU/h outdoor unit can be connected to a maximum of five indoor units.
For a configuration with three heads, so the usable outdoor units in this documentation start at 24,000 BTU/h.
However, the exact capacity of the system installed in Saint-Roch-de-Richelieu cannot be determined from this interior photo alone. The outdoor unit’s model number is not visible. We therefore avoid presenting a precise capacity that has not been confirmed by the project documentation.
How we choose the capacity for each zone
We do not size a head solely according to the number of square feet.
Two rooms with the same floor area can have very different requirements.
We take the following into account, among other factors:
- the floor on which the room is located;
- ceiling height;
- the number of windows;
- their orientation;
- insulation quality;
- exterior walls;
- sun exposure;
- the presence of an exterior door;
- how the room is used;
- heat-producing equipment.
In the case shown in the photo, the proximity of a door leading outside is one of the factors to consider in the room’s thermal behavior.
Excessive capacity can lead to short cycling and less effective humidity control during cooling. Insufficient capacity, on the other hand, can keep the unit running at high output without properly reaching the requested temperature.
Up to 21 SEER2 and 10 HSPF2 for the Free Match R32 range
GREE’s technical documentation states that this range can achieve an efficiency rating of up to 21 SEER2, 12.5 EER2 and 10 HSPF2.
These three figures correspond to different ways of evaluating a heat pump’s energy efficiency.
The SEER2 is particularly useful for comparing seasonal cooling efficiency. The HSPF2 focuses more on seasonal heating efficiency.
Page 2 of the specification sheet indicates a SEER2 of 21 and an HSPF2 of 10 for the Free Match outdoor units shown. EER2 values range from 12 to 12.5 depending on capacity.
These data are important when comparing different HVAC solutions, but they must be kept in context. A residence’s actual energy consumption also depends on its insulation, air leakage, temperature setting, and number of operating hours.
Heating down to -30 °C: what this really means
The range offers a heating operating range of -30 °C to 24 °C and a cooling range of -30 °C to 48 °C.
The technical table on the second page repeats these same outdoor operating limits.
For the Montérégie climate, this is obviously an important feature.
However, these must be distinguished minimum operating temperature and available capacity at low temperature.
A heat pump capable of operating at -30 °C does not necessarily provide the same amount of heat at -30 °C as it does at a milder outdoor temperature. At the same time, a residence’s heat loss increases as the outdoor temperature decreases.
We must therefore compare the equipment’s available capacity with the building’s heating load, rather than basing the entire project on a single temperature listed in a brochure.
Inverter technology is particularly meaningful with three zones
GREE identifies inverter technology in its documentation G10.
This modulation is particularly relevant in a multi-zone system.
Let’s imagine that the head visible in the photo quickly reaches its set temperature, while a second zone still requests heating. A third room, meanwhile, may temporarily be satisfied.
The outdoor unit then adjusts its output according to the demands present in the system rather than operating continuously at maximum capacity.
This modulation can improve temperature stability and limit full compressor starts, provided the system is properly sized.
One feature to explain: the three zones share the same general mode
Occupants can set different temperatures in the three rooms, but the units in a traditional multi-split system connected to the same outdoor unit generally have to operate in the same basic mode.
In winter, they operate in heating mode. In summer, they operate in cooling mode.
Therefore, one head should not be configured to heat while another simultaneously requests cooling from the same outdoor unit.
This situation sometimes occurs during the shoulder seasons. A room facing the sun can be very warm in the afternoon while another part of the house remains cool.
We always explain this feature to the homeowner to prevent them from interpreting a mode conflict as a malfunction.
From piping to drainage: the invisible details behind this wall-mounted unit
Each head has its own refrigeration circuit
The visible part in the room is clean and relatively simple. Behind the wall, the installation is more complex.
Each indoor unit must be connected to the outdoor unit by its refrigerant piping and appropriate connections.
According to the technical data sheet for this range, the outdoor units shown use connections of 1/4 in. on the liquid side and 3/8 in. on the gas side.
With a three-head system, we must therefore organize several routes without confusing them.
We identify the circuits, protect the insulation, and avoid bends that could crush the copper. When the piping runs outdoors, we also plan its protection and integration into the façade.
Up to 100 metres of piping, depending on the outdoor unit
The range offers great flexibility for buildings where the three zones are far apart.
The table indicates a maximum total length of:
- 40 m for the 18,000 BTU/h outdoor unit;
- 60 m for the 24,000 BTU/h model;
- 80 m for the 30,000 and 36,000 BTU/h outdoor units;
- 100 m for the 42,000 BTU/h model.
This flexibility is useful, but our goal is never to use the maximum possible length.
Shorter, more direct routes generally simplify installation, reduce materials, and make future maintenance easier.
The additional R32 charge depends on the actual length
The documentation also specifies the length of piping included in the outdoor unit’s factory charge. It varies from 10 to 50 metres depending on the model. When adjustment becomes necessary, the data sheet indicates an additional charge of 20 g of R32 per metre.
In a three-zone installation, the cumulative length can increase quickly.
We therefore measure each route and calculate the charge according to the manufacturer’s data.
Refrigerant must not be added “just to be sure.” Both undercharging and overcharging can affect the system’s operation and performance.
A separate drain must be planned for condensation
In cooling mode, the indoor unit cools the air but also removes moisture.
The water produced collects in a pan beneath the heat exchanger before being discharged through a drain.
With three indoor units, we therefore have three condensate production points.
Whenever possible, we favor gravity drainage with a continuous slope. The route must avoid reverse slopes, pinches, and rises that could retain water.
During commissioning, we test each drain separately.
A heat pump that properly produces cold air but then lets water run down the wall is not a successful installation.
Access for maintenance influenced the positioning shown in the photo
The Saint-Roch-de-Richelieu head is installed high up, but its front remains accessible.
This question becomes important a few weeks after installation, when the filters begin to collect dust.
A homeowner must be able to perform their periodic maintenance without removing a curtain rod or moving a permanent building component.
Heavily clogged filters can reduce airflow and promote heat exchanger fouling.
For a residence equipped with three heads, it is also important not to overlook a less frequently used zone. Even a unit that operates less frequently must be inspected periodically.
The electrical supply is determined by the outdoor unit
The outdoor Free Match units listed in the document operate at 208/230 V.
For outdoor units capable of powering three indoor units, the MCA value ranges from 19.5 to 30 A, while the MOCP ranges from 25 to 45 A depending on the model.
We therefore do not choose the electrical protection based on the number of heads or the visible size of the indoor unit.
The exact outdoor unit number determines the requirements.
ENERGY STAR, AHRI numbers, and rebates: the complete combination must be validated
Page 2 of the documentation provides numbers AHRI separate rebates for ductless, ducted, and mixed systems. It also identifies the models in the ENERGY STAR section.
The document also mentions eligibility for local rebates.
This statement does not mean that a three-head Free Match heat pump automatically qualifies for a fixed amount.
The exact combination must be verified:
- outdoor unit model;
- models of the three indoor units;
- corresponding AHRI number;
- available program;
- building type;
- conditions in effect at the time of installation.
We prefer to confirm these details before presenting financial assistance as guaranteed.
A warranty to document at commissioning
The document indicates a 10-year standard warranty, with an additional two-year extension through Wolseley when the registration and/or proof-of-installation requirements are met.
For a three-head heat pump, we recommend keeping the following together:
- the invoice;
- the outdoor unit model;
- the three indoor models;
- all serial numbers;
- the installation date;
- the registration documents;
- the applicable AHRI reference.
It is much easier to gather this information during the installation than to try to find it several years later.
The mistakes we avoid with this type of installation
Install the head based solely on appearance
A unit may appear perfectly centered and yet be positioned in the wrong airflow path.
Block the upper intake
Ceiling clearance must comply with the manufacturer’s instructions.
Install directly above a permanent obstacle
Curtains, cabinets, and furniture must be taken into consideration for future access.
Use a head that is too large for the room
Oversizing does not mean greater comfort. Insufficient modulation can lead to shorter cycles.
Overlook the drain location
Drainage is part of selecting the location from the outset, not something to consider after the head has already been mounted.
Promising a rebate without a confirmed AHRI number
The commercial model is not enough: the certified combination is what matters.
Forgetting that three heads share the same outdoor unit
The settings must remain consistent across the zones.
A commissioning process in which each zone must be tested individually
On a three-head installation, seeing just one unit blow air is not enough to declare the job complete.
We specifically check:
- the tightness of the refrigeration connections;
- evacuation of the circuits;
- the actual line length;
- the R32 charge when an adjustment is required;
- drainage for each of the three heads;
- communication with the outdoor unit;
- heating;
- air conditioning;
- the controls for each zone;
- the absence of vibrations or unusual noises.
We then explain how it works to the homeowner, including the modes, temperatures, fan speeds, and filter cleaning.
This Saint-Roch-de-Richelieu project sums up our approach to a multi-zone installation
The photo shows a GREE indoor unit discreetly integrated between an exterior door and an accent wall. Although it appears simple at first glance, it is the result of a series of precise choices.
We had to take the ceiling, door, curtain rod, available wall space, airflow direction, line routing, and future maintenance into account.
This head is also only part of a GREE Free Match R32 3-head heat pump. The other two zones must operate in harmony with it and with the same outdoor unit.
That is why we always consider the installation as a complete system rather than three separate units.
The GREE Free Match R32 lineup provides a multi-zone solution with advertised efficiency of up to 21 SEER2, heating operation down to -30 °C, and several outdoor capacities that can connect three indoor units depending on the selected combination.
At AirGreen, we apply this same approach to our heat pump projects in Saint-Roch-de-Richelieu, throughout Montérégie and on the South Shore, as well as in Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, and on the North Shore: sizing each zone, choosing locations that actually work, protecting the lines, testing the drains, and performing a complete commissioning.
The intended result is not simply a heat pump that starts up on installation day. We want a system that remains logical to use, easy to maintain, and properly integrated into the home several years after we leave.