A high-elevation installation where access, safety, and precision mattered just as much as the heat pump’s performance
Installing a wall-mounted heat pump does not always mean placing an outdoor unit at ground level and drilling directly behind the indoor unit. At Saint-Jacques-le-Mineur, installing this ELIOS EMC required much more extensive planning, particularly because of the elevated location selected for some of the exterior work.
The project photo clearly shows the central element of this work: a Genie TZ-50 articulated lift, extended to the upper part of the building. This type of equipment allows our technicians to access a roof, a high wall, or an area that is difficult to reach with a simple ladder. The presence of nearby overhead wires also increased the level of preparation required.
In this context, our work was not limited to connecting the refrigerant lines. We had to coordinate access, position the lift on a stable surface, maintain a safe distance from surrounding obstacles, and complete every step without damaging the masonry, railings, roof, or outdoor landscaping.
The result: a HVAC installation designed to last, with a heat pump suited to the Quebec climate and a project carried out while taking the building’s actual constraints into account.
Why was an articulated lift necessary?
Using an articulated lift involves additional costs and preparation, but it sometimes becomes the safest and most efficient method. For this installation, the articulated boom made it possible to reach the upper part of the building while working around architectural features and restricted ground-level spaces.
Such work may be necessary when:
- the outdoor unit must be installed on a roof or elevated structure;
- the route of the refrigerant lines runs near the top of the building;
- the façade does not allow for the safe installation of scaffolding;
- using a long ladder would be unstable or imprecise;
- the work requires the technician to use both hands for an extended period;
- obstacles prevent direct access from the ground.
For an installation of a wall-mounted heat pump in Saint-Jacques-le-Mineur, we always assess the access method before work begins. The goal is not simply to reach the location: it must be possible to work there properly, handle the tools, protect the lines and check the connections in safe conditions.
Planning adapted to overhead wires and the building’s surroundings
The visible wires near the lift required particular vigilance. Before deploying the boom, it was necessary to determine the work zone, approach angle and reach required to access the upper part of the building without making improvised movements.
Ground positioning was equally important. The lift’s stabilizers had to be deployed on a sufficiently firm and clear surface. The AirGreen van, building access points and landscaping elements also had to remain protected during the work.
This type of project illustrates why a thorough estimate must consider much more than the heat pump’s rated capacity. The main factors include:
- the actual installation height;
- the piping length;
- the route of the condensate drain;
- the availability of an adequate electrical supply;
- the presence of overhead lines;
- the space required for an aerial lift;
- protection of the brick, roof and existing finishes;
- future accessibility for HVAC maintenance.
A heat pump can be technically high-performing, but its efficiency and reliability also depend on the quality of its installation.
The ELIOS EMC series: a wall-mounted heat pump designed for Quebec heating
The ELIOS EMC is a ductless wall-mounted heat pump available in several rated capacities: 9,000, 12,000, 18,000, 24,000 and 33,000 BTU. The exact capacity must be selected based on the floor area, room layout, insulation level, sun exposure and the building’s heat loss.
We avoid selecting a heat pump based solely on approximate floor area. Two properties of similar size in Saint-Jacques-le-Mineur may require different capacities depending on their window area, year of construction, orientation, and airflow between rooms.
The manufacturer’s documentation states that the EMC series uses R454B refrigerant, is certified to ENERGY STAR 6.1 and ENERGY STAR Cold Climate standards, and can operate in heating mode down to an outdoor temperature of -30 °C. Depending on the selected capacity, its efficiency can reach 26.0 TRÉS2/SEER2 and 10.1 CPSC2/HSPF2.
Heating capacity maintained as the temperature drops
A heat pump installed in Quebec must be evaluated primarily based on its winter performance. The rated temperature listed on a specification sheet does not tell the whole story. It is necessary to examine the capacity actually available as the mercury drops, compressor modulation, and defrost operation.
The Heat+ technology of the ELIOS EMC is designed for cold conditions. According to the manufacturer’s brochure, the series can provide up to 100% of its rated heating capacity at -15 °C, while maintaining a useful coefficient of performance down to -30 °C.
This feature is important for homeowners who want to reduce their use of electric baseboards or another auxiliary heating source. However, it does not mean that supplemental heating is unnecessary in every building. The appropriate strategy always depends on heat loss, the selected capacity, and heat distribution inside the building.
More stable Inverter modulation
The Inverter Drive technology allows the compressor to adjust its speed rather than operating only at full power before shutting down completely. The EMC series offers fine-step compressor frequency control, which helps maintain a more stable indoor temperature.
In practice, this modulation helps to:
- reduce start-and-stop cycles;
- limit sudden temperature fluctuations;
- improve comfort during milder periods;
- adjust consumption to actual demand;
- maintain more consistent operation.
Sizing nevertheless remains essential. An oversized unit may reach the requested temperature too quickly and reduce dehumidification quality in summer. An undersized unit, on the other hand, may run continuously without fully meeting needs during the coldest periods.
A heated condensate pan to limit ice buildup
In heating mode, an outdoor unit produces water during its defrost cycles. This water must be able to drain away without forming a mass of ice beneath the unit or around its base.
The ELIOS EMC is equipped with a heated condensate pan. This feature helps limit ice buildup and maintain more effective drainage during winter. Nevertheless, the choice of support and the height of the outdoor unit remain important.
For an installation on a roof or elevated structure, we pay particular attention to the stability of the support, the clearance beneath the unit, and the direction of defrost water. Water must not flow toward a walkway, door, patio, or any place where it could cause a dangerous accumulation.
Different piping depending on the selected capacity
The refrigerant line sizes are not identical for all versions of the EMC series. According to the manufacturer’s specifications:
- the 9,000 and 12,000 BTU models use 1/4 in. and 3/8 in. lines;
- the 18,000 BTU model uses 1/4 in. and 1/2 in. lines;
- the 24,000 BTU model uses 3/8 in. and 5/8 in. lines;
- the 33,000 BTU model uses 3/8 in. and 3/4 in. lines.
This distinction is particularly important when replacing an old heat pump. Existing piping should not be reused automatically. Its diameter, condition, cleanliness, length, and compatibility with the new equipment must be verified.
For an elevated installation, a sizing error or faulty connection becomes more costly to correct, since access may require mobilizing the lift again. We therefore pay particular attention to flare fittings, tightening, the leak test, and vacuum pumping.
Vacuum pumping that should never be rushed
Once the lines have been installed, the refrigeration circuit must be checked before releasing the pre-charged refrigerant into the outdoor unit. Proper evacuation removes the air and moisture present in the lines.
Residual moisture can compromise system operation, contaminate the compressor oil, and contribute to long-term problems. This step must be performed with appropriate instruments and confirmed by a measurement rather than an approximate duration.
We also check the tightness of the connections and the stability of the vacuum. On a heat pump using the R454B, work procedures, tools, and practices must be adapted to the refrigerant and the manufacturer's requirements.
Indoor unit air quality, filtration, and maintenance
The ELIOS EMC includes a two-level filtration system. The first filter helps trap dust, pollen, and pet hair, while the second uses a carbon element to help absorb certain contaminants and odors.
The active cleaning function also helps limit residual moisture on the indoor coil. However, it does not replace periodic maintenance.
To maintain adequate airflow, we recommend:
- clean the filters regularly;
- check for dust on the fan wheel;
- do not obstruct the air intake or outlet;
- have the unit inspected when odors, noises, or reduced performance appear;
- plan a thorough cleaning when internal buildup becomes significant.
A dirty wall-mounted unit may continue operating while distributing less air. The owner may then believe that the heat pump lacks capacity, when the problem is actually caused by reduced airflow.
Useful features for part-time residences
The EMC series offers a frost-protection mode that maintains a setpoint of approximately 8 °C. This feature may be useful for a secondary residence, a temporarily vacant dwelling, or a property where maintaining a minimum temperature is desired without heating to a normal setpoint.
It also includes automatic restart after a power outage, a silent mode, a “Do Not Disturb” mode, local temperature detection, and possible compatibility with certain wall controls or thermostat interfaces.
The control options must be confirmed according to the selected configuration. The brochure specifically mentions a KJRSAALW1-compatible controller as well as an ST1S42RW1 touchscreen thermostat, whose Wi-Fi connection requires additional accessories.
Mistakes to avoid when installing a heat pump at height
A complex installation leaves no room for improvisation. Among the mistakes we seek to avoid are:
Choosing the location solely for appearance
The outdoor unit must remain accessible for maintenance and troubleshooting. A very discreet location can become problematic if it prevents panel removal or requires a lift for every minor intervention.
Neglecting defrost water drainage
On a roof, water must be directed in a way that prevents damage to the roofing, leaks, or the formation of an ice patch near an access point.
Installing lines without sufficient protection
Refrigerant lines, wiring, and the drain must be supported and protected against weather, movement, and contact with abrasive surfaces.
Underestimating the proximity of overhead wires
Mechanical access must be planned before arriving at the job site. A poorly positioned lift can make the work impossible or create an avoidable risk.
Choosing capacity based solely on price
A less expensive heat pump that is improperly sized can result in uneven comfort, disappointing energy consumption, and excessive use of auxiliary heating.
An AirGreen installation designed for the building—not just the machine
This installation of an ELIOS EMC wall-mounted heat pump in Saint-Jacques-le-Mineur demonstrates the importance of adapting our method to the building. The articulated lift, elevated access, overhead wires, and façade configuration required a structured execution.
At AirGreen, we handle residential and commercial projects in Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore, and the South Shore. Each job is assessed according to its specific requirements: required capacity, piping routes, electrical supply, condensate drainage, noise, access, and future maintenance.
A proper installation should allow the heat pump to operate according to its actual capabilities while also making it easy to use for many years. It is this combination of technical selection, job-site preparation, and quality workmanship that makes the difference.