In Sainte-Martine, an outdoor installation on wall brackets to protect the heat pump from the ground and facilitate winter operation
This installation of a Fujitsu AIRSTAGE Altair 700 wall-mounted heat pump in Sainte-Martine highlights an element that directly influences the quality of an HVAC project: how the outdoor unit is supported and positioned in relation to the building.
In the photo taken after our work, the Fujitsu outdoor unit is installed against the foundation wall, beneath the home's exterior siding. Rather than placing the condenser directly on the ground, we secured it to metal wall brackets, creating significant clearance beneath the unit. For a heat pump intended to operate in heating mode in Quebec as well, this height is not merely an aesthetic detail: it helps protect the unit from snow accumulation, ground moisture, debris, and especially ice that can form during defrost cycles.
The photo also shows a very real environment, far from a catalog-style installation: an older foundation, natural terrain, vegetation at the base of the wall, horizontal siding, and limited available space. At AirGreen, our work consists precisely of adapting each HVAC installation to the property's actual conditions rather than imposing a standard configuration.
Why we chose wall brackets for this installation
When a wall-mounted heat pump operates in heating mode during cold weather, its outdoor unit must periodically switch to defrost mode. The moisture and frost accumulated on the heat exchanger then melt and produce water beneath the condenser.
If the unit is installed too close to the ground, this water can:
- freeze beneath the unit;
- form a mass of ice;
- reduce the available clearance;
- make maintenance more difficult;
- expose the bottom of the unit to more moisture;
- become problematic when snow accumulates around the system.
At Sainte-Martine, wall mounting creates a clear separation between the heat pump and the ground.
The photo shows that the unit is held on two support arms anchored into the structure. This allowed us to achieve a compact installation without installing a slab that would take up additional ground space.
Special attention to vibrations
Mounting an outdoor unit directly to the wall also requires proper vibration management.
A modern inverter compressor generally operates quietly, but every machine has mechanical components in motion. Improper fastening could transmit some vibrations to the building.
We therefore pay attention to:
- the strength of the anchor points;
- aligning the support;
- leveling the heat pump;
- tightening the fasteners;
- appropriate vibration-isolation components;
- the positioning of the piping so that it does not unnecessarily transmit vibrations.
The goal is not only for the system to be stable on the day of installation. It must remain so through the seasons, heating cycles, and temperature variations.
The route of the lines: a discreet finish along the foundation
Another visible detail in this installation is the route of the connections between the outdoor unit and the inside of the house.
The refrigerant lines, wiring, and associated components are grouped together and routed toward the building in an orderly manner. A heat pump installation in Sainte-Martine must perform well, but it should also preserve the appearance of the residence as much as possible.
We therefore generally seek to limit:
- unnecessary copper loops;
- misaligned lines;
- visible cables;
- routes that would complicate future maintenance;
- penetrations positioned poorly in the building envelope.
A clean exterior finish also makes future visual inspections of the installation easier.
A new Fujitsu generation using R-32
The label R32 is directly visible on the façade of the photographed outdoor unit.
The Fujitsu AIRSTAGE Altair 700 belongs to a generation of heat pumps using R-32 refrigerant.
According to Fujitsu, R-32 has a global warming potential of 675, whereas that of R-410A is listed at 2,088. The manufacturer therefore reports an approximately 68% reduction in GWP compared with R-410A.
For homeowners, this development also means that it is important to work with an HVAC company familiar with the installation and commissioning practices for equipment using this new generation of refrigerant.
Two capacities available in the Altair 700 series
The Fujitsu documentation provided for the Altair 700 presents two single-zone systems:
09KMAS1 – 9,000 BTU/h cooling capacity
12KMAS1 – 12,000 BTU/h cooling capacity
The photograph is not clear enough to read the nameplate and confirm which of the two capacities corresponds precisely to this installation in Sainte-Martine. We therefore avoid arbitrarily inferring the capacity from the condenser’s visual size.
For the 09KMAS1 version, the stated performance figures include:
- nominal cooling: 9,000 BTU/h;
- cooling modulation: 3,100 to 12,100 BTU/h;
- nominal heating: 12,000 BTU/h;
- heating modulation: 2,800 to 14,500 BTU/h.
For the 12KMAS1 version:
- nominal cooling: 12,000 BTU/h;
- modulation: 3,100 to 13,800 BTU/h;
- nominal heating: 14,000 BTU/h;
- heating modulation: 2,800 to 15,000 BTU/h.
The correct capacity must be selected based on the building, not solely according to an approximate square-footage rule.
Why proper sizing remains essential
A heat pump that is too small may struggle to meet demand during periods of intense heat or cold.
Conversely, an oversized unit is not automatically advantageous.
An oversized system may quickly reduce its cycles and may not always use its modulation potential as efficiently as possible.
At AirGreen, we examine in particular:
- the area of the space;
- ceiling height;
- insulation;
- the number and size of windows;
- solar exposure;
- room layout;
- heat loss;
- the existing heating system.
This step is particularly important in homes in Sainte-Martine and Montérégie, where the age and construction of properties can vary considerably.
Inverter technology: adapting operation to actual demand
The Fujitsu Altair 700 uses an inverter compressor.
This technology allows the system to adapt its capacity rather than operating solely according to an on-off logic.
Once the desired temperature is reached, the heat pump can reduce its output to maintain comfort more precisely.
This modulation capability notably helps to:
- limit temperature fluctuations;
- improve comfort;
- reduce frequent starts;
- adapt energy consumption to actual demand;
- enable quieter operation at partial load.
Fujitsu also indicates that the Altair 700 outdoor unit can produce up to 33% more heat than its stated rated capacity, depending on operating conditions.
The Fujitsu Altair 700 technical specifications that matter for an installation in Quebec
Heating down to -15 °C
The Altair 700 series is advertised as operating in heating mode down to -15 °C.
The operating ranges indicated by Fujitsu are:
- heating: -15 °C to 24 °C;
- cooling: -10 °C to 50 °C.
This range makes the system suitable as a heating solution for much of the winter.
However, it is important to distinguish the minimum operating temperature from the capacity actually available at that temperature.
A heat pump capable of operating at -15 °C does not automatically mean it will cover all of a home’s heat loss on its own when the outdoor temperature reaches that level.
The supplemental heating system, the heat pump’s capacity, and the property’s actual needs must be considered together.
Impressive seasonal efficiency
Both Altair 700 configurations deliver high efficiency.
For the 09KMAS1 model:
- SEER2: 30.0;
- HSPF2 Region V: 9.9;
- EER2: 16.4;
- COP2: 4.64.
For the 12KMAS1 model:
- SEER2: 27.5;
- HSPF2 Region V: 8.5;
- EER2: 13.5;
- COP2: 4.32.
The Fujitsu technical data sheet also associates both models with the ENERGY STAR classifications presented by the manufacturer, including cold-climate designations.
For someone comparing a Fujitsu heat pump in Sainte-Martine with other models, these figures provide a much more precise picture of performance than a comparison based solely on the number of BTUs.
A compact outdoor unit
The outdoor unit in this series measures approximately:
- 31 7/16 in. wide;
- 21 5/16 in. high;
- 11 7/16 in. deep.
It weighs approximately 71 lb.
This relatively compact format partly explains why the wall-mounted installation shown in the photo works well.
There is enough space beneath the unit for drainage and maintenance while keeping the system close to the foundation.
1/4 in. and 3/8 in. refrigerant piping
The Fujitsu Altair 700 uses:
- 1/4 in. for the liquid line;
- 3/8 in. for the gas line.
These dimensions are the same for both capacities listed in the documentation.
The minimum piping length is 10 ft, while the maximum permitted length is 66 ft.
The factory charge covers up to approximately 49 ft of piping, and Fujitsu allows a maximum vertical difference of approximately 49 ft.
These limits give our installers some flexibility, but they must be respected during the design process.
An incorrect length, diameter, or careless installation of the lines can compromise the operation of a system that is otherwise highly efficient on paper.
Power supply: 208–230 V and a 15 A circuit breaker
The Altair 700 systems listed in the technical data sheet use a power supply of:
208 to 230 V / 60 Hz / single-phase
Fujitsu specifies a 15 A circuit breaker for the 09KMAS1 and 12KMAS1 models.
The maximum current reaches:
09KMAS1
- 6.4 A in cooling mode;
- 9.4 A in heating mode.
12KMAS1
- 6.9 A in cooling mode;
- 9.4 A in heating mode.
This can sometimes make it easier to integrate a new heat pump into a property with limited electrical capacity, but the circuit must always be verified according to the model actually installed and the applicable electrical requirements.
An indoor unit that can operate at as little as 19 dB(A)
Although the photo of this installation mainly highlights the outdoor condenser, the indoor wall-mounted unit is an integral part of the homeowner's experience.
In quiet mode, Fujitsu specifies an indoor sound level of only:
- 19 dB(A) in cooling mode;
- 21 dB(A) in heating mode.
At low speed, the level is 30/33 dB(A), and at high speed, 40/42 dB(A).
This is an important advantage when a wall-mounted heat pump is installed in a living room, bedroom, or living area where noise could otherwise become bothersome.
Up to 400 cu. ft./min of airflow
The indoor fan can reach approximately 400 cu. ft./min, or 680 m³/h, at high speed.
The listed airflow rates are:
- high: 400 cu. ft./min;
- medium: 324 cu. ft./min;
- low: 253 cu. ft./min;
- quiet: 153 cu. ft./min.
The unit has four speeds in addition to automatic mode.
A properly positioned heat pump can therefore distribute air throughout the room without having to operate constantly at its maximum speed.
Built-in Wi-Fi with the AIRSTAGE app
The Fujitsu Altair 700 is also equipped with built-in Wi-Fi.
The system can be used with the AIRSTAGE mobile app for remote comfort management.
For a homeowner who regularly leaves the house during the day or owns an intermittently occupied residence, this feature allows more flexible temperature management.
The Fujitsu platform can also support multiple optional controllers and interfaces, as well as certain BACnet or Modbus integrations when a project requires more advanced functions.
Washable filters and indoor unit maintenance
Fujitsu equips the Altair 700 with washable filters and ProCore copper coils with high corrosion resistance.
Even with a modern system, maintenance remains essential.
We recommend that homeowners check their filters regularly, particularly during periods of heavy use.
A very dirty filter can:
- limit airflow;
- increase noise;
- interfere with heat transfer;
- reduce comfort;
- encourage dust to accumulate in the evaporator.
HVAC maintenance should not begin several years after installation. Good habits from the first season help keep the system in better condition.
What the photo shows us about worksite preparation
An interesting detail is visible beneath the outdoor unit: some parts of the connections are still protected by brightly colored temporary elements when the photo was taken.
This indicates a worksite photographed during or immediately around the finishing phase.
We can also observe:
- the wall bracket already secured;
- the unit properly raised off the ground;
- the horizontal routing of the lines along the foundation;
- clear access in front of the fan;
- the absence of a major obstacle in front of the heat exchanger.
These elements are simple, but they make a real difference.
Mistakes we seek to avoid with an outdoor unit
During our installations in Sainte-Martine, Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore, and the South Shore, we specifically avoid the following situations:
- Placing the condenser too close to the ground.
- Creating a support that can move or deform.
- Blocking the front of the fan with a fence or obstacle.
- Neglecting the water produced during defrosting.
- Routing the lines without adequate protection or support.
- Installing the unit in an area where it will be impossible to service.
- Choosing the location solely based on the ease of indoor installation.
- Neglecting vibrations transmitted to the building.
The best location is the one that balances system operation, durability, noise level, maintenance, and the building’s appearance.
Rebates: always verify the exact combination
The series documentation presents both models with ENERGY STAR ratings. However, to verify eligibility for financial assistance, you must use the equipment’s exact reference numbers.
The combinations indicated by Fujitsu are:
9,000 BTU
- indoor unit: ASUH09KMAS;
- outdoor unit: AOUH09KMAS1.
12,000 BTU
- indoor unit: ASUH12KMAS;
- outdoor unit: AOUH12KMAS1.
We avoid promising a specific subsidy amount based solely on the name “Altair 700.” Programs may change, and eligibility depends on the exact model, applicable certifications, and program criteria at the time of the project.
An installation adapted to the building rather than a standard solution
This Fujitsu heat pump installation in Sainte-Martine is a good summary of the way we work at AirGreen.
The area near the foundation was not ideal for simply placing a unit at ground level. We therefore opted for wall-mounted supports that keep the condenser elevated, clear, and accessible.
The objective is simple: to ensure that the heat pump can operate not only on a beautiful summer day, but also when it has to provide heat during the Quebec winter.
The quality of an HVAC installation often lies in decisions that go almost unnoticed once the project is complete: support height, anchor placement, piping route, clearance in front of the unit, and accessibility for maintenance.
AirGreen for Fujitsu heat pump installation in Sainte-Martine and Greater Montreal
At AirGreen, we install wall-mounted heat pumps in Sainte-Martine, as well as in Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, on the North Shore and the South Shore.
The Fujitsu AIRSTAGE Altair 700 combines several features that are well suited to the Quebec market:
- Inverter technology;
- R-32 refrigerant;
- heating down to -15 °C;
- built-in Wi-Fi;
- high seasonal efficiency;
- indoor operation starting at 19 dB(A);
- piping that can extend up to 66 ft;
- compact outdoor format;
- two available capacities of 9,000 and 12,000 BTU/h for cooling.
But choosing the unit is only part of the project.
In Sainte-Martine, this installation shows why the outdoor support, height above the ground, drainage, vibrations, and piping route deserve as much attention as the figures listed on the technical data sheet.
It is this combination of system selection and quality of execution that enables a heat pump to deliver the expected performance and comfort for many seasons.