In Yamaska, the challenge was not only to choose a good heat pump; above all, it was to find the right outdoor location.
For this installation completed in Yamaska, we installed a Fujitsu AIRSTAGE Orion XLTH wall-mounted heat pump in an outdoor configuration that required particular attention. The project photo immediately shows what distinguishes this installation: the outdoor unit is neither placed on the ground nor installed on a slab. Instead, we secured it high on the brick wall using two sturdy metal brackets.
This decision addresses several constraints specific to Quebec installations. When ground space is limited, or when a terrace, vegetation, or architectural elements make it difficult to install a ground support, a wall-mounted installation can become a particularly interesting solution. In this case, the unit was positioned beneath the building’s upper structure, between two posts, while remaining accessible and sufficiently clear.
The photo also shows several important details: the Fujitsu AIRSTAGE outdoor cabinet, the R32 identification, the electrical disconnect installed directly on the wall, and the vertical brackets that transfer the unit’s load to the masonry.
For a wall-mounted heat pump installation in Yamaska, this type of setup is not simply a matter of appearance. The height of the unit affects, among other things, its exposure to snow, drainage during defrost cycles, accessibility, and protection against certain winter accumulations.
Fujitsu documentation classifies the AIRSTAGE Orion XLTH in its H series of Orion CTEB single-zone wall-mounted systems. This range uses R-32 refrigerant, Inverter technology, and is designed to operate in heating mode down to -26 °C.
A raised outdoor installation that directly addresses Yamaska’s winter conditions
The positioning of the outdoor unit is one of the most interesting aspects of this project.
When a heat pump operates in heating mode, its outdoor coil can gradually accumulate frost. The system then automatically initiates a defrost cycle to melt this frost. This process generates water that must be able to drain properly.
A machine installed very close to the ground can eventually become surrounded by:
- accumulated snow;
- ice from defrost cycles;
- blowing snow;
- debris;
- or a combination of these elements during extended cold spells.
On our Yamaska project, the wall-mounted installation places the unit well above ground level, significantly reducing the risk of the bottom of the heat pump quickly becoming trapped in accumulated snow.
Fujitsu also specifies that the outdoor unit in the Orion XLTH series has a base pan heater designed for extremely cold climate regions.
This component is particularly relevant in a region like Quebec. However, it does not replace proper installation. The base pan heater helps the machine manage freezing conditions, while the physical positioning of the unit helps leave it enough space to operate properly during the winter.
Two metal supports rather than an improvised installation
In the photo, the Fujitsu unit rests on two metal brackets secured to the masonry.
The supports are spaced to accommodate the feet of the outdoor unit and feature triangular braces that ensure the structure’s rigidity.
This part of the installation is essential.
An outdoor unit contains a compressor, a fan, and several components that generate slight vibrations during operation. An inadequate wall mounting can transmit these vibrations to the structure or create unwanted movement over time.
We therefore want a base that is:
rigid, stable, properly anchored, and compatible with the weight of the machine.
For our heat pump installations in Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore, the South Shore, and municipalities such as Yamaska, we always adapt the type of support to the building and the unit’s immediate surroundings.
The brick wall also required a precise installation
The visible masonry on this residence provided an interesting installation area, but anchoring into a brick wall must be properly planned.
The weight of the outdoor heat pump should not be treated like that of a simple decorative accessory. The supports must be secured with appropriate anchors, and their positioning must take the structure into account.
In this project, the chosen height also keeps the space below relatively clear.
This arrangement is particularly practical when a homeowner wants to continue using their outdoor space without having a ground-level unit occupying part of the terrace or walkway.
An electrical disconnect installed near the equipment
Below and to the right of the outdoor unit, the electrical disconnect can be seen.
Installing it near the heat pump provides an accessible disconnect point for service and maintenance work.
The exact electrical supply depends on the installed model.
In the Orion XLTH series presented by Fujitsu, all the listed models operate at 208 to 230 V, 60 Hz, single-phase. Models 09KZAH1 and 12KZAH1 use a 15 A circuit breaker, while 15KZAH1, 18KZAH1, and 24KZAH1 are paired with a 20 A circuit breaker in the technical data sheet.
This shows why we cannot determine the exact power supply for an installation simply by looking at the unit's front.
The model number must always be confirmed.
Fujitsu Orion XLTH: why this lineup is particularly interesting for a heat pump installation in Yamaska
A heating range down to -26 °C
The first factor to consider for a Quebec home is the published minimum operating temperature.
Fujitsu indicates a heating range of -26 °C to 24 °C for the models in the series presented.
According to the same technical data sheet, cooling can operate within a range of -10 °C to 50 °C.
This characteristic makes the lineup relevant when looking for a cold-climate heat pump rather than a unit intended primarily for summer cooling.
In Yamaska, as in several areas of the South Shore and Montérégie, a heat pump may be called upon to operate for a large part of the heating season.
High heating capacity that remains elevated as temperatures drop
However, the minimum operating temperature does not tell the whole story.
We also examine the available heating capacity when the thermometer drops.
The Fujitsu data sheet presents the performance of five different capacities. For example, the 12KZAH1 is listed at:
- 138% of its nominal capacity at -15 °C;
- 124% at -21 °C;
- 102% at -26 °C.
The 15KZAH1 is listed at 140% at -15 °C, 126% at -21 °C, and 109% at -26 °C.
These figures are based on the measurement conditions specified by Fujitsu, but they show why it is important to examine low-temperature performance when comparing heat pumps intended for Quebec.
Several capacities available in the Orion XLTH family
The documentation provided presents five main versions:
- 09KZAH1: 9,000 BTU/h nominal cooling capacity;
- 12KZAH1: 12,000 BTU/h;
- 15KZAH1: 14,500 BTU/h;
- 18KZAH1: 18,000 BTU/h;
- 24KZAH1: 22,000 BTU/h.
Their nominal heating capacities are respectively 12,000, 16,000, 18,000, 21,600, and 25,200 BTU/h.
The rating plate is not legible enough in the photo of the Yamaska installation to confirm with certainty which of these capacities was installed.
We therefore prefer to retain this precision rather than arbitrarily assigning a number of BTUs to the project.
Why sizing matters more than seeking the highest number of BTUs
A larger unit is not automatically a better unit for a home.
The heat pump must be selected based on the thermal load, the building's insulation, floor area, number of windows, room layout, and how the space is used.
A properly sized heat pump allows Inverter technology to modulate its operation and maintain the temperature more gradually.
Conversely, an oversized unit can reach the setpoint quickly and run more cycles.
At AirGreen, we therefore consider the number of BTUs essential information, but never the only criterion.
Particularly high TRÈS2 efficiencies on certain capacities
The Orion XLTH range offers different energy efficiencies depending on capacity.
The Fujitsu specifications indicate:
- 09KZAH1 : TRÈS2 of 33.1;
- 12KZAH1 : 30,5;
- 15KZAH1 : 27,5;
- 18KZAH1 : 25,5;
- 24KZAH1 : 24,0.
Regional CPSC2 values in region V range from 9.4 to 10.7, depending on capacity.
The technical data sheet also lists these models with the ENERGY STAR, ENERGY STAR Cold Climate, and ENERGY STAR Most Efficient ratings.
For a homeowner comparing several models of wall-mounted heat pumps, it is therefore always necessary to check the performance of the specific model rather than applying a single rating to an entire series.
An R-32 heat pump
The marking R32 is clearly visible on the front of the outdoor unit installed in Yamaska.
According to Fujitsu, R-32 has a global warming potential of 675, compared with 2088 for R-410A, representing a 68% reduction in GWP according to the comparison presented in the documentation.
Using a different refrigerant also means that work on the refrigeration circuit must be adapted to the equipment concerned.
We therefore pay particular attention to connection methods, evacuation, testing and commissioning.
The piping is not identical on all Orion XLTH models
This detail is particularly useful for a homeowner replacing an old heat pump.
The copper pipe diameters differ depending on the unit's capacity.
The Fujitsu specifications indicate:
- 09KZAH1 and 12KZAH1: 1/4 in. liquid + 3/8 in. gas;
- 15KZAH1: 1/4 in. liquid + 1/2 in. gas;
- 18KZAH1 and 24KZAH1: 3/8 in. liquid + 5/8 in. gas.
This means that an old refrigerant line should never be considered automatically compatible simply because it is already inside the wall.
We check the pipe diameters, length, elevation difference and condition before deciding whether to keep them.
Pipe lengths that give installers considerable flexibility
The series also offers interesting options when the outdoor unit cannot be placed directly behind the indoor unit.
The indicated maximum lengths are:
- 25 m for the 09KZAH1 and 12KZAH1 models;
- 30 m for the 15KZAH1;
- 50 m for the 18KZAH1 and 24KZAH1.
The maximum elevation differences indicated range from 20 to 30 m, depending on the model.
This flexibility can be especially useful when installing a heat pump in Montreal or Longueuil, for example in a triplex, condo or property where the condominium association requires a specific location for the outdoor units.
Indoor operation as quiet as 23 dB(A)
A heat pump must also be acoustically comfortable.
Depending on the capacity, Fujitsu publishes indoor sound levels in quiet mode that can be as low as:
- 23 dB(A) for the 09KZAH1 and 12KZAH1;
- 26 dB(A) for the 15KZAH1;
- 30 dB(A) for the 18KZAH1 and 24KZAH1.
Published outdoor sound levels range from 46 to 49 dB(A) in cooling mode, depending on capacity.
In Yamaska’s case, the outdoor unit is installed against a masonry wall. The rigidity of the brackets and the quality of the fastening are therefore important to avoid unnecessarily transmitting vibrations to the building.
Integrated Wi-Fi and remote control
Fujitsu documentation also mentions integrated Wi-Fi connectivity with remote monitoring through the AIRSTAGE mobile app.
The range can also be paired with various optional controllers and interfaces.
For most homeowners, the main benefit remains the ability to adjust the temperature without being in front of the wall-mounted unit.
For more specialized applications, Fujitsu also mentions possible compatibility with BACnet and Modbus through appropriate accessories.
An indoor unit equipped with ProCore coils
Fujitsu also offers its ProCore indoor coils, made of copper with high corrosion resistance.
A system’s durability never depends on a single characteristic, but the quality of the heat exchangers, the appliance’s design, and regular maintenance all play a role in long-term performance.
What we recommend for maintaining an elevated wall-mounted installation
A unit installed at a height like this one must remain accessible for future service work.
Maintenance does not concern only the indoor unit.
In particular, it must be possible to check:
- the condition of the outdoor coil;
- the possible presence of debris;
- the sturdiness of the supports;
- the condition of the lines and their insulation;
- electrical connections;
- drainage;
- and the system’s overall operation.
The vegetation visible around the installation area should also be monitored throughout the seasons.
Branches and leaves must never obstruct the fan or reduce the necessary clearances around the outdoor unit.
Errors to avoid with a heat pump installed on wall brackets
An installation like Yamaska’s may appear simple once completed, but several errors can compromise the result.
Among the most important, we avoid:
- undersized brackets relative to the unit’s weight;
- anchors unsuitable for masonry;
- a machine installed too close to the soffit or another obstacle;
- no clearance beneath the unit;
- exposed or inadequately supported piping;
- pipes with the wrong diameter;
- a location that is difficult to access for servicing;
- installation at an insufficient height in an area prone to snow accumulation;
- vegetation left too close to the fan;
- heat pump sizing based solely on the building’s floor area.
It is precisely these small details that make the difference between a heat pump that is simply installed and a HVAC installation designed to last.
A particularly logical configuration for this Yamaska property
The project photo summarizes our approach very well.
The building provided a section of brick wall protected by the upper structure, but the ground-level space needed to remain clear. We therefore used the available height to install the Fujitsu AIRSTAGE Orion XLTH on a pair of sturdy metal brackets.
The heat pump remains elevated off the ground, the disconnect switch is accessible, the machine is installed against a rigid structure, and its positioning takes winter conditions into account.
In this project, it is therefore not just Fujitsu technology that draws attention. It is the combination of a unit designed for cold climates and an installation method adapted to the building.
At AirGreen, we apply this approach to our wall-mounted heat pump projects in Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, on the North Shore and South Shore, as well as in municipalities farther from Greater Montreal.
We always assess the property before deciding how the machine should be installed. An open lot, a balcony, a brick wall, a flat roof, or a very compact yard may not necessarily require the same solution.
In Yamaska, the elevated wall-mounted installation of this Fujitsu Orion XLTH preserves the available space while placing the unit in a favorable position to withstand snow accumulation and winter defrost cycles.
This is exactly what we look for in a professional heat pump installation: a high-performance machine, but above all, an installation that allows it to operate under the real conditions it will face year after year.