Installation of a GREE LIVO R32 wall-mounted heat pump in Dollard-des-Ormeaux: a neat integration on a brick facade for effective and discreet comfort
AirGreen installs a GREE LIVO R32 wall-mounted heat pump in Dollard-des-Ormeaux: efficient mini split, clean exterior finish, protected ducts, and local HVAC expertise.
In summer, the outdoor unit rejects the house's heat outside.
Generic illustration of this type of installation, not a survey of this job site. Tap a number.
Mounted level on a wall plate, high enough for the air to reach the whole room, with enough space around it to slide the filters out easily.
The refrigerant lines, the communication cable and the drain go through the wall in a single opening, sealed against water, cold air and insects.
Two insulated copper pipes connect the two units. Outside, a line cover can protect them from sun, knocks and weather.
A shut-off switch near the outdoor unit isolates it safely for service. It must stay accessible at all times.
The compressor and the fan. In heating mode it captures heat from the outdoor air, even in winter, and moves it inside.
On the ground or on the wall, it keeps the unit above accumulated snow. The unit stays clear and defrost water can drain away.
The fan needs to blow freely. Storage, a fence or a wall too close, and efficiency drops while noise goes up.
An HVAC installation where every exterior detail mattered as much as indoor performance
In Dollard-des-Ormeaux, on the west side of Montreal Island, our AirGreen team completed the installation of a GREE LIVO R32 wall-mounted heat pump, a mini split system designed to provide air conditioning, efficient supplemental heating, and seasonal comfort in a residence where the outdoor integration had to be particularly meticulous. The project photo clearly illustrates the context: a red brick facade, a window located directly above the chosen spot, an existing vertical passage on the wall, and a space where the outdoor unit had to be installed without compromising aesthetics or accessibility.
This type of project is exactly the kind of HVAC installation where field experience makes all the difference. Installing a heat pump is not just about mounting an outdoor unit and connecting an indoor unit. You have to consider the building, the necessary clearances, drainage, duct routing, protection of refrigerant lines, the final appearance, and the durability of the installation under the climatic conditions of the Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, North Shore, and South Shore regions.
In this specific case, the brick wall required a methodical approach. Brick is solid, but it demands appropriate anchors, good load distribution, and special attention to avoid unwanted vibrations. The GREE outdoor unit had to be positioned in a stable, secure, and compliant manner, while maintaining reasonable access for future HVAC maintenance.
Why choosing the GREE LIVO R32 was relevant for this residence
The GREE LIVO R32 model is an interesting choice for owners looking for a reliable, compact, and efficient wall solution. It is a wall-mounted heat pump of the mini split air conditioner type, suited to common residential needs: improving comfort in summer, reducing indoor humidity, providing efficient heating during cooler periods, and better controlling the temperature of a specific area of the home.
In a residence in Dollard-des-Ormeaux, where rooms can have temperature variations depending on the building’s orientation, sunlight, insulation, and interior layout, a properly sized wall unit can correct discomfort without necessarily replacing the entire existing heating system. The BTU capacity must always be chosen according to the area, ceiling height, sun exposure, insulation quality, and room use. At AirGreen, we avoid approximate choices: a unit that is too small will constantly work at full capacity, while a unit that is too large risks cycling too often and controlling humidity less effectively.
The R32 refrigerant is also an important point. Compared to some older refrigerants, R32 is recognized for its efficiency and its growing use in new generations of wall systems. In the residential context, it allows manufacturers like GREE to offer efficient units, well suited to current expectations regarding energy efficiency.
A brick facade, a nearby window, and a vertical passage to manage
One of the most interesting aspects of this installation in Dollard-des-Ormeaux was the outdoor location. The GREE unit is installed under a window, on a brick facade, with a vertical line protected by a brown duct cover installed nearby. This choice is not improvised: it meets several practical constraints.
First, the outdoor unit had to be placed at a height and position allowing good air clearance. A wall-mounted heat pump needs to breathe properly. If the warm air expelled in cooling mode or the cold air expelled in heating mode remains trapped around the unit, efficiency can decrease. The location therefore had to preserve enough space in front of the fan and limit immediate obstacles.
Next, the proximity to the window required a clean installation. It was necessary to prevent the refrigerant lines, wiring, or drain from becoming visually intrusive. That is why the vertical passage was organized with a duct cover that protects the ducts while maintaining a neat appearance. On a red brick facade, choosing a brown duct cover helps reduce the visual impact of the installation, especially when it runs along an existing vertical line on the wall.
Finally, the base of the unit had to be securely fixed. Even slight vibrations must be controlled from the start. A sloppy installation can transmit noise to the wall or cause long-term discomfort. Our approach is to use appropriate supports, check alignment, respect clearances, and ensure the whole remains stable over time, even after multiple freeze-thaw, rain, and snow cycles.
Key steps of our HVAC installation in Dollard-des-Ormeaux
For this project, our team followed a precise work sequence, adapted to the building and the installed model.
1. Validation of indoor and outdoor locations
Before drilling or fixing anything, we always validate the location of the indoor and outdoor units. The goal is to achieve good efficiency, convenient access, and a logical path for the ducts. In this case, the outdoor location under the window offered a compact solution, but precise work was needed to maintain a clean finish.
2. Protection of the brick wall and choice of anchors
Brick requires an appropriate anchoring method. We avoid unnecessarily forcing the material and ensure that the fastening points are solid. The weight of the outdoor unit, vibrations, wind, and seasonal variations must all be taken into account.
3. Routing of refrigerant lines and wiring
The refrigerant lines, communication cable, and components necessary for the operation of the wall-mounted heat pump must be routed neatly. The duct cover visible in the photo protects these elements from the weather and provides a professional finish. It is an aesthetic detail but also an important mechanical protection.
4. Vacuuming and technical checks
A mini split installation is not limited to assembly. The refrigeration circuit must be properly prepared. Vacuuming removes air and moisture from the ducts before commissioning. This step is essential for the reliability of the device, the longevity of the compressor, and the overall system performance.
Startup, testing, and explanations to the client
Once the device is connected, we proceed with operational tests in cooling mode and, when conditions allow, in heating mode. We check the unit's response, noise, drainage, communication between the indoor and outdoor units, and basic settings. We then explain to the client how to use the device effectively: recommended temperature, filter maintenance, seasonal use, and best practices.
What this installation shows about the importance of well-planned work
This project in Dollard-des-Ormeaux shows that a good HVAC installation is visible as much in the details as in the performance. An outdoor unit can work, but if it is poorly positioned, poorly protected, or poorly integrated into the building, the client may have to deal with annoyances for years. Conversely, a thoughtful installation makes the system more pleasant to use, easier to maintain, and more harmonious with the home's architecture.
Common mistakes to avoid when installing a wall-mounted heat pump
Many homeowners first compare prices or brands, which is normal. However, the installation itself strongly influences the final result. Here are some common mistakes we often see in the field:
- choosing a BTU capacity without considering insulation, orientation, and the actual use of the room;
- installing the outdoor unit in a space that is too confined, which hinders air circulation;
- neglecting the protection of refrigerant lines;
- using a duct path that is too visible or poorly aligned on a facade;
- forgetting future access for HVAC maintenance;
- underestimating the importance of a complete vacuum and rigorous commissioning;
- mounting the unit on a wall without properly controlling vibrations.
In the case of this residence, the location visible in the photo specifically required avoiding these mistakes. The brick wall, the window, and the vertical elements of the building demanded a disciplined installation. Our goal was to deliver a functional, durable, and neatly integrated system.
Practical advice for homeowners in Dollard-des-Ormeaux and western Montreal
For homeowners in Dollard-des-Ormeaux, Pointe-Claire, Pierrefonds, Kirkland, or Beaconsfield considering a wall-mounted heat pump, several points should be evaluated before installation.
First, you need to determine the area to be treated. An open room, a floor, a living room with large windows, or a bedroom on the second floor do not behave the same way. Then, you need to look at the possible path between the indoor unit and the outdoor unit. The more logical this path is, the cleaner, more efficient, and discreet the installation can be.
Winter must also be considered. Even if the main goal is sometimes air conditioning, a heat pump must be installed taking into account snow, ice, drainage, and accessibility. A device placed too low or in a spot where snow accumulates can cause problems. In many projects on the island of Montreal, in Laval, in Longueuil, on the North Shore, and on the South Shore, we recommend an appropriate height or protection depending on the immediate environment.
Finally, appearance matters. An installation on brick, vinyl, stucco, or a facade visible from the yard requires a choice of routing and finishing. Duct covers, supports, and the unit’s position must be planned from the start, not added as a correction afterward.
Customer experience: more stable comfort and a well-respected exterior
After installing this GREE LIVO R32, the client benefits from a wall system capable of improving comfort in the targeted area, with simple controls and a quick response to temperature changes. The exterior result remains clean: the unit is well positioned, the facade maintains an orderly appearance, and the ducts are protected.
This type of result is especially important in established residential neighborhoods like Dollard-des-Ormeaux, where houses often have brick facades, landscaped backyards, and space constraints. A poorly planned installation can become very noticeable. A well-executed installation integrates with the building and naturally becomes a functional part of the home.
AirGreen: a local, technical, and long-term oriented approach
At AirGreen, we install wall air conditioners, wall heat pumps, and mini split systems throughout Greater Montreal. Our work goes beyond just installing a machine. We assess the building, the desired comfort, installation constraints, aesthetics, energy performance, and future maintenance needs.
Our experience in the Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, North Shore, and South Shore areas allows us to tailor each installation to the client’s real context. A house in Dollard-des-Ormeaux does not have the same constraints as a downtown condo, a duplex in Rosemont, a property in Boucherville, or a house in Sainte-Thérèse. This local knowledge helps us recommend relevant solutions and carry out durable work.
For models like the GREE LIVO R32, we pay special attention to sizing, connection quality, outdoor protection, and commissioning. These are the elements that make the difference between a merely functional installation and a truly professional one.
Grants, efficiency, and eligibility: what to check
Depending on the exact model, chosen capacity, and criteria in effect at the time of installation, some wall-mounted heat pumps may be eligible for financial aid programs or energy grants. Since criteria can change and eligibility often depends on the precise model numbers of the indoor and outdoor units, we always recommend verifying the information at the time of the quote.
At AirGreen, we help our clients understand the necessary documents, the information to keep, and the usual steps to follow after installation. A detailed invoice, model numbers, and required proofs can be part of the file. This support is especially appreciated by owners who want to combine comfort, energy efficiency, and potential financial return.
A project representative of our way of working
This installation of a GREE LIVO R32 wall-mounted heat pump in Dollard-des-Ormeaux clearly reflects our approach: choosing a suitable device, installing it rigorously, respecting the building’s appearance, and delivering a system that is easy to use daily. The visible result in the photo shows an outdoor unit neatly installed on a brick facade, with attention paid to duct routing and overall integration.
For an owner, it is often these details that determine long-term satisfaction. A good device is important, but a good installation is just as crucial. This is precisely where AirGreen adds value: technical expertise, clean execution, and a solid understanding of the residential realities of Greater Montreal.
How it goes, from the first call to the end
The main steps of this kind of job at AirGreen. Every house has its quirks: the estimate brings them out.
We look at the room, the outside wall, the line route and where the outdoor unit will go. That is where the capacity gets chosen.
Model, capacity and price, in writing. We also check whether the model qualifies for assistance programs.
Floors and furniture protected, wall plate position marked level, wall opening located.
A single opening, with the slope the drain needs to flow outside.
Set on a stand raised above the snow, with the clearances the manufacturer requires.
Connected, insulated and protected. The opening is then sealed against water, cold air and insects.
A dedicated circuit and an accessible disconnect near the outdoor unit.
Leak test, vacuum, then start-up and a check of heating and cooling.
Remote, modes, filters: we show you the essentials before we leave.
- The on-site estimateWe look at the room, the outside wall, the line route and where the outdoor unit will go. That is where the capacity gets chosen.
- The quoteModel, capacity and price, in writing. We also check whether the model qualifies for assistance programs.
- Getting readyFloors and furniture protected, wall plate position marked level, wall opening located.
- The wall openingA single opening, with the slope the drain needs to flow outside.
- The outdoor unitSet on a stand raised above the snow, with the clearances the manufacturer requires.
- Lines, cable and drainConnected, insulated and protected. The opening is then sealed against water, cold air and insects.
- The electrical workA dedicated circuit and an accessible disconnect near the outdoor unit.
- Tests and start-upLeak test, vacuum, then start-up and a check of heating and cooling.
- The walkthroughRemote, modes, filters: we show you the essentials before we leave.
What the unit delivers when it is cold
The range as published on airgreen.ca: pick a size to see its capacity in deep cold.
| Size | Heating at −8 °C | Heating at −15 °C | Coldest certified point | COP at −15 °C | SEER | HSPF | Indicative LogisVert aid |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gree Livo R32 9 000 (115 V) | 10,000 | 7,600 | −25 °C: 5,700 | 1.86 | 20.5 | 8.8 | – |
| Gree Livo R32 9 000 | 9,600 | 7,600 | −25 °C: 5,500 | 1.94 | 20.5 | 8.8 | – |
| Gree Livo R32 12 000 (115 V) | 9,700 | 8,500 | −25 °C: 6,500 | 1.75 | 19.0 | 8.5 | – |
| Gree Livo R32 12 000 | 9,700 | 9,100 | −25 °C: 6,500 | 1.8 | 19.0 | 8.5 | $1,164 |
| Gree Livo R32 18 000 | 15,300 | 12,100 | −25 °C: 10,200 | 1.85 | 20.0 | 8.5 | $1,836 |
| Gree Livo R32 24 000 | 19,200 | 15,700 | −25 °C: 10,500 | 1.75 | 19.0 | 8.5 | $2,304 |
| Gree Livo R32 30 000 | 24,000 | 23,000 | −25 °C: 16,900 | 1.8 | 22.0 | 9.0 | $2,880 |
| Gree Livo R32 36 000 | 27,400 | 24,600 | −25 °C: 21,000 | 1.8 | 21.0 | 8.5 | $3,288 |
According to NEEP, it delivers 10,000 BTU/h at −8 °C (17 °F), as much as at 8 °C. It heats as hard in moderate cold as in mild weather.
According to NEEP, its certified maximum capacity at −25 °C (−13 °F) is 5,700 BTU/h, 63% of its nominal 9,000 BTU size.
At 8 °C, its certified maximum capacity reaches 13,300 BTU/h, 48% more than its nominal 9,000 BTU size.
According to NEEP, its COP at −15 °C is 1.94: the highest of the Livo R32 line, which ranges from 1.75 to 1.86 at that temperature.
According to NEEP, its certified maximum capacity at −25 °C (−13 °F) is 5,500 BTU/h, 61% of its nominal 9,000 BTU size.
At 8 °C, its certified maximum capacity reaches 13,136 BTU/h, 46% more than its nominal 9,000 BTU size.
According to NEEP, it delivers 8,500 BTU/h at −15 °C, against 9,100 for the Gree Livo R32 12 000.
At −25 °C, its certified minimum capacity is 1,800 BTU/h (3,070 at 8 °C). It slows down instead of cycling on and off.
According to NEEP, its certified heating capacity at −15 °C (5 °F) is 8,500 BTU/h, 71% of its nominal 12,000 BTU size. Its COP there is 1.75.
According to NEEP, it delivers 9,100 BTU/h at −15 °C, against 8,500 for the Gree Livo R32 12 000 (115 V).
At −25 °C, its certified minimum capacity is 1,800 BTU/h (3,070 at 8 °C). It slows down instead of cycling on and off.
According to NEEP, its certified heating capacity at −15 °C (5 °F) is 9,100 BTU/h, 76% of its nominal 12,000 BTU size. Its COP there is 1.80.
At 8 °C, its certified maximum capacity reaches 22,500 BTU/h, 25% more than its nominal 18,000 BTU size.
According to NEEP, its certified minimum capacity is at least 7,000 BTU/h at every temperature. In a small, well-insulated room it will cycle on and off more often: size it carefully.
According to NEEP, its certified heating capacity at −15 °C (5 °F) is 12,100 BTU/h, 67% of its nominal 18,000 BTU size. Its COP there is 1.85.
At −25 °C, its certified minimum capacity is 3,100 BTU/h (5,800 at 8 °C). It slows down instead of cycling on and off.
According to NEEP, its certified heating capacity at −15 °C (5 °F) is 15,700 BTU/h, 65% of its nominal 24,000 BTU size. Its COP there is 1.75.
According to NEEP, its certified heating capacity at −15 °C (5 °F) is 23,000 BTU/h, 77% of its nominal 30,000 BTU size. Its COP there is 1.80.
According to NEEP, its COP at −25 °C is 1.54: the highest of the Livo R32 line, which ranges from 1.30 to 1.52 at that temperature.
At −25 °C, its certified minimum capacity is 7,000 BTU/h (10,000 at 8 °C). It slows down instead of cycling on and off.
According to NEEP, its certified heating capacity at −15 °C (5 °F) is 24,600 BTU/h, 68% of its nominal 36,000 BTU size. Its COP there is 1.80.
Data read live from the airgreen.ca page of each size (NEEP / AHRI certified performance). When the title names the installed size, it is highlighted; otherwise the whole range is shown. The aid shown is today’s, using Hydro-Québec’s rule ($120 per 1,000 BTU/h at −8 °C); amounts quoted in the article date from its publication. Only Hydro-Québec confirms the assistance granted.A dash in the aid column: amount to be confirmed for this model.
And at your place?
Two quick checks with real numbers: what heat costs, and what your current heaters add up to in BTU/h.
Baseboards and electric furnaces turn 1 kWh of electricity into 1 kWh of heat. A heat pump delivers more: that is its COP. At Hydro-Québec’s rate D (11.142¢/kWh above 40 kWh a day, since 1 April 2026):
Hydro-Québec: a heat pump can be up to three times more efficient than baseboards for heating in the colder months.
Estimate per kWh of heat, at the chosen temperature, using the certified COP from the product page. Taxes, access charge and backup heat not included.
Conversion: 1 W = 3.412 BTU/h. An indication, not a load calculation: baseboards and furnaces are often stronger than the real need, and they can stay as backup. AirGreen confirms the capacity on site.
What to do, season by season
Three habits per season for this unit. They take a few minutes and prevent many calls.
- Clean the indoor unit's filters.
- Clear leaves and debris left on the outdoor unit by winter.
- Test cooling before the first hot days.
- Clean the filters more often when the unit runs a lot.
- Keep plants away from the outdoor unit.
- Check that no water drips from the indoor unit.
- Rake the leaves around the outdoor unit.
- Test heating before the first cold days.
- Book periodic maintenance before winter.
- Keep snow away from the stand and the front of the unit.
- Let the unit defrost: it is normal.
- Never hit the ice on the fins; call us if the unit stays iced up.
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What people ask us about this kind of work
Does a wall-mounted heat pump heat in winter?
Wall-mounted or multi-zone: how do I choose?
Where does the outdoor unit go?
Are there grants?
Do I need a permit?
How cold can it heat?
How much can I save?
How is the LogisVert assistance calculated?
Is it noisy?
The outdoor unit is covered in ice: is that normal?
Does AirGreen hold the required licences?
Is the estimate free?
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Text and photo: a real AirGreen Climatisation & Chauffage job. The diagrams are generic illustrations of the type of installation, not a survey of this job site. Sources of the added figures: airgreen.ca product pages (NEEP / AHRI performance), Hydro-Québec (Heat pumps page, LogisVert, read on 13 October 2026), Régie de l’énergie (rate D as of 1 April 2026).