Project

Installation of a GREE VITA R32 wall-mounted heat pump in Sainte-Thérèse: precise comfort, neat installation above a window, and well-designed residential performance

AirGreen installs a GREE VITA R32 wall-mounted heat pump in Sainte-Thérèse, above a window, with a clean finish, stable comfort, and a mini-split solution suited for homes in the North Shore area.

By AirGreen Climatisation & Chauffage Admin14 min read
Installation of a GREE VITA R32 wall-mounted heat pump in Sainte-Thérèse: precise comfort, neat installation above a window, and well-designed residential performance
Installation of a GREE VITA R32 wall-mounted heat pump in Sainte-Thérèse: precise comfort, neat installation above a window, and well-designed residential performance
–chapters in this story
14 minreading time
–type of installation
2026year published
The tour

Take a tour of the installation

Each number is a point we check on site. Switch between summer and winter to watch air and heat move.

Generic diagram: wall-mounted heat pump, indoor and outdoor units

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.

  1. 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.

  2. The refrigerant lines, the communication cable and the drain go through the wall in a single opening, sealed against water, cold air and insects.

  3. Two insulated copper pipes connect the two units. Outside, a line cover can protect them from sun, knocks and weather.

  4. A shut-off switch near the outdoor unit isolates it safely for service. It must stay accessible at all times.

  5. The compressor and the fan. In heating mode it captures heat from the outdoor air, even in winter, and moves it inside.

  6. On the ground or on the wall, it keeps the unit above accumulated snow. The unit stays clear and defrost water can drain away.

  7. The fan needs to blow freely. Storage, a fence or a wall too close, and efficiency drops while noise goes up.

The job

A compact installation that transforms the comfort of a bright room in Sainte-Thérèse

In Sainte-Thérèse, on the North Shore, our AirGreen team installed a GREE VITA R32 wall heat pump, also used as a wall air conditioner and mini split system, in a residential room where the location posed a very real challenge: installing the indoor unit above a large window, in a tight space between the top of the frame and the ceiling.

This type of installation requires much more than just wall mounting. The unit’s position directly influences air circulation, perceived comfort, noise level, system efficiency, and the final appearance. In this Sainte-Thérèse residence, the goal was clear: to provide quick and stable comfort without cluttering the room, while maintaining a clean and discreet finish.

The GREE VITA R32 proved to be an excellent choice for this project, notably due to its compact wall-mounted design, efficient operation in both cooling and heating, and the use of the R32 refrigerant, known for its better environmental profile compared to older refrigerants used in several previous generations of HVAC systems.

At AirGreen, we pay special attention to wall installations above windows, as these are often sensitive configurations. The available height is sometimes limited, moldings can complicate alignment, and the routing of piping must be carefully planned to avoid unnecessary intervention on the interior structure.

Why the GREE VITA R32 was suitable for this installation

The GREE VITA R32 wall heat pump is well suited for homeowners looking for a reliable solution to improve the comfort of a main room, living room, bedroom, office, or moderately sized open space. In this project in Sainte-Thérèse, the indoor unit needed to be discreet enough to blend into the decor while being powerful enough to ensure effective air distribution.

A wall unit designed for Quebec residential spaces

The photo of this installation shows an indoor unit installed above a window, in a room well exposed to natural light. This detail is important: rooms with large windows can accumulate more heat in summer, especially on sunny days on the North Shore. A well-positioned wall air conditioner helps stabilize the temperature without creating an unpleasant draft.

The heat pump also allows the system to be used for heating during cool periods. For many homeowners in Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore, and the South Shore, this type of device becomes a very interesting solution to reduce dependence on traditional heating systems for a significant part of the year.

The choice of refrigerant R32: a more current technology

The GREE VITA R32 model uses the refrigerant R32, a feature increasingly sought after in the field of residential HVAC installation. This refrigerant is appreciated for its thermal efficiency and reduced environmental impact compared to some older refrigerants.

For the client, this means a more modern device, designed according to the new market expectations in terms of efficiency, performance, and energy responsibility. For our team, it also means an installation carried out with the appropriate procedures, as work related to refrigerants must always be performed by qualified and authorized technicians.

A mini split solution that avoids ducts

One of the major advantages of a mini split system is that it does not require ductwork. In an existing home in Sainte-Thérèse, this allows adding a comfort solution without opening ceilings, without rebuilding walls, and without undertaking major renovations.

The indoor unit is connected to the outdoor unit by a set of refrigerant lines, communication wiring, power supply, and drainage. This principle allows for a more flexible installation, but only if the layout is well planned from the start.

Technical details observed on this installation in Sainte-Thérèse

A precise positioning above the window

The image of this installation shows a wall unit placed very close to the ceiling, just above a large window. This choice of location is not accidental. It frees up wall space, preserves the room's aesthetics, and promotes air diffusion toward the occupied area.

Before fixing the wall plate, our team validated several essential points:

  • the available distance between the ceiling and the top of the unit;
  • alignment with the window and moldings;
  • accessibility for future maintenance;
  • the slope needed for condensate drainage;
  • the best possible orientation of the airflow;
  • the passage of pipes to the outside.

In a successful HVAC installation, a few millimeters can make a big difference. A poorly tilted unit can cause drainage problems. A unit too close to the ceiling can hinder air intake. A poorly centered unit can give a neglected visual impression. Here, the installation was done to offer a clean, aligned, and functional result.

Special attention to drainage

For any wall air conditioner or wall heat pump, managing condensation water is a critical point. In cooling mode, the indoor unit removes humidity from the air. This water must be properly drained outside or to an appropriate drainage point.

In an installation above a window, drainage must be planned with even greater care. The pipe must not create a back slope, must not be crushed, and must not be placed in a way that causes water to flow back. Our team always ensures that the drainage is tested before the work is completed.

This step is essential to avoid common problems we sometimes see when correcting installations done by others: drips under the unit, moisture marks on the wall, odors caused by poor drainage, or premature system shutdown.

A clean and discreet interior finish

The final result is understated: the GREE unit is installed above the window, with limited visual presence and a natural integration into the room. This is exactly what many customers in Sainte-Thérèse, Laval, or Montreal are looking for: a high-performance system that does not dominate the space.

A good installation is not judged solely by the performance of the device. It is also judged by the quality of the finish, respect for the client's interior, and ease of daily use.

The particular challenges of an installation above a window

A reduced space between ceiling, framing, and moldings

Installations above windows are common in houses, condos, and plexes in the greater Montreal area. They often offer the best location for air distribution but limit maneuvering space.

In this project in Sainte-Thérèse, it was necessary to work with a relatively low wall space between the window and the ceiling. The presence of moldings also added an aesthetic constraint: the unit had to be positioned so as not to appear too low, too high, or off-center.

Our team therefore took the time to measure, mark, check, and adjust the location before drilling. This preparation avoids unpleasant surprises and ensures a consistent final result.

Respecting the existing structure

Installing a wall-mounted heat pump is not about drilling a wall at random. We must consider the wall’s composition, the possible presence of studs, electrical cables, finishing elements, and external constraints.

In residential areas like Sainte-Thérèse, Boisbriand, Rosemère, Blainville, or Laval, constructions vary greatly from one house to another. Some properties have thicker walls, additions, special exterior cladding, or access constraints. Our experience on the Rive Nord allows us to anticipate these situations and adapt the installation method.

Air circulation in a bright room

A wall unit installed above a window must be properly adjusted to prevent cold or hot air from being directed straight at the occupants. The motorized louvers of the GREE VITA R32 allow adjusting the airflow direction according to the room’s use.

During commissioning, we always explain to the customer how to use the main modes, how to adjust the temperature, how to avoid extreme settings, and how to clean the filters. A high-performance device delivers its best results when it is well installed and properly used.

Customer experience: more stable comfort from the first trials

After installation, the customer quickly noticed the difference. The room, which could become uncomfortable on hot days, began to reach a more stable temperature. The noise level of the indoor unit remained discreet, which is especially important in a living room or a space near a frequently used window.

This type of project clearly illustrates the value of a professional HVAC installation. The choice of unit is important, but the quality of the installation determines much of the actual comfort. A heat pump that is poorly positioned or configured can deliver disappointing performance, even if the chosen model is of good quality.

At AirGreen, we don’t just install the unit. We validate the system’s behavior, test operating modes, check drainage, inspect the finish, and take the time to answer the client’s questions.

Subsidies and eligibility: what you need to know

Financial aid programs related to wall-mounted heat pumps can represent a significant advantage for homeowners in Quebec. Depending on the exact model, capacity, AHRI number, and criteria in effect at the time of installation, some configurations may be eligible for subsidies such as programs associated with Hydro-Québec.

For a GREE VITA R32, eligibility must always be validated according to the precise combination of the indoor and outdoor units. At AirGreen, we help our clients understand the necessary information, including invoice documents, model references, and the general steps to follow to submit an application when the unit is eligible.

It is important not to choose a heat pump solely based on a subsidy. The right unit must also match the area, insulation, sun exposure, interior layout, and lifestyle habits. A subsidy can improve the return on investment, but daily comfort primarily depends on proper sizing and quality installation.

Mistakes to avoid when installing a wall-mounted mini split

Choosing the location based only on appearance

A wall unit may seem better placed in a specific spot for aesthetic reasons, but this choice must always be technically validated. A poor location can reduce air circulation, create cold or hot spots, complicate drainage, and make maintenance more difficult.

In this project in Sainte-Thérèse, the location above the window was relevant, but only because the clearances, drainage, and air diffusion were carefully checked.

Neglecting access for HVAC maintenance

Regular HVAC maintenance extends the lifespan of a wall-mounted heat pump. Filters must be accessible, the panel must open properly, and the technician must be able to intervene without having to dismantle finishing elements.

Even when space is limited, we plan the installation to facilitate future operations. This is an important difference between an installation that is simply functional on the day and one that is truly durable.

Installing an inappropriate capacity

A heat pump that is too weak will run too long without reaching the desired comfort. A unit that is too strong may cycle too often, control humidity less effectively, and reduce comfort. Capacity choice must consider several factors: area, ceiling height, window orientation, insulation, room use, and air circulation.

For owners in Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore, or the South Shore, an on-site evaluation remains the best way to choose the right configuration.

Entrusting refrigerant handling to an unqualified person

Mini split systems are not appliances to be installed like simple household electronics. They require refrigerant connections, vacuum pumping, leak checks, proper commissioning, and compliance with applicable standards.

At AirGreen, work is carried out by qualified technicians, with the appropriate equipment and a rigorous method. This is essential to protect the warranty, performance, and safety of the system.

AirGreen’s approach on the North Shore and in Greater Montreal

AirGreen regularly works on installations of wall-mounted heat pumps, wall air conditioners, and mini split systems in Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, on the North Shore and on the South Shore. Each area has its particularities: condos with strict regulations, single-family homes with limited access, Montreal-style plexes with facade constraints, suburban bungalows with large windows, or properties requiring a very discreet installation.

Our advantage is based on a comprehensive approach: evaluation, recommendation, installation, finishing, client explanation, and post-work support. We know homeowners don’t just want to buy a machine. They want a reliable, clean, and durable result.

In the case of this installation in Sainte-Thérèse, the project’s success relied on three elements: a good choice of unit, precise positioning above the window, and careful execution. The GREE VITA R32 met the client’s needs well, while our team ensured the installation met both technical requirements and the room’s aesthetics.

A GREE VITA R32 installation that combines comfort, discretion, and efficiency

This installation of a GREE VITA R32 wall-mounted heat pump in Sainte-Thérèse shows that a successful HVAC project depends not only on the brand or model chosen. It depends mainly on how the unit is integrated into the home.

Installed above a large window, the indoor unit offers a compact solution to cool and heat the room without taking up floor space, without ductwork, and without major decor changes. The result is clean, functional, and tailored to the client’s real needs.

For homeowners considering a wall-mounted heat pump installation in Sainte-Thérèse, Laval, Montreal, Longueuil, on the North Shore or the South Shore, this project illustrates the importance of entrusting the work to a team that understands both the performance of the equipment and the practical constraints of Quebec homes.

At AirGreen, we install HVAC systems with close attention to every detail: model selection, placement, drainage, connections, finishing, acoustic comfort, energy efficiency, and post-installation support. The GREE VITA R32 installed here is a good example: a modern, well-integrated solution designed for everyday comfort and executed with the level of precision expected from an HVAC specialist.

The steps

The big day, step by step

The main steps of this kind of job at AirGreen. Every house has its quirks: the estimate brings them out.

Step 1 of 9The on-site estimate

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.

  1. 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.
  2. The quoteModel, capacity and price, in writing. We also check whether the model qualifies for assistance programs.
  3. Getting readyFloors and furniture protected, wall plate position marked level, wall opening located.
  4. The wall openingA single opening, with the slope the drain needs to flow outside.
  5. The outdoor unitSet on a stand raised above the snow, with the clearances the manufacturer requires.
  6. Lines, cable and drainConnected, insulated and protected. The opening is then sealed against water, cold air and insects.
  7. The electrical workA dedicated circuit and an accessible disconnect near the outdoor unit.
  8. Tests and start-upLeak test, vacuum, then start-up and a check of heating and cooling.
  9. The walkthroughRemote, modes, filters: we show you the essentials before we leave.
Your numbers

What would it look like at your place?

Two quick checks with real numbers: what heat costs, and what your current heaters add up to in BTU/h.

Size checkYour baseboards, in BTU/h
–BTU/h of installed electric heat

    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.

    Mistakes avoided

    Four mistakes we do not make

    Flip each card to see what we do instead.

    Going further

    Your own project, step by step

    Through the seasons

    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.
    At your place

    Is your home ready?

    Check what applies at your place. A "no" is not a refusal: it is what we sort out during the estimate.

    0 / 6 checked
    True or false

    Four statements: true or false?

    It all comes down to details you have just seen.

    1. In heating mode, the outdoor unit can produce water.

    2. You pick the capacity with a simple square-footage rule.

    3. A multi-zone connects several indoor heads to a single condenser.

    4. The disconnect can sit behind the patio furniture.

    Frequently asked questions

    What people ask us about this kind of work

    12 questions
    Does a wall-mounted heat pump heat in winter?
    Yes, it heats and cools. Its capacity drops in very cold weather; the operating range depends on the model and is listed on its spec sheet.
    Wall-mounted or multi-zone: how do I choose?
    One wall head and one condenser outside: the direct solution for a room or an open area. For two to five rooms, a multi-zone puts one head in each room on a single condenser.
    Where does the outdoor unit go?
    Where it stays above the snow, clear and accessible, away from walkways. We decide it with you during the estimate.
    Are there grants?
    Depending on the model and your situation, assistance programs may apply, including Hydro-Québec's LogisVert. AirGreen checks the model number before quoting an amount. See the grants.
    Do I need a permit?
    Rules vary from city to city: location, distances, noise. See permits and by-laws, and we check for your address.
    How cold can it heat?
    It depends on the model. According to Hydro-Québec, newer models work down to a temperature between −15 °C and −25 °C, and some cold-climate models are certified lower. The minimum temperature is on each unit's spec sheet.
    How much can I save?
    Hydro-Québec says a heat pump can be up to three times more efficient than baseboards for heating in the colder months. The result depends on the house, the climate and how it is used.
    How is the LogisVert assistance calculated?
    For ENERGY STAR cold-climate certified heat pumps, Hydro-Québec lists assistance of $120 per 1,000 BTU/h of heating capacity at −8 °C. AirGreen checks the exact model before quoting an amount; only Hydro-Québec confirms the assistance granted. See the grants.
    Is it noisy?
    The sound level depends on the model and is listed in decibels on each unit's spec sheet. Location matters too: when possible, we avoid putting the outdoor unit under a bedroom window.
    The outdoor unit is covered in ice: is that normal?
    Some frost is: the unit runs defrost cycles. Never hit the ice. If the unit stays iced up or stops heating, call us.
    Does AirGreen hold the required licences?
    Yes. AirGreen holds RBQ licence 5645-9605-01, subclasses 15.8 Ventilation, 15.10 Refrigeration and 16 Electricity.
    Is the estimate free?
    Yes. The on-site estimate is free and the quote follows within 24 hours. Book my free estimate.

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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).

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