Installation of a Midea28 wall-mounted heat pump on a balcony in Hochelaga-Maisonneuve
On this typical HoMa balcony, AirGreen installed a Midea28 wall-mounted heat pump for extreme cold, seamlessly integrated into the existing structure. A raised bracket, neatly concealed ducting, and a disconnect box ensure a safe, discreet, and efficient installation for heating and cooling the home year-round.
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.
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.
In Hochelaga-Maisonneuve, many homes feature exterior staircases and narrow rear balconies overlooking a tree-lined courtyard. This is precisely the case with this project, where our AirGreen team installed a Midea wall-mounted heat pump on a balcony, optimizing every available centimeter while adhering to safety and performance standards.
Our goal: to provide this Montreal apartment with 4-season comfort without cluttering the facade or hindering movement on the balcony.
A typical Montreal back balcony project
The apartment is located in a typical HoMa plex: wooden structure, light exterior cladding, metal balconies, view of a backyard lined with trees.
The constraints were as follows:
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very little floor space to install a condenser;
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obligation to maintain a safe passage on the balcony;
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need to limit noise for the neighbors and the occupant;
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exposure to the elements (rain, snow, leaves) at height.
We therefore proposed a Midea wall-mounted heat pump , from the Midea28 range , ideal for Montreal apartments looking for a compact, quiet and efficient system in winter.
Why a Midea wall-mounted heat pump for this dwelling?
The Midea brand has established itself as a major player in the world of wall-mounted heat pumps thanks to:
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excellent energy efficiency , particularly attractive with Hydro-Québec's pricing;
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cold weather models, capable of heating efficiently even at very low temperatures;
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inverter operation, which modulates the power according to the actual demand, reducing temperature variations and consumption;
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a very low noise level, essential for a balcony attached to bedrooms and living spaces.
For this project, we sized a Midea wall-mounted heat pump of approximately 12,000 BTU , perfectly suited to a 4 1/2 or 5 1/2 type dwelling with an open area.
The chosen model: Midea28 extreme cold
The Midea28 (R-454B) is one of the leading models for the Greater Montreal residential market. It is distinguished by:
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reliable heating capacity down to approximately −30 °C , ideal for our harsh winters;
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an R-454B refrigerant, which is more environmentally friendly than older refrigerants;
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an excellent seasonal performance ratio, making it a very advantageous solution compared to electric baseboard heaters;
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Advanced features: night mode, programming, stable temperature maintenance, intelligent defrosting.
This combination allows the customer to use their Midea28 heat pump as their primary heating and cooling system , while keeping the electric emitters as a backup solution.
An optimized outdoor installation on a balcony
The photo shows the Midea condenser installed on a rear balcony at night. Several technical elements are important:
1. Elevated metal support
The condenser is mounted on a sturdy metal bracket , which is itself securely anchored to the balcony floor. This solution offers several advantages:
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sufficient clearance for the drainage of rainwater and defrost water;
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increased protection against snow accumulation;
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improved stability and load distribution on the balcony structure.
We systematically add anti-vibration pads to limit the transmission of vibrations and noise to the building structure.
2. Intelligent positioning and air clearance
The unit is installed back from the railing , along the wall, so that:
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respect the air clearances recommended by Midea for suction and blowing;
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do not obstruct traffic on the balcony;
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reduce the visual impact from the courtyard and neighbouring dwellings.
The chosen orientation allows the fan to blow air outwards from the gallery, which improves performance and prevents hot air from being blown directly back against the house.
3. Refrigeration lines and conduit cabling
The white sheath visible at the base of the unit contains:
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isolated refrigeration lines ;
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communication cabling;
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the condensation drain.
These elements are carefully grouped, protected, and directed into the building through a watertight opening in the balcony wall. This limits air and water infiltration and gives the installation a clean and professional appearance.
4. Secure power supply
Also visible is the electrical disconnect box located near the outdoor unit. This component is mandatory:
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It allows the power supply to be quickly cut off during maintenance work;
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It ensures compliance with current electrical standards;
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It contributes to the safety of occupants and technicians.
The circuit is taken directly from the electrical panel of the dwelling, with a circuit breaker sized for the Midea28 heat pump.
The interior shutter: comfort and silence
Inside the home, the heat pump consists of a Midea wall-mounted unit installed high up, usually in the main room (living room/open-plan area). Even though it's not visible in the photo, its role is central:
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It distributes hot or cool air in the main living area;
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It operates at a very low noise level , ideal for teleworking or sleeping;
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It allows precise temperature control , to within half a degree.
Coupled with the Midea28 condenser on the balcony, the wall unit offers consistent comfort throughout the home: no more cold spots near the windows, nor stifling heat in the middle of summer.
Energy savings and added value for housing
By replacing most of the electric heating with a Midea wall-mounted heat pump , the occupants benefit from:
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a significant reduction in their electricity bill ;
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of a much more comfortable 2-in-1 system (heating + air conditioning);
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of a real asset for the rental or resale value of the property.
In rapidly changing neighborhoods like Hochelaga-Maisonneuve, having a well-installed Midea wall-mounted heat pump is a strong selling point for attracting or retaining tenants.
AirGreen: Your Midea heat pump specialist in Montreal
At AirGreen, we support homeowners, tenants and property managers in Hochelaga-Maisonneuve and throughout Montreal with their Midea wall-mounted heat pump projects:
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needs analysis and sizing;
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advice on the most suitable Midea models (Midea28, Midea35, etc.);
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complete, clean and compliant installation;
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Preventive maintenance and fast after-sales service.
Do you also have a narrow balcony, a complicated backyard or other specific constraints? We will find the Midea solution that integrates with your building while maximizing your comfort and energy savings.
The unit on this job, in figures
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Midea Série 28 9 000 | 12,000 | 11,500 | −30 °C: 5,100 | 1.8 | 27.4 | 12.5 | – |
| Midea Série 28 12 000 | 12,000 | 11,500 | −30 °C: 5,900 | 1.8 | 25.4 | 10.5 | $1,440 |
| Midea Série 28 18 000 | 18,000 | 18,000 | −30 °C: 8,000 | 1.92 | 21.4 | 11.0 | $2,160 |
| Midea Série 28 24 000 | 22,200 | 24,200 | −30 °C: 11,900 | 2.34 | 21.0 | 13.5 | $2,664 |
| Midea Série 28 33 000 | 32,000 | 35,000 | −30 °C: 20,700 | 1.98 | 19.5 | 10.5 | $3,840 |
According to NEEP, it delivers 12,000 BTU/h at −8 °C (17 °F), as much as at 8 °C. It heats as hard in moderate cold as in mild weather.
At 8 °C, its certified maximum capacity reaches 16,000 BTU/h, 78% more than its nominal 9,000 BTU size.
According to NEEP, its certified heating capacity at −15 °C (5 °F) is 11,500 BTU/h, 128% of its nominal 9,000 BTU size. Its COP there is 1.80.
According to NEEP, it delivers 12,000 BTU/h at −8 °C (17 °F), as much as at 8 °C. It heats as hard in moderate cold as in mild weather.
At 8 °C, its certified maximum capacity reaches 16,000 BTU/h, 33% more than its nominal 12,000 BTU size.
At −30 °C, its certified minimum capacity is 2,000 BTU/h (3,800 at 8 °C). It slows down instead of cycling on and off.
According to NEEP, it delivers 18,000 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 heating capacity at −15 °C (5 °F) is 18,000 BTU/h, 100% of its nominal 18,000 BTU size. Its COP there is 1.92.
According to NEEP, its COP at −15 °C is 2.34: the highest of the Série 28 line, which ranges from 1.80 to 1.98 at that temperature.
At −30 °C, its certified minimum capacity is 2,400 BTU/h (11,800 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 24,200 BTU/h, 101% of its nominal 24,000 BTU size. Its COP there is 2.34.
According to NEEP, its certified maximum capacity at −30 °C (−22 °F) is 20,700 BTU/h, 63% of its nominal 33,000 BTU size.
At −30 °C, its certified minimum capacity is 4,200 BTU/h (19,700 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 35,000 BTU/h, 106% of its nominal 33,000 BTU size. Its COP there is 1.98.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
Four mistakes we do not make
Flip each card to see what we do instead.
Your own project, step by step
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.
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.
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.
During defrost cycles. That water must drain away without forming ice.
2. You pick the capacity with a simple square-footage rule.
Windows, insulation, orientation and how the room is used all count. Capacity is chosen on site.
3. A multi-zone connects several indoor heads to a single condenser.
One head per room, all on the same condenser. Each room keeps its own temperature.
4. The disconnect can sit behind the patio furniture.
It must stay accessible: it is what shuts the unit off for service.
0 / 4 right answers
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?
No question matches. Write to us: we answer.
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Each dot: a town where AirGreen has published projects. The glowing dot: this job.
Every house has its constraints. We see them before we install.
The on-site estimate is free and the quote follows within 24 hours.
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).