Installation of a Sharp ZU1 18,000 BTU Wall-Mounted Heat Pump in La Prairie
See how AirGreen’s installation of the Sharp ZU1 in La Prairie delivers year-round comfort, energy savings, and cleaner air—backed by Québec’s highest HVAC grant!
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.
A High-Efficiency Heat Pump That Transforms Comfort and Savings
In La Prairie, a home now enjoys the latest HVAC innovation with the Sharp ZU1 18,000 BTU Wall-Mounted Heat Pump. At AirGreen, we’ve seen firsthand how this exceptional machine blends cutting-edge Japanese technology with the needs of Québec homeowners. With R-32 refrigerant, advanced Plasmacluster air purification, and unparalleled performance at frigid temperatures as low as -27°C, this unit is truly the ultimate solution for comfort, efficiency, and sustainability.
What’s more, this installation qualifies for the $2,640 LogisVert Grant by Hydro-Québec—the highest grant available for any 18,000 BTU system in Québec. Combined with federal incentives of up to $5,000, this project maximizes homeowner savings while prioritizing energy efficiency.
Project Details: A Perfect Fit for Modern Comfort
Our installation in La Prairie showcases AirGreen’s dedication to precision, quality, and customer satisfaction. For this family, their previous HVAC setup simply couldn’t handle Québec’s extreme winters and humid summers. After careful consultation, we recommended the Sharp ZU1 Mini Split Heat Pump, a unit renowned for its robust features and affordability.
Key Features of the Sharp ZU1 Heat Pump:
- Cooling Capacity: 18,000 BTU – keeping summers cool and refreshing.
- Heating Capacity: Functions efficiently down to -27°C, perfect for Québec winters.
- SEER Efficiency: 24.0 – exceptional energy savings for year-round use.
- Whisper-Quiet Operation: Indoor sound pressure levels as low as 25 dB(A) ensure peaceful comfort.
- Warranty: 10-10-10 (Compressor, Parts, Labor) for long-term peace of mind.
- New Refrigerant: Uses R-32 gas—more efficient and eco-friendly, meeting 2025 energy regulations.
The indoor unit’s sleek dimensions (41.42 x 9.80 x 12.44 inches) complement any living space without being obtrusive, while the outdoor unit (33.47 x 13 x 27.94 inches) operates with a sound pressure level of just 52 dB(A)—a quiet powerhouse.
The Story Behind the Installation
When the homeowners in La Prairie reached out to us, they were concerned about inconsistent temperatures and rising energy costs. Like many families, they wanted a solution that would provide consistent heating in the winter and efficient cooling in the summer without straining their budget. The Sharp ZU1 emerged as the perfect answer: a unit that delivers uniform airflow, clean indoor air, and significant energy savings.
During the installation, our technicians carefully ensured every detail was optimized for performance. The placement of the interior head unit near a central living area allowed for efficient cooling and heating distribution, while the Coanda airflow technology ensured no direct drafts on occupants. The multi-directional flap system enables precise temperature control across multiple spaces, eliminating any hot or cold spots.
To further future-proof the installation, we highlighted the benefits of the unit’s smart connectivity. By using the included Wi-Fi capabilities and the Sharp app, the homeowners can now monitor their energy consumption in real time and optimize settings remotely. Whether they’re home or away, they have full control at their fingertips.
Why the Sharp ZU1 Stands Out: Modern HVAC Innovation
1. Plasmacluster Technology: Clean, Healthy Indoor Air
Sharp’s patented Plasmacluster technology sets this unit apart from the competition. It actively neutralizes bacteria, viruses, mold, and allergens in the air. This feature is particularly valuable for households with pets, children, or anyone with respiratory concerns. Additionally, it combats persistent odors—like cooking smells and tobacco residue—leaving the home fresh and clean.
2. Coanda Airflow Control: No More Uneven Temperatures
With Coanda airflow, the Sharp ZU1 redirects cool or warm air along walls and ceilings, mimicking natural airflow patterns. This ensures temperature uniformity throughout the space without uncomfortable drafts.
3. Winter-Ready Heating at -27°C
Unlike many heat pumps that struggle in extreme cold, the Sharp ZU1 uses Hot Gas Pipe technology to prevent freezing and maintain reliable operation even when the thermometer plunges to -27°C. This feature alone makes it a standout choice for Québec’s winters.
4. Energy Efficiency with Inverter Technology
Equipped with inverter technology, this heat pump adjusts its power consumption to meet the exact needs of the home, avoiding the wasteful on-off cycling of traditional units. This translates to lower energy bills and a reduced environmental footprint.
5. Smart Connectivity for Ultimate Control
With integrated Wi-Fi and smartphone connectivity, the Sharp ZU1 allows homeowners to:
- Monitor and adjust temperature and humidity in real time.
- Track daily and monthly energy usage with detailed graphs.
- Enable motion sensors for optimized energy efficiency.
Plus, the GPS interlocking function ensures the unit turns off when no one is home, further saving energy.
Installation Process: Efficiency Meets Expertise
At AirGreen, our team of certified technicians ensures every installation meets the highest standards. For the La Prairie project, we:
- Conducted a detailed evaluation of the home to determine the optimal unit placement.
- Installed the indoor and outdoor units with precision, using high-quality pipes (1/4 - 3/8).
- Tested airflow distribution to guarantee even heating and cooling.
- Provided a full walkthrough of the unit’s features, including smart controls and energy-saving modes.
We also performed a comprehensive system check to ensure the Sharp ZU1 was operating at peak performance. The homeowners were thrilled with the seamless installation and immediate comfort improvement.
Sharp ZU1: The Best Choice in Our 2025 Wall-Mounted Heat Pump Guide
For those looking for the best wall-mounted heat pump available, the Sharp ZU1 is our top recommendation in the 2025 Wall-Mounted Heat Pump Guide. With its superior air purification, unmatched heating capacity, and innovative energy-saving features, it offers everything Québec homeowners need for year-round comfort.
AirGreen: Your Trusted Partner for HVAC Excellence
At AirGreen, we’re committed to delivering top-quality installations and exceptional customer service. Whether you’re in Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, Rive Nord, or Rive Sud, our team is ready to help you achieve the perfect indoor climate.
Contact us today to learn more about the Sharp ZU1 Wall-Mounted Heat Pump or to schedule your installation. Don’t miss out on the generous $2,640 LogisVert Grant by Hydro-Québec and federal incentives that make this upgrade even more affordable.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sharp ZU1 12 000 | 14,500 | 12,000 | −27 °C: 7,200 | 2.11 | 22.0 | 11.0 | $1,740 |
| Sharp ZU1 15 000 | 18,100 | 15,300 | −27 °C: 10,100 | 2.1 | 24.0 | 11.0 | $2,172 |
| Sharp ZU1 18 000 | 22,000 | 18,000 | −27 °C: 11,500 | 2.2 | 24.0 | 11.0 | $2,640 |
| Sharp ZU1 24 000 | 22,400 | 19,000 | −27 °C: 12,300 | 2.2 | 22.0 | 11.0 | $2,688 |
According to NEEP, it delivers 14,500 BTU/h at −8 °C (17 °F), more than at 8 °C (14,000 BTU/h). It heats as hard in moderate cold as in mild weather.
According to NEEP, its certified maximum capacity at −27 °C (−17 °F) is 7,200 BTU/h, 60% of its nominal 12,000 BTU size.
At 8 °C, its certified maximum capacity reaches 17,100 BTU/h, 42% more than its nominal 12,000 BTU size.
According to NEEP, it delivers 18,100 BTU/h at −8 °C (17 °F), more than at 8 °C (18,000 BTU/h). It heats as hard in moderate cold as in mild weather.
According to NEEP, its certified maximum capacity at −27 °C (−17 °F) is 10,100 BTU/h, 67% of its nominal 15,000 BTU size.
At 8 °C, its certified maximum capacity reaches 21,800 BTU/h, 45% more than its nominal 15,000 BTU size.
According to NEEP, it delivers 22,000 BTU/h at −8 °C (17 °F), more than at 8 °C (21,600 BTU/h). It heats as hard in moderate cold as in mild weather.
According to NEEP, its COP at −27 °C is 1.88: the highest of the ZU1 line, which ranges from 1.79 to 1.82 at that temperature.
According to NEEP, its certified maximum capacity at −27 °C (−17 °F) is 11,500 BTU/h, 64% of its nominal 18,000 BTU size.
At −27 °C, its certified minimum capacity is 3,200 BTU/h (5,500 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 19,000 BTU/h, 79% of its nominal 24,000 BTU size. Its COP there is 2.20.
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.
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?
No question matches. Write to us: we answer.
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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).