An exemplary exterior installation on a brick wall: stability, clearances and performance guaranteed
Context: four-season comfort for a Montreal plex
At AirGreen , we are working in a typical brick plex in Mercier–Hochelaga-Maisonneuve . The green and narrow rear area requires a clean, stable and quiet installation of the condenser, without obstructing access to the garden or transmitting vibrations to the interior. The owner's objective is simple: constant comfort in the living rooms and bedrooms, a controlled bill and sustainable HVAC integration that respects the existing architecture.
Our recommendation: a TOSOT wall-mounted heat pump (compact variable-speed outdoor unit) coupled with a fine-modulation wall-mounted indoor head. The inverter compressor precisely adapts to a complex's varying thermal loads—solar gains, occupancy, cooking—to provide year-round silence and efficiency .
Outdoor installation: every detail counts
Anti-vibration wall mount and controlled height
The condenser is fixed on sturdy galvanized brackets , anchored in the brick with appropriate dowels and spacers to maintain alignment. This solution:
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frees up the passage on the ground (essential in a narrow aisle);
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reduces structure-borne noise thanks to calibrated anti-vibration pads ;
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facilitates winter defrosting with free flow.
The height is determined to avoid suctioning debris at ground level, maintain rear clearance and comply with annual maintenance.
Refrigeration and capping process
The refrigeration bundle (liquid/gas), the control cable and the power supply are gathered in a black vertical capping which runs along the masonry. Advantages:
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mechanical protection against shocks and sunlight;
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sealing of passages thanks to fire-resistant sleeves and careful mastication ;
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harmonious visual integration on dark brick.
The estimated total length of the lines - from the indoor head to the condenser on the rear facade - is around 7 to 8 meters , without too tight bends to preserve pressure losses and performance. The insulation (Armaflex 1/2" type) is continuous , taped on the connections to eliminate any thermal bridges and prevent summer condensation .
Condensate management
The drainage of the interior head is carried out by gravity with a continuous slope , protected exterior outlet. This choice simplifies maintenance and eliminates the noise risk of micro-pumps. Outside, the evacuation is clear of plants to avoid backflow.
Electricity and safety
We install a service switch near the condenser, a certified sheathed cable , and a circuit breaker dedicated to the panel. The routing follows the capping to reduce the visual impact and ensure safe passage.
AirGreen Commissioning: Control, Accuracy and Traceability
Leak, vacuum and load tests
Our standardized procedure guarantees reliability from day 1:
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High pressure nitrogen test ( ≈ 550 psi ) then controlled drop to reveal the slightest leak.
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Electronic detection on all flares and fittings.
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Deep vacuum draw down to < 500 microns , followed by a rise test to validate the absence of residual humidity.
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Inverter start-up and stabilization ; air/air delta-T control, current readings, pressure , line temperatures , superheating/subcooling .
The outdoor unit is visible during the pressure measurement phase; our technicians use a retention tray under the bottle for a clean and safe work area, and protect the surroundings (slabs, plants, fence) during the intervention.
Settings and optimization
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Ventilation curve adjusted to maximize heat exchange in summer and limit drafts felt inside.
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Thermostat/control configured for modulation rather than on/off to maintain stable comfort.
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In winter, check the defrost circuit and ensure proper flow under the condenser (no obstructions, clear area).
Specific features of the site: constraints and solutions
Narrow passage, vegetation and masonry
The backyard has climbing vegetation and a tight service passage between the fence and the facade. We:
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reduce the footprint by favoring wall support ;
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we sheath and cover each section to avoid snags;
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ensure a clear distance around the fan to prevent any recirculation of hot air .
Old brick requires low-impact drilling and stainless steel or galvanized anchors to avoid corrosive interactions over time.
Winter management in Montreal
On the North Shore , the South Shore , Laval or Montreal intramural , snow and ice require:
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a clearance under the appliance for defrosting drainage;
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the absence of obstacles (stones, planks) under the runoff zone;
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if necessary, adding a snow guard if the roof overhangs the area.
Performance and everyday use
Summer climate: silent freshness
In summer, we recommend a setpoint of 23–24 °C , Auto ventilation and moderate vertical swing . The inverter compressor maintains the temperature smoothly, which reduces consumption and extends the life of the components.
Mid-season and winter: smart additional heating
The TOSOT heat pump provides efficient supplemental heating when temperatures hover around zero. Heat mode is optimized to extend cycles and limit unnecessary defrosting. When combined with a properly insulated enclosure, it reduces heating bills compared to 100% electric heating.
Good to know: many high-efficiency wall-mounted heat pumps are eligible for assistance programs in Quebec. We verify the eligibility of each file (Montreal, Laval , Longueuil , North Shore , South Shore ) according to the power , performance and program requirements at the time of installation, and we provide the required proof (serial numbers, photos, technical data sheet).
HVAC Maintenance: Maintaining Performance and Longevity
Recommended frequencies
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Inner head filters : clean every 4 to 8 weeks in summer.
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Indoor heat exchanger : annual dusting and preventive disinfection (more frequent if intensive cooking).
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Condenser : Gentle rinsing of fins in spring and fall, removal of leaves and twigs.
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Visual of the insulation and the trunking : inspection to detect cuts, UV, or animal bites.
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Annual professional inspection : electrical check, tightening torques , sealing , vacuum if intervention, performance measurements (delta-T, intensity, pressures).
Warning signs to watch for
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New noise (vibration, clicking);
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Water stagnating under the outdoor unit outside of defrost cycles;
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Persistent frost on refrigeration lines;
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Reduced airflow or abnormal odor: cleaning is required.
What this installation demonstrates about AirGreen know-how
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Controlled installation on brick wall with brackets and anti-vibration mounts : solidity and silence over time.
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Protected path : black vertical capping , sealing of penetrations, continuous insulation without thermal bridge.
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Instrumented commissioning : nitrogen , deep vacuum , pressure reading and reference readings recorded in the customer file.
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Winter approach adapted to Greater Montreal: de-icing management and ground clearances.
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HVAC usage advice and maintenance plan to maintain seasonal performance and equipment durability .
Frequently asked questions that we handle on site
“Is the proximity of a window or a fence a problem?”
We adhere to manufacturer clearances and manage airflow to prevent recirculation. The enclosure remains intact, but the condenser breathes freely.
“Do I need a tray under the appliance?”
The bracket-mounted condenser does not require this; however, during commissioning , we use retention trays to secure the work area. In winter, it is sufficient to keep the flow area clear .
“And the noise?”
Anti-vibration pads , controlled fastening torque and inverter modulation make the installation very discreet for occupants and neighbors.
Conclusion: a well-installed TOSOT heat pump provides lasting comfort
This HVAC installation in Mercier–Hochelaga-Maisonneuve illustrates what we do every day: integrating wall-mounted heat pumps into tight urban environments, protecting the masonry, optimizing the cooling path and securing each step of the commissioning process . The result: a reliable , economical and quiet system, ready for Montreal's hot summers and mid-seasons.
Strategic keywords: heat pump , wall-mounted heat pump , wall-mounted air conditioner , HVAC installation , HVAC maintenance , Montreal , Laval , Longueuil , North Shore , South Shore , TOSOT , brick house/plex , capping , wall brackets .