A careful installation, designed for longevity and silence
In the residential neighborhood of Vimont (Laval) , we are installing a Zephyr wall-mounted heat pump designed to provide four-season comfort for a single-family home. The site features a clean, clear side driveway, light brick cladding on joists, a crushed stone bed for water drainage, and a wire mesh fence providing natural protection against impacts. This context allows us to optimize the layout of the condenser , ensure exemplary air circulation, and guarantee a very low noise level , essential in a quiet neighborhood.
The choice of the Zephyr: reliable simplicity and controlled operating costs
The Zephyr single-zone heat pump meets the typical needs of a Laval family: efficient heating at low temperatures and precise cooling in summer, without overconsumption. The inverter electronics adjust the compressor speed according to actual demand, which reduces on/off cycles, stabilizes the indoor temperature and lowers the electricity bill . The Zephyr range benefits from a maintenance-oriented design: easy access to filters, well-cleared components, and refrigeration circuits designed to minimize pressure losses.
For this project, the single-zone configuration is consistent: a main living room to be air-conditioned/heated, interior doors generally open, and good air circulation. The machine largely covers the thermal needs of the ground floor, while offering fine modulation for mid-seasons.
Our HVAC Installation Method in a Narrow Side Yard
1) Strategic positioning of the condenser
The Zephyr condenser is set back from the passage on the gravel area, well away from the wall to respect rear and side clearances. We place it on rigid anti-vibration pads (raisers) to prevent dirt from rising, promote drainage and decouple ground vibrations . This elevation also protects the unit during episodes of heavy rain and spring thaw.
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Height and Clearances : The fan shaft is at an optimal height for undisturbed air intakes .
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Orientation : the unit blows towards the clear path, away from obstacles and plantations, which optimizes heat exchange and prevents the recycling of hot air in heating mode.
2) Discreet drilling, connections and capping
We drill a hole inclined outwards to promote the gravity flow of condensate . The refrigerant connections (UV insulated copper) and the communication cable are covered in a weather-resistant white capping . The service loop is tight, clean and stress-free, limiting any risk of friction on the facing.
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Waterproofing : fire-retardant foam and exterior sealant for an impeccable air-water barrier.
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Bend radius : respected to avoid bends that are too tight and keep the pressure loss very low .
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Visible length : short and straight, a guarantee of performance and aesthetics.
3) Power supply and compliance
The power supply is provided by a dedicated circuit compliant with RBQ and CSA requirements, with a disconnection near the condenser for safe maintenance. The connections are protected from water splashes and the route is securely anchored to the cladding, without crossing existing downspouts. Each tightening, torque and marking is checked and recorded.
4) Vacuuming, charging and quality controls
We carry out a deep vacuum (≤ 500 microns) with ascent control, then the load release planned by the manufacturer. This is followed by leak tests (preliminary nitrogen pressure), current measurement , temperature readings and superheat/subcool to confirm the balance of the circuit. The defrost probe and compensation parameters are validated for Laval winter conditions.
5) Condensate management: gravity first
In this configuration, the natural slope towards the outside allows gravity drainage , therefore without a pump (less maintenance, no additional noise). We take care to keep the drainage away from the foundations and paths, and to prevent winter icing by a clear outlet and sufficient ground clearance. In areas of heavy snow, we recommend a raising kit or wall brackets to gain a few extra centimeters if necessary.
Air quality and comfort: much more than temperature
A properly sized heat pump contributes as much to hygrometric comfort as it does to temperature. In cooling mode, the Zephyr lowers ambient humidity , making the feeling of freshness faster. In heating mode, fine modulation avoids fluctuations and drafts common with on/off systems. The result: silence , stability , and improved air quality thanks to easily cleanable filters.
HVAC maintenance: maintaining performance over time
Regular HVAC maintenance extends lifespan and maintains original performance :
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Clean the indoor unit filters every 4 to 8 weeks during periods of intensive use.
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Annual inspection : static pressure, current, cleanliness of the evaporator/condenser, tightness of the terminals, condition of the silent blocks, clearances and condensate drainage.
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Winter clearance : Keep 50 to 60 cm clear around the condenser after snowfall to avoid ice bridges and defrosting errors.
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Capping : check the UV integrity of the sheath and the sealing joints.
Site planning advice for homes in Laval, North Shore and South Shore
The single-family homes of Laval, the North Shore and the South Shore share common constraints: narrow side passages , nearby downspouts , low windows . Here are our guidelines:
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Prioritize air evacuation : avoid recesses, tight corners and high obstacles.
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Ensure the ground is well-drained : gravel or perforated slabs to avoid creating puddles.
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Anticipate winter : extension, snow deflector if the orientation requires it, and clearance in front of the grille.
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Reduce the length of connections : performance and refrigeration balances are improved.
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Protect the aesthetics : capping aligned with the brick joints, passage as short and straight as possible.
What the owner earns
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Four-season comfort without sudden changes.
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Controlled energy bills thanks to the inverter and an optimized installation .
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Silence on the side facade, robust for neighborhood life .
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Simple maintenance and clear access for future interventions.
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Real estate value enhanced by modern, discreet and well-integrated equipment.
AirGreen: a local team that knows the terrain
Our teams operate weekly in Montreal , Laval , Longueuil , on the North Shore and the South Shore . We adapt each HVAC installation to the architecture and micro-constraints of the site: choice of support (pads, brackets, slab), condensate strategy, clean wiring , and optimization of refrigeration connections . We also support our customers with manufacturer warranties and assistance programs when the range and performance allow it.
Good practices to remember
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Avoid the immediate proximity of a water outlet : the air circulation must not recycle the humidity.
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Raise the condenser in snowy areas: guaranteed defrosting efficiency, limited corrosion.
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Maintain access for service: no bulky objects in front of the panels.
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Check the lock, seals and condition of the capping annually to maintain perfect sealing .
Conclusion: a clean, durable installation designed for winter
This Zephyr heat pump installation in Vimont (Laval) illustrates our approach: simple and precise engineering , attention to detail, and anticipation of real-life operating conditions in Quebec. The result: an efficient and discreet system, ready to offer stable comfort throughout the year, with reduced operating costs and easier HVAC maintenance .