Maximize the comfort of an entire floor with a well-positioned wall head above a staircase
Client background and objectives
In Chomedey (Laval) , a homeowner wanted to stabilize the temperature between the bedrooms and the ground floor, while reducing his energy bill. We proposed a Zephyr wall-mounted heat pump —a compact, quiet, and efficient solution—and placed the interior header at the top of the stairs, a strategic location that allows treated air to be sent to two levels. This configuration takes advantage of the natural air movement and traffic volumes of the stairs, which are often underutilized by traditional systems.
Why a Zephyr wall-mounted heat pump in a stairwell?
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Optimized vertical and horizontal diffusion : the sweep directed towards the stair rise promotes controlled stratification and a more homogeneous air return.
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Easy access for maintenance : easy-to-open front cover for cleaning filters; clear access for measuring refrigeration parameters at each HVAC maintenance visit.
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Minimal aesthetic impact : white casing with clean lines; discreet integration above the handrail.
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Heating and air conditioning efficiency : a heat pump offers energy savings during the off-season while providing summer cooling comparable to a wall-mounted air conditioner .
Our approach to HVAC installation : precision, safety and durability
Site study
We validate three essential criteria before any fixation:
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Height and clearance : The head is installed high on the landing wall to clear the air vent and prevent air short circuits. The discreet display remains readable from the corridor.
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Short path to the outside : The proximity of a side window reduces the length of refrigerant connections (approximately 5 to 7 m to the outdoor condenser depending on the exact location). Shorter path = fewer losses and higher efficiency.
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Condensate drainage : Gravity slope prioritized towards the outside to limit the use of a pump. If this is not possible, we integrate a silent lifting pump with an anti-overflow tank and alarm.
Fixing and drilling
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Zephyr wall template screwed onto studs; laser level control for perfect alignment and even air discharge.
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65 mm drilling with core drill and insulated wall pass-through (closed foam) for crossing the connections, with external capping matching the finishes for a clean aesthetic.
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Insulation and vapor barrier : continuously insulated ducts, butyl tape at connections, and weather barrier at the exit point.
Refrigeration and electrical connections
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Annealed copper lines flared to recommended torque; burr and bushing control; proper lubrication; tightened to Zephyr specified torque .
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Nitrogen leak test (300–350 psi test as directed), then deep vacuum < 500 microns. Stabilization and vacuum test before opening the valves.
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Power supply on dedicated circuit (compliant circuit breaker), interconnection cable shielded according to the manufacturer's polarity. Grounding verified.
Commissioning and balancing
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Checking the exchange surfaces and ventilation speed for this double-height space.
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Setting the shutters : initial orientation towards the landing, then automatic sweeping to push the air towards the adjacent rooms.
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Measurements : discharge temperature, compressor current, superheat/subcooling, in order to document initial performance.
Results observed after installation
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Immediate comfort : reduction of 2 to 3°C differences between upper and ground floors during peak hours.
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Acoustics : low noise level perceived in the stairwell; no resonance thanks to the anti-vibration pads on the condenser (exterior).
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Aesthetics : discreet device; linear exterior capping , harmonized with the facade.
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Maintenance : Filters easily accessible from the landing; quarterly cleaning schedule recommended.
Relevant technical details (summary)
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Type : single-zone wall-mounted heat pump .
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Brand : Zephyr (horizontal interior head, motorized shutter).
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Connection length : short to medium (approx. 5–7 m) with gravity slope for condensates.
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External support : galvanized wall brackets or slab depending on the facade; clearances compliant to ensure air flow for winter heating.
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Control : infrared remote control; Wi-Fi option available depending on the series for consumption monitoring and planning.
AirGreen Tips to Get the Most Out of Your Installation
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Smart Settings
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Auto or Heat mode in mid-season to avoid cycles that are too close together.
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Auto fan speed to maintain a constant flow in the staircase.
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Preventive maintenance
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Cleaning of filters every 3 months; degreasing of batteries and disinfection according to use.
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Annual inspection : pressures, intensity, temperature readings, condenser cleaning.
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Winter in Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, North Shore, South Shore
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Clear the condenser area of snow; install a snow shield if necessary; maintain rear and side clearance for heat exchange.
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In very cold weather, favor a stable setting rather than significant variations.
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Mistakes to avoid
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Undersizing or oversizing : 9,000 BTU may be sufficient for a stairwell, but the thermal study of the house remains the reference.
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Too long connection routes : increases load losses and reduces efficiency.
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Uncontrolled condensates : always check the slope or install a pump with an alarm.
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Grants and Eligibility
Many heat pumps meet the criteria of Quebec assistance programs when they achieve certified performance (Energy Star, low-temperature heating performance). Zephyr offers compatible ranges; exact eligibility depends on the series installed, the address, and the housing conditions. Our team validates each file and prepares supporting documents to optimize your returns.
Why AirGreen for your HVAC project in Greater Montreal?
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Field expertise : hundreds of installations in various contexts (plexes, single-family homes, condos).
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Quality of execution : rigorous testing and commissioning protocols; documentation provided to the customer.
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Complete support : sizing, brand and series selection, Wi-Fi and air quality options, planned HVAC maintenance .
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Local service : teams based in Montreal , Laval , Longueuil , North Shore and South Shore .
And for your home?
A well-positioned Zephyr head above a staircase can transform the airflow throughout your home: balanced comfort, better cost control, and clean integration. We evaluate the thermal load , room layout, and exterior access to offer you an efficient and aesthetically pleasing configuration, from the first drilling to the final performance test.
Frequently Asked Questions (useful selection)
What minimum maintenance should be planned?
Cleaning of filters, dusting of fins and annual inspection to maintain efficiency and warranty.
What if gravity evacuation is not possible?
We integrate a certified, silent condensate pump with a tray and anti-overflow sensor.
Can the same head cover two floors?
Yes, especially when the unit is placed on the landing: the blown air descends naturally, and the return air is from the cooler areas. Balancing and an appropriate setting ensure stability.
Next step
Are you considering a similar HVAC installation in Laval , Montreal , Longueuil , on the North Shore or the South Shore ? We will come by for a quick survey, we will validate the clearances, the optimal routing of the connections and we will provide you with a clear proposal including the recommended maintenance and, if applicable, support for assistance programs.
Naturally integrated keywords : heat pump , wall-mounted air conditioner , HVAC installation , HVAC maintenance , Montreal , Laval , Longueuil , North Shore , South Shore .