Installation of a Sharp ZU1 Mini Split Heat Pump in Mercier–Hochelaga-Maisonneuve
Discover how AirGreen’s installation of two Sharp ZU1 heat pumps brings year-round comfort, eco-efficiency, and energy savings to a home in Mercier–Hochelaga-Maisonneuve!
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The job on one screen
The unit’s data sheet
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.
The article, chapter by chapter
Efficient Heating and Cooling for Every Season
We recently had the pleasure of completing a significant installation in the vibrant neighborhood of Mercier–Hochelaga-Maisonneuve, Montréal. For this project, our team at AirGreen installed not one, but two Sharp ZU1 24,000 BTU Mini Split heat pumps for a residential property, ensuring top-notch comfort, regardless of the season. This installation wasn’t just about providing cooling for those hot summer months; it was also about ensuring reliable heating during the chilly Québec winters, and we couldn’t be more excited to share the details of this unique project with you.
Why Sharp ZU1? A Perfect Balance of Performance and Affordability
The Sharp ZU1 mini split series has been a game-changer in the HVAC industry. With its 24,000 BTU cooling capacity and ability to heat at temperatures as low as -27°C, it’s an ideal choice for Montreal’s extreme climate. The Sharp ZU1 model is also the first to use the new R-32 refrigerant, which is not only more environmentally friendly but also 10% more energy-efficient than its predecessors.
In addition to its impressive technical specs, the Sharp ZU1 is equipped with Plasmacluster™ technology. This innovative air purification system actively cleans the indoor air, eliminating harmful pollutants such as viruses, mold, and allergens, making the air healthier for the household.
LogisVert Grant - Maximizing Customer Savings
One of the most exciting aspects of this project is that the Sharp ZU1 model qualifies for a $2688 LogisVert Grant from Hydro-Québec. This grant, combined with federal incentives, can save homeowners up to $5,000, making the Sharp ZU1 not only an efficient choice but an affordable one. The customer who chose these units will not only benefit from lower energy bills but also substantial rebates, making this an investment that pays off in both comfort and savings.
The Installation: Bringing Comfort to Every Corner
Installing two Sharp ZU1 heat pumps for this customer was no small feat. The home, located in the heart of Mercier–Hochelaga-Maisonneuve, required a system that would efficiently distribute heat and cooling across multiple rooms. We strategically positioned the outdoor units on a flat roof to maximize space while ensuring optimal airflow.
Each unit’s interior was carefully placed to provide uniform air distribution throughout the home. Thanks to Sharp’s Coanda airflow control mechanism, we ensured that the customer would never experience uncomfortable drafts or uneven temperatures, as the air flows along the walls and ceilings, gradually dispersing into the room.
Technical Specifications of the Sharp ZU1 System
For those interested in the finer details, here’s a breakdown of the Sharp ZU1’s impressive capabilities:
- Cooling Capacity: 24,000 BTU
- Heating Capacity: -27°C
- Interior Unit Dimensions: 41.42" x 9.80" x 12.44"
- Exterior Unit Dimensions: 33.47" x 13" x 27.94"
- Refrigerant: R-32 (Eco-friendly)
- Energy Efficiency Rating: 22.0 SEER
- WiFi Enabled: Yes
- Noise Level: Interior 25-49 dB(A), Exterior 53 dB(A)
In terms of energy savings, the 22.0 SEER rating speaks for itself. It ensures that the system operates at maximum efficiency, translating to lower energy costs for the homeowner. Additionally, the built-in WiFi feature allows the customer to control the system remotely, optimizing comfort and efficiency even when they’re not home.
Why Two Units? Maximizing Comfort Across the Home
This customer chose to install two Sharp ZU1 units for one reason: complete home comfort. With a property size that spans multiple rooms and floors, it was essential to have a system that could handle the load. Installing two units ensures that every corner of the home is perfectly heated and cooled, with no room left behind.
By incorporating Sharp’s Multi-Space function, the system distributes air evenly across different rooms. Whether heating during winter or cooling during summer, the system adjusts the airflow based on the needs of the space. This makes sure that the rooms are consistently comfortable, no matter where the customer is in the house.
Designed for Montreal’s Harsh Winters
Living in Montreal, we understand the challenges that come with extreme weather. The Sharp ZU1 is specifically designed to handle sub-zero temperatures without losing efficiency. It uses Sharp’s patented Hot Gas Pipe system, which prevents the outdoor compressor from freezing. This ensures that the heat pump operates smoothly, even when the temperature drops to -27°C, which is especially important during the long, cold Quebec winters.
Additionally, the defrost function significantly shortens defrost times, minimizing any interruptions to heating. This system not only keeps the house warm but also ensures that energy consumption remains efficient, offering both comfort and savings.
Quiet Operation for Maximum Comfort
One thing we always consider when installing HVAC systems is noise. No one wants to hear a constant hum coming from their unit. Fortunately, the Sharp ZU1 operates at a whisper-quiet level of 25 to 49 dB(A) indoors, and 53 dB(A) outdoors. This means that the customer can enjoy a comfortable temperature without being disturbed by a noisy unit.
Energy Efficiency and Environmental Impact
As we move towards a greener future, energy efficiency has never been more important. The Sharp ZU1 uses the new R-32 refrigerant, which has a much lower global warming potential than the commonly used R-22. This, coupled with the unit’s high SEER rating, means that homeowners are not only reducing their energy bills but also minimizing their environmental footprint.
At AirGreen, we believe in offering solutions that are both effective and sustainable, and the Sharp ZU1 heat pump aligns perfectly with this philosophy. The customer can rest easy knowing that their new system is helping to protect the environment while providing top-tier comfort.
Conclusion: A Project That Exceeds Expectations
At AirGreen, we pride ourselves on delivering installations that not only meet but exceed our customers' expectations. This dual installation of two Sharp ZU1 heat pumps in Mercier–Hochelaga-Maisonneuve is a testament to that commitment. The homeowner now enjoys a reliable, energy-efficient system that keeps their home comfortable year-round, with the added bonus of substantial energy savings and rebates from the LogisVert program.
If you’re considering upgrading your home’s HVAC system or are interested in learning more about the Sharp ZU1 mini split, we’re here to help. Contact us today to discover how we can bring the same comfort and efficiency to your home.
The job tools
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.
How the job unfolds
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 we check on a job like this one
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.
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.
Good habits, once the unit is in place
Six simple habits that keep the unit going. Your list stays on this device.
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.
The right pages, at the right time
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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An on-site estimate, the right capacity, the right equipment.
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).