Unique tips: how Montrealers heat their winter chalet almost for free

Smart HVAC solutions to lower heating bills in Québec cottages

In the heart of Québec’s harsh winters, many chalet owners in Montréal, Laval, and surrounding regions (North Shore, South Shore) are looking for efficient ways to heat their second home without skyrocketing their energy bills. At AirGreen, we’ve noticed a fascinating trend among our clients: more and more Montrealers are adopting clever HVAC solutions that allow them to heat their winter chalet almost for free — while increasing comfort and reducing their carbon footprint. Here’s a detailed look at these innovative installations and the concrete strategies implemented by our team.

HVAC systems tailored for Québec chalets

Unlike main residences, chalets often come with very specific challenges: partial insulation, no basement, hard-to-access pitched roofs, or irregular energy consumption. Our HVAC installation experts at AirGreen always adapt their approach based on terrain, usage, and budget.

Take, for example, a client located in the Laurentians, owner of a four-season chalet built in the 1990s. Originally heated with wood and electric baseboard heaters, their annual heating cost exceeded $2,500, without guaranteed comfort. We recommended a wall-mounted heat pump, the FUJITSU KZAH with R-32 refrigerant, 18,000 BTU model, which we paired with a smart thermostat and portable solar panels for off-peak periods.

The result: a reduction of nearly 75% in annual heating costs, improved comfort down to -25°C, and full remote control via their smartphone.

Why the wall-mounted heat pump is becoming the chalet champion

Recent models like the Gree Lomo or Fujitsu KZAH wall-mounted heat pumps come with Inverter technology, capable of modulating power continuously. This makes them highly efficient even in extremely low temperatures, while consuming very little energy.

Benefits of a wall-mounted heat pump in a chalet:

• Quick installation with no ductwork required.

• Low operating costs.

• Eligibility for government grants up to $2,172.

• Remote control via mobile app.

• Heating AND cooling with one single unit.

• Eco-friendly R-32 refrigerant with a low environmental impact.

Tip #1: Choose both indoor AND outdoor placement carefully

In a project completed in Saint-Donat, our technicians faced a challenge: no façade allowed for a direct line without going through a thick stone wall. The solution? We installed the outdoor unit on an elevated galvanized steel base, protected from snow buildup, and used an aesthetic, insulated cover for the refrigerant line routed along the side of the building.

Indoors, the wall unit was strategically placed near the central staircase, ensuring even heat distribution upstairs and into the semi-finished basement.

Tip #2: Pair the heat pump with a smart thermostat

Installing a programmable thermostat is a must-have for owners who only use their chalet on weekends or during holidays. With thermostats like Ecobee or Honeywell Home T9, it’s easy to:

• Maintain an eco-mode temperature of 12–14°C during the week.

• Turn on the heat remotely two hours before arrival.

• Further reduce energy usage with occupancy detection.

We installed this system for a Montréal couple in their Val-David chalet. Since then, their winter electricity consumption dropped from 1,800 kWh/month to just 580 kWh, for a 1,000 sq. ft. space.

Tip #3: Take full advantage of available grants

Many of our clients are unaware that a wall-mounted heat pump installation in a chalet may be eligible for government incentive programs if the property is considered a principal residence or meets specific energy criteria.

At AirGreen, we handle all grant paperwork on your behalf:

• Hydro-Québec LogisVert: up to $2,500 depending on model and zone.

• Rénoclimat: free energy audit, rebates based on energy gains.

• Chauffez Vert: for homeowners replacing oil-based heating systems.

Tip #4: Add portable solar or backup battery systems

In certain chalets, especially in more remote areas of the Eastern Townships or the North Shore, we’ve installed mobile solar panels on adjustable, south-facing stands. Connected to lithium batteries, these panels can power the heat pump during cold spells, reducing grid dependency.

One of our pilot projects in Saint-Côme enabled a semi-retired couple to reach partial energy autonomy, heating their chalet for five days off-grid thanks to the combo of battery + heat pump + backup generator.

Tip #5: Don’t skip the annual preventive maintenance

Even in a chalet that’s only occasionally occupied, regular maintenance is essential. A dirty filter or an outdoor unit blocked by snow can drastically increase consumption and shorten the unit’s lifespan.

At AirGreen, we offer preventive HVAC maintenance visits, even in remote areas, including:

• Cleaning the filter and heat exchanger.

• Checking airflow and refrigerant levels.

• Inspecting condensate drainage.

• Updating the Wi-Fi controller software (if applicable).

Conclusion: AirGreen expertise for a well-heated chalet

Thanks to our recognized HVAC expertise, we help Montrealers turn their chalet into a warm, energy-efficient, and comfortable space year-round, even during the harshest winter months. Whether you're looking for a turnkey heating solution, a hybrid or off-grid system, or help maximizing your grants, AirGreen is your trusted partner.

Contact us today to schedule a free visit or request a personalized quote—whether you’re in Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore, or the South Shore.