A technical and field-based analysis of heating differences between condos and houses in Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, North Shore and South Shore
Residential heating in Montréal and its surrounding areas is a major concern, especially in winter when temperatures drop drastically. At AirGreen, we’ve helped hundreds of clients—whether they own condos or single-family homes—find HVAC heating solutions truly suited to their needs. Behind these decisions lie technical realities, budget constraints, and very different installation challenges. In this article, we share our in-depth analysis, backed by our real-world projects across the Greater Montréal Area.
Structural Specificities of Condos: Limited Space, Centralized or Decentralized Heating
In a Montréal condo, space is limited and shared walls naturally provide passive insulation between units. While this may seem like an advantage, the reality is that the indoor temperature is heavily influenced by either centralized systems (building-wide heating) or the efficiency of an individual unit, such as a wall-mounted heat pump.
Frequently installed options in condos:
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Wall-mounted heat pump (mini split): ideal for small spaces, it provides both heating and cooling with excellent energy efficiency. Example: Fujitsu KZAH R-32 – 12,000 BTU, perfect for a 3 ½ or 4 ½ condo in Ville-Marie or Villeray.
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Electric baseboards or convectors: low purchase cost but highly energy-consuming in the long run.
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Central building systems: in some newer developments, a central HVAC heating system serves all units via ductwork.
At AirGreen, we recently replaced an old baseboard system in a Plateau-Mont-Royal condo with a 15,000 BTU Fujitsu heat pump, offering a high SEER rating and a HSPF coefficient over 10, meeting Hydro-Québec’s criteria for the LogisVert grant. The thermal comfort improved instantly while reducing the annual bill by nearly 30%.
Installation Challenges in Condos
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Limited access to exterior walls: installing the compressor sometimes requires negotiations with the condo board.
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Strict regulations: maximum permitted noise levels, façade aesthetics, fire safety codes.
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Limited power capacity: typically units between 9,000 and 18,000 BTU are used to avoid electrical overload.
We had to get creative to install a Bosch BIVA IDS Light 2-ton outdoor unit in a shared backyard in Outremont, while complying with building regulations. The result: a discreet, quiet, and efficient solution.
Specific Needs of Houses: Power, Zoning, and Heat Distribution
In a single-family home, heating needs are broader. Insulation varies from one house to another, as does the layout of the rooms. Homes in Laval or on the North Shore, often more recently built, offer more flexibility for the installation of a central HVAC system.
Suitable HVAC heating solutions for houses:
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Central heat pump with electric furnace: one of the most popular solutions. Example: GOODMAN R-32 with a 15 kW furnace, recently installed in a 1,800 sq. ft. Longueuil home.
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Multizone wall-mounted heat pump: allows for independent heating of each floor or zone. Ideal for homes with finished basements.
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Hybrid systems (gas/electric): less common but sometimes preferred in older homes in Westmount or Outremont.
In a house in Sainte-Julie on the South Shore, we installed a 3-ton Bosch BIVA IDS Premium R-454B system, combined with a secondary electric coil to support extremely cold temperatures. The project was completed in two days, including partial ductwork redesign to optimize airflow on the upper floor.
Cost Comparison: Installation, Consumption, Grant Eligibility
| Type of Residence | Recommended HVAC Solution | Estimated Cost | Grant Eligibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 ½ Condo | Wall-mounted heat pump 12,000 BTU | $3,800 to $5,200 | Up to $1,204 LogisVert |
| 5 ½ Condo | Wall-mounted heat pump 18,000 BTU | $5,500 to $6,900 | Up to $1,704 LogisVert |
| 2-Story House | Central heat pump 3 tons | $9,800 to $13,000 | Up to $5,000 LogisVert |
| Bungalow | Multizone wall-mounted system | $7,200 to $10,000 | Up to $3,000 depending on setup |
Please note: grant eligibility depends on the energy efficiency of the unit, the heated surface area, and removal of a fossil fuel system. At AirGreen, we always assist our clients through the entire grant application process.
Other Key Factors in Choosing the Right Heating System
1. Available Technical Space
In condos, it’s impossible to install a central furnace or duct system. Compact wall-mounted units dominate the landscape.
2. Acceptable Noise Level
A critical factor in multi-unit buildings. Gree Sapphire or Sharp ZU1 models, known for their silence, are highly recommended.
3. Control Flexibility
In houses, smart multizone thermostats are increasingly in demand to control the temperature room by room.
4. Energy Costs
Heating accounts for 50% to 70% of a Hydro-Québec bill. A properly sized system provides immediate savings.
Our Field Expertise: Tailored Projects, Satisfied Clients
At AirGreen, we’ve installed hundreds of HVAC systems across Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore, and the South Shore, always adapting to each building’s specific characteristics. Our approach includes:
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Accurate thermal diagnostics.
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Proposing tailored solutions, compatible with the building’s constraints.
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Managing the entire installation, electrical hookups, wall or ground supports, and airflow optimization.
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Providing full assistance with LogisVert or federal grant applications.
Conclusion: Condo or House, the Right HVAC System Starts with the Right Expertise
There’s no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to heating. Condos require compact, quiet units compatible with condo board regulations. Houses, on the other hand, offer more flexibility but demand a rigorous thermal planning process.
At AirGreen, we’re here to guide every homeowner toward the best HVAC solution, with optimal performance, the right tools, and professional support. No matter the type of home, our experts take into account all technical, aesthetic, and economic parameters to ensure year-round optimal comfort.