Heating and open-concept homes: an underestimated thermal challenge
Contemporary architecture increasingly favors open-concept layouts, prized for their brightness, fluidity, and sleek aesthetic. But behind this modern appeal lies a real heating puzzle, especially on the South Shore, where winters are harsh and energy demands are high. At AirGreen, we’ve been called in multiple times to resolve very specific issues in newly built homes in Brossard, Saint-Lambert, and Longueuil — all designed with open-concept living spaces.
Our interventions often reveal the same mistakes in system design or HVAC equipment choices. This article highlights the most frequent issues, illustrates real-life service examples, and provides practical solutions to help optimize the thermal comfort of your open-concept home on the South Shore.
A mismatch between system type and volume to be heated
Problem #1: an undersized wall-mounted heat pump
In a 1,500 sq. ft. open-concept home in Saint-Bruno-de-Montarville, the homeowners had installed a 12,000 BTU wall-mounted heat pump to heat the entire living area: living room, dining room, kitchen, and an open staircase to the second floor. The result? Uneven comfort, cold corners, and excessive energy consumption.
Our solution: We replaced the unit with a FUJITSU KZAH 18,000 BTU wall-mounted heat pump, using R-32 refrigerant, with extended airflow diffusion for better heat distribution. The result? Uniform temperature, controlled energy use, and a home that stays comfortable down to -25°C.
Proper sizing is crucial for open-concept layouts
In an open floor plan, walls no longer trap heat in closed rooms. You must calculate the required BTUs based on the total surface area, not by room. Also, ceiling height plays a role. A 12-foot cathedral ceiling virtually doubles the air volume to heat compared to a standard ceiling.
Poorly designed heat distribution
Problem #2: a single centralized heat source
In Candiac, a new home had a central HVAC system with a single vent located in the middle of the open space. While the kitchen was comfortable, areas near the living room’s bay windows remained chilly.
Our solution: We added a new duct network, installing air outlets on the periphery, combined with motorized dampers for improved zoned management. Thanks to our AirGreen intelligent zoning system, the heat is now precisely managed for each area of the space.
Choosing the wrong equipment for a modern structure
Problem #3: a standard electric furnace in a modern space
In a loft-style home in Longueuil, the builder had installed a conventional electric furnace with no dynamic adaptation. In an open space where sunlight exposure fluctuates quickly, this setup was ill-suited.
Our intervention: We recommended a MIDEA EVOX G3 2.5-ton central heat pump, featuring Inverter technology and R-454B refrigerant. This system automatically adjusts to temperature variations while maintaining optimal performance down to -30°C. Plus, this heat pump qualifies for a LogisVert grant of $2,310 for residents on the South Shore.
Common installation mistakes
1. Poor placement of the wall-mounted unit
It’s common to see wall-mounted units installed too high, near the ceiling, or improperly positioned relative to natural airflow. This hinders even heat diffusion, especially in large open spaces.
2. Lack of HVAC maintenance
Another frequent case in Saint-Hubert: dust and grease build-up in the filters of a Gree wall-mounted heat pump installed in an open kitchen. The result: reduced efficiency, louder operation, and unpleasant odors.
Our recommendation: subscribe to an annual HVAC maintenance plan that includes deep cleaning, airflow verification, and refrigerant pressure calibration. This extends your unit’s lifespan and ensures peak winter performance.
Integrating a smart system: a key solution
The benefits of a connected thermostat for open-concept homes
Adding a multi-zone smart thermostat allows fine-grained temperature control, even in an open-concept layout. In Boucherville, one family saw their energy bill drop by 28% after installing a Bosch BOVA Inverter system with smart control, operated remotely via a mobile app.
Grants and financial assistance: not to be overlooked
Available programs on the South Shore
Residents of Brossard, Longueuil, Saint-Lambert, Chambly, and La Prairie may qualify for major financial assistance, including:
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Hydro-Québec’s LogisVert Program (up to $5,000)
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Chauffez Vert Program
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Oil heating system replacement bonus
Our advisors will guide you free of charge through the preparation of your file and the submission of required documents.
Case study: an AirGreen project in Saint-Lambert
In a modern 1,800 sq. ft. open-concept home, we replaced an old gas system with a 3-ton GOODMAN central heat pump using R-32 refrigerant. The installation included:
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Complete removal of the existing system
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Reworking of the duct network
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Integration of a Honeywell T10 smart thermostat
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Commissioning and calibration
The client now enjoys an eco-friendly, energy-efficient system fully subsidized up to $4,750. This installation perfectly illustrates our unique expertise in complex open-concept configurations.
AirGreen’s practical tips to avoid heating mistakes
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Never underestimate the required power: calculate total BTUs based on air volume, not floor surface.
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Avoid rigid centralized systems: opt for multi-zone Inverter solutions or modulating HVAC systems.
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Invest in annual preventive HVAC maintenance.
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Integrate smart temperature control to stabilize comfort.
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Check your eligibility for grants before purchasing equipment.
Conclusion: optimal heating for open-concept homes = HVAC expertise
Open-concept homes on the South Shore demand a rigorous technical approach and significant experience in HVAC installation. At AirGreen, we fully understand the challenges of open living spaces. Thanks to our expertise, thermal simulation tools, and certified technicians, we deliver tailored solutions that perform and comply with current standards.
Trust us with your comfort — we heat your open space the smart way.