Efficient heating for condos in Montréal: why the heat pump beats electric baseboards
In a city like Montréal, where winters can be long, harsh, and unpredictable, choosing an efficient heating system isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. Condo owners often face this critical question: should I keep my electric baseboards, or switch to a wall-mounted or central heat pump for greater comfort and energy savings? At AirGreen, we’ve helped hundreds of clients through this transition across Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore and the South Shore. Here’s our professional, on-the-ground analysis to help you make the best decision.
Understanding both options: electric baseboards vs heat pumps
Electric baseboards: a simple solution but costly in the long run
Electric baseboards are common in Montréal condos. Easy to install, silent, and ductless, they might seem like a practical solution at first glance. However, they come with several limitations:
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High energy consumption, especially during extreme cold.
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No cooling capability, meaning a second system is needed for summer.
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Little to no precise temperature control by zone.
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No ventilation or air filtration features.
Electricity rates in Québec may be lower than elsewhere, but over a full heating season, baseboards quickly become a financial burden, especially in units with poor insulation or north-facing exposure.
The heat pump: a 2-in-1, energy-efficient, and comfortable solution
On the other hand, a wall-mounted or central heat pump is a versatile solution, capable of both heating and cooling a space on its own. Here’s why more and more condo owners are making the switch:
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Up to 300% more efficient than traditional electric heating.
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Functions as both heating in winter and air conditioning in summer.
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Significant reduction in electricity bills.
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Eligible for government grants (e.g., Hydro-Québec’s LogisVert program).
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Noticeable improvement in indoor air quality, with filtration and dehumidification.
Our clients regularly report better thermal stability, increased comfort, and a tangible return on investment within just the first few years.
Case study: switching to a heat pump in a Plateau-Mont-Royal condo
Let’s take the example of an AirGreen client, the owner of an 850 sq. ft. 3rd-floor condo in a walk-up building in Plateau-Mont-Royal. She reached out to us last spring, concerned about her high winter electricity bills and lack of summer comfort.
Project challenges
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Limited wall space to accommodate an indoor wall unit.
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The condo association had strict rules about outdoor units being visible from the street.
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The system needed to efficiently heat an open-concept area including living room, dining area, and kitchen, while also offering effective cooling in summer.
Solution proposed by AirGreen
We installed a Gree Lomo 18,000 BTU wall-mounted heat pump, chosen for its:
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Stable performance down to -20°C, ideal for Montréal’s climate.
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Compact, discreet design.
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Very low noise level, perfect for small spaces.
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Eligibility for a $1,704 grant through the LogisVert program.
We placed the indoor unit on a central wall, allowing even air distribution. The outdoor unit was discreetly installed on the back balcony, complying with condo association regulations.
Result
After just one winter, the client observed:
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A 42% reduction in electricity bills between December and March.
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Consistent thermal comfort, with no cold spots.
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Cleaner, more comfortable indoor air.
Cost comparison and return on investment
| Criteria | Electric Baseboards | Wall-Mounted Heat Pump |
|---|---|---|
| Initial installation cost | Low | Medium |
| Annual energy cost (850 sq. ft. condo) | $1,200 – $1,600 | $400 – $700 |
| Includes cooling | No | Yes |
| Available grants | None | Up to $5,000 (LogisVert, etc.) |
| Average lifespan | 15 years | 12–15 years (with regular maintenance) |
| Comfort and control | Basic | High, programmable, zoned |
Why Montréal condo owners are choosing heat pumps
In Montréal and the surrounding suburbs, the new generation of property owners is more conscious of their energy footprint and year-round comfort. A wall-mounted heat pump, installed by a certified company like AirGreen, represents a logical, cost-effective, and long-term solution.
What our clients are saying:
“Thanks to AirGreen, we finally have heating that doesn’t cost a fortune in winter, and in summer we enjoy AC too! All without needing to alter the condo’s structure.”
“Their team really understands condo association rules. Everything was done by the book and professionally.”
Practical tips before making the switch
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Check your condo association’s rules regarding outdoor installations.
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Have a professional energy assessment of your space.
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Request a detailed quote, including eligible grants.
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Choose certified installers like AirGreen, who also offer reliable after-sales service.
Why choose AirGreen for your heat pump installation?
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Local company with solid expertise across Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, North Shore, and South Shore.
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A trained, certified team for top brands like Gree, Fujitsu, Sharp, Bosch, and more.
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Personalized service, tailored to condo living realities.
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Direct access to government grants with our administrative support.
Conclusion
For Montréal condos, replacing electric baseboards with a wall-mounted or central heat pump is a smart move. It’s not just about comfort—it’s a sound investment, both financially and environmentally. At AirGreen, we’re proud to guide our clients through this transition with customized, efficient, and sustainable solutions.