A tempting technology that divides HVAC experts in the urban context of Montréal
In the urban landscape of Montréal, especially in modern downtown condos, as well as in Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore, and the South Shore, smart electric radiators are quickly gaining popularity. Compact, easy to install, remotely controllable via mobile apps—they seem to check all the boxes for an ideal heating solution for small residential spaces. But what’s the real story? Are they truly an energy-efficient innovation, or a costly long-term trap?
At AirGreen, our mission is to guide condo owners and property managers toward the most efficient, durable, and cost-effective HVAC solutions. Thanks to our hands-on experience across dozens of residential buildings in the Greater Montreal Area, we’ve analyzed the integration of these next-generation radiators with a technical, economic, and environmental perspective.
Smart Electric Radiators: What Exactly Are They?
Smart electric radiators are individual heating units powered by electricity, equipped with connectivity features that allow them to be programmed, remotely controlled, and in some cases, automatically adjusted based on room temperature, occupancy, or even real-time electricity rates.
Some of the most popular brands found in Montreal-area condos include Stelpro, Convectair, Ouellet, and Thermor, with models that feature precise electronic thermostats, motion sensors, and compatibility with home automation platforms such as Google Home, Apple HomeKit, or Alexa.
The Perceived Benefits in Montréal-Area Condos
Easy and Affordable Installation
One of the main advantages of these systems is their ease of installation, especially in buildings without central heating infrastructure. Unlike wall-mounted heat pumps, smart radiators don’t require any outdoor units, ductwork, or major structural modifications. For older buildings or condos that restrict the installation of visible outdoor equipment, this presents an attractive alternative.
Individual Zone Control
Each room can have its own device, allowing for precise zoned heating. This approach appeals to owners looking to optimize their energy use and personalize comfort based on how the space is actually used.
Smart Home Integration
In new or renovated condos, smart home systems are becoming standard. Smart radiators integrate seamlessly into these setups, with preset scenarios (nighttime temperature drops, eco mode during absences, etc.).
But the Electricity Bill Doesn’t Lie…
High Long-Term Energy Consumption
Despite their smart features, these radiators are still… electric resistance heaters, meaning they operate at a 1:1 efficiency ratio: 1 kWh consumed = 1 kWh of heat produced. In contrast, wall-mounted or central heat pumps can reach efficiency ratios of 300% to 500% (1 kWh consumed producing up to 5 kWh of heat), making the long-term cost of electricity used by these radiators a major drawback.
In simulations we ran for an 85 m² condo in Longueuil, the annual heating cost with smart radiators exceeded $1,200 — compared to just $450 with a high-efficiency Fujitsu KZAH R-32 wall-mounted heat pump installed by AirGreen.
No Government Grants for Radiators
Unlike heat pumps that qualify for Hydro-Québec’s LogisVert rebate program, smart electric radiators do not qualify for any subsidies. This crucial detail further worsens their long-term economic appeal.
Real Testimonial: A Strategic Pivot in Laval
We recently assisted a condo property manager in Chomedey (Laval) who had initially equipped 12 units with Convectair brand smart electric radiators. After two winters, the condo owners were complaining about high utility bills, localized overheating, and poor performance in large open-plan living areas.
AirGreen was brought in to recommend a solution. The result: installation of Gree Extreme 18,000 BTU wall-mounted heat pumps, combined with smart thermostats to provide backup heating in the bedrooms. This led to:
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An average reduction of heating costs by 45%,
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Improved thermal stability,
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Access to government rebates of up to $1,704 per unit.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Assuming “Smart” Means “Energy-Efficient”
A radiator may be connected and programmable, but if it’s based on low-efficiency technology, its smart features only improve usability—not energy performance.
Installing Multiple Units Without a Comprehensive Strategy
Adding multiple smart radiators room by room without a centralized plan can lead to unbalanced energy use, especially in open-plan or poorly insulated condos.
Overlooking the Importance of Proper Installation
Even with simple radiators, poor placement, undersized electrical circuits, or the lack of a reliable wall thermostat can lead to uneven comfort and energy waste.
AirGreen’s Recommendation: The Right Approach for Condos
We recommend a personalized HVAC assessment, based on:
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The building’s thermal envelope (insulation, orientation),
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The occupants’ energy consumption profile,
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The feasibility (or not) of integrating a wall-mounted heat pump,
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Initial budget and expected return on investment.
In 8 out of 10 cases, our experts conclude that installing a wall-mounted heat pump or a compact central system with a Bosch or Goodman heat pump is a smarter choice over 10 years than outfitting a space with multiple smart radiators.
Why Choose AirGreen?
Thanks to our local expertise in Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore, and the South Shore, we’ve successfully completed dozens of heating system conversion projects in condos—replacing conventional or smart electric radiators with high-efficiency heat pumps.
We offer:
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A free energy assessment of your condo,
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Customized proposals with or without available rebates,
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Fast, clean, and fully compliant installation that meets condo board regulations,
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A unique understanding of the urban residential HVAC market in Québec.
Conclusion: Innovation or Waste?
Smart electric radiators are not inherently a bad solution. In some cases—small, well-insulated studios, very tight budgets, architectural constraints—they may be appropriate. But for long-term heating that’s comfortable, reliable, and affordable, they often fall short compared to modern heat pumps, both in terms of energy efficiency and financial return.
Before making a decision for your condo, consult an HVAC expert. At AirGreen, we’re here to help you make the right call.