Choosing Between Central Air Conditioning and a Wall-Mounted AC Unit in Laval: A Key Decision for Your Comfort
At AirGreen, we help homeowners in Laval every day make informed choices when it comes to selecting an air conditioning system. One question often comes up: Should I choose central air conditioning or a wall-mounted unit (also known as a ductless mini split or wall-mounted heat pump)? This decision directly affects your indoor comfort, energy savings, property value, and of course, your installation budget. Drawing on our field experience and many successful HVAC installations in the region, we offer you a detailed comparison, backed by real-world examples of work completed right here in Laval.
Understanding the Two Technologies: Central vs Wall-Mounted Air Conditioning
What Is Central Air Conditioning?
A central air conditioning system is made up of a central unit (usually a central heat pump or central AC unit) that distributes cool air through a network of ducts installed in the walls or ceilings. It's often paired with a heating system, using the same ductwork.
Main Advantages:
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Even temperature distribution throughout the entire home
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Ideal solution for larger properties or multi-story homes
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Clean aesthetics: no indoor units visible on your walls
And the Wall-Mounted Air Conditioner?
The wall-mounted air conditioner, or ductless mini split, works without ductwork. It consists of an outdoor compressor connected to one or more indoor units mounted on the walls of the rooms to be cooled.
Key Benefits:
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Faster, less invasive installation
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Perfect for homes without existing ducts
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Extremely high energy efficiency, especially with modern Inverter models (like those from Gree, Fujitsu, Sharp, or Bosch, installed by AirGreen)
Technical and Economic Comparison Applied to Laval
Installation Cost: A Noticeable Difference
In our projects across Laval, we typically see central air conditioning installations ranging from $9,000 to $16,000, depending on ductwork complexity, square footage, and chosen brand (e.g. Bosch BOVA 2.0, Goodman R-32, Arcoaire, etc.).
For a wall-mounted heat pump, costs range from $3,000 to $8,000, depending on the number of indoor heads and the BTU rating (e.g. Fujitsu KZAH R-32 12,000 BTU or Gree Sapphire 18,000 BTU).
Energy Efficiency: Wall-Mounted Takes the Lead
Modern wall-mounted AC units are extremely efficient. For instance, the Fujitsu KZAH R-32, often installed by our teams in Laval, boasts a SEER above 25, offering significant energy savings. Moreover, many models qualify for the Hydro-Québec LogisVert grant, with rebates up to $2,172.
Central heat pumps also perform well—especially high-efficiency models like the Bosch BOVA, which combine power and Inverter technology. However, their efficiency can be reduced if the duct system is poorly insulated or improperly designed.
Aesthetics and Home Adaptability
A commonly mentioned aesthetic benefit by our Laval clients: central air conditioning is invisible inside the home. No units are mounted on walls, unlike wall-mounted heat pumps.
However, for older homes or remodels, installing a central system may involve extensive renovations. In these cases, we often recommend a multi-zone wall-mounted solution, which perfectly meets your needs without requiring major work.
Real Case: AirGreen Project Comparison in Laval
During a recent project in the Val-des-Arbres neighborhood in Laval, a family contacted us to evaluate both options for their 1,500 sq. ft. bungalow. The home had an old oil heating system with no existing ductwork.
Our approach:
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Complete heat load evaluation
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10-year cost simulation (including usage, maintenance, grants)
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Two scenarios presented: central air conditioning with ducts vs. multi-head wall-mounted heat pump
Result:
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Installation of a Fujitsu KZAH R-32 system, three zones (living room, master bedroom, office)
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Total cost: $7,200, with a LogisVert grant of $2,172 applied
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Estimated savings: 42% on annual energy bill
Maintenance and Durability: Which System Lasts Longer?
A well-maintained central system can last 15 to 20 years, but it requires regular duct cleaning. Wall-mounted heat pumps, on the other hand, offer a similar lifespan with annual maintenance. At AirGreen, we provide comprehensive HVAC maintenance, including:
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Coil washing
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Refrigerant level check
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Cleaning of filters and outdoor unit
Available Grants in Laval and Flexible Financing Options
High-efficiency wall-mounted and central heat pumps installed by AirGreen may qualify for the Hydro-Québec LogisVert rebate, up to $2,172. We handle all the paperwork for our clients in Laval, making the decision process easier.
We also offer flexible financing plans, with 0% interest options from 12 to 36 months, depending on the project.
Verdict: Which System to Choose in Laval?
Central Air Conditioning:
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✔️ Ideal for large homes or new constructions with existing ductwork
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✔️ Completely hidden indoor units
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❌ Higher upfront cost if no existing infrastructure
Wall-Mounted Heat Pump:
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✔️ Economical, fast, and efficient solution
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✔️ Perfect for renovations and smaller homes
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✔️ Excellent rebates available
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❌ Indoor units visible on walls
Our Final Recommendation at AirGreen
Every home is different—just like the expectations of its occupants. At AirGreen, we never offer one-size-fits-all solutions. In Laval and beyond, we analyze your real needs, budget, property layout, and preferences to offer a custom HVAC solution that is durable and high-performing.
Trust AirGreen with Your HVAC Project in Laval
Still unsure? Contact our team today for a free in-home assessment. We’ll guide you through choosing between central air conditioning and a wall-mounted AC unit, and help you benefit from our recognized expertise throughout the North Shore, especially in Laval, Fabreville, Chomedey, Vimont, and Duvernay.