The risks of installing a wall-mounted air conditioner without AirGreen’s expertise
From imagined savings to unexpected costs: a real-life mishap in Laval
Installing a wall-mounted air conditioner on your own may seem like a simple way to save a few hundred dollars. Yet at AirGreen, we were recently called to Laval to fix a mistake that ended up costing a homeowner much more than expected. This case is far from unique — and it highlights just how important it is to leave HVAC installation to certified professionals.
A failed installation: story of an emergency service call
A resident in the Saint-Vincent-de-Paul neighbourhood of Laval recently purchased an 18,000 BTU wall-mounted air conditioner from the Gree brand online. Tempted by the price and online tutorials promising “easy” setup, he decided to install it himself. The result: after one week of use, the system was making a worrying noise, barely cooling at all, and water was running down the interior wall.
When he called us, the customer hoped for a simple repair. But our on-site technical evaluation revealed multiple issues:
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Wall bracket poorly secured, posing a fall risk.
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Improper drainage, leading to water damage inside the wall.
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Poorly sealed refrigerant connections, causing a refrigerant leak.
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No vacuum performed on the circuit, severely reducing energy efficiency.
The snowballing costs of a bad decision
This customer originally wanted to "save" around $600 in installation fees. But the aftermath led to:
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Repair fees: $350
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R-32 refrigerant recharge: $275
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Drainage correction: $180
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Wall repainting due to water damage: $400
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Total real cost: over $1,200
Not to mention the stress, discomfort, and going without cooling during the hottest days of the summer.
Installing a wall-mounted air conditioner: far more technical than it seems
Contrary to popular belief, installing a wall-mounted heat pump or air conditioner requires:
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Professional-grade vacuuming of the refrigerant line to remove all humidity.
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Precision refrigerant line connections, using properly calibrated torque tools.
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Correct condensate drainage in compliance with Québec building standards.
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Safe electrical checks, to avoid short circuits or fire hazards.
Our certified technicians have the expertise, specialized tools, and on-site experience to handle these critical steps. In Laval alone, we’ve installed over 200 units this year — in single-family homes, condos, multiplexes, and businesses.
Hidden impacts on energy efficiency
A poorly installed air conditioner can use up to 30% more energy. In this Laval case, the temperature never dropped below 26°C despite being set to 21°C, and the customer’s electricity bill skyrocketed.
Thanks to our intervention, the unit regained its full performance. We also confirmed that the model was eligible for a $1,704 LogisVert grant, something the customer was completely unaware of beforehand.
Why choose AirGreen for your HVAC installations in Laval?
At AirGreen, we are committed to delivering:
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Installations fully compliant with RBQ and CSA standards
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Tailored advice for selecting the ideal model
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Complete verification of sizing, positioning, and performance
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Support in applying for government grants, including Hydro-Québec’s LogisVert program
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Extended labour and installation warranty
Laval: a demanding climate, local expertise is key
Laval’s climate is marked by increasingly intense heatwaves and harsh winters. A poorly designed or installed air conditioning system not only compromises your comfort, but can also cause long-term property damage.
Our installations in Laval cover all districts: Chomedey, Laval-des-Rapides, Sainte-Dorothée, Fabreville, Auteuil, Vimont, Duvernay… Our local teams are well-acquainted with the construction specifics of Laval buildings, from modern condos to 1970s bungalows.
Tips to avoid common mistakes
Here are some practical tips to avoid unfortunate outcomes:
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Avoid non-Québec tutorials: codes and standards differ from other regions.
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Always check LogisVert eligibility: some units must be installed by an accredited contractor.
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Don’t skip the vacuuming step: it ensures compressor longevity.
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Never drill through load-bearing walls without consultation: this could compromise your home’s structure.
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Have your installation inspected by a professional, even if you think you did it right.
Final word: real savings come from peace of mind
Hiring AirGreen is not an expense — it’s an investment in the performance, durability, and safety of your air conditioning system. In Laval, as across the North Shore, we bring our local expertise to every comfort solution.
Don’t let a poor installation turn your summer into a nightmare. Trust certified, transparent, and reliable professionals.
Ready to get your wall-mounted air conditioner installed in Laval the right way?
Contact AirGreen today for a free estimate and complete support — from equipment selection to certified installation.