A strategic choice for Quebec’s climate: understanding the differences between heat pump and air conditioner
At AirGreen, we understand that choosing between a heat pump and a wall-mounted air conditioner often raises questions for homeowners across Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, as well as the North Shore and South Shore. Quebec’s climate, with its harsh winters and hot, humid summers, demands HVAC systems that are efficient, durable, and tailored to seasonal extremes. In this article, we take a deep dive into the differences between these two options, their specific benefits depending on the season, and the key factors to consider when making the right decision.
The technical basics: what is a heat pump and what is an air conditioner?
How a wall-mounted air conditioner works
A wall-mounted air conditioner is designed for one main function: cooling indoor air. It extracts heat from the room and expels it outdoors through a refrigeration cycle. This type of system is ideal during the summer, especially in urban areas like Montréal, where urban heat islands can drive indoor temperatures to uncomfortable levels.
How a wall-mounted heat pump works
A heat pump, on the other hand, goes a step further. It uses the same refrigeration process as an air conditioner in the summer but can reverse the cycle to provide heating during winter. It becomes a 2-in-1 HVAC system, capable of delivering year-round thermal comfort. Modern models like the Gree Extreme, Sharp ZU1, or Fujitsu KZAH R-32, which we regularly install on the South Shore or in Laval, can operate efficiently even at -30°C.
Why choose a heat pump in Quebec?
Adaptability to Quebec’s harsh winters
Contrary to popular belief, modern wall-mounted heat pumps are fully adapted to Quebec’s extreme winter conditions. Thanks to Inverter technology, these units maintain steady performance, excellent energy efficiency, and deliver significant savings on electricity bills—especially when combined with grants like Hydro-Québec’s LogisVert program.
A year-round comfort solution
By investing in a heat pump, homeowners gain access to a complete HVAC system. There’s no need for multiple devices: the same unit ensures heating in winter and cooling in summer, which optimizes space, reduces maintenance costs, and increases property value.
What if you only need cooling?
Wall-mounted air conditioners: a simple and budget-friendly solution
In some cases, like in new condos in Longueuil or small apartments in Montréal, a wall-mounted air conditioner may be enough. If properly sized, it can deliver excellent summer comfort without the added cost of a heating function. This option works well for homes already equipped with a central electric or gas heating system.
Real-life case: Gree Extreme wall-mounted air conditioner installed in Longueuil
We recently installed an 18,000 BTU Gree Extreme in a modern top-floor condo in Longueuil, exposed to full sunlight. The owner was looking for an effective solution for hot days. The unit brought the indoor temperature down by 5 to 7 degrees in under 30 minutes, with virtually no noise. The high wall-mounted configuration allowed for even air distribution.
Heat pump vs air conditioner: detailed comparison
| Criteria | Wall-mounted Heat Pump | Wall-mounted Air Conditioner |
|---|---|---|
| Function | Heating + Cooling | Cooling only |
| Initial Cost | Higher | More affordable |
| Annual Savings | High (especially in heating) | Low to none |
| Eligible for Grants | Yes (up to $2,172 via LogisVert) | Rarely eligible |
| Winter Performance | Yes (cold-climate models) | No |
| Energy Efficiency | Very high (SEER and HSPF) | Medium to high |
| Maintenance | Biannual recommended | Annual recommended |
What we recommend at AirGreen
Personalized needs assessment
We believe there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Our approach is to analyze each project based on building insulation, sun exposure, existing heating type, and the client’s energy goals. In Laval, for instance, in a single-family home with standard electric heating, we’ll almost always recommend a high-efficiency wall-mounted heat pump.
Examples of successful installations
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Sainte-Julie (South Shore): Installation of a 12,000 BTU Fujitsu KZAH heat pump in a well-insulated bungalow. The client wanted to reduce heating costs. Result: 25% savings in the first winter season.
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Pierrefonds (North Shore): Installation of a 24,000 BTU Sharp ZU1 for a couple living in an open-concept home. A single unit was enough to cool the entire ground floor and partially heat the upper level.
Available grants for heat pumps
Hydro-Québec’s LogisVert program
This program offers up to $2,172 in grants for installing an ENERGY STAR certified heat pump. We take care of all the paperwork, saving our clients valuable time.
Other available financial assistance programs
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RénoClimat
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Chauffez vert
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Provincial tax credits
Practical advice to make the right choice
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Have your heating and cooling needs assessed by a certified professional.
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Check eligibility criteria for available grants.
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Choose a professional installation with an experienced team.
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Go with trusted brands: Gree, Fujitsu, Sharp, Bosch, Daikin.
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Schedule regular maintenance to maximize system lifespan.
Why choose AirGreen?
At AirGreen, we do more than sell HVAC systems. We advise, install, maintain, and most importantly, build long-term relationships with our clients. Our team operates across Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, as well as the North Shore and South Shore. Our installers are certified, experienced, and trained to deliver top-tier service.
Conclusion: a choice driven by comfort, efficiency, and long-term savings
In summary, the wall-mounted heat pump is the ideal choice for most Quebec residences, especially for those looking to combine winter heating and summer cooling while saving money in the long run. The wall-mounted air conditioner, meanwhile, remains a solid option for those in need of a simple, efficient summer solution. Whatever your choice, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.