Debunking common misconceptions: what Montréalers really need to know about multi-zone heat pumps
At AirGreen, a trusted expert in HVAC solutions across Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore and South Shore, we've heard all kinds of beliefs about multi-zone heat pumps. Some are partly true, others completely false—but all deserve clarification to help our clients make informed decisions. Thanks to our real-world experience—from duplexes in Rosemont to upscale homes in Brossard—we’ve compiled the ten most common myths we hear regularly. Here’s our expert take to set the record straight.
Myth 1: A multi-zone heat pump doesn’t heat as well as a central system
Many people think a multi-zone heat pump can’t provide sufficient heating, especially during Montréal’s harsh winters. That’s false. The models we install—such as the Fujitsu AIRSTAGE, Gree MULTI ZONE U-MATCH, or Zephyr Multi Series—are built to withstand temperatures as low as -30°C, thanks to their high-performance Inverter technology. During a recent installation in Sainte-Thérèse, our client was surprised to see an entire floor kept at 22°C despite it being -28°C outside.
Myth 2: You can’t cool every room with a single multi-zone system
False. Multi-zone systems can support up to 8 wall-mounted, console, or ceiling cassette units from one outdoor compressor. In Longueuil, we installed a Gree multi-zone system in a three-story house, with wall units in five rooms and a concealed duct unit for the basement. The result: optimal comfort, discreet appearance, and room-by-room control.
Myth 3: Installation is complex and invasive
Not with AirGreen. Thanks to our structured approach, our trained technicians can install a multi-zone system in one to two days without disrupting the home. We minimize wall drilling, use discreet conduit covers, and preserve aesthetics. In Laval, one client was worried about her stone dining room walls—we integrated the wall unit with no visible alterations.
Myth 4: A multi-zone heat pump is too expensive
Initial investment may be higher than a simple wall unit, but long-term savings are substantial. Plus, grants like Hydro-Québec’s LogisVert program can provide up to $5,000 in financial assistance for energy-efficient multi-zone installations. Our clients in Boucherville received $4,232 in grants for a Zephyr installation with four zones.
Myth 5: Multi-zone heat pumps are noisy
This is one of the biggest myths. Modern units—like the Gree Multi+ or Fujitsu AIRSTAGE models—have noise levels between 21 and 32 dB, which is barely audible. In Montréal-Nord, a client who worked night shifts was concerned about noise: after the installation, he called us to say he “sometimes forgets the unit is even on.”
Myth 6: A multi-zone system uses a lot of electricity
In reality, these systems are among the most energy-efficient. Equipped with Inverter compressors, they adjust their output to the actual demand in each zone. The result: no waste. A residential building we equipped in Outremont reduced its annual energy bill by 37%.
Myth 7: You can’t add indoor units later
False. Most multi-zone compressors can accommodate additional indoor units as long as outputs are available. This allows you to scale based on your needs. In Anjou, a couple first installed three units, then added two more the following year after renovating the basement.
Myth 8: You have to heat or cool all zones at once
No. Each indoor unit has its own independent thermostat. You can heat the bedroom at night and cool the living room during the day—or turn off some zones completely. This flexibility ensures personalized comfort and significant energy savings.
Myth 9: A multi-zone heat pump isn’t suitable for larger buildings
Quite the opposite. These systems are perfectly designed for multi-level homes, duplexes, and even small businesses. At AirGreen, we recently equipped a duplex in Montréal-Ouest with six indoor units, offering complete coverage using a single high-capacity dual-fan outdoor compressor.
Myth 10: Maintenance is complicated
Maintenance is actually simple and centralized. One outdoor compressor means less exterior cleaning. Each indoor unit just needs regular filter cleaning, which we include in our annual maintenance programs. Our technicians also check R-410A or R-32 refrigerant levels, ensuring year-round peak performance.
What we know at AirGreen
At AirGreen, we’ve completed hundreds of multi-zone heat pump installations across Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore and South Shore. Our strength lies in our ability to tailor each HVAC solution to your reality, whether you own a condo, a multi-generational home, or a commercial space.
Our installers are certified, discreet, fast, and trained to meet the highest standards in the industry. And thanks to our in-depth understanding of government programs, we help you maximize available grants.
Best practices before installing a multi-zone heat pump
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Assess your real needs room by room.
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Choose a trusted brand (Fujitsu, Gree, Zephyr, etc.).
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Hire a certified local installer like AirGreen.
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Check your eligibility for grants.
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Plan for annual maintenance to keep performance high.
Why trust AirGreen
We are a local, committed company. We know the climate, the typical architecture of the region, and above all, the real heating and cooling challenges Montréalers face. We offer customized, efficient, grant-eligible, and long-lasting solutions, backed by thorough after-sales service.