The Quebec winter doesn’t compromise. When it rolls in with its storms, frost, and freezing winds, it puts every residential heating system to the test. And yet, it’s precisely in this extreme context that we, at AirGreen, were called to carry out a multizone heat pump installation in Montreal, in a duplex located in the Villeray neighborhood. This project wasn’t just a demonstration of technical skill: it was a true human, logistical, and climatic challenge.
An urgent mission: ensuring comfort and energy efficiency during a snowstorm
The client’s request was clear: replace an old, underperforming electric heating system with a modern, reliable, and energy-efficient solution. Their top priority? Reducing electricity bills, improving indoor comfort, and taking advantage of the available government grants for high-efficiency HVAC systems.
They chose a Gree Multi+ Ultra multizone heat pump with 36,000 BTU, connected to three wall-mounted units: one in the living room, one in the master bedroom, and one in the finished basement. A strategic choice, ideal for covering multiple zones with a single outdoor compressor.
Winter as an adversary: logistics adapted to extreme cold
Installing an HVAC system in January, at -17°C with blowing snow, requires meticulous planning. Unlike warmer months, winter forces our teams to adapt every step:
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Prepping the refrigerant lines in the workshop to minimize exposure on-site.
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Using reinforced insulated ducts to withstand thermal shocks.
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Coordinating with a certified electrician to quickly install a new dedicated 30A breaker in the main panel.
Our technicians had to work with portable heating equipment to maintain minimum temperatures in sensitive areas of the building during the installation.
Technical details: why this Gree multizone system was the perfect choice
The Gree Multi+ Ultra heat pump stands out with several features that make it perfectly suited for Montreal’s climate:
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Heating capacity down to -30°C, maintaining performance thanks to Inverter compressor technology.
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Three indoor wall units ranging from 9,000 to 12,000 BTU each, operating independently.
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A++ energy efficiency rating, ensuring excellent seasonal performance.
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Compatible with Hydro-Québec’s LogisVert program, qualifying for a $2,100 grant.
This system allowed the client to keep full flexibility, adjusting the temperature room by room while maximizing savings.
On-site challenges and solutions: how AirGreen made the difference
During installation, our team encountered a major obstacle: the basement layout, with many partitions, did not allow for effective air distribution. Instead of forcing an unsuitable setup, we recommended a mini wall console unit with horizontal airflow, better suited to the space.
Another challenge: placing the outdoor unit. The client only had a small rear balcony facing north. Our solution? Mounting the unit on a high wall bracket, with an integrated snow guard to prevent ice buildup.
Finally, to ensure perfect sealing, we applied R-4 insulated sleeves on all piping and sealed the wall exits with heat-resistant caulking.
Client testimonial: comfort restored from day one
As soon as the system was powered on, the client noticed an immediate increase in thermal comfort in all areas of the home. The living room, which was previously hard to heat, now reached 22°C in less than 10 minutes—even with an outdoor temperature of -18°C.
The multizone system, paired with a smart thermostat, allowed precise temperature control with schedules adapted to their daily routine.
The client also appreciated our quick and discreet intervention, as well as the post-installation support provided by our technical team.
Why choose a multizone heat pump for Quebec winters?
Multizone heat pumps are among the best options for medium to large homes, especially when:
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Multiple areas need independent heating or cooling.
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It's important to reduce electricity usage by only targeting occupied rooms.
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The home isn’t suitable for a central system.
They’re also ideal for renovations, where insulation may vary from floor to floor, or when discreet wall-mounted solutions are preferred over ductwork.
The tangible benefits of working with AirGreen
At AirGreen, we go beyond installation. Each project is thoroughly assessed:
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On-site thermal study.
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Unbiased technical recommendations based on your property type.
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Clear quote, with no hidden fees.
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Full support for grant applications.
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Responsive, local after-sales service.
We actively serve Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore and South Shore, with experienced technicians trained on brands like Gree, Fujitsu, Bosch, Sharp, and Mitsubishi.
What to take away from this winter installation
Despite extreme conditions, this project proved that a well-planned multizone heat pump installation, carried out by an experienced team, can turn a house into a true sanctuary—even in the heart of a Montreal winter.
It’s our hands-on experience, attention to detail, and customer-first approach that make AirGreen a leader in the HVAC field in Quebec.