Comparing the energy efficiency of multizone cooling systems and central air conditioners in a climate like Montréal’s is a crucial step in making an informed choice. At AirGreen, we assist our clients daily in Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, as well as on the North and South Shores, in their pursuit of optimal indoor comfort while minimizing energy consumption. Thanks to our real-world experience, we have developed in-depth knowledge of the strengths and limitations of each technology, particularly multizone heat pumps and central air conditioners.
Understanding the two technologies: multizone heat pump and central air conditioner
Multizone heat pump: flexibility and targeted efficiency
A multizone heat pump is an HVAC system that allows several indoor units (often wall-mounted, but also cassette, console, or ceiling types) to be connected to a single outdoor compressor. Each unit can be controlled independently, providing personalized comfort in different areas or rooms of the house.
These systems are especially well-suited for homes with diverse layouts: multi-level houses, intergenerational homes, or residences with extensions.
Main advantages:
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Individual temperature control by room, reducing energy waste.
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Integrated heating and cooling year-round.
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Inverter technology for precise power modulation.
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Higher energy efficiency due to the absence of ducts (reduced heat loss).
Central air conditioner: uniform comfort through a ducted system
The central air conditioner relies on a network of ducts to distribute cooled air throughout the entire home. This system is generally paired with a furnace for heating and uses a centralized thermostat.
Key strengths:
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Fast and even cooling across the whole house.
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Discreet appearance (no visible indoor units).
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Works well in homes already equipped with ductwork.
However, thermal losses in the ducts, the lack of room-by-room control, and the higher energy cost of an often oversized system can be problematic in a climate like Québec's.
Which technology uses less energy in Montréal?
Montréal’s climate and seasonal cycles: a decisive factor
With hot, humid summers and long, harsh winters, annual energy consumption in Montréal is driven not just by cooling, but more importantly by heating. This is where the multizone heat pump clearly stands out.
Energy consumption: the verdict
1. In cooling mode only (summer):
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The central air conditioner can be efficient, but its consumption is often higher due to duct losses (up to 30% in some cases).
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A multizone heat pump allows cooling only occupied areas, significantly reducing energy bills.
2. In heating mode (winter):
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The central air conditioner doesn't provide heating. A separate heating system is then required, often electric or gas.
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The multizone heat pump alone ensures heating even at very low outdoor temperatures (models adapted to Québec’s climate, like the Gree Extreme or the Fujitsu KZAH R-32 that we regularly install), with a COP above 3 even at -15°C, which translates to 70% savings compared to baseboard heaters.
Case study: an AirGreen installation on the North Shore
In a two-story home in Blainville, we recently replaced an old electric heating system and a window air conditioner with a Gree Extreme multizone heat pump of 36,000 BTU with three 12,000 BTU wall-mounted heads.
Client’s objective: lower annual electricity bills, improve comfort, and eliminate noisy window units.
Concrete result:
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42% reduction in electricity consumption over the first six months (including winter).
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Increased comfort in each room thanks to independent control.
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LogisVert grant of $2,500 obtained, reducing the upfront cost.
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Full installation completed in 1 day, without major renovations.
Available grants: a factor not to overlook
Numerous financial incentives are available in Québec for energy-efficient HVAC systems, including:
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Hydro-Québec’s LogisVert program
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Federal grants via the GREENER HOMES program
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Local programs in South Shore, Laval, Longueuil
Multizone heat pumps, as dual-function systems (heating + cooling) with high energy efficiency (SEER > 20 / HSPF > 10), are widely eligible for these grants. In contrast, central air conditioners, often limited to cooling only, do not qualify for the same level of assistance.
What are the key criteria for choosing the right HVAC system?
When should you choose a multizone heat pump?
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You want to reduce your overall energy consumption.
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You need variable comfort by room or area.
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Your home doesn’t have existing ductwork.
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You want to maximize available grants.
When should you choose a central air conditioner?
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Your home already has a well-insulated, efficient duct system.
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You’re looking for a solution exclusively for the summer, with no built-in heating.
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You prefer a discreet system with no visible indoor units.
Conclusion: the smart choice for Montréal
In the context of Québec’s energy landscape, the multizone heat pump is the most energy-efficient and flexible solution. It fits perfectly with the climate realities of Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore and the South Shore, while offering excellent long-term value, especially when factoring in the available grants.
At AirGreen, we analyze each project individually to recommend the most cost-effective solution. Thanks to our technical expertise, client-focused approach, and deep understanding of the Québec HVAC market, we’re able to guide every homeowner toward optimal comfort with minimal energy use.