A must-read comparison to help you choose the right cooling system in Québec
At AirGreen, we know that making an informed decision can make all the difference when it comes to thermal comfort at home or in the workplace. Whether you live in Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, on the North Shore, or the South Shore, one question comes up time and time again: portable air conditioner or wall-mounted heat pump? To help you decide, we’ve created a complete, thorough comparison based on our real-world experience in HVAC installation.
The Portable Air Conditioner: A temporary solution, but with limitations
How it works and when it’s used
The portable air conditioner is a standalone unit that plugs into a power outlet and connects to a window with a hose to vent hot air outside. It's a popular option because of its mobility, easy installation, and relatively low initial cost.
Advantages of the portable air conditioner
-
No technician required for setup
-
Easy to move from room to room
-
Affordable purchase price (generally between $300 and $800)
-
A quick fix during occasional heat waves
Major drawbacks
-
Very noisy during operation
-
Low energy efficiency, usually with a poor SEER rating
-
Limited to small areas
-
Risks of excess condensation or poor venting
-
No heating function, with rare exceptions
Verdict on the portable air conditioner
It’s a decent temporary compromise, but in no way a long-term solution to ensure optimal thermal comfort—especially in Québec, where temperature swings are extreme.
The Wall-Mounted Heat Pump: A long-lasting comfort solution for all seasons
A two-in-one technology: heating and cooling
The wall-mounted heat pump – also known as a mini split – draws heat from outside air to redistribute it indoors in winter, and reverses the process in summer. At AirGreen, we install reputable brands like Fujitsu, Gree, Haxxair, Zephyr, Bosch, Goodman, and Tosot, whose models are perfectly suited to Québec’s climate.
Major strengths of the wall-mounted heat pump
-
Dual function for heating and cooling
-
High energy efficiency: SEER and HSPF ratings well above average
-
Quiet and compact
-
Wall-mounted with no floor space required
-
Eligible for government grants (up to $5,000 through Hydro-Québec’s LogisVert program)
-
Cuts down on annual energy costs
-
Long lifespan (over 15 years with regular maintenance)
Drawbacks to keep in mind
-
Higher upfront cost (around $3,000 to $6,000 depending on BTU and brand)
-
Must be installed by certified technicians
-
Requires planning for placement and sometimes wall drilling
Case Study: An AirGreen installation on the South Shore
Let’s take the example of a residential customer in Saint-Lambert, on the South Shore. Tired of the poor performance of his old portable air conditioner, he contacted us to install a Gree Sapphire 18,000 BTU wall-mounted heat pump.
Project Overview:
-
Free home thermal assessment
-
Selection of the heat pump based on the customer’s needs and building layout
-
Fast installation in just one day by our certified team
-
System configuration for year-round optimal comfort
-
Assistance in securing the $1,704 LogisVert grant
The result: significantly lower heating bills, better indoor air quality, and a fully satisfied customer.
Why the wall-mounted heat pump is the logical choice in Québec
A true four-season solution
Unlike portable air conditioners, the wall-mounted heat pump doesn’t just cool in summer. It’s a fully functional alternative heating system, capable of operating even at -25°C, thanks to models built for northern climates.
Energy performance and acoustic comfort
The heat pumps we install are almost all inverter-type, meaning they automatically adjust their speed based on the indoor temperature. This allows for:
-
Consistent, stable indoor comfort
-
Optimized energy consumption
-
Virtually silent operation, far superior to noisy portable units
Grants and return on investment
Thanks to available provincial and federal incentives, the cost of installing a heat pump becomes highly competitive. On top of that, reduced electricity bills help you pay off the system in just a few years.
Expert advice to help you choose wisely
If you’re a renter or on a tight budget:
A portable air conditioner may temporarily meet your needs. However, be fully aware of its significant limitations.
If you’re a homeowner looking for long-term comfort:
Investing in a wall-mounted heat pump is by far the better option. You’ll benefit from a high-performance, energy-efficient, and eco-friendly system, while also increasing the value of your property.
AirGreen: Your HVAC expert in Montréal and surrounding areas
With hundreds of successful installations in Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, North Shore, and South Shore, AirGreen is your go-to HVAC expert. Our approach is based on listening to our clients, personalized assessments, certified workmanship, and top-performing equipment.
Trust our team to guide you through your transition to modern, year-round comfort.
Key Takeaways
| Criteria | Portable Air Conditioner | Wall-Mounted Heat Pump |
|---|---|---|
| Cooling | Moderate | Excellent performance |
| Heating | Rare and inefficient | Highly effective |
| Energy consumption | High | Low |
| Noise level | Loud | Quiet |
| Installation | Simple, DIY | Requires professionals |
| Available grants | None | Yes (up to $5,000) |
| Durability | Low | 15+ years |
Conclusion: The wall-mounted heat pump wins the duel
The verdict is clear: the wall-mounted heat pump far surpasses the portable air conditioner, in terms of performance, energy savings, and overall comfort. At AirGreen, we firmly believe that every installation should be designed for the long haul and tailored to the climate realities of Québec.
Contact us today for a free evaluation of your heating and cooling needs. Together, let’s upgrade your comfort for the long term.