When a bad installation turns into a nightmare — until our team stepped in
In the residential HVAC industry, we’re often called in after customers have gone through extremely disappointing situations with their wall-mounted heat pump. These aren’t just minor issues like noise or a small malfunction. We’re talking about real ordeals — sloppy installations, bad technical practices, and even electrical risks — that compromised the comfort, safety, and energy consumption of the customers involved. Fortunately, at AirGreen, our expertise allows us not only to correct these mistakes, but to restore the confidence of homeowners burned by unreliable contractors.
A poorly installed heat pump in Laval: excessive noise and overconsumption
One of our customers in Laval reached out after having a 12,000 BTU wall-mounted heat pump installed by an independent contractor they found online. Very quickly, the family noticed an abnormal mechanical noise and a drastic increase in their Hydro-Québec bill. Upon inspection, we found that the unit had been installed without anti-vibration mounts, directly on a thin gypsum wall. Worse yet, the condensate drain was non-compliant, causing excessive humidity indoors. We repositioned the unit, replaced the fasteners, installed a heated drainage system, and completely resealed the installation.
Montreal: an installation without vacuum or electrical protection
In Montreal, a commercial client had chosen a provider solely based on price. The result: a 24,000 BTU wall-mounted heat pump installed without vacuuming the refrigerant circuit, and without any proper electrical protection. The compressor overheated after just a few days, leading to total failure. At AirGreen, we completely removed the system, inspected the contaminated refrigerant lines, replaced the damaged components, and installed a Gree Extreme unit with all required breakers, thermal protections, and professional vacuuming. The result: a safe, optimal-performing installation.
Longueuil: refrigerant pipes incompatible with the unit installed
In a condo in Longueuil, a client endured two difficult winters with a wall-mounted heat pump that was poorly matched to the existing piping setup. The installed unit — an 18,000 BTU model — required 1/2 - 5/8 pipes, while the client had 1/4 - 3/8 lines, typically designed for 9,000 to 12,000 BTU units. The previous installer went ahead anyway, resulting in constant pressure loss and premature wear. We recommended a SHARP ZU1 model, compatible with the existing lines, allowing the client to avoid replacing the entire refrigerant circuit. Since then, they’ve enjoyed reliable heating even at -25°C.
South Shore: water infiltration due to improper drainage
Another classic case we encountered on the South Shore: a heat pump installed above furniture with no external drainage line. The result: water was flowing directly into the wall, causing structural damage and mold. Our team stepped in and installed a wall-mounted condensate pump system, a rigid PVC channel to the exterior with a defrost system, and guided the client through decontaminating the affected area. Thanks to our intervention, comfort was restored and the risk of further damage eliminated.
North Shore: constant noise due to a compressor fixed to a metal surface
Lastly, on the North Shore, a retired couple suffered from constant buzzing from the outdoor compressor, which had been bolted directly to a metal balcony plate. The previous installer had chosen this location for convenience. We removed the unit, used Lennox anti-vibration mounts, and reinstalled it on an insulated concrete base. The couple thanked us for bringing peace back to their home.
Why do these errors happen so often?
These basic mistakes are unfortunately common when working with installers who aren’t HVAC-certified, or who are only motivated by speed and cutting costs. At AirGreen, every project is handled with precision:
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On-site technical analysis before any quote
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Careful selection of the model based on the site configuration
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Strict compliance with electrical and refrigeration codes
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Work performed only by certified installers
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Final verification of operation and post-installation guidance
Practical tips to avoid these bad experiences
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Never choose solely based on price.
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Always ask if the installer is HVAC-certified.
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Double-check that the technical specs of the model match your existing lines.
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Prioritize trusted brands eligible for LogisVert grants.
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Insist on a clear written contract, detailing drainage, vacuuming, electrical protection, etc.
The AirGreen approach: expertise, transparency, and precision
These stories show one thing: it’s possible to fix past mistakes, but only by calling in a true wall-mounted HVAC specialist. At AirGreen, we’re used to correcting botched installations, but our biggest satisfaction comes from getting it right the first time. We combine accurate diagnostics, tailored recommendations, and strict adherence to the highest standards across Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, South Shore, and North Shore.
Have doubts about your current setup? Lived through a bad experience? Don’t wait for it to get worse. Our team is here to help — with professionalism, expertise, and transparency.