Behind our strict brand selection: a commitment to quality, durability, and comfort across Greater Montréal
In a market where the options for wall-mounted heat pumps seem endless, it’s only natural for a customer to wonder: why do certain installers like AirGreen, known for their HVAC expertise in Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore and the South Shore, flat-out refuse to install certain brands or models? This refusal can be surprising—especially when a customer believes they’ve found an “affordable” unit praised by some retailers.
But behind every refusal lie solid technical, ethical, and professional reasons. At AirGreen, we make no compromises when it comes to quality, safety, or long-term customer satisfaction. Here’s why some brands are simply excluded from our offering—and why that’s great news for you.
Actual performance in the field—not just what’s on paper
Many brands boast impressive technical specs. But in reality, some heat pumps fail miserably when exposed to the harsh Québec climate, where temperatures can drop below -25°C.
Here are the main criteria we check in real-world conditions:
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Actual performance at low temperatures (not just what’s advertised)
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Reliability of electronic components after multiple freeze/thaw cycles
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Lifespan of the compressor and blower motor
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Ability to maintain warm airflow even during extreme cold
In multiple test installations in 2023 and 2024 on the North Shore, we observed emerging brand units that failed and went into error mode at just -15°C—leaving homes uncomfortably cold during winter.
Replacement parts that are unavailable or take far too long to arrive
Installing a wall-mounted heat pump from a little-known or newly imported brand might seem cost-effective in the short term. But what happens if it breaks down? Many brands have no local parts distribution in Québec.
Our after-sales service team has documented the following problems:
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8 to 12 week delays for electronic boards or blower fans
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No response from the manufacturer or Canadian distributor
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Incompatibility between product generations for certain parts
That’s why, at AirGreen, we only work with brands that have a strong local network for parts and service across Québec.
Warranty coverage that’s mostly theoretical and rarely honored
Some brands promise 10 or even 12-year warranties. But reading the fine print reveals:
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The warranty is only valid if installation is done by a “manufacturer-approved technician”, often unavailable in the region
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It doesn’t cover labor or travel costs
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It requires twice-yearly HVAC maintenance from an exclusive partner, with penalties if missed
AirGreen refuses to mislead clients with fake warranties. We carefully choose manufacturer partners known for transparent and dependable after-sales support.
Energy efficiency often overstated
Some models claim high SEER or HSPF ratings. Yet, our internal testing has shown that these numbers are rarely met in actual usage conditions in Montréal.
Real example: a unit installed in Longueuil in 2024, supposedly rated SEER 22, ended up consuming more electricity than a certified SEER 17 unit installed in an identical home under the same conditions.
Why? Because the inverter system was poorly calibrated, the internal control software overheated the space unnecessarily, and the indoor temperature sensor was badly placed.
Almost no technical support for installers
At AirGreen, we provide continuous training for our technicians on new products. But that only works if the manufacturer provides clear documentation in French and accessible technical support.
Several of the brands we’ve excluded suffer from:
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Manuals only available in English or poorly translated
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Customer support numbers that don’t work or are based in Asia, making support difficult across time zones
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Lack of proper diagnostic tools or understandable error codes
To avoid installation or maintenance errors, we stick with brands that actively support field professionals.
Products that aren’t certified or eligible for LogisVert subsidies
Many homeowners across Montréal and surrounding areas want to benefit from grant programs like Hydro-Québec’s LogisVert. But not every heat pump qualifies.
Here are the main eligibility criteria:
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ENERGY STAR certification
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Minimum efficiency requirements depending on the type and capacity
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Installation by a certified contractor
Several lesser-known brands are automatically disqualified from these grants. At AirGreen, we always inform our clients upfront and handle the full subsidy application process.
A direct impact on your comfort—and your wallet
Refusing certain brands means protecting our clients from costly mistakes. A poorly tuned, fragile, or unsupported unit will cost you:
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More repairs
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Less comfort
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Higher energy consumption
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Lower resale value
On the other hand, a system we approve guarantees:
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Reliable heating even during Montréal’s coldest winters
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A safe, long-lasting, and visually clean installation
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Full eligibility for the best available grants
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Peace of mind with local support
Conclusion: Our strict standards are your quality guarantee
At AirGreen, we won’t install anything we wouldn’t use in our own homes. Every wall-mounted heat pump we offer has proven itself in real-world conditions—on site, with our own technicians and clients.
We believe a good product choice starts with a duty to be transparent. That’s why we say no to certain brands, even when they look impressive on paper.
Looking for a no-compromise HVAC installation in Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore or South Shore? Contact AirGreen today.