Getting your home ready for a Montréal winter goes far beyond choosing a high-performance wall-mounted heat pump. At AirGreen, we understand that a truly effective HVAC installation relies just as much on the right accessories as it does on the equipment itself—accessories that maximize efficiency, durability, and indoor comfort. This article dives into the five essential accessories that turn a basic wall-mounted heat pump into a custom heating solution, perfectly adapted to the winter realities of Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore and the South Shore.
Maximized winter comfort through the right accessories
Québec winters bring extreme conditions. Freezing temperatures, heavy snowfall, and fluctuating humidity can greatly impact the performance of a heat pump. That’s why we often include several strategic accessories during our installations to protect the unit, improve energy efficiency, and ensure optimal heat distribution.
1. Protective roof for the outdoor unit
One of the most underestimated yet essential accessories is the protective roof — or shelter for the outdoor compressor. This small addition shields the unit from:
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Snow and ice buildup that can block the fans and hinder performance.
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Falling ice from the roof, a common occurrence in Montréal and the North Shore.
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Flying ice from mechanical snow removal, often seen on balconies or driveways.
At AirGreen, we use heavy-duty galvanized steel roofs, installed at a precisely calculated height to avoid restricting airflow while still offering reliable protection.
2. Elevated base (anti-vibration pad or insulating blocks)
The outdoor unit needs to be elevated to keep it clear of snow and melting water. In Montréal and Laval, where snow accumulation can reach impressive heights, it’s crucial to use:
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Polymer concrete bases or other insulating materials.
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Anti-vibration blocks to reduce noise and enhance acoustic comfort.
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Platforms sized according to the manufacturer’s specifications (Gree, Fujitsu, Sharp, etc.).
This ensures proper clearance and extends the lifespan of your wall-mounted heat pump by keeping it protected from pooling water and frost.
3. Heated drainage system
Another smart winter addition is the heated cable for the condensate drain. This cable is installed in or around the drainage pipe to prevent freezing. It’s especially useful for:
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Installations exposed to wind or located in shaded areas.
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Homes on the South Shore, where humidity levels can be higher in winter.
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Households that rely heavily on the heat pump as their main source of heating.
This system prevents drainage blockages, a common cause of winter shutdowns, and reduces maintenance needs.
4. Wall-mounted smart thermostat
A wall-mounted heat pump is only as effective as its control system. Adding a programmable or smart wall thermostat allows for:
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Precise indoor temperature control, even remotely from your smartphone.
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Optimized automatic defrost cycles, crucial for maintaining efficiency in freezing conditions.
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Integration with smart home systems (e.g., Google Home, Alexa).
We recommend models compatible with the leading brands installed by AirGreen, such as the Fujitsu UTY-RVNUM thermostat or products from Ecobee and Mysa, both perfectly suited for modern wall-mounted heat pumps.
5. Air deflector (or wall-mounted air guide)
Last but not least: the air deflector, a discreet wall-mounted accessory that redirects the flow of warm air more efficiently across a room. It helps:
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Evenly distribute heat in larger spaces.
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Enhance thermal comfort by eliminating cold zones.
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Improve heating efficiency by preventing warm air from circulating too quickly back to the unit (which would prematurely shut down the compressor).
These accessories are especially helpful in open-concept homes or in Montréal condos with high ceilings.
Our expert recommendations for Montréal and surrounding areas
At AirGreen, we tailor each wall-mounted heat pump installation to the specific conditions of your home and the region you live in. On the North Shore, where temperatures drop even lower than in Montréal, we systematically recommend the combo of roof + heated cable + elevated base. On the South Shore, we pay special attention to humidity and prevailing winds.
We recently completed an installation in Saint-Eustache, where we installed an 18,000 BTU Gree Lomo wall-mounted heat pump equipped with a protective roof, anti-vibration blocks, and a Mysa smart thermostat. The result: a satisfied client, outstanding thermal comfort, and nearly a 30% reduction on her electricity bill.
Why are these accessories a smart investment?
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Improved energy performance: Less effort to heat, less energy consumption.
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Extended equipment lifespan: Less mechanical stress, better resistance to climate.
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Prevention of common winter failures: Fan blockage, frozen drains, unexpected shutdowns.
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Enhanced comfort for the whole family, even during January’s coldest spells.
Trust AirGreen for an optimized winter installation
When you choose us for your wall-mounted heat pump installation, you benefit from our full HVAC expertise, including the selection and installation of the right accessories for your situation. Whether you're in Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore or the South Shore, we take care of every technical detail to ensure lasting, secure comfort all winter long.
Contact us today to discuss your heating needs and receive a personalized quote including all recommended accessories for your home.
