Everything You Need to Know Before Buying a Used Wall-Mounted Heat Pump in Montréal
With rising energy costs across Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore and South Shore, choosing a wall-mounted heat pump has become a must for efficient year-round comfort. While brand-new models are attractive due to their advanced performance and generous warranties, the second-hand market for wall-mounted heat pumps is emerging as a seemingly cost-effective alternative. But does this lower price truly make it a good investment—or could it turn into a costly mistake down the road? At AirGreen, we’re sharing our professional insight to help you make the smartest, safest choice.
Why Consider a Used Wall-Mounted Heat Pump?
Immediate Savings on Purchase Price
The biggest appeal of a used wall-mounted heat pump is, of course, the lower upfront cost. A new unit, depending on the brand and BTU capacity, can easily cost several thousand dollars. Choosing a used model can significantly reduce this initial expense.
However, those immediate savings could be hiding hidden costs—related to HVAC installation, system maintenance, or near-future repairs. So, it's crucial to stay informed and cautious before making your decision.
Quick Availability Across Greater Montréal
In peak season, wait times for new unit installations can stretch out, while a used heat pump is often available right away. This is especially attractive to homeowners dealing with a climate emergency or a sudden breakdown.
The Risks of Buying a Used Wall-Mounted Heat Pump
Uncertain Technical Condition
The biggest drawback of a used heat pump is the uncertainty of its technical condition. Even if the unit looks good on the outside, some serious issues—like refrigerant leaks, compressor failures, or fan wear—might not be visible at first glance.
At AirGreen, we’ve encountered many cases where a customer who bought a used heat pump ended up facing costly repairs that erased any savings. For instance, during a recent service call in Laval, our team had to fully replace the compressor on a used wall-mounted unit—leading to a big, unexpected bill for the homeowner.
No Warranty and High Financial Risk
Unlike new models that usually come with a manufacturer’s warranty (often between 5 and 10 years), used units almost never include that safety net. If something major goes wrong, you’ll be paying for repairs or a full replacement out of pocket. That initial deal can quickly become a financial burden.
Lower Energy Efficiency
Another critical factor is energy efficiency. New wall-mounted heat pumps benefit from major technological advances, especially the use of environmentally friendly refrigerants like R-32 or R-454B, which are far more efficient than older types. An older used unit could consume significantly more energy—raising your monthly bills and reducing your long-term savings.
Expert Tips from AirGreen for Buying a Used Wall-Mounted Heat Pump in Montréal
If you’re still considering a used unit, here are our top recommendations to protect your investment:
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Have the unit inspected by a professional: Always request a full inspection from a certified HVAC technician before buying. This is essential to detect hidden issues, like refrigerant leaks or electrical problems.
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Ask for maintenance history: A well-maintained heat pump will perform better and last longer. Maintenance records from the previous owner are a strong plus.
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Stick to well-known brands: Opt for trusted names like Fujitsu, Gree, Bosch, Lennox, or Mitsubishi. These brands are more likely to remain reliable—even in the second-hand market.
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Plan for repair costs: When you buy used, it’s smart to keep a budget aside for potential repairs down the line.
Real AirGreen Experiences: Lessons From the Field
At AirGreen, we’ve seen firsthand how a used wall-mounted heat pump can either be a great opportunity—or a major headache for homeowners in Montréal and nearby areas.
For example, in a recent project on the South Shore, we were able to restore a used Fujitsu heat pump after a thorough professional tune-up. The unit turned out to be a reliable system thanks to its excellent maintenance history and pre-purchase inspection.
In contrast, a separate case in Longueuil involved a used heat pump that looked fine on the surface—but quickly revealed costly issues. The client ended up spending more in repairs than they would have with a new unit.
AirGreen’s Expert Takeaway: Proceed With Caution
While a used wall-mounted heat pump can seem financially appealing, it comes with serious technical and financial risks. Unless you’ve had it fully inspected and verified its service history, we generally recommend investing in a new unit, especially since new systems often qualify for excellent government rebates like Hydro-Québec’s LogisVert Program.
At AirGreen, our team is always here to guide you through every step of your HVAC installation or maintenance project, whether you're in Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore or the South Shore.