Central Heat Pumps We’re Dropping in 2026: The Reasons Behind Our Technical Choices
In the heating and cooling industry, each year brings new trends, technological innovations, and regulatory changes. At AirGreen, customer satisfaction in Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, as well as on the North Shore and South Shore, remains central to our mission. After rigorous analysis, we’ve decided to stop installing certain central heat pump models starting in 2026. Today, we explain precisely which models we’re dropping, and the technical and practical reasons behind this choice.
Reasons Behind Our Central Heat Pump Choices
Deciding to discontinue certain central heat pump models is never taken lightly. This choice is based on several clear criteria that we consider essential to ensure your comfort and long-term satisfaction:
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Insufficient energy performance: Models with low energy efficiency ratings (below 14 SEER) no longer meet current expectations for reducing energy consumption.
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Poor reliability in extreme climates: In Montréal and surrounding areas, our harsh winters demand impeccable reliability. Heat pumps poorly suited for extreme temperatures are therefore excluded.
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Frequent maintenance difficulties: Models requiring excessive or complex HVAC maintenance unnecessarily increase costs for our customers.
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Limited availability of replacement parts: Difficulty obtaining spare parts within reasonable time frames has led us to abandon certain equipment.
Specific Models We Will No Longer Install at AirGreen in 2026
Older Fixed-Speed Technology Models (Non-Inverter)
Fixed-speed models, such as certain older units from York or Carrier, operate on an all-or-nothing basis, often causing uncomfortable temperature fluctuations and excessive energy consumption. We now exclusively prioritize models with variable-speed compressors (Inverter), providing stable temperatures and improved efficiency.
Heat Pumps Using Obsolete Refrigerants (R-22, R-410A)
Starting in 2026, we will no longer install any model using refrigerants considered obsolete or excessively polluting, such as R-22 (already banned) or even R-410A, gradually replaced by R-32 or R-454B, both more environmentally friendly and efficient. This decision also anticipates increasingly strict environmental regulations in Québec and throughout Canada.
Specific Models With Poor Reliability in Extreme Winter Conditions
Certain specific models have demonstrated, notably in our previous installations in Laval and Longueuil, an inability to maintain their efficiency below -15°C. Units like older generations of Rheem or certain entry-level models from lesser-known brands are thus removed from our offering.
Feedback from the Field: Why We Made These Choices Through Real Cases
Concrete Case in Laval: Recurring Issues with a Carrier Comfort 13 SEER Heat Pump
During an installation in Laval, we installed a Carrier Comfort model of 36,000 BTU dating from 2018. Very quickly, the customer experienced significant difficulties during winter: frequent defrost cycles, rapid increases in energy costs, and recurrent compressor failures. After several costly and unsatisfactory repairs, we replaced the equipment with a Lennox EL18XCV inverter compressor heat pump. The results were immediate: noticeable reductions in energy costs, improved comfort, and total reliability even at -25°C.
Concrete Case in Longueuil: High Maintenance Costs with an Older-Generation Goodman Heat Pump
Another striking example in Longueuil involved a Goodman GSZ13 central heat pump of 48,000 BTU, installed in 2017. After only a few years, HVAC maintenance became costly due to a noisy compressor and frequently failing components. We recommended upgrading to a Bosch IDS Premium model, renowned for quiet operation, lower maintenance costs, and exceptional performance. This decision not only eliminated unnecessary expenses but also allowed the customer to benefit from government grants thanks to improved energy efficiency.
Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing Your Central Heat Pump in 2026
Drawing from our extensive field experience, here are the main mistakes to avoid when choosing a central heat pump in 2026:
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Choosing based solely on the initial price: A cheaper heat pump can end up costing much more in the long term, in terms of maintenance and energy use.
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Ignoring compressor technology: Avoid fixed-speed models and always prioritize variable-speed (Inverter) compressors for optimal comfort.
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Underestimating environmental impact: Avoid outdated refrigerants and select appliances compliant with upcoming environmental standards.
AirGreen’s Recommendations for Choosing Your Central Heat Pump in 2026
To guarantee your satisfaction, we strongly recommend the following actions:
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Choose a certified, high-efficiency heat pump (18+ SEER): Opt for high-performance models like Lennox, Bosch, or Fujitsu.
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Prioritize variable-speed (Inverter) compressors: These ensure stable comfort and drastically reduce energy costs.
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Check eligibility for government subsidies: Many energy-efficient models provide significant financial assistance in Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, and across Québec.
Why Trust AirGreen in 2026?
Choosing AirGreen means selecting a durable, efficient, and reliable HVAC installation backed by:
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Our recognized expertise throughout Montréal and surrounding regions.
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Technical choices based on real field experience.
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A responsive, qualified team always available to ensure your satisfaction.
To select the best central heat pump in 2026 in Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, North Shore, or South Shore, contact AirGreen today and receive personalized advice tailored to your real needs!