Transformation of a 6-Unit Building with a Natural Gas Heating System Replacement by a Central Heat Pump
At AirGreen, we recently completed an ambitious project: replacing an old natural gas heating system in a 6-unit building located in the Longueuil area. The building owner wanted to modernize the heating system while reducing energy costs and their carbon footprint. To achieve this, we opted for a 120,000 BTU central heat pump, ideal for managing the heating needs of multiple residential units while adhering to modern ecological standards.
Why Replace a Natural Gas System?
Natural gas heating systems are increasingly being questioned due to their high operational costs and environmental impact. Additionally, government regulations aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions are pushing more and more property owners to consider greener alternatives. This is why the client contacted us to install a Gree central heat pump, which offers a more eco-friendly and cost-effective solution.
The Chosen Model: Gree Extreme 120,000 BTU Central Heat Pump
For this project, we chose the Gree Extreme 120,000 BTU central heat pump, a unit that is both efficient and energy-efficient, perfect for heating a 6-unit building. This heat pump uses R-32 refrigerant, known for its low environmental impact and superior energy efficiency, thus reducing energy consumption while providing optimal comfort.
The Gree Extreme model is particularly suitable for environments with high heating demands, such as in a multi-unit building. Thanks to its Inverter technology, this heat pump automatically adjusts its power based on demand, ensuring a consistent temperature while optimizing energy consumption.
Challenges of Installation in a 6-Unit Building
Replacing a heating system in a multi-unit building presents unique challenges. In this project, one of the main challenges was connecting the central heat pump to the various ducts of each unit, while ensuring thermal balance between all the apartments. The existing heating system, although aged, was relatively well-integrated, and we had to be very meticulous during installation to ensure efficient heat distribution across the units.
Another major challenge was adapting the system to the confined spaces of the residential units. The air ducts needed to be installed strategically to avoid energy loss and ensure that each apartment received uniform heating.
The Installation Process: Technical Details
Installing the Gree Extreme 120,000 BTU central heat pump required several detailed steps:
-
Removal of the Existing System: We first removed the old natural gas system, ensuring that all environmental regulations were followed for proper recycling of the equipment.
-
Installation of Air Ducts: We installed new air ducts to connect the central heat pump to the various residential units. Each duct was carefully positioned to ensure optimal airflow and avoid heat loss.
-
Positioning of the Central Unit: The central unit was installed in a central location within the building to maximize the system's efficiency while keeping it discreet and not interfering with the building's aesthetics.
-
Electrical Connection and Commissioning: Finally, we connected the heat pump to the building's electrical supply, conducted a performance test, and adjusted the unit's settings to ensure optimal performance.
Results After Installation
Once the installation was completed, the results were impressive. All six units in the building now benefit from uniform heating and a much higher energy efficiency compared to the old natural gas system. The client not only saw a significant reduction in their energy consumption, but also noticed a decrease in their heating bills, particularly during the harsh winter months.
Moreover, the use of R-32 refrigerant allowed the building to reduce its carbon footprint, aligning with the owner's environmental values. The client also noticed a reduction in noise compared to the previous heating system, thus providing a more comfortable living environment for the tenants.
The Impact of Grants for Multi-Unit Building Owners
As part of this project, the building owner was able to benefit from the LogisVert subsidy offered by Hydro-Québec, which helped offset the installation costs. This grant allows multi-unit building owners to make significant savings while choosing more eco-friendly heating solutions. It’s an excellent incentive for anyone looking to modernize their heating systems while meeting environmental criteria.
Why Choose AirGreen for Your HVAC Projects?
At AirGreen, we are committed to providing custom HVAC solutions that meet the specific needs of our clients. We have extensive experience in installing central heat pumps, and once again, we have demonstrated that we can handle complex projects, such as replacing heating systems in multi-unit buildings. Our team of experts guarantees a professional, efficient, and environmentally respectful installation, maximizing energy savings for our clients.
Conclusion
Replacing the natural gas heating system with a Gree Extreme 120,000 BTU central heat pump in this 6-unit building in Longueuil was a complete success. Not only does the system provide optimal comfort for all the residents, but it also allows for substantial energy savings while meeting current environmental standards. At AirGreen, we take pride in contributing to the energy transition for our clients and providing innovative, high-performance HVAC solutions.