Protect your HVAC investment from the start by avoiding these common mistakes
At AirGreen, we’ve been installing central heat pumps for many years across Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore and the South Shore, and one thing keeps coming up: homeowners who regret rushing into a poorly informed decision. Before signing anything, it’s essential to understand the most common traps when installing a central heat pump – not just to ensure comfort, but to secure a long-lasting, energy-efficient investment that qualifies for government grants.
Here are the 5 most common traps to avoid before finalizing your HVAC installation contract.
1. Skipping the thermal evaluation and building configuration
The most common mistake we see is signing a contract based on a simple phone quote. Without a full on-site thermal assessment – including square footage, insulation levels, building orientation, and heat loss calculations – you risk choosing an underpowered or oversized unit.
At AirGreen, we always carry out a technical inspection on site, especially for residential projects in Laval and Longueuil. For example, in a single-family home in Chomedey, we adjusted the unit choice to a 36,000 BTU Goodman after identifying poor attic insulation, helping the client avoid future energy cost overruns.
Bottom line: always demand a technical visit before signing.
2. Choosing the wrong BTU output and model
Too often, customers are offered 24,000 or 48,000 BTU heat pumps without any real needs assessment. This can lead to performance issues, premature wear, or high energy bills.
We recently encountered a case in Saint-Hubert where a customer had signed for a 48,000 BTU Lennox system that was completely oversized for his bungalow. The result: short cycles, discomfort, and high utility bills. AirGreen replaced the unit with a Bosch BOVA36 Inverter, better suited, quieter, and fully eligible for the LogisVert grant.
Tip: always ask for a heat load calculation to determine the correct capacity.
3. Not understanding the system type (heat pump vs. hybrid system)
There are several HVAC system configurations, including standard central heat pumps, heat pumps with electric backup, or hybrid systems combining a heat pump and a natural gas furnace.
In multiple projects across Laval and the North Shore, we recommended a Bosch hybrid system to clients who wanted to keep their existing furnace while optimizing energy efficiency.
Things to consider:
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A hybrid system is often more cost-effective long term if you have access to natural gas.
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Modern heat pumps like the FUJITSU KZAH R-32 operate efficiently down to -26°C, which is a big plus in Montréal.
4. Overlooking grants and eligibility requirements
One major trap is signing a contract for a heat pump that doesn’t meet the minimum requirements for available grants such as Hydro-Québec’s LogisVert, Rénoclimat, or other municipal programs.
At AirGreen, we’ve seen clients pay $12,000 for a unit that wasn’t eligible, when a higher-quality alternative would’ve qualified them for up to $5,000 in savings through the current programs.
Good reflex: make sure the selected model is:
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Energy Star certified
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Meets the minimum SEER and HSPF seasonal efficiency ratings
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On the eligibility list of the relevant grant program
We handle the entire LogisVert application process for our clients, including the technical documentation and compliance photos. Peace of mind included with all our projects in Longueuil, Brossard, or Terrebonne.
5. Failing to review warranties, certifications, and after-sales service
Not all HVAC systems are created equal when it comes to warranties. Some contractors install uncertified equipment with sketchy 5-year warranties that no one honors.
At AirGreen, we install only trusted models such as:
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Bosch BOVA36 (R-454B) – 10-year warranty on parts and compressor
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Goodman GSZC18 – lifetime limited warranty on the compressor
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Fujitsu KZAH R-32 – operates down to -26°C, 12-year warranty (with certified installer)
Key advice: make sure your installer is:
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Licensed with a valid RBQ number
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A member of the Corporation des maîtres mécaniciens en tuyauterie du Québec (CMMTQ)
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Locally based and available for annual HVAC maintenance or emergency repairs
We were recently called to Boisbriand to take over a botched installation from an out-of-town company. The result: added delays, refrigerant line rework, and no warranty. A totally avoidable risk.
Why choose AirGreen for your central heat pump installation?
Proven expertise throughout Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore and South Shore
For years, we’ve worked in a variety of neighborhoods – from Rosemont to Saint-Eustache, from Longueuil to Blainville – delivering highly professional HVAC installation services, rooted in transparency, attentive service, and technical excellence.
Fully compliant installations eligible for maximum grants
Every project is custom-designed, with detailed follow-through:
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On-site technical assessment
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Recommendation of the best-suited system
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Installation by certified technicians
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Full handling of grant application process
Personalized advice and total transparency
At AirGreen, we never pressure you into signing. Our mission: to guide you wisely through your HVAC project, ensuring comfort, savings, and peace of mind for the next 15 years.
What to remember before signing your contract
Before signing for a central heat pump, ask yourself the right questions:
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Has my home been properly assessed?
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Is the proposed system correctly sized for my needs?
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Is it eligible for grants?
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What is the real warranty and who honors it?
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Is the after-sales service local and reliable?
At AirGreen, we’re here to guide you, help you avoid costly mistakes, and offer a reliable, high-performance, grant-eligible solution.