A strategic choice for Québec’s extreme weather
At AirGreen, we’re often asked one crucial question by our clients in Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore and the South Shore: can international heat pump brands really handle Québec’s harsh climate? Gree, a Chinese giant known worldwide in the HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) sector, is one of the options that often attracts attention thanks to its excellent price-to-performance ratio. But how does it really perform during a freezing Québec winter? Here’s our detailed analysis, based on real installations carried out by our team.
A global reputation… but locally adapted?
Founded in China, Gree Electric Appliances is now one of the world’s largest manufacturers of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. Its range of central heat pumps targets both residential homes and multi-unit buildings. What stands out is its inverter technology, high-efficiency compressor, and the promise of stable performance even in extremely cold weather.
But promises on paper aren’t enough. At AirGreen, we make it a point to test equipment performance in real-world conditions. And that’s exactly what we’ve done across several projects in cities throughout Québec.
Case study: Gree central heat pump installation on the North Shore
A homeowner in Sainte-Thérèse, on the North Shore, recently contacted us to replace an aging forced-air system. He was looking for a solution that was energy-efficient, eligible for rebates, and most importantly, could ensure consistent indoor comfort throughout the cold season.
Our recommendation: a Gree Flexx central heat pump with a 36,000 BTU capacity, using R-410A refrigerant. This model is compatible with existing ductwork and delivers stable temperatures down to -25 °C.
Installation process
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Initial technical assessment: we reviewed the heated area, insulation level, and the existing duct network.
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Removal of the old system: safe disposal of obsolete components.
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Outdoor unit installation: strategically placed away from dominant winds, mounted on a raised base to avoid snow buildup.
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Connection to central ductwork: careful calibration to ensure even airflow throughout the house.
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Start-up and testing: pressure checks, blower speed adjustments, and real-world performance (COP) verification.
Result: the client now enjoys even, consistent heating throughout the home, with a more than 35% reduction in winter energy bills.
Winter performance: what we’ve seen first-hand
Despite the skepticism sometimes aimed at overseas equipment, the Gree Flexx central heat pump demonstrated excellent performance in extreme cold. Our field tests at -22 °C in a residential area of Longueuil revealed the following:
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No significant performance drop.
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Stable airflow in every room, even during peak cold.
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Moderate electricity consumption, thanks to DC inverter technology.
The verdict is clear: Gree heat pumps offer a reliable and cost-effective solution for homeowners who want to invest in a high-performance central system, without paying the premium prices of some big-name North American or European brands.
Rebate eligibility and financial incentives
With strong seasonal efficiency ratings (HSPF over 10), many models of Gree central heat pumps are eligible for Hydro-Québec’s LogisVert rebate. Depending on the unit’s power and energy rating, our clients can receive up to $5,000 in grants for residential projects.
At AirGreen, we handle the entire administrative process, from helping you choose eligible equipment to submitting all required documentation. Our goal is to make your transition to an efficient HVAC solution as smooth as possible.
What our clients are saying
During a project on the South Shore in Brossard, a family of four shared their complete satisfaction after we installed a 48,000 BTU Gree model:
“We were initially a bit hesitant about the overseas origin, but the AirGreen team clearly explained the technical specs. Now our house is warm all winter long, even in February, and our hydro bill has gone down!”
Mistakes to avoid when buying a Gree central heat pump
Even though these units are robust, certain common mistakes can impact their performance:
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Failing to assess the home’s heating load.
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Installing the outdoor unit in a poorly ventilated or overexposed location.
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Skipping annual maintenance, which is crucial for long-term performance.
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Choosing an underpowered or oversized model.
Our certified technicians ensure that every project meets industry best practices, both in sizing and installation quality.
Why trust AirGreen with your HVAC project?
With hundreds of installations under our belt throughout Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore and the South Shore, we’ve built unmatched real-world expertise. Every project is handled with precision and care—details that make all the difference.
Our commitment:
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Full-service support from quote to start-up.
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Careful selection of equipment based on each client’s real needs.
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Responsive after-sales service and personalized maintenance advice.
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Complete transparency on pricing, timelines, and warranties.
Conclusion: Gree proves itself through real-world results
Gree central heat pumps are now a serious and credible option for Québec winters, offering solid comfort without breaking the bank. Their efficiency, eligibility for rebates, and affordability make them a smart choice for many households.
At AirGreen, we believe in a personalized, professional, and human approach to every HVAC project. And that’s exactly what we deliver—day in, day out—to our clients across Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore and the South Shore.