How to make the right choice between a central heat pump and a wall-mounted heat pump? Our HVAC expertise to guide you
At AirGreen, we understand that choosing between a central heat pump and a wall-mounted heat pump is a crucial decision for homeowners and building managers in Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, as well as on the North Shore and South Shore. Each system has its advantages, but also its limitations. To help you make an informed decision, we’ve gathered here 5 key differences, based on our extensive hands-on experience in residential and commercial HVAC installations.
1. Coverage area: a matter of layout and needs
The first major difference lies in the coverage capacity. A central heat pump, also called a ducted system, is connected to a network of ducts that distributes warm or cool air throughout the home. It's an ideal solution for multi-story houses, apartment buildings, or commercial properties.
On the other hand, a wall-mounted heat pump, or mini split, is perfect for homes without ductwork or for targeted additions in specific rooms like a home office, bedroom, or independent unit.
Real-life example: Recently, we installed a Bosch BOVA36HDN1-M20G central heat pump in a single-family home in Laval. Thanks to its existing duct system, the client enjoyed uniform comfort in all rooms without invasive renovations. In contrast, a project in Longueuil involved a duplex with no ductwork. There, we installed two 12,000 BTU Gree Lomo wall-mounted heat pumps, offering a quick, affordable, and targeted solution.
2. Installation complexity and timelines
Installing a central heat pump requires more planning, especially if ductwork needs to be added or modified. The job can take several days, involve multiple technicians, and incur additional costs.
Installing a wall-mounted heat pump, on the other hand, is often completed in a single day, especially if the building is easily accessible. This makes it a great option for homeowners looking to avoid major renovations.
At AirGreen, we tailor our approach to each client’s reality. In Montréal, we replaced an old electric heating system with a Goodman GSZC18 central heat pump. The work took two days, including the removal of old baseboards and full integration with the existing electrical panel. In Sainte-Thérèse, we installed a single 18,000 BTU Sharp ZU1 wall unit in four hours—drilling, connecting, startup, and a complete walkthrough with the client included.
3. Initial cost and return on investment
Initial cost is a key factor. A central heat pump generally costs more upfront to purchase and install, particularly due to the required labor. However, it becomes more cost-effective in the long run, especially in larger homes, due to its distribution efficiency.
Wall-mounted heat pumps, more affordable to purchase, are a great starting point. They offer excellent energy efficiency in smaller spaces or secondary homes.
Financial assistance: Thanks to Hydro-Québec’s LogisVert program, many models—central or wall-mounted—are eligible for grants. For instance, installing a Fujitsu KZAH R-32 central heat pump can qualify you for up to $5,000 in assistance, depending on the building. Likewise, an 18,000 BTU Gree Extreme wall-mounted unit may be eligible for a $1,704 rebate.
4. Aesthetics, noise, and daily comfort
Central heat pumps have the benefit of being invisible—only air vents are visible in the rooms. The outdoor compressor is generally placed far from living areas, which reduces perceived noise.
In contrast, wall-mounted units are visible inside rooms, although newer models are very discreet. However, some people may be sensitive to the slight fan noise.
We recently worked in Saint-Lambert, where the homeowner prioritized interior aesthetics. We recommended a Lennox EL18XPV central heat pump, discreetly integrated with ceiling diffusers. Conversely, a client in Brossard didn’t want heavy renovations and opted for a Tosot Muse wall-mounted unit, whose compact design fit seamlessly with his contemporary living room.
5. Maintenance, durability, and scalability
In terms of maintenance, wall-mounted systems are easier to clean and service. With simple access to the indoor unit, you can clean filters and perform regular checks with ease. On the other hand, central systems require more thorough HVAC maintenance, especially with regard to ductwork.
As for durability, both options are reliable—especially when installed and maintained by certified professionals like AirGreen. Central models often last slightly longer, around 15 to 20 years, compared to 10 to 15 years for wall-mounted units.
Finally, the modularity of a wall-mounted system makes it easy to add a second or third unit without major reconfiguration. This is a real advantage for scalable projects like multi-generational homes or home offices.
So, which solution is right for you?
Choosing between a central heat pump and a wall-mounted heat pump will depend on:
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The size and layout of your building
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Your budget and available subsidies
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Your comfort and design preferences
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The technical constraints of your property
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Your long-term needs
At AirGreen, our job is to guide you from assessment to installation, with proven local expertise throughout Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore, and the South Shore. We are committed to delivering personalized evaluations, flawless service, and installations that meet the highest standards.
Call us today for a no-obligation quote. Let’s find the best HVAC solution together for your long-term comfort.