At AirGreen, we frequently receive requests from customers interested in installing central heat pumps on their own, hoping to save on installation costs. While the idea of a DIY (Do It Yourself) installation might seem appealing, it can quickly turn into a costly nightmare, especially when dealing with systems as complex as central heat pumps.
In this article, we reflect on a recent case where a client from Montréal attempted to install their central heat pump themselves, and the results were far from what they had hoped. We detail the mistakes made, the financial consequences, and why it is always better to trust a professional installation.
The Case of the Client from Montréal: A DIY Installation Gone Wrong
A few months ago, a client from Montréal, located in the Plateau Mont-Royal neighborhood, decided to install a Gree 36,000 BTU central heat pump, a model suitable for medium-sized homes, thinking that the savings from the installation would be substantial. This model, although efficient, required specific knowledge to properly install the outdoor unit and configure the ducts.
The Initial Steps of the Installation
The client began by purchasing the heat pump online after doing some research and evaluating the available equipment. They then started installing the outdoor unit on their balcony, intending to mount it on a stand without truly considering the minimum distance specifications between the unit and the fence, as well as the optimal ventilation requirements.
The Mistakes Made During the Installation
1. Incorrect Duct Sizing
One of the first mistakes noticed was the incorrect sizing of the air ducts. The ducts were too small for the chosen system, which immediately impacted the air circulation and the effectiveness of heating and cooling throughout the home. Poor air circulation leads to reduced energy efficiency, premature system wear, and increased energy consumption.
2. Incorrect Electrical Connection
The client attempted to connect the outdoor unit themselves using the existing wiring, but the circuit breaker was inadequate for the installed model. The circuit was too weak to handle the heat pump’s load, which resulted in frequent electrical outages and an increased fire risk. Additionally, the home's electrical infrastructure was not suited to the demands of a high-performance heating and cooling system.
3. Improper Installation of the Outdoor Unit
The outdoor unit was installed too close to the wall, which limited airflow and caused issues with compressor cooling. As a result, the central heat pump struggled to maintain a stable indoor temperature, requiring longer and more energy-consuming operation periods. Moreover, the unit was not properly secured, leading to excessive noise and vibrations.
The Financial Consequences
Initially, the client sought to save on installation costs, but quickly discovered that DIY installation was not as cost-effective as they had imagined. Here is an estimate of the costs associated with the mistakes made:
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Initial cost of the heat pump: $3,500
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Repairing the incorrectly sized ducts: $800
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Replacing the circuit breaker and upgrading the electrical system: $1,200
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Correcting the placement of the outdoor unit: $600
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Additional time for adjustments: $300
In the end, the client paid over $5,400 for repairs and adjustments, nearly $2,000 more than they would have paid for a professional installation.
Why It’s Essential to Call a Professional
1. A Professional Guarantees Compliance with Local Codes and Standards
Central heat pump installations must meet strict standards regarding electricity, ventilation, duct connections, and outdoor unit placement. Qualified professionals like AirGreen ensure that all these steps comply with local regulations, providing a safe and compliant installation.
2. A System Tailored to Your Home
Every home is unique, and a professional will take the time to conduct a thorough thermal analysis to determine the exact heat pump capacity needed. This careful calculation prevents sizing errors, like those made by the client in Montréal. We always select systems that are best suited for the space, climate, and specific needs of each client.
3. Warranty and After-Sales Service
By hiring a professional for your heat pump installation, you benefit from extended warranties offered by the manufacturers. If a failure occurs, a certified technician can intervene quickly, without risking voiding your warranty due to installation errors.
4. Long-Term Energy Savings
A professional installation optimizes your system’s energy efficiency. This results in lower energy bills, fewer breakdowns, and maximum comfort without unpleasant energy surprises.
The Benefits of Choosing AirGreen
At AirGreen, we focus on quality, safety, and efficiency at every stage of the installation. Here’s what we offer:
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A compliant installation: Every installation complies with safety standards, energy efficiency requirements, and manufacturer specifications.
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Dedicated after-sales service: Once your system is installed, we provide full follow-up and regular maintenance to ensure long-term performance.
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Significant energy savings: Thanks to optimized installations, our clients see substantial savings on their energy bills.
Conclusion: A DIY installation of a central heat pump might seem like a good idea, but it can quickly turn into a costly adventure. To avoid expensive mistakes and ensure optimal system performance, it’s always better to call in a qualified professional. At AirGreen, we’re here to provide a custom installation that is perfectly suited to your home, needs, and budget. Contact us for a free quote and discover our effective heating and cooling solutions for Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore, and the South Shore.