Transforming a Garage into a Loft: The Perfect Solution for a Heat Pump
At AirGreen, we’re accustomed to carrying out HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) installations in a wide range of situations. Recently, we had the opportunity to install a Fujitsu KZAH 18,000 BTU heat pump in an old garage converted into a loft in the Montreal area. This unique project showcased the flexibility of heat pumps and their ability to adapt to unconventional spaces while ensuring optimal thermal comfort. In this article, we will walk you through the story of this transformation, the challenges we faced, and the impressive results achieved with this heat pump installation.
The Project: An Old Garage Transformed into a Modern Loft
The client, a young couple who had recently purchased a home in Montreal, decided to transform their unused garage into a modern living space: a loft with a living room, kitchen, and office. While the space was spacious, it lacked insulation and an adequate heating and cooling system, making the environment uncomfortable in both winter and summer. They contacted AirGreen to find an effective solution that would meet their needs.
The Choice of the Fujitsu KZAH 18,000 BTU Heat Pump
For this project, the Fujitsu KZAH 18,000 BTU heat pump was chosen for its many technical qualities and energy efficiency. This model is particularly suited for medium-sized spaces like this loft because it provides high energy performance while being discreet and space-saving. Here are the main reasons why this model was recommended:
-
18,000 BTU capacity: This power is ideal for heating or cooling an area of 400 to 500 square feet, which perfectly matches the size of the transformed loft.
-
R-32 refrigerant: This eco-friendly refrigerant reduces environmental impact while offering optimal performance.
-
High energy efficiency: With an A++ energy class, this heat pump significantly reduces energy consumption, resulting in substantial long-term savings for the homeowners.
The Challenge of Installation in an Unconventional Space
Installing a heat pump in a space like an old garage converted into a loft presents a unique set of challenges. The main obstacles we faced were as follows:
-
Lack of insulation: The garage was not designed to be a living space, meaning we needed to add insulation before installing the heat pump. This required careful preparatory work.
-
High ceiling: The loft had a relatively high ceiling, making it more challenging to install the indoor unit for optimal air distribution.
-
Placement of the outdoor unit: Finding a discreet spot for the outdoor unit without compromising the heat pump’s efficiency was another major challenge. We also had to ensure the unit was protected from the elements and easily accessible for maintenance.
The Installation Process: Careful Preparation
Once the challenges were identified, our team began with a thorough site evaluation. We took measurements to assess insulation, ventilation, and access to different areas of the loft. Here are the detailed steps of the installation:
-
Insulation reinforcement: Before installing the heat pump, we reinforced the insulation of the walls and ceiling to ensure a stable temperature and minimal energy loss. This preparatory work was crucial to maximize the system's efficiency.
-
Installing the indoor unit: The Fujitsu KZAH heat pump’s indoor unit was mounted on the wall at a height that allowed for even air distribution throughout the room. We made sure to direct the airflow in a strategic manner to prevent any buildup of heat or cold in any one area.
-
Placing the outdoor unit: The outdoor unit was installed on a stable base outside the loft, in a well-ventilated yet discreet location to minimize visual impact. We paid special attention to the connections to ensure airtightness and efficiency.
-
Testing and verification: After the installation was completed, we performed a series of tests to verify that the heat pump was functioning correctly. We checked the air circulation, temperature, and refrigerant pressure to ensure everything was working as expected.
-
Client explanation: Before leaving the site, we took the time to explain to the client how to maintain their heat pump, the best practices to maximize the unit's efficiency, and the frequency of necessary checks.
The Results: A Comfortable Loft Year-Round
Once the Fujitsu KZAH 18,000 BTU heat pump was installed and running, the results were immediate. The client noticed a significant improvement in thermal comfort throughout the loft, with a consistent and pleasant temperature, whether in summer or winter.
Optimal Thermal Comfort
Thanks to the 18,000 BTU capacity of the heat pump, the loft’s temperature is kept at an ideal level year-round, regardless of the outside weather conditions. In winter, warm air is evenly distributed throughout the space, and in summer, the cooling system ensures a pleasant coolness without fluctuations.
Energy Savings and Environmental Benefits
The R-32 refrigerant and the A++ energy classification of the Fujitsu KZAH allow the client to make significant savings on their energy bills. Furthermore, the low environmental impact of this heat pump contributes to a more eco-friendly energy approach.
Client Satisfaction
The client expressed great satisfaction with the efficiency of the heat pump and the quality of the installation. Here’s their testimonial:
"We are thrilled with the comfort of our new loft. The Fujitsu heat pump ensures an ideal temperature, and we've already noticed a reduction in our energy costs. The AirGreen team did an exceptional job."
Conclusion: A Successful Transformation
This installation in an old garage converted into a loft demonstrates the flexibility and efficiency of Fujitsu heat pumps in unconventional spaces. Through careful preparation and precise installation, we were able to provide our client with optimal thermal comfort and significant energy savings. If you also want to transform your living space with a high-quality heat pump, don’t hesitate to contact AirGreen to discuss your HVAC installation needs.