When performance meets discretion: transforming a century-old home with a floor console
In the field of residential HVAC, it’s not uncommon for architectural constraints to present unique challenges. That was precisely the case with one of our installation projects on Montréal’s North Shore, in a heritage home built in 1912. This project perfectly illustrates how the thoughtful integration of a floor console not only significantly improved the thermal comfort of the building but also increased its real estate value, all while preserving its historic charm.
The context: preserving authenticity while integrating technology
The house in question, located in a designated area, stood out for its original moldings, century-old hardwood floors, and ornate ceilings. The homeowners wanted to enhance comfort, especially in the ground-floor rooms that were particularly cold in winter, without compromising the home’s aesthetic.
They were opposed to installing a visible wall-mounted system or bulky ductwork and reached out to AirGreen for a tailored HVAC solution. After a thorough technical assessment, we recommended installing a FUJITSU AGYG12LVCA R-32 floor console, a compact, discreet unit that is highly efficient for both heating and cooling.
Why a floor console?
Floor consoles are an ideal solution for heritage contexts or when you want an installation that’s nearly invisible, especially below windows or in strategic corners. Here’s why our team opted for this type of unit:
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Low visual impact: Installed at the base of a wall, the console blends into the décor without affecting the interior’s aesthetic.
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All-season performance: This unit offers efficient heating down to -25°C, thanks to the R-32 refrigerant, which is more eco-friendly than older alternatives.
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Bidirectional airflow: The console ensures uniform air distribution, delivering optimal comfort throughout the room.
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Ultra-quiet operation: With near-silent performance, it maintains the tranquil ambiance of a historic home.
Technical details of the installation
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Brand and model: FUJITSU AGYG12LVCA
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Capacity: 12,000 BTU
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Refrigerant type: R-32 (more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly)
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Operation mode: High-efficiency Inverter
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Location: Living room and dining room on the ground floor
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Grant eligibility: Yes, eligible for the Hydro-Québec LogisVert program (amount: $1,304)
Challenges encountered and solutions provided
Complying with heritage restrictions
The installation had to avoid any visible modifications to the building’s exterior. We worked closely with city architects to meet conservation standards while ensuring a safe path for the refrigerant piping.
Limited wall insulation
In older buildings like this, walls don’t offer the same insulation as modern constructions. To address this, we optimized the console’s placement to benefit from radiant heat on surfaces, minimizing thermal loss.
Difficult access to the electrical panel
Wiring was routed through baseboards and existing technical voids, avoiding any impact on load-bearing walls or original moldings.
Observed results and customer testimonial
Improved comfort: The indoor temperature is now stable year-round. The owners noted a significant reduction in electricity usage thanks to the Inverter system, along with rapid heating during cold snaps.
Preserved aesthetics: The console’s compact design and careful installation allowed us to preserve the visual integrity of the rooms, a decisive factor for the homeowners.
Increased property value: The addition of a discreet and high-performance HVAC system worked in the homeowners’ favor when they recently had their property reappraised. The real estate agent specifically mentioned this upgrade as a key differentiator on the market.
“We were impressed by AirGreen’s professionalism. They managed to integrate modern technology into our century-old home without compromising its character. The comfort is incomparable, and the console is almost invisible!” – Mr. and Mrs. B., North Shore
Why choose AirGreen for your HVAC console installations?
At AirGreen, we understand the unique challenges of complex residential properties, whether it’s a heritage home, a duplex, or a renovated cottage. Our strengths include:
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Our in-depth technical expertise in custom residential HVAC
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A collaborative approach with architects, municipal inspectors, and electricians
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The selection of top-quality equipment, like FUJITSU and Mitsubishi consoles, known for their discretion and reliability
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Extensive knowledge of available grants in Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore and South Shore
Practical advice before installing a floor console
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Evaluate your heating and cooling needs room by room
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Consult a specialist to confirm grant eligibility
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Don’t overlook aesthetics: correct unit placement makes a huge difference
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Make sure your unit uses R-32 refrigerant, which is more efficient and environmentally friendly
Other similar projects completed by AirGreen
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Installation of two FUJITSU consoles in a renovated triplex in Villeray (Montréal)
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Discreet climate control project in a Longueuil row house with a Daikin console unit
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Integration of a Mitsubishi MFZ-KJ12NA console in a secondary residence in Saint-Jérôme
The ideal solution for heritage buildings or limited space
Floor consoles have become an essential option for discerning homeowners who refuse to choose between comfort, efficiency, and aesthetics. This North Shore project clearly shows how a well-executed installation can transform a space while respecting architectural integrity.
At AirGreen, we’re proud to offer HVAC solutions that combine performance and discretion, perfectly suited to the realities of Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore, and the South Shore.
Conclusion: An installation that makes a difference
Installing this FUJITSU R-32 floor console in a historic home made it possible to combine modern comfort with heritage preservation, enhancing not only the home’s thermal performance but also its market value. It’s precisely this kind of project that sets AirGreen apart as a leading expert in HVAC in Québec.