Combining heritage and modern comfort thanks to a discreet and efficient floor console
On Montreal’s North Shore, in a century-old ancestral home, we recently carried out a standout HVAC installation that perfectly reflects AirGreen’s mission: delivering modern comfort without compromising the aesthetic or architectural integrity of historic homes. Thanks to our expertise in HVAC systems and a thorough analysis of the building’s constraints, we opted for a floor-mounted console unit, a solution that’s both elegant and efficient — ideally suited to this kind of property.
A heritage home in the heart of the North Shore: balancing historical requirements and technical challenges
Ancestral homes present unique challenges when it comes to installing heating and air conditioning systems. Thick load-bearing walls, low ceilings, a lack of modern insulation, and the need to respect preservation standards often make traditional systems unworkable.
In this particular case, the house — built in the early 20th century in Sainte-Thérèse, at the heart of the North Shore — required a compact, non-intrusive, and highly efficient solution. The client wanted to improve indoor comfort without altering the original aesthetic of the building.
Why a floor console?
Among the many HVAC options available, the floor-mounted console proved to be the optimal choice. Unlike traditional wall-mounted air conditioners, this type of unit is installed close to the floor, like a classic radiator, making it easier to integrate in an environment where walls are adorned with period moldings, vintage woodwork, or heritage artwork.
We selected the Daikin FVXS floor console (12,000 BTU model), known for its low noise levels, compact design, and high energy efficiency (SEER 20 / HSPF 10). This unit is eligible for Hydro-Québec’s LogisVert grants, allowing the client to receive up to $1,604 in financial assistance for this installation.
Technical details and installation process
The installation was carried out over two days, with a particular focus on preserving original materials. Here are the main stages of our work:
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Thermal evaluation of the home: our technicians used infrared cameras to detect heat loss in the walls and determine the required BTU capacity.
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Strategic placement of the console: we installed the unit in the main living room, under a large sash window, to ensure even distribution of warm or cool air.
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Hidden ductwork: to avoid damaging load-bearing walls, we routed the refrigerant lines through an old crawl space, minimizing visual impact inside the home.
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Startup testing: once the installation was complete, we performed all necessary calibrations and checked airflow in both heating and cooling modes.
Immediate comfort and preserved aesthetics
As soon as the system was up and running, the benefits were clear: soft, even heat distribution, noticeable humidity reduction during the summer, and lower energy consumption compared to the old convection-based system.
The client repeatedly emphasized the discreet, aesthetic nature of the console, which fits beautifully with the vintage woodwork. No disturbing noise, no vibration, and consistent comfort — the perfect solution for a heritage residence.
AirGreen expertise serving architectural heritage
At AirGreen, we understand that an HVAC project is not just about picking a machine. It’s about designing a tailored solution, in harmony with the unique features of each building. Our certified technicians and engineers work closely together to deliver reliable, durable systems adapted to Quebec’s climate realities.
On the North Shore, we’ve already completed similar installations in historic buildings in Terrebonne, Blainville, and Saint-Eustache, where our floor consoles provided modern comfort without compromising architectural heritage.
Available grants: an economical and sustainable choice
The Daikin console installed in this home qualifies for Hydro-Québec’s LogisVert program, as well as certain municipal grants offered by heritage-conscious cities on the North Shore. Our teams assist clients with all administrative steps, ensuring they get the most savings right from the start.
Key takeaways
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Installed unit: Daikin FVXS floor console
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Power: 12,000 BTU
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Energy efficiency: SEER 20 / HSPF 10
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Installation duration: 2 days
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Location: Sainte-Thérèse, North Shore
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Grant eligibility: Yes (LogisVert + municipal heritage programs)
Mistakes to avoid when installing in an older home
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Oversizing the system: this can lead to thermal discomfort and higher electricity bills.
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Ignoring architectural integration: poorly placed systems can disrupt the home’s charm.
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Neglecting humidity control: older homes often have humidity issues that modern consoles can help regulate.
AirGreen, your HVAC partner on the North Shore
Whether for a heritage home or a modern residence, we tailor our solutions to your specific needs. Our team is highly experienced in the complex challenges of HVAC installations, always ensuring outstanding customer service.
We take pride in helping preserve architectural heritage while offering energy-efficient solutions. Trust AirGreen for your floor console, wall-mounted heat pump, or ducted system installations anywhere in Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore, or the South Shore.