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Peut-on vraiment chauffer efficacement toute une maison montréalaise uniquement avec des consoles de plancher ?
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Can You Really Heat an Entire Montreal Home Efficiently Using Only Floor Console Units?

A Serious Alternative to Traditional Systems for Montreal Winters

In a context where thermal comfort needs are particularly demanding in Montreal, especially during the winter months, the question of whether floor console units can truly heat an entire home efficiently is far from trivial. At AirGreen, we’ve had the opportunity to install this type of indoor HVAC unit in multiple homes throughout Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore, and the South Shore, and the results have not only been conclusive but also rich in practical lessons.

What is a Floor Console and Why Should You Consider One?

Unlike wall-mounted heat pumps or ducted systems, floor console units are installed at the base of a wall, typically under a window or along a structural wall, similar to an old electric baseboard heater. This discreet configuration allows for space-saving up high while ensuring an even distribution of warm air at floor level.

Key strengths of floor console units:

  • Optimized heat distribution thanks to lower and sometimes upper air outlets.

  • Ideal solution for rooms with low ceilings or large windows.

  • Easy maintenance and simplified filter access.

  • Clean aesthetic that blends with interior design.

Case Study: AirGreen Installation of a Console-Based System Over Two Floors in Villeray, Montreal

One of our most emblematic projects took place in a classic Montreal townhouse in the Villeray neighborhood, built in the 1950s and partially retrofitted with new insulation. The client wanted a system that was efficient, quiet, energy-saving, without central air conditioning, yet capable of providing comfort across both floors.

We proposed a unique setup using three FUJITSU R-32 KPHB floor console units (ultra-quiet model):

  • One 12,000 BTU unit on the ground floor in the open-concept living and dining area.

  • Two 9,000 BTU units upstairs, each in a separate bedroom.

The goal was to completely replace the existing electric heating, maintaining consistent performance even at -25°C, thanks to the Hyper Heating technology built into the compressor.

The Result: Gentle, Even, and Cost-Effective Heat

Within the first few weeks of operation, the family noticed:

  • A 37% reduction in their electricity bill compared to the previous winter.

  • Superior thermal comfort, with no drafts or cold spots.

  • Impressive quietness, with units operating at a sound level below 22 dB.

Are Floor Consoles Truly Effective for Heating an Entire Home?

Yes, as long as:

  1. The system is properly sized – at AirGreen, we conduct a detailed heat load calculation based on surface area, orientation, insulation, and specific thermal losses for each home.

  2. The home is well-zoned – each thermal zone must be covered by a properly sized unit.

  3. The model is suited to the Quebec climate – certain consoles, such as those from FUJITSU, GREE, or Mitsubishi, are designed for cold climates thanks to high-performance compressors.

  4. The HVAC installation is done by certified professionals, including balancing tests upon project completion.

Concrete Advantages of Consoles vs. Other HVAC Options

Criteria Floor Console Units Wall-Mounted Heat Pumps Central Forced-Air Heating
Installation Less invasive, quick Wall-mounted, more visible Major work (ducting required)
Heat Distribution Floor to ceiling, more natural Ceiling to floor, less direct Even via ductwork
Maintenance Easy front access Requires disassembly Central filters to monitor
Quiet Operation Very quiet (20–24 dB) Varies by brand Louder fans
Aesthetic Discreet, base of the wall Eye-level visibility Visible ceiling vents

Mistakes to Avoid

We’ve met several clients who attempted a DIY installation or hired non-specialized contractors, with disappointing results: undersized units, poor airflow orientation, badly chosen locations, and so on.

At AirGreen, we always emphasize a thorough technical feasibility study before making any recommendation. Our certified technicians analyze the thermal envelope of your home and tailor the configuration based on room volumes and usage.

Subsidies and Profitability: Floor Consoles Qualify

High-efficiency floor console units installed by AirGreen are eligible for Hydro-Québec’s LogisVert grants, as well as other municipal and provincial programs, making them an economically smart option. For instance, a FUJITSU 12,000 BTU KPHB unit may qualify you for $1,536 to $2,172 in grants depending on your postal code.

Customer Testimonial – Project in Sainte-Julie, South Shore

"We had old electric baseboards and a portable AC. AirGreen recommended three floor console units. The installation was fast, clean, and the team was incredibly professional. We finally have true comfort, even in the basement."
— M. Beauchamp, Sainte-Julie

Why Choose AirGreen for Your Console HVAC Installation?

  • Certified specialists in console-based heat pumps.

  • Custom thermal assessments.

  • Fast and transparent quotes.

  • Exceptional after-sales service, with optional annual HVAC maintenance.

  • Complete coverage across Greater Montreal, including Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore, and the South Shore.

Conclusion: A Viable and High-Performance Option

Yes, it is absolutely possible to heat an entire home in Montreal using only floor console units, provided the rules of installation, sizing, and equipment quality are respected. At AirGreen, we do much more than just sell and install HVAC systems – we create lasting comfort environments, tailored to each family, each building, and each season.