A Unique HVAC Project in a Longueuil Loft: A Custom Solution for an Unconventional Space
In the field of residential and commercial HVAC, every installation presents a different challenge. At AirGreen, we recently completed a particularly fascinating project: the installation of a floor-ceiling unit in an industrial loft in Longueuil. This type of space, often defined by large open volumes, high ceilings, and inconsistent insulation, requires expert knowledge and a fully tailored approach.
Here, we share the complete rundown of this intervention, highlighting the technical choices, obstacles encountered, and the innovative solutions we implemented to provide our client with year-round optimal thermal comfort.
Why Choose a Floor-Ceiling Unit for a Loft?
Industrial lofts, like the one our client owns in Longueuil, are highly sought after for their aesthetics, but their architectural configuration creates real challenges when it comes to heating and cooling. Here are a few reasons why the floor-ceiling unit proved to be the best solution:
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Even air distribution whether installed low or high, without compromising the interior design.
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Adaptability to brick or concrete walls, typical of repurposed old industrial buildings.
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Powerful enough to handle large air volumes, even with wide windows and poorly insulated materials.
Technical Features of the Unit Installed
For this project, our client was looking for a solution that was discreet, powerful, and quiet. After a thorough study, we selected the Mitsubishi Heavy SRF25ZMX-S floor-ceiling unit, connected to a high-performance outdoor inverter compressor.
Technical details of the unit:
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Brand: Mitsubishi Heavy Industries
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Model: SRF25ZMX-S
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Heating capacity: 12,000 BTU
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Cooling capacity: 12,000 BTU
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SEER/SCOP: Very high energy efficiency (SEER 20.5 / SCOP 4.7)
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Refrigerant type: R-32
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Noise level: 23 dB on low speed
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Wall-mounted remote + built-in Wi-Fi control
Installation Process in Longueuil
Pre-Installation Technical Assessment
As always, our work began with a complete site assessment. We reviewed the loft’s layout, ceiling height, insulation, building orientation, and electrical constraints. This historical building located in old Longueuil had been renovated but still retained several industrial characteristics: 12-foot ceilings, brick walls, and very little space for a conventional HVAC system.
Choosing the Right Spot
The unit was installed in a low position, under a large triple-glazed window, to ensure effective warm air distribution in the winter while minimizing heat loss. This placement also helps avoid heat getting trapped in the upper sections of the loft.
Step-by-Step Installation
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Surface preparation: clean cuts into the interior brick wall to allow passage of refrigerant lines.
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Reinforced wall mount to support the unit despite the wall material.
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Discreet drilling to the outside, including a quiet built-in condensate pump.
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Electrical connection to a dedicated line protected by a GFCI breaker.
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Installation of the outdoor unit on a vibration-isolated wall bracket at the back of the building.
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Complete system testing including airflow, performance, and energy consumption.
Challenges Faced and AirGreen’s Solutions
1. Limited Space for the Outdoor Unit
The backyard was shared with other co-owners, so it was critical to limit disruption. We installed the outdoor unit more than two meters from any openings and used an isolated wall mount to minimize vibration.
2. Piping Distance
The distance between the indoor unit and outdoor compressor exceeded 7 meters. We used premium copper piping with enhanced insulation to prevent efficiency loss.
3. Interior Design Considerations
Our client wanted to preserve the clean, minimalist style of his loft. Thanks to the streamlined look of the Mitsubishi unit and our meticulous attention to conduit routing, the installation blends seamlessly with the space’s industrial vibe.
Results and Client Feedback
The result exceeded expectations. The client now enjoys:
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Consistent thermal comfort despite the unique space layout.
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A significant drop in energy consumption, compared to his old electric baseboard heater.
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A smart and discreet system that fits perfectly with the loft’s design.
Our client was especially impressed with our adaptability and technical precision. He’s even considering a second installation for one of his rental buildings in Longueuil.
Why Trust AirGreen for Your HVAC Projects in Longueuil and the South Shore?
At AirGreen, we’ve built a strong reputation for handling custom HVAC projects, including architecturally challenging spaces like lofts, condos, and heritage buildings. Our teams are trained to:
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Accurately assess thermal requirements for any space.
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Recommend the most suitable technologies: wall-mounted heat pumps, ducted systems, floor-ceiling units, cassettes, or consoles.
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Deliver flawless installations, both in terms of performance and aesthetics, while staying fully compliant with building codes.
We offer fast service in Longueuil, but also across the South Shore, as well as in Montréal, Laval, and the North Shore.
Grants and Energy Efficiency
The Mitsubishi Heavy unit installed in this project is eligible for Hydro-Québec’s LogisVert program, which can provide up to $1,530 in grants, depending on eligibility. We assist every client with the grant application process, from paperwork to final approval.
Our Advice for Loft Owners or High-Ceiling Spaces
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Don’t underestimate heating needs: air volumes are larger than in standard homes.
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Choose systems with adjustable airflow, capable of handling fluctuating indoor conditions.
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Hire a team with experience in atypical buildings to avoid inefficiency or design compromises.