Wall-Mounted Air Conditioner: Price, Quality, Warranty | Complete Buying Guide

A rapidly evolving market

By 2026, all wall-mounted air conditioners will now operate on R-32 or R-454B and meet the new SEER2 and EER2 standards. These models are more efficient, quieter, and better suited to the realities of the Quebec climate.

Comparison table of wall-mounted air conditioners - 2025-2026

GREE — The #1 Historical Manufacturer in Quebec for Wall-Mounted Air Conditioners

For over 25 years, GREE has dominated the Quebec market for wall-mounted air conditioners . The reason is simple: there is virtually no real competition in this category .

Japanese manufacturers (Mitsubishi, Fujitsu, Daikin, Sharp) focus only on wall-mounted heat pumps — none offer “AC only” models.
On the Chinese side, Midea — GREE's biggest rival — also does not offer wall-mounted air conditioners in 2025-2026 .

👉 Result: GREE remains the essential choice for customers looking for a reliable, affordable wall-mounted air conditioner available in several sizes (9,000 to 24,000 BTU).

With a wide distribution in Quebec (three major distributors), easy-to-obtain parts and well-established expertise among local installers, GREE has built a solid reputation: the benchmark when it comes to wall-mounted air conditioners, year after year.

HAXXAIR — Exceptional Reliability and Support

HAXXAIR wall-mounted air conditioners, manufactured by Hisense , have been present in Quebec for over 10 years and have built a reputation as a safe and durable choice in the AC category only.

Their real strength lies in their local support :

Distributed by RBL/AC , the same company behind the Sharp brand, HAXXAIR air conditioners benefit from a fast, structured and ultra-reliable after-sales service network.
RBL/AC stands out for the constant availability of parts , the continuous training of its technicians and the special attention paid to each customer.
This level of service ensures owners have a hassle-free experience, year after year.

👉 In 2026, HAXXAIR stands out as one of the best choices for AC only wall-mounted air conditioners , combining manufacturing quality, proven reliability and unmatched after-sales service .

Zephyr — The affordable option, but overshadowed by the heat pump

The Zephyr brand has been firmly established in Montreal for over 20 years and has earned the trust of many customers thanks to its affordable, reliable and easy-to-maintain wall-mounted air conditioners.

By 2026, however, their popularity has declined. Not because quality has declined—on the contrary, Zephyr machines continue to offer excellent value for money—but because the market has changed.

👉 For just $100 more , it is possible to purchase the heat pump version of the same Zephyr model , eligible for subsidies of up to $2,000 through LogisVert . As a result, most consumers now prefer the heat pump over the air conditioner alone.

⚡ In summary: the Zephyr wall-mounted air conditioner remains an excellent , economical and proven solution, but in 2026 it naturally finds itself second choice to the Zephyr heat pump, which offers a financial advantage that is difficult to ignore.

Goodman — A Brand in Transition Under Daikin

Historically, Goodman has stood out as one of the best value brands in the wall-mounted air conditioner market. Robust, reliable, and affordable, their units have long been a wise choice for many homeowners in Quebec.

Since their acquisition by Daikin , however, the situation has changed. In 2026, Goodman still offers models running on R-410A , while most manufacturers have already switched to the new A2L refrigerants (R-32 or R-454B) . Unlike other brands that have quickly renewed their range, Goodman has been slow to unveil its new units that comply with the latest standards.

👉 Bottom line: The future of the Goodman AC wall-mounted range remains uncertain. The brand maintains a solid reputation and a positive history, but technological delays create a gray area for the coming years.

⚡ Bottom line: Goodman remains associated with good value for money, but in 2026, consumers who are attentive to new ecological and technological standards will be closely watching what Daikin decides for this iconic brand.

Ameristar — An Affordable, But Limited Alternative

Ameristar is a sub-brand launched by Trane to offer more affordable wall-mounted air conditioners. As with Trane in Quebec, these models are not manufactured by Trane , but come from the Chinese giant Gree , before being rebranded under the Ameristar name.

In practice, this means that Ameristar wall-mounted air conditioners share the same technological base as Gree or Trane models, but often arrive without the very latest innovations that Gree reserves for its own brand:

Integrated WiFi missing on several models,
fewer advanced programming options,
sometimes limited smart features.

👉 Ameristar remains a good entry-level option for those looking for a simple and affordable device. However, to take full advantage of the latest technology and a better value-for-performance ratio , it is often more advantageous to opt directly for a Gree model, which offers more innovations at the same level of reliability.

Windair — A sub-brand of a sub-brand

Windair is a sub-brand from the same distributor as Tosot , which itself is a sub-brand of Gree , the world's largest manufacturer of mini-splits. In other words, Windair is positioned in an even more economical and accessible range.

However, our field experience has shown us that these models generate more service calls than other comparable brands. Because the components are more basic and distribution is more limited, it can be more difficult to ensure smooth long-term support.

👉 For a more sustainable investment, even Tosot —although positioned as a sub-brand—is often a better choice than Windair, with more consistent reliability and better access to parts. For those seeking peace of mind, there are also other options offering a better balance between price, performance, and after-sales service.

Manufacturers that do not offer AC only wall air conditioners

In 2026, it is important to note that a large majority of major manufacturers—whether Japanese, Korean, Chinese, or North American— no longer offer (and often never have offered) “air conditioner-only” models . Their strategy is clear: focus exclusively on wall-mounted heat pumps , which are much more popular thanks to their dual function (heating + air conditioning) and especially thanks to Hydro-Québec’s generous LogisVert subsidies.

This concerns both Japanese brands like Sharp, Fujitsu, Panasonic, Mitsubishi, Daikin , and Korean brands like LG and Samsung , but also several Chinese or locally distributed brands: Midea, Elios, Canair, Moovair, Comfortmaker, Trane (Gree), ACD (Gree), Carrier (Midea), Tosot (Gree), Bosch, Haier, Napoleon and Direct Air . Even Lennox , now linked to Samsung, follows this logic.

👉 In practice, this means that if you are looking for an AC-only wall-mounted air conditioner , your options are limited to a few brands (such as Gree, Haxxair, Zephyr, Ameristar, etc.), while the majority of other manufacturers are now positioned exclusively in the wall-mounted heat pump market.

This also explains why, even though a wall-mounted AC unit may seem a little cheaper to purchase, it is much less common and less advantageous than its heat pump version, which costs only slightly more and is eligible for subsidies of several thousand dollars.

CONSULT THE GUIDE - WALL-MOUNTED HEAT PUMP

How it works (popular explanation)

A wall-mounted air conditioner is a ductless air conditioning system, consisting of two interconnected units:

The indoor unit (wall evaporator) , placed inside, which diffuses fresh and dehumidified air.
The outdoor unit (condenser/compressor) , installed outside, which expels the absorbed heat from your home.

The principle is simple:

Warm air from the room is drawn in and passed over a coil filled with refrigerant.
The heat is captured and sent to the outdoor unit.
The air comes out cooled and dehumidified inside, creating a cool and comfortable environment.

👉 Thanks to Inverter technology , the compressor adjusts its speed continuously, saving energy, reducing noise and maintaining a stable temperature.

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Differences between wall-mounted, central, and portable air conditioners

There are several ways to air condition a home, but not all are equal.

Wall-mounted air conditioner

No ducts required.
Quick and discreet installation.
Ideal for air conditioning one or more rooms in a targeted manner.
Operates quietly and more efficiently than a portable model.

Central air conditioning

Requires ductwork already present in the house.
Uniform air conditioning in all rooms.
Ideal for larger homes, but installation is more expensive and complex.

Portable air conditioner

Installs without any work, but remains noisy and inefficient.
Often seen as a temporary solution (rental apartments, small spaces).
Higher power consumption for limited performance.

👉 The wall-mounted air conditioner is therefore a happy medium : more affordable and simpler than the central one, much more efficient and comfortable than a portable one.

Specific advantages of wall-mounted air conditioner

A modern wall-mounted air conditioner offers several benefits:

Fast and flexible installation : a unit can be installed in just a few hours, without major work.
Instant summer comfort : cools quickly, even during July heatwaves.
Built-in dehumidification : maintains a humidity level between 40% and 50%, essential to avoid the feeling of “damp cold”.
Quiet : Recent models go down to less than 20 dB(A) in low mode—quieter than a whisper.
Energy efficiency : With inverter technology, a wall-mounted air conditioner uses less electricity than an old window or portable air conditioner.
Proven lifespan : with annual maintenance, these devices last 10 to 12 years on average.

Limits to consider

A wall-mounted air conditioner is not perfect and it is important to know its limitations before making a decision:

No heating : unlike a wall-mounted heat pump , the wall-mounted air conditioner cannot heat the house in winter.
No LogisVert subsidy : In 2026, Hydro-Québec will reserve its subsidies exclusively for heat pumps . The result: even if a wall-mounted air conditioner sometimes costs $50–100 less to purchase, it often ends up being more expensive in the long run .
Limited coverage : A single wall-mounted air conditioner covers a room or open space well, but multiple units are needed for an entire house.

Transition R-410A → R-32 and R-454B

Since 2025, R-410A refrigerant has been banned in Canada. By 2026, all wall-mounted air conditioners will now operate with the new R-32 and R-454B refrigerants.

Ecological impact:

R-32 reduces global warming potential (GWP) by 70% compared to R-410A.
R-454B goes even further, with one of the lowest GWPs on the market.

Technical impact:

Better heat transfer = higher efficiency.
More compact and quieter devices.
Less refrigerant charge → simpler maintenance.

Consequence for you:

2026 wall-mounted air conditioners are more efficient, environmentally friendly and economical in the long term.
⚠️ Please note: they are not compatible with the old R-410A, hence the importance of a qualified installer for these new technologies.

New performance standards (SEER2 / EER2)

The old SEER and EER ratings no longer reflected the actual performance of appliances. Since 2023, testing has followed the M1 Testing Standards , which better reflect real-life usage conditions.

SEER2 (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio 2):

Measures air conditioning efficiency over an entire season.
The higher it is, the less electricity the device consumes.

EER2 (Energy Efficiency Ratio 2):

Evaluates performance in extreme heat (e.g. 35°C outdoors, 26°C indoors).
Essential for judging comfort during heat waves.

To remember:

The new ratings appear 5-15% lower than the old ones (e.g. SEER 22 → SEER2 20).
This is not a loss of performance, but a more realistic measure , which facilitates comparison between models.

Technology Trends 2026

Wall-mounted air conditioner manufacturers are innovating to improve comfort, efficiency, and peace of mind . Here are the top trends for 2026:

Built-in WiFi & Smart Control

Control from your phone, even remotely.
Time programming, geolocation and consumption monitoring.

Advanced self-diagnosis

Automatic anomaly detection.
Accurate codes transmitted to technicians → faster interventions, reduced costs.

Improved air filtration

HEPA/plasma filters and multi-stage systems against dust, pollen, allergens and bacteria.
Ideal for families with children or allergies.

Optimized silence

Some models go below 20 dB(A) , perfect for bedrooms.

Compact and aesthetic design

Slimmer, more discreet units that blend in better with the decor.

👉 In summary: the 2026 wall-mounted air conditioner is no longer a simple cooling device, but an intelligent, silent, efficient and ecological solution , perfectly adapted to Quebec realities.

Power (BTU) and Covered Area

BTU output isn't just a technical consideration: it's the heart of your wall-mounted air conditioner's performance. Properly sizing your unit means finding the right balance between energy efficiency, real-world comfort, and durability .

Unit too powerful → cools too quickly, without giving the air time to dehumidify. Result: an unpleasant, damp, cold sensation and an unnecessarily rising electricity bill.
Undersized unit → constantly runs at full capacity, wears out prematurely and struggles to maintain a stable temperature, especially in remote rooms.

👉 What many contractors don't specify: the ideal power doesn't depend solely on the surface area. You also need to consider:

Insulation : a century-old house in Montreal consumes much more than a new condo in Laval.
Sunshine : a large south-facing bay window in Longueuil requires more capacity.
The layout : an open space does not have the same needs as a multi-story house with corridors and divisions.
Ceiling height : A 10' ceiling or a mezzanine completely changes the calculation.

In summary, choosing the right power isn't just about reading a table: it's about analyzing the reality of your home to guarantee optimal comfort and avoid unpleasant surprises.

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Importance of dehumidification

A wall-mounted air conditioner must not only cool: it must also maintain a humidity level between 40% and 50% .

Device too powerful → cools quickly but without dehumidifying properly → unpleasant feeling of damp cold .
Well-sized unit → complete cooling cycles + efficient dehumidification → dry, fresh and comfortable air.

👉 It's often the difference between just cold air and real summer comfort .

Noise level (indoor + outdoor)

The noise of a wall-mounted air conditioner is an essential criterion for daily comfort, but too often neglected.

Indoor unit : between 19 and 40 dB(A) , the equivalent of a whisper or a bookcase. For a bedroom, aim for a model capable of going below 20 dB(A) in night mode.
Outdoor unit : between 50 and 60 dB(A) , comparable to the noise of a quiet residential street. Location and installation (anti-vibration mount, level slab) play a key role in limiting sound transmission.

👉 Good news: the 2026 models are much quieter than those of ten years ago. Thanks to the redesigned inverter compressors and fans, they provide efficient cooling while remaining discreet, even at night.

Reliability & durability

A wall-mounted air conditioner is a 10- to 12-year investment. To extend its lifespan and avoid premature breakdowns:

Anti-corrosion coating on the outer fins → protects against salt, humidity and rust (essential in Montreal and on the South Shore near the river).
Inverter compressor → reduces wear, ensures stable operation, and lowers power consumption.
Quality of materials and spare parts available → ensures long-term monitoring and rapid repairs if necessary.

👉 At AirGreen, we have found that machines from brands established in Quebec (Sharp, Fujitsu, Gree, Midea) have fewer breakdowns and parts are more readily available , a crucial point for peace of mind.

Ease of use and modern comfort

The 2026 models are no longer just refreshed: they offer smart, connected comfort .

Built-in WiFi → remote control via phone (e.g.: start the air conditioning before arriving home).
Time programming → adapts consumption to lifestyle habits, reduces electricity bills.
Smart sensors / “I-Feel” mode → automatically adjust the temperature according to presence and actual room temperature.
Advanced self-diagnosis → detects anomalies and sends precise codes to technicians → fast and less expensive interventions.

👉 These features not only add comfort, but also peace of mind .

Maintenance and longevity of a wall-mounted air conditioner

A well-maintained wall-mounted air conditioner will maintain its performance for 10 to 12 years . A neglected unit can lose up to 25% of its efficiency in just 5 years , increasing consumption and reducing comfort.

Recommended maintenance
By the customer
- Clean or wash filters every 6 to 8 weeks .
- Regularly check that the outdoor unit is clear (dust, leaves, snow, ice).
- Avoid constantly using “Turbo” or “Max Cool” mode, which puts unnecessary strain on the compressor.
- Maintain a stable set temperature rather than abruptly varying the settings.
By AirGreen

Complete annual maintenance including:
- Checking the refrigeration circuit (leaks, pressures, refrigerant charge).
- Mechanical inspection of fans, compressor and electrical connections.
- Deep cleaning of coils to maintain efficiency.
- This preventive monitoring significantly reduces the risk of breakdowns during heatwaves, when repair times are longest.
Longevity and real performance
The true lifespan of a wall-mounted air conditioner is not measured only in years, but in the quality of comfort maintained .
- Stable performance over time : a well-maintained device retains its cooling and dehumidification capacity, even after 8–10 years of intensive use.
- Environmental impact : A unit installed in a polluted urban area or near a river will be subject to more stress than one in the suburbs. Proper monitoring is essential to avoid premature loss of efficiency.
- Life-extending technologies : New inverter compressors and redesigned fans reduce mechanical wear, while modern anti-corrosion coatings slow the effects of rust and moisture.
- Long-term value : A properly sized and maintained wall-mounted air conditioner can last 12 years or more , while maintaining a low electricity bill and constant peace of mind.
👉 At AirGreen, we insist: longevity is not a coincidence, it is the result of a good initial choice, rigorous installation and ongoing maintenance .
Exclusive AirGreen expertise
At AirGreen, we go far beyond simple maintenance. Our approach combines cutting-edge technology, personalized fit, and long-term protection :

Advanced diagnostic tools
- Thermal cameras to identify efficiency losses.
- Performance tests and precise consumption measurements.
- Early pressure checks to prevent invisible leaks.
Maintenance adapted to each environment
- A new condo in Laval does not have the same needs as a century-old house exposed to salt near the river.
- We adjust the frequency and depth of maintenance according to the age of the building, the insulation and the environment.
- This customization reduces the risk of breakdowns and maintains performance even in the middle of a heatwave.
Protections and preventive solutions
- Anti-vibration mounts to limit noise and protect walls.
- Outdoor shelters and leaf guards to prevent debris buildup.
- Anti-corrosion treatments to extend the lifespan, especially in urban areas or near the river.
👉 Result: with AirGreen, your wall-mounted air conditioner is installed, protected and optimized to last longer, consume less and remain quiet, summer after summer.

The Myth of the Cheaper Price

At first glance, a wall-mounted air conditioner often costs $50 to $100 less than a wall-mounted heat pump of the same power. Many customers therefore think they are getting a good deal by choosing an “AC only” unit. But in reality, this is an illusion of savings .

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Why this difference?

The wall-mounted air conditioner only provides cooling in summer.
The wall-mounted heat pump has two functions : air conditioning AND heating.
Since 2022, only the wall-mounted heat pump is eligible for Hydro-Québec's LogisVert subsidies.

👉 Result: this slight difference in purchase price quickly turns into a major financial disadvantage .

Learn more about the LOGISVERT Grant for Heat Pumps

Comparative example (12,000 BTU device in 2025)

Wall-mounted air conditioner (AC only):

Average installed price: $3,000
Grants: $0
Heating in winter: use of electric baseboards → + $700/year of additional consumption.
Cost over 10 years: $10,000+ (electricity + maintenance).

Wall-mounted heat pump (12,000 BTU):

Average installed price: $3,100 (only $100 more at purchase).
LogisVert grant: up to $2,268 (depending on model and performance).
Heating down to -30°C: average savings of $500 to $900/year on your Hydro-Québec bill.
Net cost over 10 years: approximately 2 to 3 times cheaper than a wall-mounted air conditioner.

The AirGreen verdict

In 2026, installing a wall-mounted air conditioner may seem like an immediate savings, but it's a bad calculation in the long run :

No subsidies .
Higher electricity bills (because of no heating input).
Lower resale value : a buyer will always prefer a house equipped with a heat pump.

💡 At AirGreen, we almost always recommend the wall-mounted heat pump : for a few dozen dollars more upfront, it offers four-season comfort, grant eligibility, and a significantly higher return on investment.

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Installation: What You Need to Know

Why the installer matters more than the brand

A wall-mounted air conditioner, even from the best Japanese or European brand, can become a nightmare if improperly installed. Conversely, a mid-range model installed by a competent and certified technician will perform better, consume less energy, and last longer.

👉 At AirGreen, we always say: the installer is more important than the brand.

Mandatory licenses in Quebec
A safe and compliant installation must absolutely be carried out by a company holding licenses from the RBQ (Régie du Bâtiment du Québec) and the CMEQ :
- 15.8 — Ventilation
- 15.10 — Refrigeration
- 16 — Electricity
These licenses are the only guarantee that:
- the work complies with provincial standards,
- the 10 to 12 year manufacturer's warranty remains valid,
- and above all, that you are protected in the event of a problem.
The Dangers of Uncertified Installers
Choosing a “cheap installer” may seem tempting at first… but the risks are enormous:
- Warranty voided : without RBQ licenses, the manufacturer can refuse any claim, even after a few months.
- Premature failure : poor welds, incorrectly sized pipes, lack of condensate pump → water leaks, excessive noise or total failure.
- Safety compromised : an improvised electrical connection can lead to a major breakdown... or even a fire.
- Disappearing Contractors : Too often, uncertified installers stop responding after a few months, leaving the customer alone with an unusable machine.
Real examples of bad installations
- A wall-mounted air conditioner installed without anti-vibration support : result → resonant noise throughout the house.
- Absence of base heating element on the outdoor unit: accumulation of ice under the unit, water infiltration in the wall.
- Installation by an uncertified subcontractor: total loss of manufacturer's warranty and inability to obtain covered parts.
- Poorly positioned devices: excessive noise for the neighborhood + efficiency reduced by half.

Typical installation process in 2025-2026 (at AirGreen)

Free estimate (on site or online)

Analysis of area, insulation and configuration.
Discussion of different models adapted to your needs and budget.

Detailed and transparent submission

Clear pricing, warranty options, grants available.
No surprises: everything is written before signing.

Choice of model

Selecting the most suitable machine (BTU, performance, noise, design).

Professional installation

Produced by our own RBQ certified refrigeration engineers.
Includes: Reinforced wall brackets, compliant refrigeration and electrical connections, vacuum draw, nitrogen test, condensate pump if necessary, full calibration.
Aesthetic finish: covered conduits, clean and discreet installation.

Rigorous quality control

Pressure verification, real-life performance tests, air conditioning cycle simulation, noise level control.
Complete customer training: operating modes, maintenance, WiFi programming.

Warranty & follow-up

Immediate registration of manufacturer warranties.
AirGreen labor warranty included.
Fast after-sales service provided by our own teams (no subcontractors).

Guarantees: Demystified

The three components of a guarantee

A wall-mounted air conditioner is supposed to last 10 to 12 years… but it all depends on the actual warranty you get. Most manufacturers offer a three-part coverage:

Parts : Covers internal components (electronic board, fan, valves, etc.). Generally 10 years.
Compressor : the centerpiece of the system. Often guaranteed for 10 to 12 years.
Labor : The most variable point. Can range from 1 year… up to 10 years depending on the installer. Without this protection, each intervention (travel, diagnosis, repair) can cost several hundred dollars.

👉 A good warranty isn't just about years: it's about the quality and extent of what's actually covered.

Manufacturer, in-house or external insurance: understanding the differences

Not all guarantees are equal. Here are the three main categories in Quebec:

Manufacturer's warranties (official)

Directly issued by the manufacturer (e.g. Sharp, Fujitsu, Gree, Midea).
Valid only if the installation is carried out by an RBQ certified contractor and if the device is registered within the time limit.
The most solid in the long term.

“In-house” guarantees (offered by some installers)

It is the company that installs that promises to take care of the repairs.
Please note: if this company closes, your warranty will be gone.
Some do not cover travel or diagnostic costs.

External insurance (e.g. plans via Prime Assurance or third-party insurers)

Covers labor and some parts for several years.
Often accompanied by hidden costs: deductible, exclusions, geographical limits.

Examples of common trap clauses

“10 year warranty” … but only on the compressor, not on other parts.
“Labor included” … except travel or diagnostic costs, which can be $150 to $250 per visit.
“Free extended warranty” … but only valid if you pay for mandatory annual maintenance with the same contractor.
“Full coverage” … except for damage due to improper installation or lack of documented maintenance.

👉 At AirGreen, we review every detail with our customers to avoid unpleasant surprises.

The importance of official registration

Even if you buy the best brand, your warranty may be compromised if it is not properly registered.

Most manufacturers require that the device be registered within 30 to 60 days.
The contractor must provide the serial numbers, the installation date and their RBQ licenses.
Some distributors do this tracking automatically, but others leave the responsibility to the customer… and too often, this results in an “oral” guarantee that doesn’t really exist on paper.

👉 At AirGreen , we eliminate this uncertainty: each installation is systematically registered with the manufacturer , with written proof of warranty activation. The result: real, clear and undeniable protection for our customers.

Why a Well-Managed Warranty Changes Everything

A warranty is not just a number (“10 years”): it all depends on who covers what, how and under what conditions .

With a clear and properly registered warranty, you get:

No bad surprises

Without accurate recording, some competitors charge for diagnosis, travel or parts.
A well-managed official warranty protects you from these unexpected costs.

Fast support in case of breakdown

A complete file = priority and efficient service.
Less waiting, less hassle, more peace of mind.

A protected investment

A strong warranty maintains the reliability and value of your wall-mounted air conditioner.
You are buying for 10–12 years: real coverage is essential.

Complete peace of mind

Even after several years, you are protected against unexpected costs.
The guarantee becomes a concrete safety net, not just a marketing argument.

⚡ Bottom line: A poorly managed warranty can be expensive. With AirGreen , you know exactly what's included, what's not, and how to take action. No gray areas, just real protection, from day one to the end of the device's life.