LG ARTCOOL PRESTIGE R32 Wall-Mounted Heat Pump | 18,000 BTU (-25°C)

A wall-mounted heat pump designed for Montreal winters, without compromising on comfort

In Montreal , comfort is not just about an "acceptable" temperature. Between rapid weather changes, humidity, old buildings and condos with lots of windows, the demand is clear: a wall-mounted heat pump must offer stable air conditioning in the summer and reliable heating when winter becomes demanding.

The LG ARTCOOL PRESTIGE R32 | 18,000 BTU (-25°C) wall-mounted heat pump has precisely this purpose: to take care of the daily comfort of a residential space while taking into account the realities of our region — Montreal , Laval , Longueuil , North Shore and South Shore — where a “correct” installation is not enough: a well-thought-out, adjusted and durable installation is required.

In the projects we carry out at AirGreen , this type of single-zone wall system is frequently selected for:

• a condo with an open concept and one or two priority comfort zones;

• a full floor of a plex (duplex/triplex) where we want to stabilize the living room, kitchen and hallway;

• a single-family home where the aim is constant comfort in a large volume, with a tangible reduction in energy costs.

What really changes on a daily basis: stability, gentleness, and consistency

Many people shop for a heat pump based on a single number: 18,000 BTU . However, in practice, it's not the number that makes the difference, but the ability to deliver heat and cold consistently , without abrupt variations.

A good wall-mounted heat pump can be recognized by details that homeowners quickly notice:

• less temperature oscillation (you do not “raise” the setpoint to compensate);

• a feeling of more uniform air, especially in open areas;

• fewer aggressive cycles that create noise, discomfort and a feeling of drafts.

This is exactly where the AirGreen approach counts: we are looking for stable and predictable comfort, not just an appliance that reaches a setpoint “on paper”.

R-32: a technical choice that influences performance and installation

This ARTCOOL PRESTIGE operates on R-32 refrigerant (freon) . For an owner, the goal is not to become a technician, but to understand the essentials: modern R-32 systems require rigorous HVAC installation , because actual performance depends heavily on the quality of the commissioning.

At AirGreen , we emphasize three concrete points:

1. Sealing : impeccable fittings prevent micro-leaks and performance drops.

2. Vacuuming : this is a critical step, too often botched elsewhere.

3. Charging and commissioning : a high-end heat pump does not “forgive” shortcuts.

In practice, it is these details that determine whether you get a machine "that works" or a machine "that really performs", year after year.

Useful technical points (those that prevent surprises on the construction site)

When a client requests a quote, we already know the most common surprises: an unsuitable circuit breaker, undersized wiring, complicated pipe runs, condo restrictions, or a poorly chosen outdoor location. That's why we systematically verify:

• Voltage : 220V (in most residential cases, this is 208–230V / 60 Hz / 1 phase)

• MCA / MOP : Minimum circuit amperage and maximum protection (key elements for the electrician)

• Piping : 3/8 - 5/8 in (liquid and vapor lines), which influences length, insulation, and aesthetics

• Noise level : a discreet interior and an exterior that respects the neighborhood

• Dimensions : width/depth/height of the units, essential for small spaces (balconies, alleyways, side courtyards)

• Airflow (CFM) : a key factor in the feeling of comfort in open areas and corridors

These points may seem technical, but they have a very simple consequence: an installation without unpleasant surprises , a clean result, and immediate comfort.

Built-in features: the ones that really matter on a daily basis

Modern product lines are often sold with a long list of features. At AirGreen, we separate the "marketing" from the "truly useful," taking into account how people live in their homes or condos.

Here's what provides real value:

• WiFi included : extremely convenient for adjusting settings remotely (condo management, apartment building, secondary residence)

• Automatic restart : useful after micro-outages, which are frequent during summer storms.

• Automatic heating/air conditioning switching : perfect for spring and autumn (warm days, cool nights)

• Automatic vertical and horizontal oscillation : better distribution in a long room or open area

• Sleep mode : nighttime comfort without noise or variations

• Smart Diagnosis : enables faster diagnosis of certain symptoms during operation

And most importantly: a feature is only useful if it's properly configured . For example, an incorrectly adjusted oscillation can create a draft; a poorly configured automatic mode can cause it to switch too frequently; and a speed that's too high can give the impression of a "dry" feel. Therefore, we take the time to adjust the machine according to the space and its intended use.

Intense cold: how we approach heating at -25°C in real life

In our region, the question is not “is it getting hot?”, but:

• Does the machine maintain a comfortable temperature when it is very cold outside?

• Does the blown air remain pleasant, without any unpleasant sensation?

• Does the system handle defrosting well without noticeable discomfort?

A heat pump adapted to cold climates must be installed with intelligent choices:

• outdoor location that limits snow accumulation and the recirculation of cold air;

• sufficient clearances to avoid blockage, vibration, ice and noise;

• drainage management and protection against harsh conditions.

In several projects on the North Shore (Sainte-Thérèse, Blainville, Boisbriand) and on the South Shore (Boucherville, Longueuil, Saint-Lambert), we see that it is these “common sense technical” elements that make winter much more comfortable.

AirGreen field examples: three common scenarios in Montreal, Laval, Longueuil

To make selection and installation concrete, here are three very common situations — and the practical lessons that make a difference.

1) Duplex in Montreal: open concept + central staircase (fireplace effect)

In many Montreal duplexes/triplexes, the staircase acts as a conduit: hot air rises, cold air descends, resulting in an area that is too hot at the top and too cool near the floor.

When we install an 18,000 BTU wall unit, we pay attention to:

• the positioning of the indoor unit (avoid blowing directly towards the stairs);

• the orientation of the flaps (pushing air towards colder areas);

• ventilation speed (often lower than people believe).

Result: instead of having a “strong” room and a “weak” room, we get a more homogeneous temperature and more stable comfort.

2) Condo in Laval: balcony, neighborhood and vibrations

In a condo in Laval , the outdoor unit must comply with certain constraints:

• space available on the balcony;

• requirements of the co-ownership;

• noise heard from the neighbors;

• vibrations transmitted to the structure.

A successful installation involves:

• suitable supports and anti-vibration mounts;

• proper fixing, alignment and clearances;

• optimized piping layout (less mechanical stress, better durability);

• Drainage verified under real-world conditions.

Here, “installing” is not enough: you have to install properly , and with a long-term logic.

3) House on the South Shore: maximizing savings without sacrificing comfort

On the South Shore , many homes already have supplemental heating (baseboard heaters, furnaces, etc.). The goal isn't always to eliminate the existing system, but to ensure that the heat pump becomes the primary system most of the time.

Our approach consists of:

• define a setpoint strategy (stability > variations);

• adjust the operation according to occupancy;

• Perform regular maintenance to maintain performance.

The typical result: occupants experience more consistent warmth, and the auxiliary heating system is activated less frequently.

AirGreen Installation: What Makes the Difference Between “It Works” and “It’s Excellent”

Two installations can use the same machine and produce two completely different experiments.

At AirGreen , our method is based on steps that have a direct impact:

1) Sizing and comfort logic

We are assessing the reality of the building:

• insulation and fenestration;

• orientation (direct sun in the afternoon, shaded areas);

• room layout (corridors, high ceilings, mezzanines);

• habits (teleworking, presence of baby, irregular hours).

The objective is simple: to choose a capacity that provides stable comfort, without overpowering or undersizing.

2) Clean, durable, and aesthetically pleasing installation

We pay attention to:

• discreet and protected piping routes;

• insulation of refrigerant lines;

• durable outdoor supports, suitable for snow and freeze/thaw cycles;

• finishing and cleanliness of the construction site (details often forgotten, but visible every day).

3) Complete commissioning and clear explanation

We don't leave a machine in "default mode". We explain:

• how to choose the setting (and why to avoid jumps of 3–4 degrees);

• when to use auto-changeover and when to favour a fixed mode;

• how to reduce perceived noise (without sacrificing comfort);

• how to maintain the filters and monitor drainage.

These are small habits, but they have a major impact on performance and durability.

HVAC Maintenance: Simple Actions That Prevent Service Calls

A high-performing wall-mounted heat pump remains so if it is properly maintained. We recommend:

• cleaning the filters at a realistic frequency (often more frequent during pollen season or construction work);

• seasonal drainage inspection;

• periodic cleaning of the internal coil if necessary;

• outdoor unit check (leaves, ice, clearances).

Important: While some self-cleaning functions are helpful, they are not a substitute for proper maintenance. Regular HVAC maintenance extends lifespan, maintains efficiency, and significantly reduces unexpected problems.

Guarantee and peace of mind: what you need to understand

This heat pump is advertised with a 10-10-0 year warranty (compressor, parts, and labor), with the option of an extended warranty. In practice, peace of mind also depends on:

• of a compliant and documented installation;

• of reasonable maintenance;

• clear follow-up when adjustments are needed.

At AirGreen, we ensure that the customer not only has a good machine, but a complete solution: product selection, installation, usage advice, and service as needed.

For whom is this LG ARTCOOL PRESTIGE R32 18,000 BTU an excellent choice?

This model is particularly suitable for those who want to:

• a wall-mounted heat pump that is reliable for heating in cold weather and efficient for air conditioning ;

• a modern R-32 system;

• a machine with built-in WiFi and genuinely useful smart features;

• an installation adapted to the realities of Montreal , Laval , Longueuil , North Shore and South Shore .

In other words: if you are looking for stable comfort, measurable performance and careful installation, this is a very sound choice — provided the installation is done properly.

Next Step!

For a precise recommendation (sizing, optimal location, detailed estimate), contact AirGreen now. We'll guide you toward the best configuration and deliver a clean, sustainable, and comfort-oriented HVAC installation , with results that live up to your investment.