Archives des Cooling - Entreprises MST

Having a home that costs you almost nothing in electricity and heating may seem like a distant dream. But it’s possible with net-zero energy homes, also known as zero-energy homes.

They’re becoming increasingly popular, even here in Canada, where heating requirements are considerable. In addition to economic reasons, many are choosing to respect their environmental values.

What is zero energy consumption?

A zero-energy home produces as much energy as it consumes. In concrete terms, these homes already have a very low energy demand and can produce the necessary amount of energy by themselves. So there are virtually no bills to pay for heating and electricity.

In Canada, there is a certification program under the umbrella of the Canadian Home Builders’ Association (CHBA): Net Zero Home (NZH) and Net Zero Ready Home (NZRH).

Three components of net-zero energy homes

To achieve net zero energy housing, installing a few solar panels is not enough. To achieve this goal, three important components must be taken into account.

Energy conservation

If a house or building is to achieve zero energy consumption, energy losses must be avoided as much as possible.

There is no perfect solution that works in all cases. However, strategies can include energy-efficient windows, insulation beyond minimum standards, a rainwater harvesting system, LED lighting, etc. These are sometimes called “airtight” houses with zero heat loss. Zero-energy houses are up to 80% more energy efficient than a standard house.

They can also be passive houses, meaning that their design and orientation to the sun are optimized so that they are heated as much as possible by the sun in winter while remaining cool in summer.

Because of its high efficiency, installing a heat pump is a common strategy for achieving a net-zero home.
Energy production

To achieve zero energy consumption, the house must produce its energy. In most cases, solar panels are installed. Geothermal energy is also sometimes used, as are wind turbines. Surplus electricity can be sold to the utility if the house is connected to the Hydro-Québec grid. If the home is off the electricity grid, surplus energy can be stored in batteries.
Inhabitants’ consumption habits

Of course, even with the most ingenious design and efficient solar panels, achieving net zero requires the home’s occupants to do their bit. Depending on the situation, this may mean unplugging electrical appliances at night to avoid phantom loads. It also means choosing only Energy Star-certified appliances, monitoring water consumption, and using water-saving appliances. You should also avoid overheating in winter and over-cooling in summer.

For a new home

If you’re having a house built and aiming for net zero, you can apply certain principles to the construction itself. For example, you could choose a frame that uses less wood.

Other strategies can help, such as locating windows in the wall to retain heat and installing flashings to control water and mould where there are openings.

For an existing home

It’s perfectly possible to transform an existing house into a net-zero home. Of course, this depends on the home. Potential renovations include insulation beyond building code requirements, window changes, and heating system upgrades. Subsidies are available to help you make your home more energy-efficient.

Advantages of a net-zero home

The first advantage is the most obvious: your energy bills are extremely low with a net-zero home. Because your home produces its energy, you’re protected from fluctuations in energy costs.

Because this type of energy-efficient home is built to higher standards, the constructions are more durable. They are virtually airtight, making them very comfortable. Air quality is purer, thanks to the integrated ventilation system. Its insulation also works against sound. You won’t be disturbed by your neighbour mowing the lawn or having a party. It’s a home that offers greater comfort and tranquillity.

Disadvantages of a zero-energy home

The major disadvantage may lie in the price, especially if you have a conventional home that you want to convert. Renovations can be pretty expensive. You’re looking at tens of thousands of dollars. It’s a significant investment but well worth it!

Net-zero homes are already very popular in Europe, where electricity costs are much higher. They’re becoming increasingly popular here, even though they were virtually non-existent in Quebec a decade ago. Eventually, advanced net-zero home standards could become the general building norm. Whether you’d like to take on the challenge of reducing your home’s energy consumption to zero or you’d like to lighten your bills, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’ll be happy to help you with the heat-pump part of your project.

With our summers getting hotter and hotter, installing an air-conditioning system is sometimes necessary. Otherwise, an apartment can quickly turn into a sauna! Even if you have a heat pump or other system to cool your air, exploring ways of cooling your home naturally can be very interesting. Also, employing natural cooling will help reduce your energy costs.

Install Reflective Curtains

You can install sunlight-reflecting curtains to prevent overheating in rooms where the sun is shining. You could also make panels from aluminum foil and cardboard, like the ones used in car windshields.

Multiply Green Plants

Growing climbing plants on your exterior walls is very effective for cooling a house, as they filter the sun’s rays. Make sure the plants are on walls facing the sun.

Even indoor green plants can help cool your living environment through their transpiration. They’ll also purify your air, which will be very handy on smoggy days.

Create Air Currents

In winter, we hunt drafts off; in summer, we look for them! But be careful not to let the heat in. To create an effective air movement, open opposite windows, especially at night. During the day, close the windows as soon as you feel the warm air coming in.

Use a Wet Sheet

This ancient technique is still used in many hot countries. The concept is simple: a wet towel or sheet is placed in an open window. The cloth blocks the sun’s rays, and the water evaporating from the fabric cools the room. You can also use this technique in a door frame.

Unplug Unused Appliances

Virtually every electronic device produces some heat. You’ll avoid an additional heat source by unplugging those you’re not using. You should also consider changing your regular light bulbs for LEDs, which emit much less heat. To go one step further, consider replacing your old appliances with energy-efficient ones. These generally consume a lot of energy and give off much heat.

Insulate Your Home

In winter, just as in summer, good insulation will save you a lot of trouble. Anything that works in winter to keep out the cold also works in summer to keep out the heat! Check air holes, ducts, dryer vents, old windows, etc.

Use a Spray Bottle

If the humidity level is not saturated, a fine mist will soon refresh you, thanks to evaporation. You can use a simple spray bottle filled with fresh water. You can even add a few drops of citrus or mint essential oil for an extra cooling effect.

Keep Yourself Cool First

In the middle of a heatwave, make sure you stay well hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Carry an insulated water bottle to keep your fluids cool all day long. Choose clothes and sheets made from natural fibres such as cotton, linen, or bamboo. This will prevent you from sweating excessively.

Adapt your diet too, preferring salads or other fresh dishes. If you avoid using the oven or frying pans, you won’t heat your kitchen.

Install Shutters

Shutters let the air circulate but block the sun’s rays, reducing the heat that comes in. They are particularly effective if your home is well-insulated. The best shutters are the retractable type, widely seen in Europe. Their popularity is growing in Canada.

Use a Fan

A fan may not fall into the natural cooling category per se, but it can be very effective during heat waves. For an added cooling effect, place a washcloth or damp cloth on the front of the fan. You can recreate the effect of wet sheets on a window.

For ceiling fans, change their direction. By turning the blades counter-clockwise, you can create a pleasant breeze.

A Few Extra Tips

On a larger scale, if you’re ready for renovations, buying a new home, or even building one, several strategies will ensure a comfortable home, even during the worst heat waves. For example, simply painting the house a light colour will give you a cooler home.

There are also what are known as passive houses: these are homes specially designed and oriented to require less heating and less air conditioning. Window overhangs are the perfect size to block the sun’s rays in summer but let them penetrate the house in winter when the sun is lower on the horizon.

You can also plant leafy trees, especially on your house’s east and west sides. This will prevent the sun from beating down on your home in the morning and afternoon. Since they’re deciduous, you’ll get all the sun you want during the winter.

Finally, even if you already have a heat pump or air conditioner, there’s nothing to stop you from using these natural cooling strategies to stay even cooler! Don’t hesitate to contact us to find out which cooling strategy is right for you.

You want to buy a new air conditioner or heating unit, but you need financing to do so.

MST Enterprises has associated with Financeit and Snap to offer quick, easy, and efficient solutions for heat pump financing.

Quick and Easy Financing with Financeit

With Financeit, you can get long-term financing over ten years for up to $100,000. So, we have you covered for whichever heat pump model you want, whether it’s a ductless heat pump, a mini-split, a central system or a multizone. Payment is made in monthly installments.

Within only a few seconds, you will know if you qualify, without any commitment or obligation.

Steps to Get Financing

Get a head start on your energy savings by financing your heat pump with Financeit. It all comes down to three simple steps.

First is the application process: complete the credit application form online. You will receive an immediate response.

Second, once you have been approved, you will confirm and complete the details of your purchase with MST Enterprises by supplying the required documents.

Third, refund payments will be debited automatically from your bank account.

Financeit Benefits

At Financeit, there are no hidden fees. Everything is direct, open, and straightforward. You know exactly how much you’re paying when you purchase an appliance. All details are provided.

The Financeit loan program offers amortization periods of up to 240 months, which allows for low monthly payment plans that are easy to comply with. Interest rates range between 12.99% and 15.99%.

Financeit does everything in its power to be flexible and fair towards clients. As a result, you can make additional payments and even pay off your balance in full at any time without any penalties.

Your data is safe with Financeit. Bank-calibre encryption is used to ensure that your confidential information stays safe.

An overview of financing with Snap

With Snap, you can finance your purchase, even with bad credit.

Snap financing can be advantageous in some cases for short-term loans.

Benefits of Snap

With Snap financing, applying for a loan is quick and easy, and you get approved in minutes.

Snap offers easy and flexible payment options, like direct debit.

Your loan with Snap is an open loan that you can pay anytime, with no fees or penalties.

Until June 30, 2023, a promotion is offered with Snap, where you pay nothing for 6 or 12 months, depending on the chosen offer.

Available Subsidies

In addition to offering financing through Financeit and Snap, MST Enterprises helps you save by advising you on how to benefit from government assistance.

There are currently a few government programs available to those purchasing an energy-efficient heating or air conditioning system: Chauffez vert, Rénoclimat, Greener Homes, Novoclimat, and different programs from Hydro-Québec.

Chauffez vert

With Chauffez vert, you get financial aid that can go up to $1,275.

The Chauffez vert program helps people replace their fossil fuel heating system or water heating system with electrical systems or systems using renewable energy, like electricity.

By bringing this change to your home, you’ll benefit from financial assistance from the government, reduce your greenhouse gas emissions, improve your house’s energy efficiency, and save thanks to your new effective system.

Hydro-Québec

Through the Efficient heat pump program, Hydro-Québec offers financial support when installing or replacing an eligible heat pump.

The amount is allotted according to your heat pump’s heating output, which is $50 for every thousand BTUs of heating output at -8°C.

Rénoclimat

Rénoclimat is a provincial program for homeowners wanting to improve their home’s energy efficiency by renovating it.

The financial aid allotted for installing an eligible heat pump depends on the heat pump’s heating output. You receive $50 for every thousand BTUs of heating output at -8°C.

This way, you enhance your home’s comfort level while reducing energy consumption. You can also get custom advice on improving your home’s power efficiency by having a Rénoclimat advisor visit your house.

Greener homes

Greener homes is a federal program helping homeowners increase their home’s energy efficiency, including installing a heat pump.

The government offers up to 700,000 grants that can reach up to $5,000 each.

By being eligible for the grant for greener homes, you may also qualify for an interest-free loan with a repayment term of 10 years, ranging from $5,000 to $40,000. This is a government initiative to help Canadians make their homes more energy-efficient.

Novoclimat

Novoclimat is a grant program created for new homes, promoting the construction of energy-efficient homes.

The financial aid allowed for installing an eligible heat pump is $50 for every thousand BTUs of heating output at -8°C

Hydro-Quebec and Steffes

Until June 30, 2023, Hydro-Quebec is offering $10,000 in financial assistance to customers who want to install a Steffes central heating system with a heat accumulator (ETS). An additional $5,000 is offered if you simultaneously install an eligible central heat pump.

HydroSolution and Hydro-Quebec

An interesting alternate solution to financing is renting a heat pump.

When renting an eligible heat pump through HydroSolution, you are entitled to financial assistance courtesy of Hydro-Quebec’s Efficient Heat Pumps program.

The financial assistance offered is $50 for every thousand BTUs of heating at -8°C and will be paid in a single payment by HydroSolution.

Energir, Hydro-Quebec, and the Quebec Government

If switching to dual-energy, you can take advantage of grants thanks to a partnership between Energir, Hydro-Quebec, and the Quebec government.

Up to $5,800 is offered when replacing a natural gas central heating system with a new one and installing a heat pump.

A grant of up to $5,500 is offered when adding a heat pump to an existing natural gas central heating system.

Make your choice

With these quick and easy financing options and government assistance, only one choice is left to make. What will your next heating or air conditioning system be?

A heat pump vs an air conditioner. Which one is the best to buy? The answer depends on your needs and deserves a thorough analysis.

Air conditioning

An air conditioner cools your home down during big summer heatwaves by creating cold air through regular vapour compression.

There are central air conditioning systems and there are wall-mounted units. As AC units only run for a few months a year, they have a pretty good lifespan. However, it does not help you save on heating bills.

Heat pump

A heat pump system cools your house down over the summer while in cooling mode and heats it in the winter. As opposed to air-con units, which create cold air, heat pumps use hot and cold air transfer.

Like air conditioners, heat pumps come in central systems or mural units. Also, specific models come with multi-zone functions, which allow you to independently manage certain rooms or areas of the house.

Since heat pumps work for most of the year, they sometimes have a shorter lifespan than air conditioners. However, when used along with your regular heater, it helps you save on heating bills.

Cost

Many choose to buy an air conditioner, arguing that heat pumps are too expensive. This might have been true in the past, but today, heat pumps are priced nearly the same as air conditioners.

Additionally, thanks to various grant programs such as Rénoclimat and Hydro-Québec’s Efficient heat pump, you can be granted government support when purchasing an eligible heat pump.

BTU

Whether you choose a heat pump or an air conditioner, you must determine the BTU (British Thermal Unit) amount needed for your unit to give you the best performance.

An expert’s evaluation of your house’s surface area, number of floors, ceiling height, and insulation quality is necessary for this process.

Central air conditioning systems and central heat pumps’ power usually ranges between 24 000 and 60 000 BTU. As for the wall-mounted air conditioner and wall-mounted heat pump, they typically run between 9 000 and 18 000 BTU. The multi-zone wall-mounted heat pump’ output, on the other hand, ranges from 18 000 to 36 000 BTU.

Installation

At MST, the installation process is ensured by experts specifically trained to work with the brands we carry. Each member of our team holds an operation license for their work field.

Installing your unit according to strict manufacturer guidelines ensures that your unit has a superior lifespan and optimal performance.

Additionally, our technicians can do routine maintenance on your unit when needed.

A well-informed decision

Before you decide on buying an air conditioner or heating unit, it is crucial to assess your needs and consider your options. Our showroom allows you to try out our different units to see their efficiency and better understand how they operate.

Contact MST for a free estimate. Your comfort is our priority.

When someone decides to buy an air conditioner, many questions come to mind as to what type of device to buy, since there are many brands and models available on the market, in a wide array of prices.

However, other elements are even more important than the brand and model to consider, leading to more significant savings in the long run.

While choosing an air conditioning system from a recognized and reliable brand is essential, there are other details you must know before making your choice. Here’s what to look for when buying an air conditioner system.

Which type of air conditioning system should you choose?

There are different types of air conditioning units: window-mounted units, wall-mounted units, portable units, central air conditioning units, ducted units, roof units, etc.

Three are most commonly used, each tailored to different needs: central AC units, wall-mounted air conditioning and portable air conditioning.

Central air conditioning is ideal for homes with pre-installed air ducts. Wall-mounted air conditioning is best for homes with no air ducts. And finally, portable air conditioners are useful for those who can’t install fixed equipment because they live in a rented property or because the space or the façade doesn’t allow it.

A wall-mounted air conditioning unit would be appropriate if you want to cool one room or open area section of your house. If, on the other hand, you want to cool the whole building, then a centralized air-conditioning system would be best.

Calculate the power of the device according to the volume of the room

To choose equipment adapted to your home, you must know how much air conditioning is needed to cool your house or business.

BTUs (British Thermal Units) are used to measure the heat absorption power of an air conditioner. To calculate the necessary energy for your cooling equipment, many factors must be considered.

To get a general idea of how many BTUs are needed, start by calculating the area you want to cool. To do so, multiply the length by the width of the room or space. Then, multiply the result by 10, and you get the amount of BTUs needed to cool the room.

Generally speaking, it takes about 10 BTUs per square foot. However, many other factors can modify this result, such as ceiling height, the number of windows, etc. To know the necessary power, it’s best to have a professional AC installer perform a field evaluation.

Opt for the Inverter technology

Inverter technology regulates the speed of the air conditioning compressor according to your requirements. Instead of starting and stopping frequently to obtain the desired average temperature as traditional air conditioners do, Inverter technology makes the compressor run continuously but at a lesser intensity to maintain the desired temperature.

This technology allows up to 35% more energy savings than traditional equipment. In addition to its energy efficiency, the Inverter technology brings thermal comfort, greater performance and an extended equipment lifespan.

The EER in air conditioners

The EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio) is the ratio between the cooling capacity and the energy consumption used to obtain it. In other words, the higher the EER, the more efficient the air conditioning equipment. Knowing the electrical power consumed in refrigeration can help you choose a more efficient and, therefore, more economical system.

Which air conditioning equipment should you buy?

After deciding on the most appropriate air conditioning system for your home and making sure of its cooling capacity, choose, if possible, the system with the highest EER.

Contrary to popular belief, buying an inexpensive appliance with a low EER is not the cheapest alternative for your wallet in the long run.

Where to buy an air conditioner?

Make sure to do business with an authorized establishment in your area with certified technicians.

MST sells, installs, cleans and repairs heat pumps and air conditioners in the Châteauguay and South Shore areas.

Contact us for an evaluation of your needs and a free estimate. Our team of experts will be happy to help you find the best cooling system for your home.

Are you hesitating between a mural and a central air conditioning system? If you don’t have a limited budget and your home respects certain conditions, then your choice of air conditioning system will depend on your personal preferences.

However, it’s always best to have all the necessary information to make a wise choice.

Here’s, without further ado, the advantages of air conditioning systems, both wall-mounted and central, as well as their disadvantages. After reading this article, you should be able to determine which type of system is compatible with your home and best suits your needs.

Central air conditioning

Installing a central air conditioner is more complex than installing a wall-mounted air conditioner, which explains its higher price. However, it offers a higher level of comfort and well-being. The central air conditioner is the most optimal and efficient device as far as air conditioning is concerned.

This type of system is most suitable for large homes, where all the house rooms can be cooled simultaneously.

Because most of the equipment for the central system is inside the house, its installation requires good planning. It is highly recommended to have an evaluation done by an air conditioning specialist to better plan the necessary space and budget to buy and install this system.

Contact MST for a free estimate if you live in Châteauguay or on the South Shore.

Advantages and disadvantages of a central air conditioner

Advantages

Widely spaced and simple maintenance.
Fast and uniform cooling of parts.
Dehumidifies the ambient air, providing greater comfort.
Filters the air, improving air quality.
Easily control the temperature using a simple wall control unit.
Uses the same air ducts as your existing air heating system, saving you money on the installation cost.
Avoids installing interior units in each room, making it more aesthetic.

Disadvantages

If there are no preinstalled air ducts in your ceiling, the total cost of your system will be higher since you’ll need to have ducts installed.
Impossible to air-condition rooms individually.

Wall-mounted air conditioning

Nowadays, the air conditioning system that is most in demand is the wall-mounted system, as it offers many advantages over other devices. It’s also more economical.

As for the central system, the wall-mounted air conditioning compressor is installed outside the home or building. Unlike the former, which requires an air duct system, it communicates with the indoor equipment through small pipes inserted through a hole in the wall.

The most significant disadvantage of the wall-mounted air conditioner is that it uses unitary systems inside the house. You will need several interior units to cool all the rooms you want. These units are also permanent installations, which means you won’t be able to move them at will.

Advantages and disadvantages of wall-mounted systems