Delivering comfort, performance, and reliability across every floor.
The multi-unit residential building (MURB) market continues to evolve. Rising energy performance requirements, electrification goals, and occupant expectations are reshaping how HVAC systems are designed, specified, and integrated into residential buildings.
At O’Dell HVAC Group, we work with mechanical engineers, contractors, and developers to deliver complete HVAC solutions for both suite-level comfort and whole-building efficiency. Whether you are designing a new high-rise condominium or upgrading an existing rental property, our team helps support system selection, coordination, and long-term performance across every phase of a project.
Suite-Level Comfort with Proven Performance
Each suite in a multi-unit building requires quiet operation, reliable comfort control, and efficient use of space. O’Dell represents several complementary technologies that address a wide range of project requirements.
LG Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) Systems
LG VRF systems provide flexibility, efficiency, and zoning control well suited for multi-suite residential applications.
With inverter-driven compressors and advanced controls, VRF systems modulate refrigerant flow based on real-time demand, helping maintain comfort while reducing overall energy consumption.
Key advantages for MURB applications include:
- Heat recovery capability, allowing different suites or zones to operate in heating or cooling based on demand.
- Compact refrigerant piping and branch selector boxes that reduce vertical riser space and maximize usable floor area.
- Centralized controls integration through LG ACP controllers or BACnet gateways for building management systems (BMS).
- A wide range of indoor unit styles to suit suites, corridors, and common spaces while maintaining acoustical performance.
O’Dell’s engineering team supports VRF system layouts, refrigerant piping coordination, and equipment selections aligned with project load profiles and electrical infrastructure.
Climetec 2- and 4-Pipe Fan Coil Units
Fan coil systems remain a proven solution for many high-rise and mid-rise residential projects. Climetec’s 2- and 4-pipe fan coil units offer flexibility, customization, and dependable performance for suite-level comfort.
Key design features include:
2-Pipe Systems
A simplified seasonal changeover design that provides heating or cooling from a central water loop. This approach is commonly used for cost-sensitive projects or buildings with uniform load profiles.
4-Pipe Systems
Independent heating and cooling coils allow occupants to control their comfort in buildings with separate boiler and chiller loops. This configuration supports varying suite exposures without implying simultaneous heating and cooling at the unit level.
Flexible configurations
Horizontal, vertical, and console-style units designed to fit tight mechanical closets or ceiling plenums.
High-efficiency ECM motors
Quiet operation with reduced energy consumption and improved airflow control.
Integrated ERV compatibility
Designed to temper code-required outdoor air delivered to each suite, helping streamline ventilation design and reduce overall system complexity and cost.
Climetec’s local manufacturing capabilities also provide shorter lead times and project-specific customization, supporting today’s fast-paced construction schedules.
Ice Air Vertical Stack Heat Pumps
For projects prioritizing electrification and energy performance, Ice Air’s vertical stack heat pumps provide a modular, service-friendly solution for both new construction and retrofit applications.
Available configurations include:
- Air-source heat pumps (VTAC) for buildings without central water loops.
- Water-source heat pumps (WSHP) for integration with cooling towers, boilers, or geothermal systems.
- PTAC systems for smaller suites, senior living residences, or renovation projects.
Technical highlights include field-replaceable chassis for simplified maintenance, ECM fan motors for efficiency and acoustical performance, and optional ERV integration to support indoor air quality and ventilation requirements.
Whole-Building Integration: Engineered for Performance
Achieving performance in a MURB goes beyond individual suites. O’Dell works closely with mechanical consultants and contractors to support fully integrated mechanical systems.
Our design assistance includes:
- Hydronic system coordination for 2- and 4-pipe fan coil networks.
- VRF heat recovery and ventilation integration.
- Dedicated outdoor air and energy recovery strategies.
- Building automation system (BAS) coordination for centralized monitoring and control.
- Electrification and decarbonization pathway support.
By engaging early in the design process, we help ensure systems are coordinated, serviceable, and aligned with both performance goals and constructability.
Supporting CMHC MLI Select Energy Efficiency Targets
For many developers, achieving energy performance thresholds under CMHC’s MLI Select program is a major driver in HVAC system selection for MURB projects.
The MLI Select program awards points across affordability, accessibility, and energy efficiency outcomes, with a minimum of 50 total points required to qualify. Projects focused on energy performance can achieve up to 50 points through the Energy Efficiency category alone, unlocking financing benefits such as higher loan-to-value ratios, extended amortization periods, and reduced insurance premiums.
Energy Efficiency Performance Levels
Energy efficiency points are awarded based on modeled building performance:
New Construction
- 20 points: Minimum 25% better than NECB Tier 1 (or 20% better than NBC Tier 1)
- 35 points: Minimum 50% better than NECB Tier 1
- 50 points: Minimum 60% better than NECB Tier 1 (or 70% better than NBC Tier 1)
Existing Buildings
- 20 points: Minimum 15% reduction over baseline energy use
- 35 points: Minimum 25% reduction
- 50 points: Minimum 40% reduction
Once achieved and documented, energy efficiency commitments do not require annual re-certification, making early system design and coordination critical.
HVAC systems play a central role in achieving these outcomes. High-efficiency solutions such as VRF systems, fan coils with ECM motors, electrified heat pumps, and integrated energy recovery strategies can significantly improve modeled performance when coordinated early with the mechanical engineer and energy modeler.
O’Dell’s engineering team supports HVAC system selection and performance alignment to help reduce risk during both the design and financing stages of MLI Select projects.
Why Partner with O’Dell
With over 30 years of experience and one of Canada’s strongest HVAC engineering networks, O’Dell delivers more than products.
Our advantages include:
- One partner supporting multiple HVAC technologies
- In-house engineering and application support
- Proven manufacturer partnerships
- Local service and technical support across Ontario and Atlantic Canada
- A proven process that supports projects from design through commissioning
Build with Confidence
Every MURB project presents unique challenges, from space constraints to energy targets. Our team understands the complexities of multi-unit residential design and is ready to help you specify systems that balance comfort, efficiency, and long-term performance.
Ready to start your next project?
Connect with O’Dell to discuss your multi-unit residential HVAC design.
