A service call for well-deserved preventative maintenance
At AirGreen , we recently performed a complete cleaning of a Gree wall-mounted air conditioner in Sainte-Julie , on the South Shore of Montreal . The client, the owner of a modern single-family home, had noticed a decrease in airflow and a persistent odor when he turned on his system. This air conditioner, installed in a perfectly fitted wall niche, had a buildup of dust and residue invisible to the naked eye but detrimental to the overall performance of the system.
Initial inspection: a device clogged with time
Upon removing the front cover, our technician noted:
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A film of dust and light mold on the evaporator fins.
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A stained and slightly clogged condensate tray .
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Blower vanes accumulating a blackish deposit.
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No refrigerant leak, but a slight smell of humidity due to stagnant condensate.
This type of fouling is typical of wall-mounted air conditioners installed in enclosed environments like this one, where air circulation around the unit is restricted. Over time, these deposits promote bacterial growth and reduce energy efficiency.
Step 1: Protection and preparation of the site
Before any intervention, we have:
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Protected walls and furniture with plastic wrap and sealing tape to prevent water from splashing.
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Turn off the power to the unit.
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Installed a professional AirGreen washing kit to channel water and cleaning products directly into a collection tank.
This step ensures clean, safe, and mess-free maintenance—a crucial element in high-end residential environments.
Step 2: Deep Cleaning the Coil and Fan
We then sprayed the Gree evaporator with a non-corrosive, antibacterial cleaner . The foaming liquid removed the dust and biofilms that had accumulated over the seasons.
The often-neglected propeller fan was also disassembled and cleaned with a soft-bristled brush. This operation removed several grams of dust and microscopic spores responsible for unpleasant odors.
A low pressure rinse followed, ensuring a completely clean evaporator and better thermal transmission.
Step 3: Cleaning the condensate tray and filters
The condensate tray was thoroughly brushed and then rinsed with a disinfectant solution based on biodegradable enzymes. This prevents the formation of biofilm and algae in the drainage pipe.
The air filters have been washed, dried, and reinstalled. This simple action, often overlooked by homeowners, has a major impact on energy efficiency and indoor air quality .
Step 4: Testing and Performance Verification
After complete drying, we put the device back into service. The result was immediate:
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Fresh, odor-free air from the first minute.
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Improved airflow by approximately 25%.
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Blowing temperature stabilized at 9.7°C under cooling mode at 24°C.
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Reduced noise level , thanks to the cleaning of the fan and the uniform distribution of air.
Step 5: Personalized care advice
Before leaving the premises, we shared with the client some simple but effective recommendations:
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Clean the filters every two months during the summer season.
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Schedule an annual thorough cleaning before each summer.
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Avoid completely recessing the unit into a niche without ventilation space, to allow optimal cooling of the coil .
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Use the “dry” mode periodically to reduce the internal humidity of the system after a hot and humid day.
The Importance of Professional HVAC Cleaning
A wall-mounted air conditioner, even a well-known brand like Gree , quickly loses efficiency if it is not properly maintained. Dust, spores, and moisture can damage internal sensors, create odors, and increase energy consumption.
At AirGreen , we only use manufacturer-approved products and cleaning methods tailored to each type of installation. Our team operates in Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, and on the North Shore and South Shore, with a constant focus on cleanliness, precision, and durability.
Final result: restored performance and purified air
After our visit, the Sainte-Julie customer found a quiet, efficient and healthy Gree system . The air diffused into the room was fresher, without any trace of odor, and the interior temperature was reached in less than 15 minutes , compared to nearly 30 before our intervention.
Simple regular maintenance , carried out by AirGreen experts, can extend the life of a wall-mounted air conditioner by several years while significantly improving indoor comfort and the quality of the air you breathe .
