An air conditioning failure in the heart of an unexpected winter
Although Quebec winters are primarily about heating, many residents use their Friedrich wall-mounted air conditioners for ventilation and dehumidification, even in the cold season. Our AirGreen team was called to a modern apartment in Saint-Lambert , on Montreal's South Shore , to diagnose a Friedrich PTAC unit installed in a wall overlooking a glass balcony.
The customer reported that the unit, although turned on, was no longer producing cool air and was displaying an intermittent error code .
Initial inspection: a system that appears intact, but is broken
At first glance, the installation appeared recent: the unit was well recessed, properly sealed, and properly wired. However, upon approaching, we noticed:
-
a slight abnormal vibration at startup;
-
a clicking noise from the fan;
-
and a damp smell suggesting stagnant water in the condensation tray.
After accessing the front panel, we noticed an oxidized electronic board and a fan motor partially blocked by a buildup of dust and condensation.
Diagnosis: Combined fan and control board failure
Through our step-by-step analysis, we quickly identified two main causes:
-
Blower motor jam causing control circuit to overheat.
-
Main electronic board damaged , making communication between the integrated thermostat and the compressor impossible.
This type of failure is common on Friedrich units installed in humid environments or exposed to extreme temperature variations, especially when they are partially integrated into exterior walls.
AirGreen intervention: replacement and complete calibration
At AirGreen, we have a systematic approach that aims to provide lasting repairs without compromising performance. Here are the steps we followed during this intervention in Saint-Lambert:
-
Disconnect power and secure the work area.
-
Complete removal of the Friedrich interior module , followed by compressed air cleaning and antibacterial treatment.
-
Replaced the blower motor with a compatible OEM Friedrich variable speed model.
-
Installation of a new electronic card , calibrated according to the unit parameters.
-
Verification of the complete cycle (cooling and ventilation) with measurement of pressures, air flow and sound level.
We then sealed the wall frame with a heat-resistant insulating mastic , guaranteeing a perfect seal against air and moisture infiltration.
Results: air conditioning that has become quiet and efficient again
As soon as it was switched back on, the Friedrich wall-mounted air conditioner regained its full power:
-
the airflow was smooth and stable;
-
the compressor started without delay;
-
and the noise level had decreased by almost 40%.
The customer immediately noticed the difference, including the improvement in indoor air quality thanks to the complete cleaning of the filters and ducts.
The Importance of Regular Maintenance of Wall-Mounted Air Conditioners
Even the most efficient models, like those from Friedrich , require regular maintenance to ensure their longevity. Our technicians recommend:
-
cleaning the filters every 4 to 6 weeks;
-
annual professional maintenance , including checking the motor, condensate and electrical circuit;
-
and checking the tightness of the wall frame , especially for PTAC units passing through the wall.
These simple actions prevent internal humidity, short circuits and loss of energy efficiency.
AirGreen: your HVAC partner throughout the South Shore and Greater Montreal
At AirGreen , we leverage our expertise in HVAC system repair, maintenance, and installation across Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore, and the South Shore . Each intervention is carried out in compliance with safety and energy efficiency standards, with one clear priority: the lasting comfort of our customers.
Our service in Saint-Lambert demonstrates our expertise: accurate diagnosis, long-lasting repairs, and improved overall system performance . For any issues with your Friedrich wall-mounted air conditioner or any other HVAC unit, our team is ready to respond quickly, even during peak demand.