A service call in an unusual stairwell
At AirGreen , our technicians are often called upon to work in locations where the layout makes the job more complex than it appears at first glance. This is exactly what we encountered in Kirkland , in a split-level home where a Hitachi wall-mounted air conditioner had been installed high up, at the top of a narrow, bright staircase.
The customer contacted us after noticing that their unit was no longer blowing cold air , even though the indicator lights appeared to be working normally. This is especially problematic in a stairwell, where heat rises quickly, making the upper floor uncomfortable.
Hitachi Air Conditioner Diagnosis
Upon our arrival, our team performed a complete inspection of the wall system. The indoor unit, while aesthetically well integrated into the decor, showed several signs of wear:
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Filters badly clogged , preventing good air circulation.
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Condensation accumulated due to a partially blocked drain.
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Abnormal fan noise , indicating an imbalance or fouling of the rotor.
We also found that the outdoor condenser , located at the back of the house, was showing abnormally low refrigerant pressure , which explained the lack of cooling.
Steps of repair
1. Cleaning and secure access
Working at the top of a staircase requires special logistics. We have installed a secure access platform to allow partial dismantling of the facade without the risk of falling. This type of precaution is essential to guarantee both the safety of the technician and the quality of the intervention .
2. Thorough cleaning of the indoor unit
The filters were removed, cleaned, and then disinfected with an antibacterial product specifically designed for HVAC systems. The drum fan was carefully degreased using a non-corrosive agent, restoring proper air circulation.
3. Clearing the condensate drain
The drain pipe was clogged where it exited the wall. We used a blast of compressed air to clear the pipe, preventing future water leaks on the wall or stairs.
4. Checking the refrigeration circuit
After testing the R-410A refrigerant pressures, we detected a micro-leak at the external flare fitting . We tightened and resealed it with a suitable sealant, then proceeded to accurately top up the refrigerant .
Results and performance restored
Once the unit was put back into service, the Hitachi wall-mounted air conditioner immediately returned to optimal cooling capacity . In less than ten minutes, the blown air temperature dropped from 26°C to 9°C , confirming its restored efficiency.
The client noted a reduction in noise and improved coolness distribution throughout the hallway and upstairs. The unit is now ready to provide consistent comfort for the coming summer.
Our advice for high wall installations
Wall installations located on stairways or mezzanines require more regular maintenance, as dust and heat accumulate more quickly. At AirGreen, we recommend:
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Filter cleaning every 6 to 8 weeks.
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An annual professional inspection , especially before hot weather.
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A drainage control to prevent water flow.
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A complete maintenance every two years , including checking the refrigerant gas.
These precautions ensure consistent performance and extend the life of your wall-mounted air conditioner.
AirGreen: HVAC repair experts in Montreal, Laval and the North Shore
No matter how complex the access or the installation height, our certified technicians have the equipment and experience to intervene effectively. Whether it's a Hitachi, Fujitsu, Gree, Sharp, Midea or Goodman , we ensure reliable, fast and safety-compliant repairs.
For any wall-mounted air conditioning or HVAC heat pump problem in Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore or the South Shore , trust AirGreen : we bring your comfort back to life, one system at a time.