An intervention in a residential basement on the South Shore
At AirGreen , we were called to intervene in Brossard , on the South Shore of Montreal, for a heating and air conditioning problem on an Amana central heat pump installed under a rear balcony. The owner had noticed for several days that the house remained warm despite the continuous operation of the unit.
At first glance, the installation was typical of a central Amana system, mounted securely on galvanized wall brackets , ensuring good stability and optimal clearance for air circulation. This configuration is common in single-family homes on the South Shore, where floor space is limited and the mechanical safety of the appliances takes precedence over aesthetics.
Fault diagnosis: a compressor powered but inactive
Upon our arrival, our technician carried out the basic checks :
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Power supply confirmed (240V available).
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Thermostat working and correctly configured.
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Interior fan (air handler) operational.
However, despite the start commands, the compressor would not start . So we opened the side panel of the Amana unit to access the contactor , start capacitor , and low voltage control wires .
A quick measurement with the multimeter revealed that voltage was indeed reaching the compressor , but no current draw was detected. This symptom indicated a faulty start capacitor , a common failure on Amana systems after several seasons of heavy use.
Repair: capacitor replacement and functional tests
After disconnecting the main power supply, we replaced the capacitor with a new genuine Amana part (same µF capacity and same voltage rating). The worn component showed obvious signs of swelling and dielectric leakage.
Once the new capacitor was installed and the connections tightened, the system was powered back up. Immediately, the compressor engaged with a smooth and quiet start , confirming the success of the repair.
We then measured:
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Compressor current: 7.2 A (correct nominal value).
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Operating pressures balanced after 15 minutes (high: 260 psi, low: 118 psi).
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Indoor blowing temperature lowered to 11°C after only 10 minutes.
Preventive maintenance and performance optimization
As with every service, our AirGreen technician took advantage of the visit to thoroughly clean the condenser from the outside. The fins were covered in a thin layer of dust and pollen, which was slightly reducing the system's performance.
We also cleaned the condensation drains and checked for refrigerant leaks. This type of maintenance, when performed regularly, can significantly extend the lifespan of a central heat pump.
Some recommendations left to the client:
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Clean or replace the internal filter every 1 to 2 months.
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Schedule a complete annual inspection before each summer.
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Visually check that the wall unit remains clear (no debris, bins, or trash obstructing airflow).
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Avoid spraying water directly onto the fan motor when cleaning.
Result: restored comfort and optimal performance
By the end of the repair, the Amana central heat pump was back operating at full capacity. The customer immediately noticed the difference: rapid and stable cooling throughout the house.
Our final thermostat test confirmed that the system was switching between heating and cooling correctly, proving that the control components and relays were responding correctly.
Thanks to this quick intervention, the Amana heat pump has regained its original energy efficiency —a result that prevents unnecessary electricity consumption and extends the life of the compressor.
AirGreen: Amana heat pump repair specialist on the South Shore and in Montreal
At AirGreen , we have been repairing and maintaining Amana HVAC systems for over a decade. Our technicians are trained to work on the entire Amana product line, whether it's central heat pumps, air conditioners, or ducted systems .
We operate daily throughout Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, Brossard, and on the North Shore and South Shore , to ensure fast, precise and durable repairs . Each diagnosis is carried out rigorously, using professional measuring instruments and original manufacturer parts.
If your Amana heat pump is showing signs of weakness— unusual noises, lukewarm air, a compressor that won't start —contact AirGreen before a major breakdown occurs. We are your trusted partner for HVAC repair and maintenance in Montreal and the surrounding area.