A heating failure at the start of the cold season
At AirGreen , we frequently receive service calls in the first weeks of fall. This is precisely what happened in Chomedey , where a customer contacted us about a Comfortmaker central heat pump that refused to start in heating mode. Installed for several years, the unit was showing signs of fatigue: it hummed faintly, but the compressor no longer started .
Inspection and fault diagnosis
Our certified technician arrived on site that morning. The Comfortmaker outdoor unit, installed on a sturdy wall mount, was visually well maintained. However, a quick pressure reading indicated a lack of compressor activity.
The first stages of the diagnosis made it possible to verify:
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Power supply from external circuit breaker (no anomalies detected).
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The condition of the cables and connections , including the control box.
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The starting capacitor , often responsible for this type of failure.
Using a multimeter, our technician determined that the capacitor was faulty : its measured capacitance no longer corresponded to the nominal value indicated on the plate (40/5 µF). This component, essential for starting the compressor, had lost its efficiency over time.
Repair and recommissioning
Once the cause was identified, the repair procedure was initiated immediately:
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Safely disconnect the unit from the external circuit breaker.
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Removal of the defective capacitor and replacement with a new part of equivalent quality, approved by Comfortmaker.
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Check the control board to rule out any risk of overvoltage or damaged relay.
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Soft restart of the system and control of compressor start-up.
The result was instantaneous: the compressor started running normally, the circuit pressure stabilized, and the system began to distribute constant heat inside the home.
Post-repair performance check
At AirGreen, we never just “restart” a unit—we validate its full performance. After replacing the capacitor, our technician:
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Measured the pressures of R-410A refrigerant ,
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Checked the blowing temperature inside (difference of 18°C between the sucked air and the blown air),
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Controlled the compressor intensity ,
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Inspected the copper insulation and sheaths , some of which needed to be tightened and re-insulated.
These adjustments restored the heat pump to its optimal performance , ensuring the customer maximum energy efficiency for the coming winter.
Special features of the repaired Comfortmaker model
This Comfortmaker central heat pump model, with a capacity of approximately 36,000 BTUs , has a seasonal efficiency rating of SEER 13 / HSPF 8 , as indicated on its yellow “EnergyGuide” label. While efficient in its day, these older models are susceptible to natural degradation of capacitors and contactors.
Our team also advised the owner to plan, in the medium term, to replace his system with a more efficient and quieter unit , such as the Midea 28 SEER or the Fujitsu KTLH High Efficiency , two models that we frequently install in Laval and on the North Shore.
AirGreen Expertise: a local and trusted service
Working in Chomedey is part of our daily routine. Our AirGreen technicians cover all of Laval , as well as Montreal, Longueuil, the North Shore and the South Shore , to offer fast, certified and guaranteed repair service. Every service call is handled with the same rigor:
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Accurate diagnosis ,
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On-site repair ,
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Personalized preventive advice ,
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Customer follow-up after intervention .
We understand the importance of a reliable HVAC system, especially when temperatures suddenly drop.
Prevention: Avoid capacitor failures in the future
To extend the life of your Comfortmaker central heat pump, here are some simple recommendations:
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Have the capacitor checked every 2 years — it's an inexpensive but essential component.
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Clean the outdoor condenser regularly to prevent overheating.
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Ensure clear ventilation around the unit (no obstructions within 60 cm).
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Schedule annual preventative maintenance with AirGreen before each heating or cooling season.
These actions not only help prevent breakdowns, but also save energy and reduce premature wear of the compressor.
A successful repair and a satisfied customer in Chomedey
Thanks to AirGreen's quick response, the Chomedey client's Comfortmaker central heat pump is now operating at full capacity. The home regains its comfortable warmth, and the homeowner benefits from a more stable and efficient system.
Every service call is an opportunity for us to demonstrate what we're known for: expertise, reliability, and proximity . At AirGreen, we do more than just repair—we guarantee peace of mind.
AirGreen – Repair, maintenance and installation of HVAC systems in Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, North Shore and South Shore.