A service call for a quiet heat pump
On a hot spring day in Boisbriand , a customer contacted us after noticing that their Goodman central heat pump was no longer starting. There was no noise, no fan rotating, and yet the thermostat was displaying the air conditioning request. At AirGreen , this type of symptom immediately alerts us to a possible fault in the electrical circuit or the compressor capacitor .
First observation: a perfectly installed outdoor condenser
On site, our technician found a Goodman outdoor unit securely installed on a raised base, away from debris and protected by a wooden side structure. The unit was in good physical condition, with no signs of excessive corrosion. However, no relay or fan noise was heard upon startup—a strong indication of a power or control problem.
Before any manipulation, we cut off the power supply using the wall disconnect box visible next to the condenser, then opened the hood to access the electrical compartment .
Step-by-step diagnosis
The diagnosis was carried out in several methodical checks:
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Supply voltage test : 240 volts present at the input.
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Contactor relay check : good condition, but no control voltage received.
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Inspection of the dual capacitor (fan + compressor) : bulging on top, typical sign of internal failure .
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Continuity test of the fan motor and compressor : resistances conform, therefore components intact.
The problem was identified: the start capacitor was defective , preventing the fan and compressor from starting.
Replacing the faulty capacitor
After validation with the customer, we replaced the original capacitor with a new 45/5 µF, 440V model, approved for Goodman units. The intervention included:
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Cleaning the terminals and connectors.
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The application of a dielectric protective coating to prevent oxidation.
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Complete tightening of the wiring and checking of the fuses.
Once the new capacitor was installed, we restored power and restarted the system. The fan immediately started, followed by the compressor . Fresh air began flowing through the house within a few minutes.
Performance testing and final validation
To ensure optimal performance, we have carried out several tests:
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Blown air temperature measured at 11°C at the duct outlet.
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Refrigerant pressures in accordance with manufacturer's specifications.
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Compressor inrush current within normal values (7.3 A measured).
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Checking the thermostat restart time delay .
This data confirmed the complete restoration of the system . The customer immediately felt a noticeable difference: the comfort of his home was restored, and the compressor noise level was stable and quiet.
Prevention: How to avoid a similar breakdown
Capacitors are among the most stressed components of a central heat pump. They naturally wear out over time, especially during the temperature fluctuations typical of the Montreal and North Shore regions. To avoid a breakdown during a heatwave, we recommend:
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An annual inspection of the heat pump electrical panel.
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Cleaning the condenser every spring to prevent overheating.
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Preventive replacement of the capacitor every 5 to 7 years depending on use.
These simple steps can extend the life of your appliance and reduce your energy consumption.
AirGreen: the HVAC benchmark in Boisbriand and throughout the North Shore
This successful intervention in Boisbriand illustrates our expertise in repairing Goodman HVAC systems , a brand renowned for its robustness but demanding in terms of electrical maintenance. At AirGreen , we make it a point of honor to combine precise diagnosis , original parts and fast service to restore your comfort with complete confidence.
Whether you are in Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, on the North Shore or the South Shore , our certified technicians work on all popular brands — Goodman, Lennox, Trane, Comfortmaker, Midea, Fujitsu, Gree — with the same rigor and attention to detail.
AirGreen – Efficiency, reliability and comfort restored with every service call.