Diagnosis and recommissioning of a raised York unit on a terrace
At AirGreen , we were recently called to intervene in Sainte-Dorothée , Laval, for a York central heat pump installed on a wooden platform outside a single-family residence. The equipment, although robust and efficient, showed clear signs of malfunction in the middle of winter: unusual noises, persistent frost and a drop in heating efficiency.
Initial Analysis: Signs of a Defrosting Problem
When we arrived, the customer explained that her heat pump was running almost continuously without ever reaching the set temperature. Upon observing the outdoor unit, our technician quickly noticed:
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A buildup of ice on the coils,
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A partial breakdown , suggesting a motor or control board problem,
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And an air intake partially obstructed by debris lodged in the fins.
A detailed inspection confirmed that the defrost cycle was no longer triggering correctly. The control panel was displaying an error code related to the outdoor temperature sensor (thermistor sensor) , a critical component in managing the automatic defrost cycle.
Intervention: sensor replacement and airflow optimization
Our technicians proceeded methodically:
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Safe disconnection of the power supply and partial disassembly of the upper grille.
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Continuity test of fan motor and control board: both were functional.
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Faulty probe resistance measurement – reading was inconsistent, confirming fault.
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Immediate replacement for the original York temperature probe , compatible with the existing model.
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Thorough cleaning of the external battery with a non-corrosive biodegradable product.
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Restart and observe the complete defrost cycle : the unit resumed normal operation in less than 10 minutes.
Results: restored performance and comfort regained
After the repair, the York heat pump quickly regained its efficiency:
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Automatic defrosting working,
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Stable and quiet hot air emission,
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Standardized power consumption.
We took advantage of this visit to remind the customer of the importance of annual preventive maintenance , particularly for systems installed on platforms exposed to wind and snow, as was the case here.
AirGreen Technical Tips: Extending the Life of a York Heat Pump
To avoid future inconvenience, our experts recommend:
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Visually check the outdoor unit after each snowstorm.
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Clear the surrounding area by at least 60 cm to ensure good air circulation.
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Schedule a complete service before the cold season to test sensors, defrost and refrigerant charge.
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Avoid using a metal object to remove the ice so as not to damage the condenser fins.
AirGreen expertise at your service throughout the North Shore
Whether you are in Laval , Blainville , Terrebonne or Sainte-Thérèse , our certified technicians respond quickly to diagnose, repair and maintain all types of residential and commercial HVAC systems , including York, Goodman, Lennox, Fujitsu, Midea, Gree models and many others.
Thanks to our original parts, our field experience and our advanced diagnostic tools, we guarantee reliable, durable interventions that comply with the strictest energy standards .
In summary
This service call in Sainte-Dorothée perfectly illustrates our approach: accurate diagnosis, rapid response, and measurable results . The owner regained optimal comfort and a functional system to face the cold season. At AirGreen, every repair is also an opportunity to extend the life of your HVAC equipment—with confidence.
AirGreen – HVAC Experts in Montreal, Laval, North Shore and South Shore.
We bring your York systems back to life, one diagnosis at a time.