When winter puts HVAC systems to the test
At AirGreen , we regularly respond to heat pump breakdowns in the middle of winter, when Montreal's frigid temperatures put a strain on heating systems. Recently, our team was called to Saint-Laurent , on the island of Montreal, for an urgent service call regarding an Elios heat pump that was covered in snow and unable to properly heat the building.
On-site diagnosis: a device blocked by snow
Upon arrival, the outdoor compressor was literally buried under a thick layer of fresh snow. The fan was no longer running , and the customer noted a complete lack of heat inside since the day before. This type of problem is common in January, when snow accumulates quickly on flat roofs or balconies where the condensers are installed.
Our technicians began by thoroughly cleaning the outdoor unit , gently removing snow and ice without damaging the condenser fins. Once cleared, we were able to perform a complete inspection of the system.
Technical Analysis: Fan Blockage and Excessive Icing
The Elios unit, although efficient in cold climates, had suffered a mechanical blockage of the fan caused by ice buildup around the motor. This phenomenon prevented the heat pump from defrosting properly and resulted in a complete shutdown of the heating cycle.
Our measurements revealed:
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Abnormal suction pressure due to coil obstruction.
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An exhaust temperature that is too low , a symptom of an interrupted refrigeration cycle.
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Frosted sensors unable to trigger defrost mode.
Intervention: defrosting and cycle verification
After securing the system, we proceeded to a complete defrost of the condenser using hot air and a safe anti-icing treatment. Then, we:
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Tested the fan motor , which fortunately had no electrical damage.
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Checked the electronic boards and control relays.
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Steam cleaned the coil to remove salt and dust residue.
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Reset the system's automatic defrost cycle .
Once these steps were completed, the Elios heat pump resumed normal operation, with stable airflow and pressure in line with the manufacturer's specifications.
Prevention: tips to avoid winter breakdowns
This intervention reminds us of the importance of regular maintenance before and during the cold season. We recommend that all our customers:
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Check the area around the compressor after each snowfall.
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Maintain a clearance of at least 30 cm around and above the unit.
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Avoid covering the device with a non-breathable cover or tarpaulin.
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Schedule preventative maintenance with an AirGreen certified technician.
Result: comfort restored and customer reassured
Following our intervention, the Saint-Laurent residence was warm and comfortable again in less than an hour. The client, surprised by the speed of the diagnosis, took advantage of our preventive maintenance recommendations to avoid future freeze-related shutdowns. Thanks to our proactive approach, the heat pump now operates optimally, even in extreme cold.
AirGreen expertise in action
At AirGreen, we understand the specifics of heat pumps in Quebec's climate —whether Elios, Midea, Fujitsu, or Gree models. Our certified technicians understand the nuances of automatic defrosting, low-temperature performance, and maintenance in dense urban areas like Montreal and Laval .
Our mission: to offer precise, fast and lasting interventions so that your HVAC systems remain reliable all year round, whether you are on the North Shore , the South Shore or in the heart of Montreal .