When the harshness of winter puts an HVAC system to the test
At AirGreen , we know that Quebec winters are unforgiving. When the temperature drops below -20°C, even the most robust systems can be put to the test. This is precisely what happened during a service call in Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue , where a customer contacted us about a Kanion heat pump that was no longer able to properly heat their home.
Field diagnosis: a heat pump at the end of its rope
Upon arrival, our technicians immediately noticed that the outdoor unit was partially covered in frost, a typical sign of an imbalance in the refrigeration cycle . After securing the area and installing our measuring instruments, we began a pressure test using a three-way manifold and an electronic refrigerant charge scale .
Initial readings revealed abnormally low pressure , indicating a partial loss of refrigerant. In extreme cold, this directly compromises the heat pump's ability to extract heat from the outside air.
Finding the cause: a micro-leak that is difficult to spot
We carried out a complete inspection of the refrigeration circuit , using an electronic leak detector . After careful examination, the leak was located on a slightly loose service connection . This type of problem, although minor in appearance, can lead to a gradual loss of refrigerant gas and, consequently, a significant drop in performance.
Technical intervention: recharging and recalibration of the system
Once the leak was repaired and the connection tightened, our team evacuated the system using a vacuum pump to remove all traces of moisture and air. We then recharged the system with R410A refrigerant , in accordance with Kanion's manufacturer's specifications.
The recharge was performed using a calibrated mixing bottle placed on an electronic scale —a method that ensures the exact amount of refrigerant based on the unit's original charge. This level of precision is essential to ensure the system's optimal energy performance .
Verification and results
After recharging, we restarted the heat pump and carefully observed its defrost cycle . The pressures and temperatures quickly stabilized, confirming operation within the manufacturer's performance parameters.
We also took advantage of the intervention to:
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Check the condition of the external fan and motor ;
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Clean the condenser fins to improve heat exchange;
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Test the temperature sensor and automatic defrost .
The customer immediately noticed a noticeable improvement in heating , with more consistent airflow and quickly restored room temperature.
Maintenance Tips for Kanion Heat Pump Owners
Our technicians reminded the customer of the importance of:
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Have your system checked before each winter , to detect any leaks or drop in performance;
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Keep the outdoor unit clear of snow and ice ;
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Clean or replace the interior filters every two to three months;
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Schedule annual preventative maintenance to ensure compressor longevity and system energy efficiency.
Once again, AirGreen precision makes the difference
This type of intervention demonstrates how rigorous diagnosis and precise refrigerant calibration can transform a winter breakdown into a high-performance system, even in extreme cold. At AirGreen , we treat each repair as a demanding technical mission: it's not just about getting a heat pump back up and running, but also about ensuring its durability and reliability in Quebec's most extreme conditions.