A delicate intervention under a terrace
At AirGreen , we often receive service calls for HVAC systems installed in hard-to-reach locations . Recently, our team traveled to Blainville , on Montreal's North Shore , to diagnose and repair a Zephyr MultiZone heat pump installed under a wooden deck. This type of configuration, while aesthetically discreet, often poses unique ventilation and maintenance challenges.
Restricted access complicates diagnosis
Upon our arrival, the customer reported a noticeable loss of performance : the unit was no longer heating adequately inside despite normal operating noise. Upon observing the condenser hidden under the deck , our technicians immediately identified impeded airflow . The reduced space and lack of lateral clearance prevented the condenser from efficiently expelling heat—a common problem for installations located in confined areas.
Thorough inspection and electrical checks
After securing the area and temporarily clearing the ventilation around the unit, we undertook a full diagnostic :
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Checking the pressures of the R-32 refrigerant , used on this generation of Zephyr.
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Test the control board to detect any communication anomalies between the indoor and outdoor units.
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Inspection of power and communication wiring exposed to ground moisture.
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Cleaning the condenser coil , clogged with dust and debris trapped under the deck.
Result: a build-up of moisture and dirt had caused an intermittent short circuit on the electronic board , preventing the compressor from modulating correctly.
Repair and recommissioning
We replaced the outdoor module's main board with a genuine Zephyr part, resealed the electrical connections, and added riser brackets to improve airflow and prevent direct contact with the wet ground.
A complete operational test then confirmed that the MultiZone heat pump was returning to its nominal performance:
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Balanced pressures ,
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Compliant discharge temperatures ,
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Stable communication between indoor units.
Maintenance tips for confined installations
We took advantage of this visit to advise the client on some good maintenance practices :
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Ensure a minimum clearance of 30 to 45 cm around the condenser.
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Check filters and coils regularly , especially in the presence of dust or vegetation.
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Schedule an annual professional inspection , especially for partially covered installations.
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Consider installing ventilated mesh or an openwork panel to improve air circulation under the deck.
Result: restored comfort and optimized efficiency
Thanks to this intervention, the Blainville client once again enjoys stable thermal comfort in all areas of his home, while extending the lifespan of his Zephyr equipment. At AirGreen, we pride ourselves on revitalizing complex installations while respecting the technical and aesthetic standards specific to each home.
Our certified technicians operate throughout Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore and the South Shore , to diagnose, maintain and repair your HVAC systems — whether they are installed outdoors or, as here, in confined spaces.