When a Daikin heat pump stops working properly: the service call in Sainte-Julie
At AirGreen , we often receive service calls related to performance issues or abnormal noise on outdoor units installed in semi-basements. This is exactly what happened in Sainte-Julie , on the South Shore of Montreal , where a customer contacted us regarding a Daikin wall-mounted heat pump that was no longer providing sufficient heat or cooling depending on the season.
The unit, installed under a concrete balcony, appeared protected, but this type of installation can also pose certain challenges—including restricted airflow and moisture buildup that eventually compromises the system's performance.
Complete diagnosis: check the evidence before disassembling
Upon our arrival, our technician performed a visual inspection of the Daikin heat pump. The outdoor unit was resting on a galvanized metal wall bracket, at a good height from the ground, but the surrounding concrete wall showed several cracks and signs of moisture. These elements, while not directly related to the breakdown, may indicate a harsh environment for electronic components .
We then have:
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Checked the refrigerant pressure : a slight deficit was detected, confirming a microleak .
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Tested the electronic card : no major defects.
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Cleaned the condenser clogged with accumulated dust and dead leaves.
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Inspected the refrigeration line (passing through the basement wall): aging and poorly sealed insulation, promoting a loss of efficiency.
Using our diagnostic tools, we located the leak at a flare fitting on the suction pipe—a typical failure point in older or poorly vibration-protected systems.
System repair and refurbishment
Once the leak is identified, we have:
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Tightened and resealed the fitting using a sealing compound specific to R-410A.
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Replaced the refrigeration line insulation to ensure better energy performance.
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Perform a complete vacuum draw to eliminate all traces of humidity in the circuit.
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Recharged the system with the exact amount of refrigerant recommended by Daikin.
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Tested the performance in both heating and cooling mode.
Result: the system regained its full power, quickly reaching the set temperature and reducing its operating cycle — a sign of restored efficiency.
The particularities of an installation under a balcony
Installing the condenser under a balcony or in a basement recess, as is the case here, offers some protection against the elements , but also presents risks:
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Limited ventilation , causing the compressor to overheat in summer.
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Stagnant humidity , promoting corrosion of components.
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Difficulty of access for maintenance , which often results in a lack of periodic cleaning.
We therefore recommended that the customer add a side ventilation grille and plan for annual cleaning of the coil. This simple maintenance helps extend the life of the compressor and maintain optimal performance, especially in a humid climate like that of the South Shore .
AirGreen expertise: precise diagnosis and guaranteed sustainability
At AirGreen, we believe that a proper diagnosis is the key to a lasting repair. In this specific case, the microleak could have gone unnoticed for months if our technician hadn't taken the time to measure the actual pressures and superheat temperature .
This rigorous approach allows us to:
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Repair instead of replacing , when economically justifiable.
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Provide preventive solutions to avoid repeated breakdowns.
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Ensure stable performance throughout the year.
Result: comfort restored and energy efficiency restored
Once the system was restarted, the customer immediately noticed an improvement in indoor comfort . The Daikin heat pump operated quietly, without temperature fluctuations or untimely cycles.
Thanks to this intervention, energy consumption has also decreased – a significant benefit at a time when electricity costs are rising.
In conclusion: an exemplary repair in Sainte-Julie
This Daikin wall-mounted heat pump repair in Sainte-Julie perfectly illustrates the importance of regular preventative maintenance and a thorough technical inspection . Even a still-functional installation can hide inefficiencies or minor leaks that could shorten the system's lifespan.
At AirGreen, we operate throughout Greater Montreal , including Laval , Longueuil , the North Shore and the South Shore , to provide our customers with reliable, efficient and durable HVAC systems — whether they are from Daikin, Gree, Fujitsu, Midea, or any other recognized brand.
