A quick service call for an outdoor unit installed on a balcony
In the residential neighborhood of Outremont , where homes combine old-world charm with modern comfort, we were contacted for a service call regarding a Gree wall-mounted heat pump installed on the balcony of a condominium. The customer had been noticing a significant drop in performance for several days: the air produced by the indoor unit was lukewarm, and the heat pump seemed to run continuously without ever reaching the required temperature.
This configuration, typical of buildings with narrow balconies, presented an accessibility challenge, but our AirGreen technicians are perfectly equipped to work in this type of urban environment.
Initial diagnosis: fouling of the condenser and lack of fluid
Upon arrival, we began with a visual inspection of the Gree outdoor unit. Installed directly on the balcony floor, it had a condenser partially clogged with dust and spring debris. This obstruction, although minor to the naked eye, was enough to reduce heat exchange and cause the compressor to overheat .
Continuing the diagnosis, we connected our electronic pressure gauges to measure the R-410A refrigerant pressure. The values indicated a slight undercharge, confirming a slow microleak , probably on a flare connection of the liquid hose.
AirGreen intervention: complete cleaning and calibrated recharge
1. Cleaning the outdoor condenser
We started by removing the protective grille to access the heat exchanger. Using a mild alkaline cleaner and a low-pressure jet , we removed the dirt and grease film that had accumulated on the fins.
Effective cleaning of the condenser can restore up to 20% of energy performance .
2. Repairing the microleak
An inspection using an electronic leak detector located the leak at the lower fitting , where the copper line meets the service valve. After tightening, we resealed the seal with silver solder to ensure lasting pressure resistance.
3. Vacuuming and refrigerant recharge
Once the leak was corrected, we performed a complete vacuum for 40 minutes to remove any moisture. The system was then recharged with the exact amount recommended by Gree , depending on the model and duct length (0.97 kg of R-410A).
4. Performance Verification
Once the system was restarted, the indoor air outlet temperature dropped to 7.1°C , and pressures stabilized. We also measured power consumption within specifications , a sign of a compressor operating at optimal efficiency.
Technical Analysis: The Critical Role of Airflow in Balcony Units
This type of installation, common in buildings in Outremont and Plateau-Mont-Royal, presents a particular risk: the lack of air circulation around the condenser .
When the unit is installed too close to a wall or railing, the expelled hot air tends to recirculate through the exchanger, reducing overall efficiency.
At AirGreen , we always recommend:
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A minimum clearance of 30 cm at the rear and sides of the condenser.
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A free space of at least 1 meter at the front for optimal heat dissipation.
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A seasonal check to clean the fins and remove leaves, dust or pollen.
Results: restored efficiency and immediate comfort
After the repair, the Gree wall-mounted heat pump returned to its original performance. The customer immediately noted:
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Fresher, more consistent air in rooms.
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A reduction in operating noise , a sign of a less stressed compressor.
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A decrease in power consumption , confirmed by the unit's energy monitor.
We left the system in perfect balance, ready to face the Montreal summer heat.
The benefits of professional AirGreen maintenance
Our field experience shows that 80% of wall-mounted heat pump failures are caused by lack of maintenance or poor positioning of the unit.
Preventive maintenance carried out by AirGreen allows you to:
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Detect microleaks before they affect the compressor.
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Maintain maximum energy efficiency.
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Extend system life up to 15 years.
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Preserve the manufacturer's warranty thanks to certified interventions.
We provide this type of service throughout Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, on the North Shore and the South Shore , with interventions adapted to the urban reality of each building.
AirGreen Tips: Maintaining your Gree wall-mounted heat pump on your balcony
To ensure the longevity of your system:
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Clean the outdoor condenser regularly using a soft brush or damp cloth.
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Avoid covering the unit in summer — this prevents air circulation.
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Watch for unusual noises (buzzing, whistling, clicking).
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Schedule an annual professional maintenance before each warm season.
A simple preventive visit can often avoid costly repairs.
Conclusion: a tailor-made service in the heart of Outremont
This intervention perfectly illustrates our approach: diagnose with precision, repair with rigor, and advise with transparency .
Thanks to our expertise, this Gree wall-mounted heat pump installed on a balcony in Outremont now works like new, providing its occupants with lasting, quiet comfort all year round.