When a lack of maintenance reduces the efficiency of a heat pump
At AirGreen , we often encounter HVAC systems whose performance declines without a major breakdown being detected. This is exactly what happened during this service call in Sainte-Julie , on the South Shore of Montreal , where a Gree wall-mounted heat pump was no longer able to maintain a stable temperature inside.
The customer noticed uneven cooling and an intermittent whistling noise coming from the outdoor compressor installed on his balcony.
Diagnosis: obstructed outdoor heat exchanger and restricted air circulation
Upon inspecting the wall-mounted condenser, our technicians immediately noticed that the Gree outdoor unit was installed in a tight space, wedged between two walls with a clearance of just 25 centimeters —well below the 60 centimeters recommended by the manufacturer.
The signs were clear:
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Condenser clogged with dust and pollen accumulated on the fins;
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Airflow blocked by the protective metal structure;
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Excessive coil temperature , causing the compressor to overheat.
These conditions significantly reduce energy efficiency and can, in the long term, damage the compressor or the electronic board .
Intervention: complete cleaning and optimization of air flow
To restore optimal performance of the heat pump, our team undertook a complete upgrade of the Gree outdoor condenser :
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High pressure cleaning with demineralized water and biodegradable cleaner, specially designed for heat exchange fins;
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Temporary removal of the protective grid to ensure full access to the coil surfaces;
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Careful straightening of fins damaged by dust and time;
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Fan check and motor lubrication;
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Measuring operating pressures to ensure that the refrigerant was circulating correctly;
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Thermal testing with infrared camera to confirm uniform temperature across the entire coil.
Our technicians also recommended that the customer increase the rear clearance of the unit by slightly moving the metal protection structure, to allow for better natural ventilation.
Result: optimized performance and quieter system
After the intervention, the Gree heat pump regained its initial performance . The measured pressures were now stable:
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Suction: 125 psi
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Discharge: 370 psi
The air blown inside showed a temperature of 8°C , confirming efficient heat exchange.
The whistling noise had disappeared, proof that the compressor was operating under normal conditions again.
The customer immediately noticed a reduction in cooling time and a more pleasant noise level , a sign of a well-balanced machine.
Prevention: maintenance, the best investment
At AirGreen, we always remind our customers that regular maintenance is key to a long HVAC system life. In this case, a simple annual cleaning would have prevented overheating and premature wear.
Our technicians have therefore scheduled a preventive maintenance visit in the spring , before each air conditioning season, in order to:
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Clean the condenser and evaporator;
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Check pressures and electrical connections;
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Control the flow of condensates;
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Test operating temperatures.
AirGreen: Gree expertise in Sainte-Julie and on the South Shore
Whether in Sainte-Julie, Boucherville, Saint-Bruno, or Varennes , our team of AirGreen certified professionals intervenes quickly to diagnose and correct any problem related to your Gree, Midea, Fujitsu, Sharp, and other authorized brand wall-mounted heat pumps .
We guarantee interventions that comply with manufacturer standards and are carried out using environmentally friendly and safe products for your installation.
In summary
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Unit Type : Gree Wall-Mounted Heat Pump
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Location : Sainte-Julie (South Shore of Montreal)
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Problem : Clogged condenser and poor air circulation
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Solution : Complete cleaning, fin straightening, performance test
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Result : Optimal performance, stable temperature, noise eliminated
At AirGreen , we combine technical expertise and professional rigor to offer our customers lasting comfort and maximum energy efficiency.