An HVAC service call on the South Shore for an exterior electrical problem
At AirGreen , we were recently called to Sainte-Julie , on the South Shore of Montreal, to diagnose a Gree wall-mounted heat pump whose outdoor unit was no longer starting. The customer had noticed that the fan was no longer starting and that no compressor noise was perceptible, despite a normal display on the indoor unit.
First inspection: finding the problem
Upon our arrival, our certified HVAC technicians performed a complete visual inspection of the installation . The outdoor unit, mounted on a galvanized support on the terrace, presented several signs:
-
Exposed and disorganized power wiring , possibly as a result of unprofessional intervention;
-
Electrical box poorly insulated against moisture;
-
Protective duct slightly detached, allowing condensation to enter the cable harness.
These observations indicated a high risk of short circuit or interruption of the control signal between the units.
Step 1: Detailed electrical diagnosis
We started by turning off the general power at the main circuit breaker before:
-
Test the input voltage at the external disconnect box (240 V confirmed).
-
Check the continuity of the communication cable between the indoor and outdoor terminals.
-
Examine the Gree unit's electronic control board for signs of corrosion or burning.
The multimeter revealed a discontinuity in the signal cable , caused by a loose connection inside the wall box. This defect prevented the outdoor board from receiving the start signal from the indoor unit.
Step 2: Repair and reorder the wiring
Our team undertook a complete overhaul of the electrical connection:
-
Replacement of damaged quick connectors with secure compression terminals;
-
Reorganized the wiring harness with new heat shrink tubing and sealed conduit;
-
Reinstallation of the cut-off box according to CSA standards, with anti-condensation tilt and reinforced metal fixing.
A continuity and polarity test then confirmed that the signal was flowing correctly between the units.
Step 3: Restart and functional checks
Once the system was powered back up, the electronic board received the control signal , and the compressor started normally after a few seconds. The outdoor fan started smoothly, indicating that the problem was strictly electrical and not mechanical .
We then proceeded to:
-
A check of the R410A refrigerant pressure (normal values);
-
A compressor inrush current control;
-
A measurement of the indoor blown air temperature to confirm the cooling efficiency.
The readings obtained were in accordance with the Gree brand specifications.
Step 4: Securing and maintenance tips
To prevent any recurrence, we have implemented several preventive measures:
-
Application of dielectric gel in electrical connectors;
-
Sealing of chutes and wall inlets with HVAC silicone sealant;
-
Added additional plastic protection around the outer casing to prevent rainwater infiltration.
We also recommended that the client schedule an annual inspection of the heat pump's electrical circuit , especially when it is exposed outdoors on a wooden deck.
Final result: a fully functional heat pump
After restarting, the Gree heat pump worked perfectly:
-
Smooth start cycle , no communication errors;
-
Stable cold airflow inside;
-
No vibration or abnormal noise detected.
The relieved customer found optimal comfort while benefiting from an installation that is now secure and complies with HVAC electrical standards .
AirGreen expertise: reliability and technical precision
Each AirGreen intervention is based on a complete diagnosis and meticulous execution. Our technicians:
-
Comply with CSA and RBQ safety protocols ;
-
Use calibrated measuring tools (multimeter, current clamp, leak detector);
-
Guarantees a long-lasting repair thanks to certified components.
We operate in Sainte-Julie , but also throughout the South Shore, Laval, Montreal and the North Shore , for any problem related to your heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems.
At AirGreen , our mission is simple: restore performance, secure the installation and ensure the lasting comfort of our customers .
