A heat pump installed under a patio: a difficult environment for a compressor
At AirGreen , we regularly intervene in specific contexts, and this Gree wall-mounted heat pump repair in Sainte-Thérèse , on the North Shore of Montreal , is an excellent example. The customer contacted us after noticing that their system was no longer starting and that the indoor temperature remained high despite a properly adjusted thermostat.
Upon arrival, we noticed an unusual configuration: the Gree outdoor compressor had been installed under a wooden patio structure , severely limiting the airflow needed for the system to function properly. This arrangement could explain several symptoms reported by the customer.
Diagnosis: Compressor overheating and partial short circuit
Our technicians first performed a complete check of the HVAC system . After powering up the unit, the compressor attempted to start but shut down almost immediately, triggering the thermal protection.
Here's what our inspection revealed:
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Insufficient ventilation : The space under the patio prevented the fan from dissipating heat properly.
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Accumulation of debris and vegetation around the unit, further reducing airflow.
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Unstable voltages on the outdoor unit's electronic board, caused by repeated overheating.
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Slightly corroded wiring , a result of moisture trapped under the structure.
Thermal analysis and electrical measurements confirmed that the compressor control board had suffered degradation, requiring replacement.
Intervention: complete restoration and strategic repositioning
To restore the system, our team undertook a complete intervention combining repair and installation optimization:
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Complete cleaning of the outdoor unit , including fan, coils and ducts.
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Gree compressor control board replacement , with complete reprogramming.
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Checking the refrigeration circuit to ensure that no excess pressure had damaged the compressor.
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Realignment and partial repositioning of the unit towards the front of the patio to improve air circulation.
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Installation of a protective deflector to channel the flow of hot air without obstructing ventilation.
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Complete performance test : the compressor reached normal speed in less than three minutes, with a stable discharge temperature.
Result: restored efficiency and compliant installation
Following our intervention, the Gree heat pump regained full efficiency. The customer immediately noticed that cold air was circulating quickly throughout his home again.
We also took the time to explain to the customer why the location of the outdoor unit is critical to the longevity of the system:
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A unit must breathe freely for at least 30 cm around all its faces .
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Proper ventilation helps prevent compressor overheating and premature component wear.
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Damp or confined areas under patios, decks or balconies should be avoided.
For this specific case, we also recommended to the client an annual preventive maintenance including:
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Cleaning the coils.
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Checking the pressure of R-410A refrigerant.
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Lubrication of the fan motor.
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Visual inspection of wiring and power supply.
A repair that highlights the importance of good location
This intervention in Sainte-Thérèse clearly illustrates how a poorly chosen location can compromise even a quality heat pump like Gree .
At AirGreen , we don't just fix it: we fix the root causes to prevent the problem from coming back.
Our expertise is based on:
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A complete analysis of the installation environment.
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Certified and trained technicians on all major brands, including Gree, Fujitsu, Mitsubishi, Sharp, Midea and Trane.
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Sustainable solutions adapted to the climate of Greater Montreal.
Whether for an urgent repair , a correct installation or preventive maintenance , our teams cover the entire territory: Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore and the South Shore .