Rapid intervention in the middle of winter for a heat pump covered in ice
At AirGreen , we often receive urgent calls during the cold season, when HVAC systems struggle to operate in the snow and low temperatures. This time, our team went to Sainte-Julie , on the South Shore of Montreal , for a service call regarding a Manuflow wall-mounted heat pump .
The client, the owner of a red brick duplex, noticed that his wall-mounted heat pump was blowing lukewarm air and that the outdoor unit remained covered in ice , even after several defrost cycles. Fearing a complete breakdown, he called on our expertise for a quick inspection and repair .
On-site inspection and diagnosis
Upon arrival, our technicians found that the outdoor compressor , installed on a wall bracket, was partially obstructed by snow accumulated on the fan. The protective grille also had a layer of compacted ice, restricting airflow and straining the fan motor.
Diagnostic steps included:
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Checking automatic defrosting via the control board;
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Check the fan and motor for mechanical resistance;
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Testing R-410A refrigerant pressures using pressure gauges;
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Inspection of electrical connections in the side box;
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Reading the error code displayed on the internal electronic board.
The result was clear: the outdoor control board was no longer properly activating the defrost cycle , causing a gradual buildup of frost. In addition, the fan motor had repeatedly overheated, slowing its rotation.
Complete repair and refurbishment of the system
Our technicians carried out a two-step intervention:
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Outdoor Fan Motor Replacement : A replacement Manuflow motor was installed, calibrated to original specifications to ensure consistent air speed.
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Replacement of the defrost electronic board : a new R-410A compatible board was installed, reconfigured for automatic defrost cycles every 45 minutes depending on the ambient temperature.
Prior to return to service, the unit was completely defrosted using a hot air heat gun and then cleaned with low pressure steam to remove all traces of ice.
A final check of supply air pressures, current and temperatures confirmed a full return to nominal performance.
Results obtained and advice to the client
After the repair, the Manuflow heat pump resumed stable and quiet operation. The automatic defrost now operates as expected, preventing any ice buildup on the fan or coils.
Our technicians took the time to advise the customer on several points:
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Keep the space around the outdoor unit clear in winter;
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Visually check for ice after a storm ;
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Schedule preventative maintenance each fall to avoid these problems.
Thanks to these measures, the customer once again benefits from constant and energy-efficient heating , even on the coldest nights in Sainte-Julie.
AirGreen expertise in the service of winter comfort
This case perfectly illustrates our mission: to intervene quickly, diagnose accurately, and ensure a lasting repair. Manuflow wall-mounted heat pumps offer excellent energy efficiency, but like any HVAC system, they require regular monitoring and professional preventative maintenance to maintain their optimal efficiency.
At AirGreen , we cover the entire Greater Montreal area, including Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore and the South Shore , with certified technicians specialized in the repair of wall-mounted, central and multi-zone heat pumps . Each intervention aims to restore not only performance, but also peace of mind for our customers.
Summary of the intervention:
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Brand: Manuflow
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Type: Wall-mounted heat pump
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Location: Sainte-Julie (South Shore)
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Problem: Excessive icing, blocked fan, faulty defrost board
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Solution: Replace the motor and control board
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Result: Restored operation, efficiency and comfort
AirGreen: the benchmark in HVAC repairs in Sainte-Julie and throughout Quebec
Every winter, our teams respond to dozens of similar calls, where the cold puts a strain on HVAC equipment. If your heat pump is showing signs of persistent frost, unusual noise, or a loss of performance , don't wait: contact AirGreen . We offer fast, professional, and guaranteed service to keep your home comfortable year-round.