A Midea heat pump in difficulty on a narrow balcony in Outremont
In the Outremont neighborhood of Montreal, our AirGreen team was recently called to work on a Midea wall-mounted heat pump installed on the balcony of a residential building. This unit, although efficient and known for its reliability, was showing obvious signs of performance loss : difficulty maintaining the desired temperature, unusual compressor noise, and abnormally frequent defrosting.
The installation was several years old and had been exposed to the harsh Montreal climate: snow, humidity, salt and dust . These conditions, combined with partial exposure to the elements, had gradually affected the system's performance.
Complete diagnosis: between corrosion and tired compressor
During our inspection, several clues immediately caught our attention:
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Accumulation of dust and debris on the condenser fins, limiting heat dissipation.
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Corrosion on the refrigeration fittings and on the support flange, a sign of advanced wear due to humidity.
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Deteriorated insulating sleeve on the refrigeration lines, exposing the circuit to thermal losses.
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A noisy compressor , indicating a potential loss of mechanical efficiency.
We carried out a complete check of the R-32 refrigerant pressures and charge . The measurements revealed an insufficient charge , typical of a small leak in the circuit. After detection using our electronic equipment, we located the leak at a slightly cracked flare connection .
Repair: precision, cleaning and resealing
At AirGreen, we always prioritize lasting repairs over simple temporary fixes. Here are the steps our technicians follow:
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Safe recovery of R-32 refrigerant using a recovery station.
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Replacement of the flare fitting and gaskets to ensure a perfect seal.
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Renovation of thermal insulation on copper lines to prevent any energy loss.
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Complete cleaning of the condenser with gentle steam, removing dust and salt deposits.
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Nitrogen pressure test to confirm circuit reliability.
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Refrigerant gas refill calibrated according to Midea specifications .
We also took advantage of the intervention to tighten the electrical connections and check the fan calibration .
Result: comfort restored and performance restored
Upon restart, the Midea heat pump regained stable pressure and quiet operation . The customer immediately noticed improved indoor temperature stability and reduced outside noise . The thorough maintenance and leak correction not only restored performance , but also extended the compressor's life .
AirGreen Tips for Balcony Plants
High-rise installations, typical of Outremont buildings, require special vigilance:
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Clean the condenser twice a year to prevent airflow obstruction.
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Protect refrigeration lines with UV- and moisture-proof insulation.
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Check the metal support to prevent corrosion and excessive vibration.
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Carry out annual preventive maintenance , ideally in spring, to prepare for the warm season.
By following these recommendations, residents can avoid costly breakdowns and ensure optimal long-term performance.
AirGreen Expertise: Your HVAC Partner in Montreal and Beyond
This repair perfectly illustrates our commitment to providing professional and rigorous HVAC service throughout Greater Montreal — whether in Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, on the North Shore or the South Shore . Each intervention is carried out with attention to detail and compliance with Midea standards .
Our certified technicians combine accurate diagnosis , modern technology and field experience to deliver lasting results, regardless of the type of heat pump or the complexity of the installation.