A crucial service call for a heat pump exposed to the elements in the West Island
In Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue, in the heart of the harsh Québec winter, our AirGreen teams were called in for an urgent HVAC service call concerning a SHARP wall-mounted heat pump installed on a semi-sheltered balcony. While the installation was functional at the time of commissioning, it became vulnerable to the elements due to inadequate shelter conditions and a risky positioning. This typical case highlights the importance of precise installation and preventive maintenance tailored to local weather conditions.
Context of the call: an installation put to the test
Upon arriving at the site, we immediately noticed several environmental factors directly impacting the performance of the SHARP outdoor unit:
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Installation in an exposed area: despite the presence of a partial corrugated metal roof, the space remained open on three sides, leaving the heat pump at the mercy of wind, humidity, and blowing snow.
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Build-up of windblown snow and debris around the unit.
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Elevated support, but unstable, with no thermal isolation base.
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Presence of an unsecured plastic stool, temporarily used as a maintenance platform or technical support, posing a safety risk.
These factors not only reduce the energy efficiency of the heat pump but also lead to premature wear of components such as fans, coils, or circuit boards.
Technical diagnosis: complete analysis of the SHARP unit
The heat pump in question is a SHARP inverter wall-mounted unit, known for its efficiency and reliable Japanese technology. However, like any machine, its performance depends heavily on its installation environment and regular maintenance.
After a full inspection, our AirGreen technician identified the following issues:
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Excess frost buildup on the outdoor coil, caused by insufficient clearance and poor airflow.
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Defrost mode running in loops, indicating a loss of heating efficiency.
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Outdoor fan slowing intermittently, due to internal humidity and debris.
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Slight vibration of the unit during startup, likely due to the instability of the base.
AirGreen intervention: precise repair and customized recommendations
At AirGreen, every service call is an opportunity to demonstrate our expertise. For this case in Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue, our actions were targeted and meticulously executed:
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Thorough cleaning of the coil and outer casing using a biodegradable degreaser specially designed for heat pumps.
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Electrical inspection and tightening of internal connectors.
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Full cycle test (heating and defrost), allowing for recalibration of ambient and refrigerant temperature sensors.
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Temporary stabilization of the base to ensure safe operation while awaiting permanent improvements.
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Clear recommendation to the client: install a closed-side snow guard, use a high-density polymer insulated base, and improve natural ventilation around the unit.
What this case reveals: the importance of the installation environment
This SHARP wall-mounted heat pump repair highlights an often-underestimated issue: even the best machines lose efficiency if poorly protected from Québec’s harsh winters. Here are some key takeaways we share with our clients:
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Properly position your outdoor unit: avoid areas where snow accumulates, ensure good ventilation, and plan for safe access.
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Opt for a custom-built shelter: a solid roof with three closed sides helps maintain performance year-round.
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Plan for annual preventive maintenance, ideally before winter sets in.
Renewed customer confidence
The homeowner, who had initially noticed a significant drop in heating and an unusual noise, was reassured by our thorough approach, transparency, and commitment to solving the root cause—not just the symptoms. After our intervention:
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The SHARP heat pump fully recovered its heating capacity.
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No mechanical noise was detected.
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The client is already planning to install a custom shelter recommended by AirGreen.
Why call AirGreen for your wall-mounted heat pump repairs?
At AirGreen, we know that every HVAC repair is unique. Our certified technicians don’t just fix the immediate problem—they ensure your system operates at full capacity for the long haul. Whether you're in Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore, or the South Shore, we provide:
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Comprehensive on-site diagnostics.
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Fast, safe, and guaranteed interventions.
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Personalized advice to extend the life of your equipment.
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A responsive, proactive team specialized in repairing wall-mounted heat pumps of all brands: SHARP, Gree, Fujitsu, Daikin, Tosot, and many more.
AirGreen, your trusted HVAC provider in Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue and Greater Montréal
We believe every HVAC system deserves top-quality service, regardless of the context. This intervention in Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue is a perfect example of our commitment to going above and beyond to ensure our clients’ safety, comfort, and energy efficiency.