Accurate diagnosis and rapid intervention on a residential TCL unit
At AirGreen , we are often called upon to work on wall-mounted heat pumps of various brands, and one of the most recent repairs involved a TCL unit installed on a single-family home in Sainte-Thérèse , on the North Shore of Montreal .
The customer contacted us after noticing that their heat pump was no longer producing sufficient heat despite its normal operating noise. This was a typical case where only a thorough inspection could reveal the true cause of the problem.
The equipment in question: a TCL 12,000 BTU wall-mounted heat pump
The system installed was a TCL 12,000 BTU wall-mounted heat pump , a compact model suitable for small residences and condos. This type of unit, while efficient in moderate conditions, can sometimes encounter performance difficulties in the more extreme temperatures of the Quebec climate.
The installation configuration was classic:
-
Outdoor unit fixed on galvanized wall bracket, at a secure height.
-
Refrigeration connection with foam insulation.
-
Independent power supply , connected to a 15A circuit breaker.
The unit had been installed about four years ago by another contractor, but the customer had never had any preventative maintenance performed since installation.
Symptoms observed: inefficient heating and water accumulation
As soon as we arrived, several things caught our attention:
-
The unit was blowing warm air in heating mode.
-
A thin layer of ice partially covered the outdoor heat exchanger.
-
There was a constant flow of water coming from the condensate pipe, suggesting a defrost or pressure problem.
Our technicians conducted a series of performance tests using digital pressure gauges and an infrared thermometer. The result: a loss of pressure in the refrigeration circuit was detected, indicating a microleak at the service valve connection.
Repair process: rigor and technical precision
Step 1: Locate the leak
Using an electronic leak and bubble detector , we confirmed the presence of seepage at the lower connection. This type of leak, although minimal, causes significant long-term performance loss and imbalance of the R-410A refrigerant.
Step 2: Draining and repressurizing
We performed a complete recovery of the remaining gas using a certified recovery station, before tightening the flare nuts and applying a high temperature sealant . Then, a nitrogen pressurization to 300 psi was used to check for leaks before recharging.
Step 3: Recharge and final test
The system was then re-vacuumed for 45 minutes to remove any residual moisture, then recharged to the exact amount prescribed by the manufacturer .
Once restarted, the TCL heat pump regained its initial performance, with a temperature difference of 9.8°C between suction and discharge – proof of optimal operation.
Maintenance advice provided to the customer
To prevent the problem from recurring, our technicians took the time to explain some good maintenance practices to the owner:
-
Clean the indoor unit filters every two months.
-
Clear snow and ice around the outdoor unit during the winter.
-
Have an annual professional maintenance carried out, including a pressure check and seal inspection.
-
Check that the condensate pipe remains free and unobstructed.
These simple actions help to extend the life of the compressor and reduce electricity consumption .
Result: comfort restored and customer satisfied
By the end of the repair, the TCL system was running smoothly and quietly again. The client immediately noticed improved heating power and improved thermal stability in their main living area.
We also recommended adding a line defroster to protect the compressor in extreme cold, a solution the customer decided to incorporate during our next maintenance visit.
Why choose AirGreen for your HVAC repairs on the North Shore?
TCL heat pumps are increasingly present on the Quebec residential market. However, like any device, they require rigorous maintenance and a diagnosis carried out by a certified HVAC systems technician .
At AirGreen, we combine experience, transparency and technical expertise to provide long-lasting repairs that comply with current standards.
Our priority: ensuring the comfort of our customers while optimizing the energy efficiency of their equipment.
AirGreen — Repair and maintenance of wall-mounted heat pumps in Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, North Shore and South Shore.