A Silent Threat for Businesses in Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, North Shore and South Shore
In the commercial sector, the proper functioning of a heating system is not just a matter of comfort: it’s a critical issue for safety, occupant health, and the profitability of operations. At AirGreen, we’ve seen firsthand the serious consequences that a poorly maintained commercial heating system can cause—ranging from unexpected breakdowns to public health risks and drastic increases in energy bills.
We’ll dive deep into the often-overlooked dangers of neglected commercial heating, while sharing real examples from our service calls throughout the Greater Montréal region, including Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore, and the South Shore.
The Direct Consequences of Inadequate Maintenance
Risks to Occupant Safety
A neglected heating system can become a real hazard. The buildup of dust, unburned gas, or a cracked heat exchanger can result in carbon monoxide leaks—an odorless, potentially deadly gas. During a recent job at a shopping center in Laval, our technicians detected a small gas leak in a natural gas industrial furnace that had gone unnoticed for years. A basic maintenance check would have easily prevented this dangerous situation.
Health Hazards
Poorly maintained systems can also lead to the growth of mold, bacteria, and dust accumulation inside the ducts. These contaminants are then released into the air, aggravating respiratory issues, especially for employees exposed on a daily basis. On the South Shore, in a logistics warehouse, a client was facing recurring complaints from staff about indoor air quality. Our analysis revealed a clogged and contaminated ventilation system—quickly resolved with our comprehensive HVAC cleaning service.
Accelerated Equipment Wear and Tear
Poor maintenance leads to premature wear on critical components: motors, heat exchangers, burners, thermostats. A system forced to work harder consumes more energy and is more likely to break down during peak winter demand. This can result in major operational losses, such as at a Montréal restaurant that was forced to shut down for 48 hours due to a heating failure in January.
The Financial Impact on Your Energy Bills
Increased Energy Consumption
A neglected system can consume up to 30% more energy than a well-maintained unit. We demonstrated this during an energy audit for a small business in Boisbriand on the North Shore: after a complete review of its central heating system (a Goodman 120,000 BTU unit), the monthly heating bill dropped by over $400.
Shortened Equipment Lifespan
Skipping maintenance significantly shortens the expected service life of HVAC equipment. A system that could last 20 years with proper care may need replacing after just 10 or 12. At AirGreen, we work with top-tier brands like Lennox, Trane, and Bosch, but even the best equipment can’t compensate for lack of maintenance.
Common Symptoms of a Commercial Heating System at Risk
These warning signs should get every building manager’s attention:
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Strange odors or smoke.
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Uneven heating or cold zones within the building.
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Sudden spikes in gas or electricity bills.
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Unusual mechanical noises.
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Frequent cycling or prolonged running time.
Common Mistakes Made by Building Managers
Assuming That “It’s Working” Means It’s Fine
This is a dangerous misconception. A system’s apparent operation can hide internal mechanical issues or energy imbalances that only a professional diagnosis can detect.
Delaying Annual Inspections
At AirGreen, we recommend at least one full inspection per year, ideally before the cold season begins. Our HVAC maintenance contracts are flexible, cost-effective, and tailored to each type of facility—whether it’s an office building in Longueuil, a mall in Laval, or an industrial warehouse on the South Shore.
Our Professional Solutions at AirGreen
Complete System Evaluation
We perform a detailed diagnosis of all critical components: burners, ductwork, filters, thermostats, energy efficiency, and compliance with safety standards.
Customized Preventive Maintenance
Our teams create a personalized preventive maintenance plan to ensure continued performance without disrupting your commercial operations.
Energy Optimization
Thanks to our targeted interventions, we help clients secure available grants, including those offered by Hydro-Québec, for modernizing or replacing outdated systems.
Real Case: Optimizing a Commercial Heating System in Montréal
A client who owned a 5-storey commercial building in Ahuntsic was dealing with high winter energy consumption. Upon inspection, our team discovered a misalignment between zone thermostats and a partially clogged central Trane heat pump. We rebalanced the system, cleaned the components, replaced filters, and proposed an upgrade to a high-efficiency Trane XV95 model. The result: a 27% reduction in the electricity bill within the first month.
Why Choose AirGreen for Your Commercial Heating Maintenance
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Proven expertise in commercial environments of all sizes.
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Teams trained for rapid response across the Greater Montréal area, including Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore, and the South Shore.
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Use of the latest technology to diagnose and optimize performance.
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Full support for securing energy subsidies and credits.
Practical Recommendations
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Have your heating system checked every fall before winter kicks in.
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Opt for an annual maintenance contract tailored to your building type.
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Request a free energy assessment to explore modernization options.
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Never ignore minor warning signs—they often signal bigger problems ahead.
In conclusion, a poorly maintained commercial heating system doesn’t just threaten your comfort—it jeopardizes your employee safety, occupant health, and financial stability. At AirGreen, we bring our expertise to the table to prevent risks, extend your equipment’s lifespan, and reduce your energy costs, all while ensuring your HVAC system runs smoothly year-round.
Contact us today to schedule your commercial HVAC maintenance in Greater Montréal.