Short-term savings that can cost you dearly: understanding the traps behind cheap HVAC maintenance contracts
In the world of commercial air conditioning, where occupant comfort, energy performance, and HVAC system reliability are essential, it can be tempting for a property manager or business owner to choose a low-cost maintenance contract. However, behind what seems like a good deal often lie dangerous compromises that can jeopardize system longevity, increase long-term costs, and risk non-compliance with safety regulations.
At AirGreen, we are regularly called upon to fix the consequences of these poorly executed contracts. With extensive experience on projects in commercial buildings across Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore, and the South Shore, we’ve seen time and again how a supposed saving on paper turns into real losses—financial and operational.
What a low-cost HVAC maintenance contract does (and doesn’t) cover
A surface-level inspection, lacking depth
Cut-rate contracts often focus on a simple "visual cleaning" or a quick check, without any true functional inspection of critical components. Heat exchangers, electrical connections, temperature sensors, or refrigerant pressures are rarely examined thoroughly.
This means that emerging issues like refrigerant leaks, compressor failure, or premature fan wear go unnoticed... until it's too late.
No serious documentation, no tracking
A solid maintenance contract should include a detailed report after each visit, with a history, photos, exact readings, and clear recommendations. Budget contracts rarely offer this level of diligence, leaving building managers without an essential tool to plan investments or anticipate failures.
Poorly trained technicians, often subcontracted
Many low-budget contracts are carried out by rushed subcontractors, with minimal training or little experience handling the complex HVAC systems found in modern commercial buildings. The lack of specific knowledge about brands like Daikin, Trane, Carrier, Lennox, Fujitsu, or Goodman can lead to misdiagnoses, poor settings, or unnecessary interventions.
Real testimony: a restaurant in Laval avoids disaster
We were recently called to a restaurant in Laval where a very cheap maintenance contract had been signed two years prior with a competitor. The result: the central air conditioning system had severe dirt buildup in the evaporator, leading to reduced performance, increased energy consumption, and constant discomfort in the dining area.
Even worse, a malfunctioning high-pressure switch had gone undetected. Overheating triggered a full compressor shutdown during a heatwave, right at peak service hours. We were able to diagnose and resolve the issue, but replacing certain parts could have been avoided with more rigorous preventive maintenance.
What a proper AirGreen maintenance contract includes
Comprehensive technical inspections
Each visit includes a complete check of all mechanical and electronic components, including:
-
Refrigerant pressure readings,
-
Temperature measurements for supply and return air,
-
Deep cleaning of filters, evaporators, and condensers,
-
Inspection of electrical connections, relays, fuses, and starters,
-
Calibration of thermostats and automated controls.
A detailed report accessible at any time
We provide a complete digital report after each visit, including:
-
Before/after photos,
-
Any anomalies detected,
-
Technical measurements (voltage, amperage, pressure),
-
Clear recommendations to optimize performance or prevent failures.
Ongoing service from dedicated technicians
Our commercial clients benefit from a dedicated team continuously trained on the latest technologies (variable refrigerant heat pumps, VRF multisplit systems, smart controls), and capable of responding quickly thanks to streamlined internal logistics.
Why professional HVAC maintenance is a smart investment
Reduced operating costs
A well-maintained system consumes up to 20% less energy and operates more efficiently, extending the lifespan of critical components (fans, compressors, motors).
Fewer unexpected breakdowns
Thanks to early detection of anomalies, the risk of major failures or costly replacements is greatly reduced. This allows interventions to be scheduled without service disruptions.
Compliance with regulations and increased safety
Thorough maintenance ensures your systems comply with current standards (BNQ, CSA, RBQ), especially in sensitive environments like hospitals, commercial kitchens, or data centers.
The false economy of cut-rate contracts: a cost comparison
| Contract Type | Annual Cost | Major Breakdowns Over 3 Years | Estimated Total Cost Over 3 Years |
|---|---|---|---|
| Low-cost contract | $700 | 2 breakdowns (including compressor) | $7,200 |
| AirGreen contract | $1,800 | No major breakdowns | $5,400 |
The numbers speak for themselves: saving today can cost you twice as much tomorrow.
Our commercial air conditioning service calls: real-world examples
Office building in Longueuil: preventive maintenance on a 15-ton Lennox system
We performed full maintenance on a Lennox central system in an office building in Longueuil. By replacing minor components (belts, worn-out relays), we prevented a critical breakdown in peak summer season. The client saw an 18% reduction on their monthly energy bill.
Retail business in Montreal: HVAC inspection on Trane rooftop unit
In Montreal, a retail shop was dealing with uncomfortable temperature fluctuations. Our inspection uncovered a miscalibrated sensor on a 12-ton Trane rooftop unit. The result: improved comfort and system stability with no need for replacement.
AirGreen: your trusted partner for commercial air conditioning
We believe that professional HVAC maintenance should never be overlooked. Thanks to our on-site experience, certified technical team, responsiveness, and commitment to transparency and quality, we help businesses every day protect their HVAC investments and optimize their energy performance.
When you entrust your systems to AirGreen, you benefit not only from thorough maintenance service but also from strategic support for your future renovation, modernization, or expansion projects.
Do you manage a commercial building in Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, on the North Shore or South Shore? Contact us today for a free audit of your current maintenance contract. Together, let’s protect your installations and long-term budget.