Prevention over cure: the importance of preventive maintenance during a 35°C Montreal summer
When we talk about wall-mounted air conditioning in Montreal, we often think of the hot months of July and August, when temperatures can soar dangerously high. For many households, a well-maintained wall-mounted air conditioner is much more than a luxury—it becomes a matter of health and safety. At AirGreen, we recently carried out a HVAC maintenance visit in Outremont that showed just how critical preventive care can be. It made a real difference for a Montreal couple, just before a record-breaking heatwave.
An urgent request... even before a breakdown happened
Last June, a couple from the Outremont neighborhood contacted us to schedule their annual maintenance for their FUJITSU KZCA 12,000 BTU R-32 wall-mounted air conditioner. Having been satisfied with its performance the previous summer, they simply wanted to make sure everything was working well before the heat returned. A smart move—but they had no idea just how life-saving this decision would be…
Our technicians quickly stepped in to carry out a full cleaning of the indoor and outdoor units, as well as a thorough inspection of all technical settings. The system, installed three years prior by another company, didn’t initially show any visible signs of malfunction.
A surprise during the technical inspection: early-stage fan failure
However, while checking the airflow, we noticed a slight but unusual vibration coming from the blower fan. Using our diagnostic tools, we identified that the fan motor was showing signs of premature wear, and that the starter capacitor was beginning to fail. Without intervention, the unit would have certainly broken down within a few weeks—likely during peak summer heat.
We immediately proposed a preventive replacement of the capacitor along with a technical lubrication of the motor, effectively avoiding a major failure right in the middle of the season. The result: the system continued to operate at full capacity, with no downtime or performance drop.
Why preventive maintenance is essential in Greater Montreal
Avoiding breakdowns during critical periods
During heatwaves, service calls for wall-mounted air conditioner repairs skyrocket, making response times much longer. A failure during 35 °C heat can quickly become a health emergency, especially for seniors or individuals with respiratory conditions.
Optimizing energy efficiency
A clogged or poorly calibrated system can consume up to 25% more electricity. Regular maintenance helps reduce energy usage, preserve performance, and extend the lifespan of the unit.
Maintaining indoor air quality
A dirty filter, uncleaned evaporator, or partially blocked drain can all encourage mold growth and significantly lower indoor air quality—an important issue for Montreal families living in older buildings with poor ventilation.
The FUJITSU KZCA 12,000 BTU: a high-performance unit that deserves meticulous care
The FUJITSU KZCA 12,000 BTU R-32 model inspected in this case study is known for its reliability, energy efficiency, and ultra-quiet operation. Compatible with eco-friendly R-32 refrigerant, it also offers strong seasonal performance, making it ideal for Québec’s climate.
Technical advantages:
-
Energy class A++
-
Smart dehumidification function
-
Automatic energy-saving mode
-
Wall-mounted control with programmable scheduling
-
Low standby power consumption
This model is also eligible for certain HVAC rebates from Hydro-Québec or other local programs, depending on the residence type and energy profile.
AirGreen: our HVAC maintenance approach across Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, North Shore and South Shore
Fast, meticulous service
We provide customized maintenance visits based on the model, age, and usage of each wall-mounted air conditioner. Our certified technicians follow strict protocols, including:
-
High-pressure cleaning of the heat exchanger
-
Drain and drip tray inspection
-
Energy efficiency testing (pressure, temperature, airflow)
-
Wiring, electrical connection, and remote control inspection
-
Calibration of the thermistor and compressor
Digital maintenance records
At AirGreen, every client receives a digital maintenance log, allowing for accurate tracking year over year. This lets us detect problematic components early and propose preventive action before breakdowns occur.
Maintenance tips for homeowners
Even if you’re not a technician, here are a few smart habits we recommend between professional visits:
-
Clean or replace the air filter monthly during the hot season
-
Make sure nothing blocks the outdoor air outlet
-
Keep the indoor unit free from dust and moisture
-
Check the remote and thermostat regularly
A couple saved from a breakdown… and a sleepless night at 30 °C
The Outremont couple reached out to thank us a few weeks later, in the middle of a five-day heatwave. Their unit worked without a hitch, keeping a stable 22 °C in their condo despite the 34 °C outdoors. They even referred our service to two neighbors in their building.
This case study clearly shows how a preventive HVAC maintenance visit can make all the difference—in comfort, energy savings, and, most of all, peace of mind.
Conclusion: anticipate, and breathe easier
At AirGreen, we strongly believe that maintaining a wall-mounted air conditioner, regardless of brand or size, should never be overlooked. Every year, our work in Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore, and the South Shore helps prevent hundreds of breakdowns. Our clients choose us for our precision, reliability, and honest, expert service.
Want to avoid a breakdown during the next heatwave? Contact us now to schedule maintenance for your wall-mounted system. At AirGreen, prevention is what we do best.