A strategic maintenance to ensure customer comfort and energy efficiency
At AirGreen , we recently performed comprehensive preventative maintenance on a ducted ventilation system located in the ceiling of a retail store in downtown Montreal . This project aimed to prevent seasonal breakdowns , stabilize airflow , and reduce energy consumption while maintaining optimal thermal comfort for customers and employees.
Context and challenges of the site
The store, located in a commercial space with an open ceiling and significant directional lighting, suffered from a temperature imbalance between the display areas and the checkouts . The existing system, a ducted Trane unit installed near the lighting network, showed several signs of degradation:
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Fouling of the evaporator coil and loss of efficiency.
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Dust deposits on the ducts and blower grilles.
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Out-of-calibrated temperature sensors, resulting in frequent on-off cycles.
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No motorized register for zone balancing.
The objective of our mandate was clear: to carry out a thorough maintenance of the HVAC system , ensure indoor air quality in accordance with ASHRAE standards , and optimize ambient comfort without disrupting the business's opening hours.
Technical solution implemented
Our teams planned a two-phase, nighttime intervention to avoid any disruption to business operations. The maintenance protocol included:
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Complete cleaning of the evaporator coil and centrifugal fan using a biodegradable cleaner approved for commercial use.
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Inspection and tightening of electrical connections , verification of insulation and condensate drain.
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Replacement of MERV 11 pleated filters and adjustment of supports for improved sealing.
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Interior cleaning of galvanized conduits , with disinfection using a solution approved by Health Canada (DIN).
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Calibration of the temperature and humidity probes , integrated into the system's wall controller.
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Airflow balancing using a certified anemometer, to achieve a uniform distribution of 1100 CFM per zone.
Construction progress and safety
The work was carried out in compliance with CSA B52 standards and RBQ safety protocols . Given the presence of clients during the day, our technicians worked at night , with a temporary perimeter barrier installed under the work area. Access to the suspended ceiling required:
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The use of a CSA G225 approved industrial stepladder.
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Appropriate lighting control to prevent any dust from being projected onto the products.
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Temporary isolation of the electrical circuit of the adjacent light fixture.
No service interruption was observed, and store operations were able to resume normally the following morning.
Results and performance indicators
After the system was put back into service, our performance measurements showed:
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Energy saving of 18% on the compressor and blower motor.
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Temperature stabilized at ±0.8 °C between the different zones of the store.
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40% reduction in compressor start-stop cycles.
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Significant improvement in indoor air quality (IAQ) with a reduction in fine particles and residual odors.
These results reflect the direct value of structured preventive maintenance : increased comfort, reliability, and extended durability of the HVAC system.
Building automation maintenance and monitoring program
Following this intervention, AirGreen implemented an annual preventative maintenance contract , including:
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Semi-annual visits (spring/autumn) for inspection and complete cleaning.
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Building automation (BAS) monitoring via connected sensors, allowing remote monitoring of temperature and humidity levels.
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Priority corrective maintenance 24/7 , with critical parts in local inventory (EC motors, relays, filters).
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A detailed report in PDF format is provided after each inspection, including photos and readings of flow rates, pressures, and amperages.
This approach guarantees a measurable return on investment for the site manager and continuous compliance with the energy performance standards in force in Quebec.
Compliance and subsidies
The project complies with all applicable standards (CSA B52, ASHRAE 62.1, Quebec Energy Efficiency Regulation) .
In addition, the client was assisted by AirGreen in submitting a file to Hydro-Québec to benefit from the grant program for energy optimization of commercial buildings , covering up to 25% of eligible maintenance and upgrade costs .
Conclusion: prevention, effectiveness and lasting comfort
This project perfectly illustrates AirGreen's philosophy: anticipate rather than repair . By ensuring rigorous and planned maintenance of ducted systems, we help businesses in Montreal and the South Shore guarantee the comfort of their occupants , reduce their operating costs , and extend the lifespan of their HVAC equipment .
AirGreen — your commercial HVAC partner in Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore and the South Shore — offers maintenance, repair, retrofit and design-build services for all types of commercial and institutional buildings.