When know-how isn’t enough: the pitfalls of poorly executed HVAC maintenance
At AirGreen, we perform hundreds of wall-mounted and central air conditioner maintenance services each year throughout Laval. And even when we work with experienced clients or specialized contractors, we often find that maintenance mistakes—sometimes serious ones—go completely unnoticed.
These errors, though easily avoidable, directly impact energy efficiency, the lifespan of the air conditioner, and most importantly, indoor air quality. In this article, we share the 7 most common mistakes, based on real cases we’ve encountered during service calls in Laval, along with the concrete solutions we implemented to correct them.
1. Only cleaning the visible filters
In many cases, maintenance is limited to a simple dusting of the main filter. But a wall-mounted air conditioner or a central heat pump includes several critical components:
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Evaporator coils
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Fan fins
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Condensate pans
In Laval, we were recently called in for an annual maintenance job in a modern condo. The filters looked clean, but behind the grills, a mass of mold had built up on the indoor coil. The result: bad odors, loss of efficiency, and the beginning of microbial contamination.
AirGreen solution:
We carry out a complete deep cleaning of the indoor unit using certified eco-friendly products, always in compliance with the manufacturer’s recommendations.
2. Neglecting the outdoor unit
Even seasoned technicians sometimes forget that the outdoor unit plays a critical role in the thermodynamic cycle. A buildup of dust, dead leaves, or pollen can block the coils, forcing the compressor to work harder and increase energy consumption.
In Fabreville, we found a newly installed Fujitsu R32 heat pump whose output had dropped 35% due to exterior grime. The homeowner had previously hired a technician… who never even opened the outdoor casing.
AirGreen solution:
Every maintenance includes a gentle pressure cleaning of the outdoor unit and a check of the minimum required clearance (generally 30 cm around the unit).
3. Failing to inspect the condensate drain
Condensate drainage is often overlooked, but a clogged hose can cause:
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Water leaks along walls
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Ceiling damage
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Nasty odors
In Laval-des-Rapides, a client called us urgently after noticing water infiltration beneath his Gree wall-mounted heat pump. The drain was blocked with calcium buildup. The result: bubbling paint, damaged drywall, and a costly repair that could’ve been prevented.
AirGreen solution:
We systematically inspect the drain, clear it if needed, and apply a preventive enzymatic solution.
4. Ignoring unusual noises or vibrations
Some technicians focus solely on cleaning but don’t listen to the unit while it's running. Yet even a slight clicking, vibration, or low hum can indicate:
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An unbalanced fan motor
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A loose bracket
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A worn ball bearing
In one case in Chomedey, we detected an indoor blower motor on the verge of failing. Thanks to our attention, we replaced the part before it broke completely—avoiding an emergency call during a heatwave.
AirGreen solution:
Every maintenance includes a functional sound test, as well as tightening of moving components.
5. Skipping refrigerant pressure checks
A proper maintenance visit must include checking refrigerant pressure, especially with newer gases like R-32 or R-454B. Too low = risk of icing and poor performance. Too high = compressor overheating.
In Sainte-Rose, a Bosch wall-mounted air conditioner was consuming 20% more electricity than expected. Upon inspection, we identified an undercharge of R-454B refrigerant.
AirGreen solution:
We use precise digital gauges on all suspect units. If needed, we perform a top-up—always according to environmental safety regulations.
6. Overlooking system programming settings
HVAC maintenance isn’t just about hardware. It’s common to find clients whose thermostats are misconfigured:
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Temperature set too low at night
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Inefficient fan cycles
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Dehumidification features disabled
In Laval, we reprogrammed a connected thermostat that had been cooling an empty home all day. The result: $200 per month saved after reconfiguration.
AirGreen solution:
We check and optimize every system setting so it aligns with the customer’s real lifestyle habits.
7. Using inappropriate cleaning products
Lastly, some major mistakes come from using corrosive or non-approved cleaners. Poorly trained technicians sometimes apply acidic products that corrode aluminum fins or plastic ducts.
AirGreen regularly steps in to replace prematurely damaged components due to improper cleaning products. These errors are costly and shorten system life.
AirGreen solution:
We use only approved, biodegradable cleaners, each tested and matched to the brand (Gree, Fujitsu, Bosch, Midea, etc.).
Conclusion: HVAC maintenance is not just a formality
At AirGreen, we believe proper maintenance is much more than a simple filter cleaning. It’s a thorough, technical process, tailored to every customer. Our service experience across Laval and surrounding areas has taught us that even professionals can make mistakes—but with rigor, know-how, and attention to detail, these pitfalls can be avoided.
Do you own a heat pump or wall-mounted air conditioner in Laval and want professional, reliable, and complete HVAC maintenance? Contact AirGreen for a free quote, and experience the difference for yourself.