Simple but crucial steps to save thousands of dollars
At AirGreen, we understand that a wall-mounted or central air conditioner is a significant investment in your summer comfort in Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore, and the South Shore. Yet, far too many homeowners neglect the maintenance of their unit, leading to costly breakdowns and premature performance loss. This guide reveals, step by step, the same insider tips our HVAC technicians use every day to dramatically extend the lifespan of your air conditioner—and maximize your return on investment.
Why regular maintenance is essential
A poorly maintained air conditioner doesn’t just consume more energy—it loses efficiency, struggles to dehumidify properly, becomes noisier, and breaks down faster. With our decades of field experience, we’ve found that 90% of major breakdowns could have been avoided with minimal but regular maintenance.
The mistakes we see all too often from homeowners
Every week, we meet clients facing breakdowns that could have been easily avoided:
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Filters never cleaned, blocking airflow and causing the unit to overheat.
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Outdoor units clogged with leaves, debris, or ice.
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Undetected refrigerant leaks causing a gradual, invisible drop in performance.
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No annual check-up, letting minor issues turn into major, costly repairs.
At AirGreen, our HVAC technicians handle these situations regularly across Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, and both the North and South Shores. And every time, we come to the same conclusion: a bit of maintenance would have added several years to the unit’s lifespan.
The 7 essential maintenance tips from our technicians
1. Clean your filters every 4 to 6 weeks
It sounds obvious, but very few people actually do it. A dirty filter blocks airflow, overheats the compressor, and reduces cooling efficiency. A simple rinse with warm water can be enough to restore performance.
2. Regularly check the outdoor unit
Especially in spring and fall in Montreal or Laval, dead leaves, pollen, dust, and urban debris build up around the outdoor unit. Turn off the system and gently spray the fins with a low-pressure garden hose. Avoid pressure washers, which can damage the delicate fins.
3. Watch for unusual noises
Clicking, squeaking, or buzzing sounds are often early signs of a worn-out motor, faulty bearing, or loose vibration. Quick intervention prevents bigger issues down the road.
4. Schedule a professional check-up every year
Even if you clean the filters, a professional maintenance visit remains essential. At AirGreen, we use specialized equipment to:
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Measure refrigerant pressure
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Check circuit tightness
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Inspect electrical components
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Deep-clean the evaporator and condenser
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Fine-tune the settings based on your home’s unique needs
5. Monitor your energy usage
A sudden spike in your summer energy bill is a red flag. It may indicate dirt buildup, a leak, or a faulty part. Compare your consumption month-to-month with previous years. If there’s an unexplained jump, call us.
6. Keep the temperature stable
Avoid constantly adjusting the thermostat. A steady indoor temp between 23°C and 25°C offers a solid balance of comfort and energy efficiency. Frequent changes put unnecessary strain on the compressor, reducing its lifespan.
7. Shade your outdoor unit
An air conditioner exposed to full sun—especially in concrete-heavy Montreal or Laval—can lose up to 10% efficiency. A simple awning or well-placed hedge can provide strategic shade without blocking ventilation.
What we do at AirGreen: A real example in Longueuil
A residential client in Longueuil, with a Fujitsu 12,000 BTU wall-mounted air conditioner, reported low airflow. At first glance, the unit appeared clean. Upon inspection, our technician found mold buildup on the internal fan that wasn’t visible, and a slightly sluggish blower motor. We did a deep cleaning with a certified antibacterial treatment, replaced a minor part, and realigned the airflow. Result: a 40% immediate boost in airflow and a noticeable noise reduction.
How to extend your unit’s lifespan from 10 to 20 years
With annual maintenance, smart usage, and regular inspections, we’ve seen units run flawlessly for over 20 years. On the flip side, we’ve had to replace units just 7 years old that were completely neglected.
Here’s what we recommend for all our clients in Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore, and the South Shore:
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Schedule a professional inspection every spring, just before peak season
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Keep a service history, especially for manufacturer warranty coverage
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Stay alert to subtle warning signs: noises, smells, excessive condensation
Why choose AirGreen for your air conditioner maintenance?
At AirGreen, we don’t just repair or install HVAC systems. We extend their life, optimize your comfort, and cut your energy costs. Every visit is personalized, our reports are detailed, and we operate with full transparency.
Our teams serve all of Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore, and the South Shore, with fast response times, certified technicians, and a proven quality commitment.
What proper maintenance really brings you
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✅ Annual energy bill savings: up to 15%
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✅ Reduced risk of breakdowns during heatwaves
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✅ Cleaner air, fewer allergens
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✅ Increased unit lifespan—up to 10 more years
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✅ Higher resale value when moving
Next steps: Trust our experts
Want to get the most out of your wall-mounted or central air conditioner? Contact AirGreen today for professional HVAC maintenance, tailored to your system and your needs. Our technicians are ready to serve across Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, and the North Shore and South Shore.