Maintaining your HVAC system (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) is essential to ensure comfort, energy efficiency, and the longevity of your equipment. At AirGreen, we know that many homeowners in Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore and the South Shore wonder what they can do on their own between professional maintenance visits. Here are 7 simple and effective HVAC maintenance tips, field-tested, that every homeowner can apply without any specialized tools – and that can truly improve your system’s performance.
Why preventive maintenance is crucial for your comfort and your wallet
A poorly maintained HVAC system can use up to 25% more energy, make noise, blow poor-quality air, or break down at the worst time. By doing just a few simple tasks regularly, you can extend your system’s lifespan and reduce your operating costs.
1. Clean or replace air filters every 1 to 3 months
Filter maintenance is the most essential task. Dirty filters block air circulation, forcing the system to work harder. This can reduce efficiency, raise energy bills, and damage internal components.
At AirGreen, we recommend:
-
For a central system: check filters every season.
-
For a wall-mounted heat pump: remove the front panels, clean filters with a vacuum or some warm water, let them dry completely before putting them back.
AirGreen tip: Set a monthly phone reminder so you won’t forget!
2. Clean air vents and ventilation grilles
Dust often builds up on air supply vents and return ducts. This not only affects air quality, but also reduces airflow.
What to do:
-
Carefully unscrew wall or floor grilles.
-
Vacuum the inside (gently).
-
Wipe the grilles with a damp cloth.
This simple task helps maintain optimal airflow, especially during the long winter months in Montreal or Laval where the system runs non-stop.
3. Keep the outdoor unit clear of any obstruction
In summer and winter, your outdoor heat pump or wall unit needs to breathe. Leaves, snow, ice, branches, or debris can block airflow and hurt performance.
Do this regularly:
-
Clear a space of 30 to 60 cm around the outdoor unit.
-
Use a soft brush to clean the aluminum fins.
-
Never use a pressure washer – it could bend the fins.
We often get service calls due to snow buildup on a heat pump, especially on the North Shore.
4. Check the condensation drainage (takes under 5 minutes)
A clogged drain hose can cause leaks, mold, or even wall damage.
Here’s what to do:
-
Find the PVC or rubber drain hose, often connected to your indoor unit.
-
Pour a small amount of warm (not boiling) water with white vinegar into the hose.
-
Make sure the water flows properly outside or into the floor drain.
This quick step – often forgotten – can prevent expensive repairs, especially in setups located in Longueuil or Brossard basements.
5. Reprogram your thermostat for each season
A poorly programmed thermostat means wasted energy.
Here’s what we recommend:
-
In summer, set it to 24–25°C when at home.
-
In winter, 20–21°C is ideal.
-
Use the programmable features for working hours, sleep, or when you're away.
At AirGreen, we help our clients set up their smart thermostats to maximize savings, especially in modern condos in Griffintown or single-family homes in Saint-Eustache.
6. Pay attention to unusual noises or smells
Hearing a metallic noise, clicking, or whistling air? Smelling burnt odors or lingering humidity? These are warning signs.
What to do:
-
Turn off your system.
-
Take note of the noise or smell.
-
Quickly contact our AirGreen technicians for a professional diagnosis.
Ignoring these signs can make the damage worse, especially during a heatwave on the South Shore or deep winter freeze in Laval.
7. Visually inspect exposed ducts and seals
Without dismantling anything, you can:
-
Check if visible ducts look damaged or poorly insulated.
-
Spot loose joints or visible air leaks.
Even a small duct leak can cause major performance loss. We’ve fixed many of these cases in residential buildings in Rosemère or Boucherville where invisible air loss was causing energy consumption to spike.
AirGreen’s expertise at your service
Even if these steps are simple, a yearly professional tune-up is still essential. Our certified teams serve the entire Greater Montreal region to:
-
Perform deep cleaning of indoor and outdoor units.
-
Test pressure levels, electrical connections, and component condition.
-
Advise you on available grants for upgrading inefficient systems.
Our work in Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore and the South Shore helps clients stay comfortable all year long while optimizing energy use.
When should you call AirGreen’s technicians?
Even if you follow these tips, some signs mean it’s time for a professional visit:
-
Sudden drop in performance.
-
Frost buildup on the heat pump.
-
System no longer blowing warm or cold air.
-
Compressor strain or strange noises.
At AirGreen, we offer maintenance plans tailored to all types of homes and systems: central heat pumps, wall units, air conditioners, or hydronic heating systems.
Conclusion: simple actions for lasting results
By regularly performing these HVAC maintenance tips, you directly contribute to your system’s health. But nothing beats a professional’s eye. Book your annual maintenance with AirGreen to enjoy a reliable, high-performing, and energy-efficient system all year long.