A simple oversight that could cost you your comfort and your wallet
At AirGreen, we’ve performed hundreds of HVAC system maintenance services across Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore and South Shore, and one thing keeps showing up over and over again: a maintenance mistake made by the vast majority of homeowners—often unknowingly. This mistake isn’t about a complex technical failure or choosing the wrong heat pump. It’s much more subtle and directly impacts your system’s lifespan, energy performance, and operating costs.
The fatal mistake: ignoring regular maintenance of filters and heat exchangers
What do we notice in more than 90% of the homes we visit? A clear lack of maintenance of air filters, evaporator coils, and condenser coils. These components, although hidden from view, are essential to the proper functioning of any heating or cooling system. When they’re dirty, the system loses up to 30% of its energy efficiency, forcing the compressor to work harder, consuming more electricity, and causing premature wear of the internal parts.
What that means for you
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Higher electricity bills.
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Reduced lifespan of your heat pump.
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Less thermal comfort (uneven heating or cooling across rooms).
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Greater risk of major breakdowns.
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Possible voiding of the manufacturer’s warranty.
Case study: complete cleaning of a wall-mounted heat pump in Boucherville
Recently, our team visited a home in Boucherville for a full cleaning of a Gree Extreme 18,000 BTU wall-mounted heat pump that had been installed five years earlier without a single service. The homeowner complained of reduced performance and strange noises. Here’s what we found:
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Filters clogged 90%, blocking airflow.
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Indoor coil covered in mold and fine dust, reducing heat exchange.
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Indoor fan off balance, causing vibration and noise.
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Outdoor condenser coated in pollen and plant debris.
After a deep cleaning and complete disinfection, the system’s performance was restored to 100%, and the homeowner noticed a remarkable improvement in comfort and noise levels.
Why this cleaning is so essential
The role of the air filter
The air filter traps particles, dust, allergens, and pollen. When it’s dirty, it blocks airflow, increases static pressure, and makes the fan motor work harder, lowering the efficiency of the whole unit.
The importance of the heat exchanger
Coils must remain clean and unobstructed to absorb (heating) or release (cooling) heat efficiently. A dirty coil acts like a thermal barrier, cutting your heat pump’s performance.
Cleaning the blower fan
Fan blades full of dust throw off the rotation, causing noise and reducing airflow, which leads to faster wear and tear of the internal components.
Why a simple yearly cleaning often isn’t enough
Many homeowners think that quickly vacuuming the filters is enough. But internal components require a full professional service, including:
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Dismantling of the indoor unit.
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Cleaning the coils with certified, eco-friendly products.
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Vacuuming of ducts and blowers.
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Inspection of electronic components.
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Testing airflow and temperature differentials.
At AirGreen, we use specialized tools like low-pressure washing systems, certified HVAC cleaning products, and thermal measuring instruments to ensure peak performance.
At-risk zones: wooded, urban, and industrial areas
Some environments are particularly prone to system buildup:
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Montréal and Laval: urban pollution, fine dust.
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South Shore (Longueuil, Boucherville, Brossard): pollen and agricultural pollutants.
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North Shore (Blainville, Terrebonne, Saint-Eustache): insects, plant debris.
A yearly cleaning is the bare minimum, but in these areas, we recommend two services per year, especially if your unit is used for both heating in winter and cooling in summer.
What AirGreen offers
We’ve developed a comprehensive HVAC maintenance service at an affordable price that includes:
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Inspection of indoor and outdoor units.
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Full cleaning and disinfection.
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Refrigerant circuit check.
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Analysis of abnormal noises and performance.
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Personalized recommendations.
We offer quick response across Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, as well as the North Shore and South Shore. Our technicians are trained to the latest standards in wall-mounted, central, ducted and multisplit heat pumps.
Practical tips to avoid this mistake
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Clean your filters every month.
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Have your system professionally inspected twice a year (spring and fall).
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Never cover the outdoor unit with a tarp that blocks airflow.
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Watch for strange noises, odors, or performance drops.
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Work with a reliable partner like AirGreen, who documents and explains every step of the service.
Customer testimonial: service call in Laval
"I always thought cleaning the filters was enough. But when AirGreen came to do the maintenance, they showed me the state of the fan and the coils. Since their visit, the air is fresher, the system runs quieter, and my bill has gone down. I’ll never skip a service again."
— Ms. L., Laval
HVAC maintenance: a smart investment
Avoiding this common mistake can add years to your system’s lifespan, improve your comfort, reduce your energy costs, and protect your health. It also ensures that you stay within the manufacturer’s warranty terms, which often require documented maintenance.
In conclusion
At AirGreen, we believe that the performance of your HVAC system starts with proper maintenance. Too often overlooked, thorough cleaning of heating and cooling units is the key to a reliable, quiet, and long-lasting investment.
Don’t let this common mistake compromise your comfort. Trust us with your HVAC maintenance, and take advantage of our proven expertise across Greater Montréal, the South Shore, and the North Shore.
Contact us today to schedule a full maintenance service and protect your HVAC system.