Seasonal HVAC Maintenance: Why 80% of Montrealers Forget This Crucial Step Every Fall

Getting your HVAC system ready for winter: a step too often overlooked—with costly consequences

Every fall in Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, on the North Shore and South Shore, thousands of homeowners put off maintaining their heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. Yet neglecting this crucial seasonal task can lead to much more than simple discomfort: performance drops, increased energy bills, or even a complete breakdown in the middle of winter.

At AirGreen, we respond to dozens of calls each year from homes and commercial buildings to fix issues that could have been avoided with a simple fall checkup. Here’s why seasonal HVAC maintenance isn’t just a good idea—it’s essential.

Fall: the perfect time for HVAC maintenance

The transition between summer air conditioning and winter heating is the ideal time for a full inspection of your system. At this point, the indoor unit, ductwork, filters, heat exchanger, and electronics all need to be checked to ensure they’ll perform reliably throughout the coldest months.

Why fall?

• Temperatures are still mild, making it easier to shut off the system temporarily for servicing.

• HVAC technicians are usually more available than during the peak of winter.

• It helps prevent breakdowns or emergency calls in January when wait times can be longer.

The 4 major risks of skipping maintenance

1. Higher energy consumption
   A clogged or poorly calibrated system works harder to produce the same heat, potentially increasing your power bill by 15 to 30% in some cases. This is especially true for wall-mounted heat pumps or central HVAC systems that aren’t regularly cleaned.

2. Shorter equipment lifespan
   Dust, debris, and trapped moisture accelerate wear on key components. An overworked compressor or dirty coils can lead to major system failures sooner than expected.

3. Unexpected breakdowns in winter
   A faulty heating element or miscalibrated thermostat can leave you without heat at -20°C. HVAC emergencies are more common than people think—especially in Montreal’s harsh climate.

4. Poor indoor air quality
   A blocked filter or dusty duct reduces air quality, triggering allergies or affecting people with sensitivities—especially during the winter months when indoor air circulation is critical.

Case study: central Goodman system maintenance in Laval

Last October, our AirGreen team serviced a 60,000 BTU Goodman central system in a Laval home. The occupants were experiencing strange noises and uneven heating.

Findings:

• Filters hadn’t been replaced in 18 months.

• Fan motor was coated in dust, causing vibrations.

• Belt was slightly loose.

• Signs of mold near the condensation drain.

AirGreen’s intervention:

• Complete system cleaning (ducts, HEPA filter, fan).

• Belt adjustment and lubrication.

• Interior unit disinfected using certified antifungal treatment.

• Full performance test.

Result:

• 22% increase in system performance based on our readings.

• No more strange noises.

• Estimated annual energy savings of about $300.

What happens during a professional maintenance visit with AirGreen?

At AirGreen, we follow a proven method refined through hundreds of successful interventions across Montreal and surrounding areas.

Key steps in our service:

• Complete visual inspection of indoor and outdoor units.

• Performance testing of each component (thermostat, compressor, fan).

• Deep cleaning: filters, heat exchanger, air ducts, coils.

• Electrical checks and adjustments if needed.

• Antimicrobial disinfection if mold or bacteria are present.

• Personalized advice on settings and energy use.

Every client receives a detailed report with photos and recommendations. This service is available for all major brands: Fujitsu, Gree, Bosch, Sharp, Goodman, Lennox, Trane, ACD, Haxxair, and more.

A smart short- and long-term investment

Seasonal HVAC maintenance isn’t just about staying comfortable—it’s also a smart money-saving strategy. A well-maintained system can:

• Reduce your heating bill by 10 to 30%.

• Double the lifespan of key components (motors, compressors).

• Improve the air you breathe every day.

• Prevent expensive repairs, especially in extreme cold.

Are there any grants available for maintenance?

While grants like Hydro-Québec’s LogisVert mainly cover new installations, some municipalities offer credits for energy audits or preventive maintenance of HVAC systems. Our advisors can help you determine if your case qualifies.

When should you call AirGreen?

We recommend scheduling your HVAC maintenance:

• Between September and November, ideally before the first snowfall.

• If you notice unusual noises, smells, or uneven temperatures.

• If your system hasn’t been inspected in over a year.

• If you recently bought a property with no clear maintenance history.

Why choose AirGreen for your HVAC maintenance?

• Certified team for both residential and commercial HVAC.

• Strong local presence: Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, North Shore, South Shore.

• Fast, clean, discreet, and courteous service.

• Competitive, transparent pricing.

• Trusted by hundreds of satisfied customers.

Our tips for homeowners

• Set an annual calendar reminder for your maintenance.

• Don’t wait for the first cold snap—book early to avoid delays.

• Keep your maintenance reports for your manufacturer’s warranty.

• Install a smart thermostat to detect issues sooner.

Seasonal HVAC maintenance isn’t optional—it’s common sense to protect your investment, comfort, and health.