Neglecting HVAC maintenance can lead to far more than just discomfort: it can force a business to shut down temporarily, with serious financial and operational consequences. This is exactly what happened to a small North Shore of Montréal business we recently helped get back on its feet after a full stop caused by major mistakes during the cleaning of its heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system.
A Critical Situation on the North Shore: When Poor HVAC Maintenance Shuts Down a Business
The call came in on a Tuesday morning. The owner of a food distribution business located in Boisbriand, on the North Shore, reached out to us in a panic. A lingering odor, poor air quality, and unstable indoor temperatures had forced management to temporarily shut down operations. Immediate revenue losses were piling up—not to mention the inventory that had to be thrown out due to excessive heat.
Diagnosis: HVAC Cleaning Mistakes with Serious Consequences
Upon arrival, our team performed a comprehensive inspection of the HVAC system. The root of the problem? A botched cleaning carried out just a few weeks prior by an uncertified subcontractor. Here’s what we found:
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Clogged air filters that had not been properly replaced, blocking airflow.
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Dirty evaporator coils, causing the system to overload and burn extra energy.
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Improperly sanitized ventilation system, allowing mold and bacteria to thrive.
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Standing condensate water in drain pans, increasing indoor humidity.
The result: the system could no longer ventilate properly, the temperature fluctuated wildly, and indoor air quality was compromised, putting both staff and customers at risk.
AirGreen’s Intervention: A Full HVAC System Restoration
At AirGreen, we never settle for a basic cleaning. Every service we provide is precise, methodical, and tailored to the client’s environment. Here’s how we restored this system:
Technical Inspection and Customized Action Plan
We began with a complete thermal and sanitary audit, identifying every fault in the system. The goal: ensure a deep cleaning that meets the standards of both the CNESST and public health authorities.
Full Cleaning Using Specialized Equipment
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Dismantling and complete cleaning of both indoor and outdoor units.
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High-powered vacuuming of ducts with mechanical rotary brushing.
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Cleaning of evaporator and condenser coils with certified biodegradable solutions.
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Replacement of air filters with high-efficiency models (MERV 13).
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Antimicrobial disinfection of the ductwork using portable ozone generators (controlled and safe use).
Control System Upgrade and Performance Testing
We then reconfigured the intelligent control system to optimize heating and ventilation cycles. Performance testing confirmed a 28% recovery in energy efficiency.
Result: Business Reopened, Impeccable Air Quality, and a Reassured Client
Thanks to our intervention, the business was able to reopen its doors within just 48 hours. Staff immediately noticed a marked improvement in air quality, and losses were minimized. We then implemented a routine HVAC maintenance plan that included:
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Biannual deep cleaning of all units and ducts.
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Monitoring of pressure, temperature, and airflow.
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Indoor air quality tracking (CO2, humidity, fine particles).
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Annual thermographic inspection to detect leaks or drops in performance.
Why Proper HVAC Cleaning Is Critical for Businesses
A poorly maintained HVAC system has direct impacts on health, safety, and productivity. For businesses, the consequences are even greater:
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Temporary shutdown = significant financial losses.
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Poor air quality = health risks for employees and customers.
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Overheating or overcooling = wasted energy.
A professional, structured, and certified cleaning is therefore essential. At AirGreen, we operate throughout Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore, and the South Shore, with a proven track record of technical expertise, serving businesses, institutions, and residential buildings alike.
Our Recommendations to Avoid This Kind of Situation
Never Entrust HVAC Cleaning to Non-Specialized Companies
It’s not just about wiping down surfaces or vacuuming dust. HVAC cleaning requires in-depth knowledge of ventilation systems, sanitation standards, and safety protocols.
Set Up a Preventive Maintenance Schedule
A structured maintenance plan reduces the risk of breakdown or contamination. We recommend a biannual maintenance schedule, tailored to your building’s use.
Inspect the System After Every Service Call
A post-cleaning inspection by an independent company (like AirGreen) can verify the quality of the job done.
AirGreen’s HVAC Cleaning Expertise: Our Commitment to Safety and Performance
At AirGreen, we focus on prevention, performance, and transparency. Our certified technicians use advanced diagnostic tools to assess the situation and offer real solutions. We operate in:
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Commercial and industrial buildings.
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Office towers and high-rises.
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Food retail stores and public-access establishments.
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Condominiums and private residences.
Client Testimonial
“We had to shut down our business because of a poorly done cleaning by another company. AirGreen stepped in fast, with an exceptional level of professionalism. Their diagnosis and deep cleaning allowed us to resume operations safely. Five-star service.”
— Owner of the Boisbriand business
Conclusion: Quality HVAC Cleaning Is a Must-Have Investment
An HVAC maintenance mistake can have major consequences on business operations. With AirGreen, you’re choosing a reliable, expert, and rigorous partner, committed to indoor air quality and energy performance across the Greater Montréal area.
Not sure about your ventilation system’s cleanliness or want to set up a reliable HVAC maintenance plan? Contact us today.