The Disturbing Truth About Air Filter Cleaning That Most Companies Ignore

Air Filter Cleaning: An Underestimated Operation That’s Actually Vital for Your Comfort

At AirGreen, we regularly meet clients in Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, as well as on the North Shore and South Shore, who have no idea that their indoor air quality depends directly on the condition of their air filters. Even worse, many HVAC companies systematically overlook this crucial step. This lack of rigor leads to poor system performance, higher energy consumption, and, most importantly, increased health risks for occupants. Today, we’re lifting the veil on what others prefer to keep quiet.

The Central Role of Filters in Your HVAC System

Air filters are not just accessories. They are the first line of defense against airborne particles such as:

• Fine dust

• Allergens (pollen, pet dander)

• Mold and spores

• Outdoor pollutants

In any heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system—whether it’s a wall-mounted heat pump, a central system, or a ventilation unit (HRV/ERV)—filters help maintain healthy air and optimize overall system performance. When neglected, the consequences can be significant.

What Others Don’t Do: The Reality of Incomplete Maintenance Jobs

Too often during our inspections in Montréal or Laval, we find filters that haven’t been cleaned in months, sometimes even years. It’s not uncommon for us to see jobs that were billed as a “full maintenance,” yet the filter was never even removed. That goes against every principle of professionalism.

Here are the mistakes we frequently encounter:

• Cleaning filters with just a dry cloth

• Reusing torn or clogged filters

• Skipping any check on how dirty the filter actually is

• Ignoring the grille or air intake duct cleaning

Our Rigorous Approach at AirGreen

Every HVAC maintenance service performed by our teams throughout Greater Montréal follows a strict and proven method. When it comes to cleaning air filters, we apply the following steps:

1. Thorough inspection of filter condition and airflow

2. Safe removal of filters after shutting down the unit

3. Deep vacuuming of dust and debris

4. Washing with a gentle, non-abrasive detergent and warm water

5. Complete air drying

6. Antibacterial disinfection for sensitive setups (children, pets, allergies)

7. Reinstallation with full integrity check

Case Study: Service Call in Longueuil on a Gree Extreme 18,000 BTU Wall-Mounted Heat Pump

A residential client reached out after noticing a significant performance drop in their Gree Extreme wall-mounted air conditioner. The system was struggling to cool the rooms, despite normal use. When we diagnosed it, we found filters so clogged that air couldn’t even pass through.

After a full cleaning of the filter, fan, and evaporator, we restarted the system and immediately noticed a boost in airflow and balanced room temperatures. The result: a fully functional unit and a 12% drop in Hydro-Québec electricity bills in the following weeks.

Ideal Cleaning Frequency by System Type

These timeframes should be adjusted depending on conditions: pets, allergies, recent renovations, dusty environments, etc.

What You Risk If You Skip Filter Maintenance

• Overheating of motors

• Shorter lifespan of the HVAC system

• Reduced energy efficiency

• Spread of allergens or mold

• Higher repair or premature replacement costs

AirGreen: Transparency and Rigor Above All

Unlike many HVAC companies in Montréal and on the South Shore, we never skip the filters. We consider this step a cornerstone of preventative maintenance. At AirGreen, every technician undergoes ongoing training and uses professional-grade tools to deliver lasting, measurable results.

Our maintenance visits include:

• Cleaning of filters, coils, grilles, and fans

• Refrigerant pressure check

• Air temperature output test

• Detailed service report delivered to the client

Practical Tips for Our Clients

Here are our suggestions to help you maintain your system between professional visits:

• Mark the last cleaning date on your calendar

• Visually check filters every month

• Lightly vacuum if there’s visible buildup

• Never reinstall a wet or poorly dried filter

Conclusion: The Truth Others Prefer to Keep Quiet

Cleaning your air filters is not a detail. It’s a key driver of performance, comfort, and indoor air quality. At AirGreen, we treat every filter as a priority, because we know your health and system longevity depend on it.

Whether you're in Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore, or the South Shore, we’re your trusted partner for all HVAC cleaning services. Don’t trust your comfort to companies that skip the essentials. Choose expertise, rigor, and transparency—choose AirGreen.