In an apartment in Ville-Marie, we performed a deep cleaning of a PTAC brand unit , installed on a low console along an exterior wall. This type of unit (often called PTAC/VTAC ) is very common in condos and some residential buildings: it provides heating and cooling from an integrated module, with air intake on the front and air discharge through the top grille .
Even though these units appear “self-contained,” they quickly accumulate dust, fine particles, and sometimes residual moisture. The result: reduced airflow, odors at startup, longer cycles, discomfort, and component overload. At AirGreen, we treat PTAC cleaning as a complete overhaul, focusing on both performance and air quality .
On-site context: a low-profile, console-mounted PTAC, typical of a Montreal condo
For this operation, the PTAC unit was installed very neatly, with:
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a large front suction grille (area most exposed to dust),
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an upper grille for air diffusion,
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a control panel on the right side,
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a wall covering (sleeve) behind the unit, ensuring the interface with the wall.
Wooden flooring (parquet type) also requires a precise working method: we systematically protect the surfaces, because a thorough cleaning sometimes involves controlled rinsing, water recovery and handling of internal parts.
System type: GVWR / VTAC
A PTAC (Packaged Terminal Air Conditioner) is a single-unit, through-wall unit combining a heat exchanger, fan, and internal drainage. In residential settings, it is appreciated for its simplicity, but it has a weakness: its air circuit and heat exchange surfaces are very susceptible to fouling , especially in urban environments (dust, particles, pollen, textiles, cooking, etc.).
Model: as the label is not legible in the photo, we remain deliberately cautious: this is a PTAC PTAC “new generation” of standard size (condo category), with filtration accessible behind the front panel.
Why a PTAC cleaning changes everything (and not just “a filter change”)
On a GVWR vehicle, fouling is generally concentrated in 4 areas:
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The filter and the front suction area : dust blocks the airflow.
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The coil (evaporator / internal heat exchanger) : a film of particles reduces heat exchange.
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The turbine/fan wheel : it becomes unbalanced, noisy, and loses efficiency.
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The condensation tray and the drain : humidity + dirt = odors and risk of mold.
Superficial cleaning rarely solves the problem in the long term. Our approach targets the source: restoring clean airflow , sanitizing damp surfaces, and returning the unit to its normal operating parameters.
Our AirGreen method: complete and safe cleaning, step by step
1) Preparation and protection of the premises
Before any opening of the unit, we:
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Let's install floor protection (flooring, baseboards, walls),
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Let's secure the area around the GVWR (curtains, nearby furniture),
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Let's proceed to shut down the power for safe working conditions.
This step is essential in a condo: we want an impeccable result, without splashes or dust being recirculated.
2) Dismantling of the facade and initial inspection
We remove the front panel in order to access:
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through the filter ,
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to the suction zone,
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to the first internal compartments.
We then carry out an inspection: condition of the filter, level of fouling on the grids, possible traces of moisture, and general condition of the casing (peripheral seal, alignment, vibration).
3) Cleaning of the grids and filter (degreasing + controlled rinsing)
On this PTAC (Public Transport Vehicle) , the front air intake is large: it quickly becomes clogged with fine dust. We carry out:
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a thorough dusting of the grilles,
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wet cleaning with a suitable product (non-aggressive to plastics),
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a cleaning of the filter (or recommendation for replacement if the media is weakened).
Objective: to restore smooth, unrestricted airflow. When the filter is clean, the PTAC breathes better, and the fan works less.
4) Cleaning of the coil and heat exchange surfaces
The coil is the "heart" of the efficiency. When it is clogged, the machine can:
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less efficient cooling/heating
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make more noise,
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produce more condensation,
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increase its consumption.
We use a method adapted to the residential context:
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gentle brushing / controlled suction,
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application of a coil cleaner (formulated to dissolve deposits),
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Controlled rinsing and recovery, to avoid any damage to the wall or floor.
5) Turbine and ventilation compartment treatment
The upper grille visible in the photo corresponds to the blowing zone. Behind it, the turbine often accumulates deposits: this reduces the flow rate and can generate a "dusty" smell at startup.
We :
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Let's clean the fan blades/wheels,
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Let's remove the accumulated debris from the compartment.
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Let's check for any abnormal play or friction.
Expected result: stronger blowing , more stable operation, and reduced noise.
6) Condensation tray, drain and odor prevention
On a vehicle with a maximum authorized total weight (PTAC), water management is a critical issue. Poorly drained condensation leads to:
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persistent odors,
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internal humidity,
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microbial development,
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premature corrosion.
We proceed to:
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cleaning the tray ,
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flow path verification,
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wetland remediation,
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checking the tightness of the assembly (to limit infiltration of cold/hot air around the perimeter).
When everything is clean and clear, odors are greatly reduced and the longevity of the unit is protected.
7) Reassembly, testing and return to service
Once the cleaning is complete:
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We are rebuilding the facade and the railings,
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We are switching the device back on.
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we validate the modes (ventilation, air conditioning, heating if applicable),
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We check the airflow at the top grille, the stability of operation and the absence of abnormal vibrations.
We finish with a check of the area: no trace, no residue, and a clean environment.
Typical results observed after a complete PTAC cleaning
After this type of intervention, customers generally notice:
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a more neutral air (fewer odors at startup),
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improved blowing power ,
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more consistent comfort (fewer “long” cycles),
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a quieter unit
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a decrease in the accumulation of circulating dust.
And most importantly: we reduce the risk of recurring problems related to internal humidity (odors, condensation, drainage).
Maintenance recommendations for a condo with a maximum authorized total weight (PTAC) in Montreal
To maintain a high-performance GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating ):
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Filter cleaning : every 4 to 8 weeks during periods of intensive use.
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Professional full cleaning : ideally once a year (or every 12–18 months depending on the environment).
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Avoid blocking the facade (curtains too close, furniture too close): the unit needs air.
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At the slightest sign of persistent odor or weakened flow: act quickly, before the fouling turns into a drainage or performance problem.
Conclusion: a clean GVWR means stable comfort and better air quality
This intervention in Ville-Marie perfectly illustrates our approach: cleaning a PTAC (Public Transport Air Conditioning) system is not simply a matter of "rinsing a filter." We treat the device as a complete system, paying particular attention to the areas that directly influence performance and the air breathed on a daily basis.
At AirGreen, we perform cleaning, maintenance and recommissioning of PTAC / VTAC units throughout Greater Montreal, with methods adapted to condos (cleanliness, surface protection, controlled interventions).