A complete overhaul for a dirty outdoor unit
At AirGreen , we recently performed a complete cleaning of a central heat pump installed outside a single-family home in Terrebonne, on the North Shore . This unit, exposed to outdoor conditions and installed on a concrete slab near a stucco wall, showed obvious signs of corrosion, accumulated dust, and clogged fins .
The customer had noticed that their heat pump seemed less efficient since the beginning of spring , with uneven cooling inside and increased operating noise from the outdoor unit. These are classic symptoms of a unit requiring thorough maintenance.
Initial diagnosis: accumulation and corrosion
During our visual inspection, we noted:
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Fins clogged and partially obstructed by dust and spring pollen.
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Rust on the upper fan grille , reducing airflow and threatening engine longevity.
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A layer of dirt on the condenser coils , which impairs heat exchange and increases energy consumption.
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A slight oily deposit around the base, suggesting excessive condensation and a lack of previous maintenance.
This type of situation is typical for a central heat pump exposed to the elements without regular cleaning.
Steps in professional cleaning
Our technicians carried out a thorough and methodical cleaning , respecting HVAC standards and manufacturers' recommendations.
1. Preparation and securing of the area
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Power supply cut off from the safety circuit breaker.
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Clearing the work area by removing bicycles and surrounding obstacles.
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Wall and floor protection to prevent splashes of cleaning products.
2. Disassembly and internal inspection
After removing the top grille, we carefully cleaned the fan and housing , where dust, leaves, and insects had accumulated. The inside of the condenser was then inspected to ensure that no wires were damaged and no debris was blocking airflow.
3. Washing the condenser and fins
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Application of a specialized biodegradable detergent for HVAC coils.
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Rinse at low pressure with lukewarm water to remove all traces of dirt without bending the fins.
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Cleaning of the rusty grille , followed by a light anti-corrosion treatment to delay degradation.
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Wipe and dry completely before reassembling the top cover.
4. System verification and final test
Once the cleaning was complete, we reactivated the unit and checked the operating pressures . The fan was running quietly again, and the airflow was significantly improved.
Results observed after cleaning
Upon reactivation, the customer noticed:
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A significant reduction in outside noise.
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An improvement in internal cooling , with a reduced temperature stabilization time.
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A visible decrease in energy consumption , confirmed by post-intervention electrical readings.
The unit has regained stable performance, proving that regular maintenance of a central heat pump is essential to guarantee its durability and seasonal performance.
Why an annual maintenance check is essential
Central heat pumps, often installed directly on the ground or near parking areas, are frequently exposed to dust, gravel, and dirt . Without annual cleaning, these deposits:
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They reduce energy efficiency by up to 20% .
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They force the compressor to work longer.
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They accelerate fin corrosion and component aging.
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They can even cause the fan motor to overheat .
At AirGreen, we use non-corrosive products, pressure-controlled jets, and tools tailored to each type of heat pump. Our preventative approach ensures that the system remains efficient, quiet, and durable year-round.
A trusted service in Greater Montreal and the North Shore
This project in Terrebonne perfectly illustrates our mission: to offer our clients a professional, safe and sustainable HVAC maintenance service , adapted to each residential or commercial environment.
Our qualified technicians operate throughout Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, on the North Shore and the South Shore , to revive your equipment and guarantee optimal comfort in every season.