A complete overhaul to revive a dirty outdoor unit
At AirGreen , we recently completed a full cleaning of a Goodman central heat pump installed on the terrace of an apartment in Montreal's Ville-Marie neighbourhood. This unit, exposed to the elements and urban dust, showed clear signs of accumulated dirt: clogged fins, a dirty fan, and a slightly abnormal operating noise. These symptoms resulted in decreased efficiency and increased energy consumption, two typical consequences of a lack of regular maintenance.
Diagnosis: dust accumulation and loss of efficiency
During our initial inspection, we noted:
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A thick layer of dust and residue on the top and fins of the condenser;
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A clogged fan , affecting air circulation;
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Visible deposits on the front grille ;
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An exposed drain line requiring cleaning to prevent blockages.
Because the unit was located in a confined and partially covered space, air circulation was limited, promoting the accumulation of dirt. Without prompt intervention, the compressor could have suffered thermal overload, leading to premature failure.
Step-by-step cleaning process
1. Securing and preparing
We began by cutting off the power supply via the wall circuit breaker, ensuring the safety of the intervention. The unit was cleared of any surrounding obstructions to provide complete access.
2. Surface dusting
Using a compressed air blower and a soft brush , we removed the debris, leaves and dust that had accumulated on top of the condenser and the front grille.
3. Condenser cleaning
We applied a biodegradable degreaser specifically designed for HVAC systems, then proceeded with a moderate pressure water cleaning . This step allowed us to free the fins without deforming them, restoring optimal airflow.
4. Cleaning the fan
The fan was partially disassembled to remove the layer of dust and grease on the blades, thereby reducing vibration and operating noise.
5. Drain and wiring check
We then inspected the condensation drain , cleaned the ducts, and checked the integrity of the electrical wiring and insulation . No cracks or refrigerant leaks were detected.
6. Finishing and restarting
Once everything was dry, we restarted the heat pump and measured the discharge pressure and temperature. The values were now in line with the manufacturer's recommendations, proof of restored efficiency.
Result: restored efficiency and optimized comfort
After the intervention, the exhaust air temperature stabilized, the fan noise decreased significantly, and electricity consumption was reduced . The customer immediately noticed improved indoor comfort and smoother operation of their system.
The importance of regular cleaning
An annual maintenance visit allows for:
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To improve the energy performance of the system;
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To extend the lifespan of the compressor and the motor;
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To prevent costly breakdowns ;
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To ensure better indoor air quality , particularly in urban areas like Ville-Marie.
AirGreen's expertise at your service
At AirGreen, we provide professional HVAC system cleaning services throughout Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore, and the South Shore . Our qualified technicians use environmentally friendly products and strictly adhere to manufacturers' standards to guarantee the performance and longevity of your equipment.
Regular maintenance, carried out by a team of experts, is the best way to protect your investment while maintaining consistent comfort, summer and winter.