A complete service to restore the performance of a dirty outdoor unit
At AirGreen , we recently performed a complete cleaning of a Kenmore central heat pump in a single-family home in Brossard , on Montreal's South Shore. The client contacted us after noticing that their heating and cooling system seemed less efficient and was making more noise than usual. A quick inspection revealed that the main cause was significant fouling of the outdoor condenser.
Initial diagnosis: dirt, debris, and loss of efficiency
Upon our arrival, several signs indicated that the unit needed maintenance:
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Condenser fins covered with dust, pollen and plant debris , limiting air circulation.
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Accumulation of dead leaves and debris around the base of the unit.
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Traces of stagnant moisture on the concrete slab, indicating insufficient drainage.
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A slight metallic smell during operation, a sign of partial overheating due to compromised ventilation.
These elements, typical after several seasons without maintenance, impair the energy performance and lifespan of the heat pump.
The steps of our professional cleaning
Our certified technicians followed a rigorous protocol, in accordance with the manufacturer's standards and AirGreen's HVAC maintenance standards.
1. Securing and preparing
We started by cutting off the power at the breaker box and clearing the area around the unit to facilitate access. A protective tarp was installed to prevent any splashing on the house's siding.
2. Clearance and mechanical inspection
Before washing, we manually removed the leaves, branches, and dirt that had accumulated around and inside the upper hood. The fan and motor were inspected to ensure there were no obstructions or visible damage.
3. Cleaning with fresh water and biodegradable products
The core of the work involved cleaning the heat exchanger using a low-pressure water jet and a non-corrosive, environmentally friendly detergent . This treatment dissolves dust and grease while protecting the aluminum fins.
The side grilles were also washed and rinsed, then air-dried. This step is essential to ensure optimal compressor cooling and prevent overheating.
4. Check the drain and clean around it
We cleaned the condensation drain and brushed the base surface to remove moss and residue. An antibacterial treatment was applied to prevent the growth of mold or mildew near the outlet.
5. Restart and performance test
After complete drying, we restarted the heat pump and measured:
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the refrigerant pressure ,
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the blowing temperature ,
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and the compressor's power consumption .
The results showed a return to optimal performance , with more stable airflow and quieter operation.
Results and benefits for the client
This deep cleaning allowed us to:
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an immediate reduction in energy consumption ,
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faster cooling of the house ,
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a significant reduction in operating noise ,
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and effective prevention against future breakdowns .
The satisfied customer decided to enroll in our annual AirGreen maintenance program , which includes two preventative visits per year (spring and autumn) to ensure the longevity and reliability of his system.
Why choose AirGreen for the maintenance of your central heat pump?
Our residential and commercial HVAC maintenance experts serve all of Greater Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore, and the South Shore . We use:
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environmentally friendly cleaning products ,
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Controlled pressure washing tools compatible with Kenmore, Trane, Lennox, Fujitsu, and other systems
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and a certified method that respects the electrical and electronic components of the units.
We guarantee each customer a careful, sustainable and professional service , with particular attention to energy performance and indoor air quality.