A complete overhaul of an outdoor HVAC system to improve efficiency and reliability
At AirGreen , we know that a poorly maintained central heat pump can lose up to 30% of its efficiency in just a few seasons. This was precisely the case with this RUUD unit, located in Saint-Lambert , on Montreal's South Shore , which required a complete cleaning after several years of exposure to the elements and outdoor debris.
Initial diagnosis: a clogged unit and damaged insulation
During our inspection, several elements caught our attention:
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Significant accumulation of dust and pollen on the top and fins of the condenser;
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Deteriorated refrigerant pipe insulation , leaving the copper partially exposed to UV rays;
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Plant debris and dirt accumulate at the base of the unit, risking clogging the drainage;
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Clogged side grille , restricting airflow and causing the compressor to overheat.
The customer also noticed that their heat pump was taking longer to cool the house and was making an unusual fan noise on hot days. These symptoms are typical of a lack of maintenance, but fortunately, nothing irreversible .
AirGreen's intervention: a methodical cleaning compliant with RUUD standards
Our technician began by cutting off the power supply and clearing the area around the device for safe access.
Here are the main steps of the cleaning process:
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Complete vacuuming of the top surface and ventilation grilles to remove fine dust;
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Application of a biodegradable foaming cleaner , designed to dissolve dirt without damaging the condenser fins;
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Rinse at low pressure to remove any product residue;
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Cleaning the fan and checking the blade balance;
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Replacing the refrigerant pipe insulation to ensure better protection against heat loss and moisture;
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Checking the electrical wiring and the circuit breaker box to ensure that no components were oxidized;
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Inspection of the wall mount , confirming its stability and the absence of excessive vibration.
Each step was carried out according to the manufacturer RUUD's guidelines , thus ensuring service compliance and system longevity.
After the intervention: a quieter and more efficient system
Once the cleaning was complete, the heat pump was restarted for a series of tests. The results were immediate:
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Airflow restored to full capacity ;
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Significant reduction in fan noise ;
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Colder air outlet temperature , indicating better heat exchange;
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Optimized power consumption , thanks to a reduction in compressor effort.
The customer quickly noticed that the indoor temperature dropped more rapidly and that the system operated more stably and evenly .
Prevention is better than cure: the importance of annual cleaning
This case perfectly illustrates why annual maintenance is essential. An outdoor unit like this one, exposed to dust, pollen, and garden debris, can quickly lose efficiency.
Regular cleaning helps to:
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Prevent corrosion of the coil ;
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Maintain optimal refrigerant pressure ;
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Reduce energy consumption ;
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And extend the compressor's lifespan .
At AirGreen, we offer preventative maintenance agreements tailored to each type of HVAC system, including washing outdoor units, cleaning indoor filters and a complete system performance check.
AirGreen's expertise on the South Shore and throughout Greater Montreal
Based in Montreal, we serve clients daily in Saint-Lambert , Longueuil , Brossard , Boucherville , as well as on the North Shore and in Laval .
Our certified technicians use only environmentally friendly products and safe methods , ensuring both a thorough cleaning and respect for your equipment.
Entrusting your HVAC maintenance to AirGreen means choosing reliability , efficiency and peace of mind .
