Essential winter maintenance to preserve performance and durability
Even in the depths of a Quebec winter, an outdoor heat pump continues to play a crucial role in home comfort. At AirGreen , we provide professional cleaning of outdoor units , which are often exposed to dust, snow, and debris.
Recently, our team intervened in Brossard , on the South Shore of Montreal , to perform a complete cleaning of a Panasonic outdoor wall-mounted heat pump installed on a red brick facade.
Symptoms observed before our intervention
The owner contacted us after noticing several problems:
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The unit was making a louder noise than usual , especially during defrosting.
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The front grille was partially obstructed by dust and windblown debris.
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The hot air inside seemed less constant , indicating a loss of efficiency in the thermodynamic cycle.
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A thin layer of frost was accumulating abnormally on the fan .
These signs suggested general fouling of the condenser and reduced airflow — a common problem for outdoor heat pumps that have not been cleaned for more than a year.
Technical inspection and preparation for intervention
Before any operation, our certified technicians carried out a complete check :
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Visual inspection of the condenser and fins ;
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Fan rotation test to ensure that no obstruction is hindering the motor;
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Checking the drainage of the condensation tray ;
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Control of wiring and protected electrical connections in the rear housing.
The unit was then switched off and protected with a waterproof cover to prevent any water from entering the electrical circuits.
Complete cleaning process
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Defrosting and manual debris removal
We first removed the accumulated snow around the device and gently defrosted the fins using hot air blown at a controlled temperature, without ever using a metal tool. -
Condenser cleaning with water under controlled pressure
The condenser, the central part of the outdoor unit, was cleaned using a low-pressure water jet to remove fine dust and pollutants accumulated between the fins.
We used a biodegradable cleaning product specifically designed for aluminum surfaces, guaranteeing optimal results without corrosion. -
Gently brush the fan and the housing.
The fan was carefully brushed to remove the ingrained dirt on the blades, which is often a source of imbalance and vibration.
We also cleaned the crankcase and front grille to restore smooth airflow. -
Rinse and dry thoroughly
After cleaning, the unit was rinsed with clean water and then left to dry naturally. A compressed air blower was used to remove any remaining moisture around the connections. -
Recommissioning and performance testing
Once everything was completely dry, the Panasonic heat pump was put back into service. Pressure and temperature measurements confirmed a significant increase in energy efficiency and a reduction in operating noise .
Results and benefits after cleaning
At the end of the procedure, the difference was remarkable:
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Airflow restored to 100% .
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Faster and quieter defrost cycle .
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Energy consumption reduced by nearly 10%.
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No residual vibration on the wall mount.
The client, impressed by the level of detail in our work, chose to add an annual AirGreen maintenance contract , guaranteeing the longevity and performance of their system throughout the year.
Why entrust the cleaning of your outdoor heat pump to AirGreen?
An outdoor heat pump operates year-round and is subjected to the harshest conditions: wind, rain, dust, pollen, snow, and ice. Without regular maintenance , the fins become clogged, the compressor overheats, and energy consumption quickly skyrockets.
At AirGreen , we use certified, safe and environmentally friendly cleaning methods :
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Biodegradable products that respect the environment and health.
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Specialized equipment for gentle cleaning without damaging the fins.
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Checking the drainage, fan and electrical connections .
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A detailed post-intervention report is provided to the client.
Thanks to this expertise, our customers benefit from a system that breathes better, consumes less and lasts longer.
AirGreen recommendations for preventative maintenance
To guarantee the performance of your outdoor unit:
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Clean the snow and leaves around the device at least once a month in winter.
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Never obstruct the front grille with objects or plants.
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Schedule a professional cleaning in the spring or fall.
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Avoid uncontrolled high-pressure cleaning , which can bend the fins.
We operate throughout Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, on the North Shore and the South Shore , with local teams trained for each type of residential or commercial installation.
AirGreen , an expert in Panasonic heat pump maintenance and cleaning , is committed to maintaining the performance, safety and durability of your HVAC systems, even in the most demanding climatic conditions in Quebec.
