A delicate operation was carried out after a fan blade broke.
At AirGreen , we regularly service HVAC systems that have sustained physical damage or accumulated dirt, compromising their performance. Recently, our team was called to Sainte-Thérèse , on Montreal's North Shore, for the complete cleaning of a Panasonic outdoor heat pump whose fan had been damaged .
Initial diagnosis
Upon our arrival, the customer explained that he had noticed an unusual noise and significant vibrations while the unit was running. A visual inspection quickly revealed the cause: a broken fan blade , deformed to the point of having struck the inside of the casing. This situation can occur as a result of:
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from a collision with a foreign object (branch, ice, forgotten tool);
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or premature wear combined with dirt deposits that unbalance the rotation.
In addition to the breakage, we also observed traces of dust, oil and wet dirt on the condenser fins and on the internal walls of the unit — a clear sign that cleaning had not been carried out for several seasons .
Steps of the intervention
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Power off and securing : Before any handling, we electrically isolated the heat pump in order to work safely.
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Removal of the damaged blade : The broken fan was carefully disassembled. An inspection of the motor and shaft confirmed that they had not suffered any twisting or internal damage.
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Thorough cleaning of the condenser :
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Using a low-pressure jet to remove dust and pollen deposits from the fins.
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Application of a biodegradable detergent specifically for aluminum surfaces to dissolve grease without damaging coatings.
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Rinse thoroughly to remove all product residue.
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Cleaning of the crankcase and peripheral components :
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Removal of debris stuck in the grid.
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Washing the internal walls with a mild anti-corrosion solution.
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Fan blade replacement : Installation of a new original Panasonic propeller , balanced and tightened to the torque recommended by the manufacturer.
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Functional test : After complete drying, the unit was powered back on. Operation was quiet, stable, and vibration-free .
Results and benefits
After our intervention, the client noted:
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Complete disappearance of noise and vibrations ;
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Restoring optimal airflow through the condenser;
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Improved energy efficiency , since the heat pump no longer needed to work harder to expel heat;
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Prevention of future breakdowns , particularly in the fan motor or compressor, which are often damaged by prolonged imbalances.
The importance of regular cleaning
A case like this demonstrates how essential it is to have your outdoor heat pump cleaned at least once a year . Dirt and debris can not only reduce performance but also cause costly mechanical breakdowns . At AirGreen, we use environmentally friendly products , specialized tools , and procedures that adhere to manufacturer standards to ensure the longevity and maximum efficiency of every unit.
Why choose AirGreen for your heat pump maintenance?
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Certified and experienced technicians on all brands of heat pumps, including Panasonic, Fujitsu, Midea and Gree;
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Safe and environmentally friendly methods , adapted to each model;
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Rapid intervention in Sainte-Thérèse and throughout the North Shore;
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Complete preventive and corrective maintenance service , including cleaning, inspection and adjustment.
Professional maintenance is key to extending the life of your heat pump, reducing your energy costs and avoiding unexpected repairs.