A delicate operation in a stairwell with a high ceiling
At AirGreen , we know that cleaning a wall-mounted heat pump installed at a height requires a rigorous technical approach. Our team recently worked in Sainte-Julie , on Montreal's South Shore , to service a unit located above a residential staircase — a location that is both strategic and difficult to access.
Context and observed symptoms
The customer contacted us after noticing a decrease in heating efficiency and a persistent odor when the unit was running. The unit, installed several years prior without proper maintenance, was showing classic signs of soiling:
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Filters saturated with dust and pollen
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Evaporator fins covered in oily deposits
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Dirt buildup around the fan
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Slow drainage , suggesting the beginning of a condensate drain blockage
Site inspection and security
Before any work began, our technicians secured the area: a professional stepladder was stabilized on the steps, and the floor and walls were protected. Working in a stairwell requires caution and precision—every movement counts. We then disconnected the power and opened the unit's front cover for a thorough inspection.
Cleaning steps
1. Pre-cleaning the filters
The washable filters were removed and then carefully rinsed with warm water under gentle pressure. A biodegradable degreaser was used to remove the fine particles and traces of grease that impede airflow.
2. Cleaning the evaporator and fan
Using our soft jet machine specifically designed for wall-mounted HVAC systems, we thoroughly cleaned the evaporator fins . The fan was cleaned with an antistatic brush and treated with an antibacterial product to eliminate any signs of mold.
3. Unblocking the condensate drain
We then checked and cleared the drainpipe . A small accumulation of algae and deposits was preventing optimal flow. After cleaning, the pipe was tested with clean water to confirm its perfect functionality.
4. Finishing treatment
An environmentally friendly, enzyme-based disinfectant was sprayed into the evaporator to prevent microbial growth. Finally, all parts were carefully dried and reassembled, and the unit was restarted for a full performance test.
The result: purified air and restored efficiency
As soon as it was restarted, the airflow was stronger and more stable . The heat pump operated without any unusual noise, and the room temperature stabilized quickly. The customer immediately noticed an improvement in air quality and a reduction in the musty odor .
AirGreen Prevention and Advice
We recommended a complete annual service to the client, ideally in the spring, before the air conditioning season. This type of service helps prevent:
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The decrease in energy efficiency (up to 25% energy savings after cleaning)
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Mold growth in the evaporator
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Water leaks caused by a blocked drain
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Premature compressor wear
At AirGreen, every cleaning is accompanied by a preventative check of overall operation: pressures, airflow temperature, and seal integrity. It is this attention to detail that allows us to extend the lifespan of each HVAC system and ensure lasting comfort for our clients in Sainte-Julie, Montreal, Laval, and on both shores of the St. Lawrence River.
Why entrust the cleaning of your heat pump to AirGreen?
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Certified technicians trained in safe cleaning protocols
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Eco-friendly products that respect surfaces and the environment
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Methods in accordance with manufacturers' recommendations
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Fast and careful service , even in hard-to-reach areas
Regular maintenance is more than just about performance — it's about health, efficiency, and peace of mind .