A complete exterior cleaning for a heat pump covered in dust and vegetation
At AirGreen , we often encounter installations where the outdoor unit of a wall-mounted heat pump is partially obstructed by vegetation or ambient humidity. This was precisely the case with this intervention in Sainte-Julie , where a client contacted us after noticing that their heat pump was making more noise than usual and seemed to be losing efficiency.
Diagnosis before the intervention
The device, installed between two narrow walls and surrounded by ferns, showed several signs of accumulated dirt :
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Heat exchanger grid obstructed by dust and plant spores.
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Clogged fins reducing airflow.
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Greenish deposits due to persistent moisture between the walls.
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Increased noise from the outdoor fan , a symptom of an imbalance caused by dirt.
These conditions compromised the proper functioning of the heat pump, resulting in higher electricity consumption and less efficient cooling inside the house.
Step 1: Preparing and securing the workstation
Before starting, our technicians took care to disconnect the unit's power supply and protect the surrounding vegetation with waterproof tarps. The confined space between the walls required a meticulous approach: every movement had to be planned to avoid damaging the condenser's fragile fins.
Step 2: Cleaning the outdoor unit
The external condenser was cleaned using:
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a low-pressure water jet to remove dust without bending the fins;
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of a biodegradable degreaser applied with a manual pump;
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a soft-bristled brush to remove algae deposits and insects stuck to the surface;
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and a final wide-reach rinse to eliminate all traces of product.
The heat exchange fins were then straightened and air-dried. We also cleaned the fan and checked that the motor ran smoothly without vibration .
Step 3: Checking the drain and refrigerant lines
We inspected the condensation drain to ensure there were no obstructions slowing down water drainage. A slight algae deposit had begun to form—this was removed with an environmentally friendly enzymatic treatment . The refrigerant lines were also checked to ensure there were no leaks.
Step 4: Recommissioning and performance testing
After cleaning, the heat pump was restarted. Result:
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the fan noise has decreased significantly;
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the airflow has become constant again;
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The refrigerant pressure has returned to normal levels.
The customer immediately noticed improved cooling efficiency and a more stable indoor temperature , while also reducing energy consumption.
Why regular cleaning is essential
Regular maintenance of the wall-mounted heat pump allows for:
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to prevent premature wear of the compressor ;
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to maintain optimal energy efficiency ;
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to reduce the risk of costly breakdowns ;
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and to extend the system's lifespan .
At AirGreen , we recommend a complete cleaning once or twice a year , especially for units exposed to dust, leaves or vegetation.
An AirGreen service: rigorous, ecological and efficient
Our interventions are carried out using environmentally friendly products and professional equipment adapted to each situation. Regardless of the space, brand, or age of the system, we ensure that your installation is restored to its original performance while guaranteeing the safety and cleanliness of the site .