Essential maintenance on a Montreal flat roof
At AirGreen , we recently performed a complete cleaning of a Fujitsu wall-mounted heat pump installed on a flat roof in the Côte-des-Neiges–Notre-Dame-de-Grâce area of Montreal . This unit, exposed to the elements and urban dust, showed signs of fouling typical of outdoor installations in dense environments: dust accumulated on the fins , dirt sucked in by the fan , and a progressive loss of energy efficiency .
Initial diagnosis: dust and reduced yield
Upon arrival, our technicians observed an accumulation of dust and debris on the surfaces of the outdoor unit. On a flat roof, the proximity to chimneys, surrounding trees, and fine suspended particles promotes rapid fouling of the condenser.
The symptoms were clear:
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Increased fan noise due to accumulated dirt.
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Reduced airflow , a consequence of partially obstructed fins.
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Slight overconsumption of energy , because the compressor had to compensate for the decrease in efficiency.
Steps in professional cleaning
Our specialists undertook a complete and safe cleaning of the Fujitsu unit, in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations.
1. Securing the installation
Before any intervention, we have:
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Power cut off.
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Checked the stability of the heat pump on its anti-vibration supports .
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Protect sensitive electrical components using waterproof covers.
2. Degreasing and cleaning the condenser fins
We sprayed a biodegradable cleaner specifically designed for HVAC coils. After allowing time for the deposits to dissolve, a low-pressure rinse was performed to effectively remove dust without deforming the aluminum fins.
3. Cleaning the fan and the compartment
The fan blades had a thin layer of dust. This was carefully brushed and cleaned to ensure optimal airflow and reduce noise. We also inspected the motor to ensure that no water ingress or debris buildup was affecting its performance.
4. Checking the drain and pipes
On exterior wall systems, a blocked drain can cause backflow or moisture buildup in the enclosure. A drainage test and compressed air blowing ensured the free drainage of condensation.
5. Finishing and final inspection
In conclusion, we have:
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Cleaned the surface around the unit.
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Checked the refrigerant pressure.
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Restarted the system and measured the blowing temperature.
The result: a quieter, more efficient, and perfectly safe heat pump .
Why regular cleaning of a rooftop heat pump is crucial
Regular maintenance of a wall-mounted heat pump on a flat roof allows you to:
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Maintaining optimal performance despite difficult conditions (dust, wind, pollen).
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Extend the lifespan of the compressor and fans.
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Reduce electricity consumption , often by 10 to 20% after a good cleaning.
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Prevent costly breakdowns due to overheating or corrosion.
In Montreal, flat roofs expose outdoor units to significant temperature variations : snow, ice, intense heat, and acid rain. Without maintenance, these factors accelerate the degradation of fins and seals. At AirGreen, we recommend at least one complete cleaning per year , ideally in the spring or late summer.
AirGreen's expertise at the service of sustainable comfort
Our team combines professional equipment, environmentally friendly products and technical expertise to restore the full performance of HVAC systems.
Each intervention includes:
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A detailed visual inspection of the heat pump.
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Thorough cleaning of critical components (fins, drain, fan).
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Personalized advice for preventative maintenance and future planning.
Thanks to this approach, the owner regained optimal performance and a noticeable reduction in noise immediately upon restarting. His Fujitsu unit is now ready to reliably withstand Montreal's varying weather conditions.
In summary
This intervention in Côte-des-Neiges illustrates the importance of professional and regular HVAC cleaning for any system installed on a flat roof.
With AirGreen, every cleaning becomes an investment in the sustainability and energy efficiency of your heating and air conditioning system.