In a modern condo in Ville-Marie , we performed a complete cleaning of a Gree wall-mounted heat pump (mini-split indoor unit). The client reported a decrease in airflow, a feeling of increased humidity, and a slight odor upon startup—typical symptoms when dust and biofilms begin to accumulate in the air circuit and condensate tray.
Visually, the unit is installed above a decorative wood-slatted wall (very common in contemporary downtown renovations). This detail directly influences our method: surface protection and moisture management must be impeccable to avoid any marks on the wood, walls, and furniture.
The existing system: a Gree wall-mounted heat pump (mini-split)
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Machine type: Wall-mounted heat pump (indoor wall unit)
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Brand: Gree
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Model: not visible in the photo; we are treating it as a new generation Gree wall-mounted heat pump (typical format and front panel of the residential range)
This type of unit is very popular in Montreal for its versatility: efficient air conditioning in the summer and supplementary or primary heating, depending on the configuration, in the winter. However, to maintain efficiency, heat exchange must occur on clean surfaces, and air must circulate freely.
Why professional cleaning makes all the difference
Even if the customer occasionally cleans the filters, a wall-mounted heat pump accumulates over time:
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fine urban dust (particularly in central areas like Ville-Marie ),
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pollen and seasonal particles,
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plush and microfibers,
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biofilm and humidity in the condensation tray ,
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deposits on the turbine (wheel) that disrupt the airflow,
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residues on the coil which reduce the exchange capacity.
As a result, the appliance has to work harder to reach the same temperature. This often leads to higher energy consumption , a less stable feeling of comfort, and sometimes odors upon startup.
Our AirGreen approach: clean, safe, and adapted to the condo
In this specific case, the background (slatted wall, high-end finish) guided us towards a "zero compromise" intervention on protection.
1) Protecting the premises (an essential step indoors)
Before opening the unit, we installed:
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complete protection under the device (tarpaulins + absorbents),
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a wash cover adapted to wall units to channel the rinse water,
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precise masking of sensitive surfaces (walls, moldings, wooden slats),
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a clean work area to avoid any splashing.
Objective: to clean thoroughly without humidifying the environment — essential in a condo.
2) Opening of the unit and initial inspection
Once the hood is open:
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filter inspection (visible fouling = reduced flow rate),
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coil check (frequent fine deposits),
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visual inspection of the condensate tray and drainage path,
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listening and observing the ventilation (signs of a turbine imbalance).
This inspection allows us to confirm the source of the symptoms and adjust the intensity of the cleaning.
Detailed cleaning: what we actually do
3) Cleaning the filters (but properly)
The filters trap the first layer of dust. We:
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Let's remove the filters.
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We wash them in lukewarm water (without deforming them),
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We will use gentle cleaning if necessary.
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Let them dry properly.
A clean filter protects the coil… but doesn't solve everything if the inside is already dirty.
4) Cleaning the coil (where efficiency is key)
The coil is the heart of the heat exchange. If it is covered with deposits, air passes less easily and the exchange is inefficient.
We proceed by:
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application of a cleaning product designed for coils (suitable for indoor use),
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controlled contact time
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directed rinse in the wash bag
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checking for uniformity (no areas “stuck” with dust).
After this step, we generally observe:
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a more direct airflow ,
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a more consistent blown temperature
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a more stable feeling of comfort.
5) Cleaning the turbine (fan wheel)
The turbine is often the "blind spot" of amateur cleaning. Yet, it is what propels the air into the room.
When it is charged:
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It attracts dust.
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It increases the noise.
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It reduces the quality of the airflow (less homogeneous air).
We clean the turbine using a controlled method (appropriate brushing + captured rinsing) in order to obtain:
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a more regular rotation
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a more constant airflow,
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a reduction of odors associated with wet deposits.
6) Condensation tray and drain: odor and overflow prevention
In a condo, this is critical: a partially blocked drain can cause:
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musty smells,
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persistent humidity,
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droplets,
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risks of overflow.
We :
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Let's clean the condensate tray .
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Disinfect if necessary (without excess, using appropriate products),
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Let's check the flow,
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Let's check the slope and continuity of the drainage path.
7) Reassembly, testing and validation
After cleaning:
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reassembly of the components
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Test in ventilation mode then air conditioning/heating depending on conditions.
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verification of silent operation
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control of the display and response to commands,
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“Field” measurement: sensation of flow and stability.
The goal is not just for the device to “work”, but for it to work better than before .
Result observed in this Ville-Marie residence
At the end of the intervention, the most frequent (and usually immediate) gains are:
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more neutral air at startup (less odor),
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increased airflow ,
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Comfort that is achieved more quickly.
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smoother operation (less effort, fewer variations).
In a dense area like Ville-Marie, where windows are often closed for a good part of the year, cleaning also contributes to better indoor air quality , especially if the dwelling is occupied full time.
How often should a Gree wall-mounted heat pump be cleaned in Montreal?
Practical recommendation (residential):
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Filters: every 3–6 weeks during periods of intensive use (summer/winter)
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Complete interior cleaning: once a year (or every 12–18 months)
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More often if: pets, renovations, frequent cooking, allergies, dusty urban environment
Signs that a thorough cleaning is appropriate:
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lower airflow,
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odor upon startup
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unusual humidity,
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ventilation noise is increasing.
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less stable comfort.
Why entrust this to AirGreen?
A quick clean can leave the turbine, the tank, and the nooks and crannies untouched—and that's precisely where the problems reappear. At AirGreen, we focus on:
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a clean and controlled method (important in condominiums),
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an intervention focused on performance and air quality,
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rigorous surface protection
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a tested and validated recommissioning.