On the terraces and balconies of Nuns' Island , outdoor heat pump units are often found mounted on raised supports, near windows and exterior siding. This is precisely the context of this intervention: a KoolKing unit (outdoor condenser) mounted on an aluminum bracket , with the tight clearances typical of condominiums. In this type of environment, cleaning is not an "extra": it is an essential maintenance task to preserve capacity, prevent unwanted noise, minimize odors, and maintain stable energy consumption.
At AirGreen , we carry out this type of cleaning with a very practical approach: protecting the building, deep cleaning without damaging the fins, checking drainage, then validating operation in heating and air conditioning mode (depending on the season).
What we had in front of us: a KoolKing wall-mounted heat pump (outdoor unit)
The photo clearly shows the outdoor unit of a mini-split system (i.e., a wall-mounted heat pump on the indoor side and a condenser/compressor on the outdoor side). Its compact size, front-facing fan grille, and raised mounting are characteristic features.
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Brand: KoolKing (supplied manually and returned as is)
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Type: wall-mounted heat pump (mini-split)
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Model: not legible in the photo → we therefore remain with a consistent designation: KoolKing inverter generation wall-mounted heat pump (residential range) , without inventing a precise reference.
Why an “exterior only” cleaning is never enough
Even though the image only shows the condenser, effective cleaning targets the entire system , because the symptoms (loss of performance, odors, noise, short cycles, icing in winter) can come from both the inside and the outside.
When the outdoor unit is clogged:
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Heat exchange is less efficient;
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the fan is working harder (therefore more noise and wear);
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The heat pump may defrost more often in winter;
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Performance drops, especially during the large temperature swings typical of Montreal.
And when the inner head is clogged:
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air quality is deteriorating (dust, allergens);
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Odors may appear (humidity + biofilm);
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The airflow decreases and we “think” the machine is weak when it is simply blocked.
Key details observed on site (relevant visual clues)
In this specific case, several visible elements guide our method:
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Installation on a raised aluminum support , with pads/insulators: excellent for preventing water accumulation and corrosion, but this does not prevent the coils from becoming clogged.
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Position very close to a window and a facing : the area must be protected (controlled splashes) and it must be checked that the airflow is not obstructed.
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Upper surface marked by small soiling (dust/particles): classic sign of exposure to wind and fine particles (pollen, urban dust, residual winter sand).
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The fan grille may appear clean , but this does not guarantee the cleanliness of the fins behind it (often deeply soiled, invisible from the front).
Our AirGreen method: complete, safe cleaning adapted to condominiums
1) Securing and protecting the building
On a condo terrace, the priority is to work cleanly:
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protection of the facing, the ground and adjacent areas;
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control of the flow to prevent water against the walls;
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quick inspection of clearances (air circulation, obstacles, stored objects).
2) Cleaning the KoolKing outdoor unit: coils, fan, base and casing
We then proceed with targeted cleaning of the condenser:
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Initial dust removal : removal of particles on the fairing and around the grille.
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Cleaning the coils (fins) : this is the most important part. We use a method that dislodges dirt without crushing the fins (they bend easily and a "crushed" coil doesn't breathe well).
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Cleaning the fan and blowing area : reduces the risk of vibration and noise.
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Check the base tray/lower zone : verify for accumulations (dust, residue, small particles). While a raised surface often provides better hygiene, we still check it.
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Visual inspection of the fixings : bracket, screws, anti-vibration pads. A heat pump can become noisy simply because a support point is malfunctioning.
Expected result: more efficient heat exchange, more stable operation and a machine that “struggles” less.
3) Drainage control and prevention of humidity/odors
Even when everything seems correct, we systematically check:
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water flow in air conditioning mode (depending on conditions);
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the absence of stagnation which could promote mold or odors;
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the drainage logic (important in the middle of a condo, to avoid water flowing back onto the facade).
4) Cleaning the inner head (recommended and usually included in a proper cleaning)
Even if she is not in the photo, a complete procedure generally includes:
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filter cleaning ;
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cleaning of accessible internal surfaces;
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control of airflow and blowing mode;
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Light disinfection as needed (especially if odors or humidity are present).
This is often where customers notice the biggest change: “lighter” air, less dust, fewer odors at startup.
5) Recommissioning and validation
We conclude with a simple, but essential, validation:
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listening to the cycle (ventilation, increase in speed);
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verification of the absence of abnormal vibrations;
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control of the heating/cooling response (depending on the season);
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Usage tips for maintaining cleanliness.
What this cleanup actually brings to Nuns' Island
In this sector, we often observe:
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fine dust carried by the wind;
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seasonal pollen (spring/summer);
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residues after winter (sand, particles);
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frequent heating/cooling cycles in condos (solar gains, rapid temperature variations).
Regular cleaning of a KoolKing wall-mounted heat pump therefore allows for:
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better energy efficiency (less loss);
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quieter operation;
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increased lifespan of components (fan, compressor, circuit board);
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better indoor air quality;
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less risk of odors related to humidity.
Good practices between cleanings (simple, but effective)
To maintain stable performance:
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Internal filters : check/dust periodically (frequency varies depending on pets, work, dust).
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Around the outdoor unit : keep a clear space (no furniture placed close together, no objects blocking air).
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Listen for changes : new noise, vibrations, smell at startup = signs that maintenance is due.
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After a storm or period of wind : a quick look can prevent the accumulation of debris.
Conclusion: A clean Kool King is a Kool King that breathes.
This intervention in Île-des-Sœurs perfectly illustrates a common problem: an outdoor unit that appears "okay" but would greatly benefit from a thorough cleaning , especially of the coils and drainage system. At AirGreen , we perform this work while respecting the constraints of condominiums: cleanliness, surface protection, efficiency, and final validation to ensure the heat pump is back in optimal condition.