An intervention on the roof to restore efficiency and safety to an exposed installation
At AirGreen , we regularly perform maintenance on HVAC units installed in demanding environments. This project in Rosemère , on Montreal's North Shore , perfectly illustrates the importance of a professional and methodical cleaning of a Sharp wall-mounted heat pump exposed on a flat roof.
The unit, model AE-X24ZU1 , operating with R32 (A2L) refrigerant, showed clear signs of fouling and reduced performance — symptoms frequently seen in installations subjected to extreme climatic variations in Quebec.
Initial diagnosis: reduced performance and signs of wear
Upon our arrival on the roof, several observations immediately justified a thorough intervention:
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Accumulation of dust and residue around the refrigeration fittings and compressor.
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Excessive condensation on insulated pipes, suggesting a partial loss of insulation seal.
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Fins slightly obstructed by dirt and atmospheric debris.
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Irregular flow noises , indicating a blockage of the condensation drain.
Such a buildup can reduce energy efficiency by more than 20% and, in the long term, compromise the compressor's durability. Our technicians therefore carried out a complete cleaning and safety check , in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations.
The step-by-step cleaning process
Site preparation and security
On a roof, the first step is always to ensure the stability and safety of the operation. The unit was switched off and electrically isolated.
Our technicians then installed secure work supports and prepared the necessary tools: mild coil cleaner, nylon brushes, adjustable pressure sprayer and microfiber cloths.
Mechanical cleaning and degreasing
The unit was partially disassembled to access the condenser and the aluminum fins .
Using a biodegradable cleaning product , we removed grease deposits and accumulated dust without damaging the metal surface. A controlled jet rinse then cleared the gaps between the fins, promoting better airflow.
The refrigeration pipes were wiped clean and partially re-insulated , particularly on sections exposed to the sun where the insulation was beginning to crack.
We also cleaned the electrical junction box , where a slight deposit of dust could impair heat dissipation.
Drain cleaning and drainage check
The condensation drain was rinsed with an enzyme-based antibacterial cleaner to eliminate microorganisms and prevent future blockages.
This treatment prevents the formation of mold and prevents water from flowing back into the inner coil.
Refrigerant check and recommissioning
Once the device was cleaned and dried, we checked the pressure of the R32 refrigerant circuit and the mechanical connections.
The system was then restarted: the fan was running without abnormal noise, and the measured temperatures confirmed a complete recovery of thermal efficiency .
Results after the intervention
After cleaning, the Sharp heat pump was back to optimal working order.
The tests performed demonstrated:
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An average efficiency gain of 18% on the cooling cycle.
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A significant reduction in fan noise .
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Improved stability of the internal temperature in the minutes following restart.
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A reduction in the risk of compressor overheating thanks to more efficient heat exchange.
The client, aware of the issues related to the safety of the A2L fluid (slightly flammable), particularly appreciated the rigor with which our team handled and cleaned the unit according to the safety standards required for this type of refrigerant.
Why regular cleaning of a heat pump is essential
A professional interview like this one allows you to:
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To improve indoor air quality by eliminating contaminants.
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To reduce energy consumption by optimizing heat exchange.
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To prevent costly breakdowns , often caused by a lack of maintenance.
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To extend the lifespan of the device by up to several additional years.
At AirGreen , we remind every customer that even recent equipment, like this Sharp unit with R32 refrigerant, requires a complete annual cleaning — especially when installed in exposed environments such as roofs, terraces or sunny facades.
AirGreen's expertise: safety, performance and respect for the environment
Each HVAC cleaning intervention carried out by AirGreen is based on three pillars:
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Certified technical expertise : our technicians know the specifics of each brand and type of refrigerant.
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Environmentally friendly methods : we only use biodegradable and non-corrosive products.
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Strict adherence to standards : electrical safety, condensate management, and preservation of electronic components.
Whether you are in Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, on the North Shore or the South Shore , our teams intervene quickly to restore your HVAC system to its original performance.
In conclusion
This complete cleaning of a Sharp heat pump in Rosemère perfectly illustrates our expertise: rigor, safety and efficiency.
Thanks to meticulous attention to every detail — from the fins to the drain, from the refrigeration connections to the insulation — AirGreen has enabled this unit to resume service in optimal conditions, ready to face the Quebec seasons.