A dirty heat pump that was losing efficiency
At AirGreen , we were recently called to Sainte-Julie , on Montreal's South Shore , to perform a complete cleaning of a TOSOT wall-mounted heat pump installed outside a single-family home. The client had contacted us after noticing that their unit was making an unusual noise and that its performance seemed to have decreased: the house was taking longer to reach the desired temperature, and electricity consumption had increased slightly.
Upon our arrival, the outdoor unit, mounted on a metal bracket approximately 40 cm from the ground, showed a visible accumulation of dust, leaves, and debris around the fan grille. The heat exchanger fins were partially obstructed, restricting airflow and impairing the system's overall performance.
Inspection and preparation before cleaning
Before any intervention, our team carried out a complete inspection of the heat pump :
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Checking the condition of the fins and the fan.
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Control of clearance around the unit (important for good ventilation).
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Inspection of electrical connections and condensation drain.
Once the checks were completed, we protected the electrical components and prepared a cleaning with fresh water and biodegradable products , in order to ensure environmentally friendly and safe maintenance for the equipment.
Steps for deep cleaning
The cleaning process took place in several structured stages:
1. Clearing and rinsing the outer surface
We began by removing the visible debris : dead leaves, accumulated dust, and dirt trapped around the metal frame. Using a controlled water jet , the first layer of dirt was removed without damaging the condenser's thin fins.
2. Cleaning the fins and the fan
The fins were then thoroughly cleaned with a mild, non-corrosive solution to dissolve grease and dust. This step is crucial, as dirty fins limit the unit's heat exchange capacity. The fan was also cleaned using a soft brush and a suitable disinfectant.
3. Condensation drain check
We took advantage of the service call to check and clean the drain , which is often responsible for water leaks or unpleasant odors when clogged. The pipe was rinsed with clean water until the flow was completely free.
4. Final rinse and disinfection
Finally, a thorough low-pressure rinse removed all cleaning product residue. We then applied a light antibacterial treatment to prevent mold growth and maintain better indoor air quality.
Results after cleaning
At the end of the service, the customer immediately noticed a reduction in fan noise and an improvement in airflow . The heat pump regained its original efficiency, providing faster cooling and heating, while reducing energy consumption.
This operation demonstrates the importance of regularly cleaning outdoor units , which are often neglected but essential to the proper functioning of the entire HVAC system.
The advantages of a professional AirGreen interview
Choosing AirGreen for your HVAC system cleaning in Sainte-Julie or elsewhere in the Montreal area means benefiting from:
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A complete and methodical service , in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations.
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Eco-friendly products that extend the lifespan of your equipment.
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A noticeable improvement in comfort and indoor air quality.
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Effective prevention against costly breakdowns and excessive electricity consumption.
Our qualified technicians work carefully, respecting RBQ standards and industry best practices, to ensure your system operates optimally throughout the year.