A necessary intervention to restore performance to an outdoor unit suffocated by dust
At AirGreen , we recently performed a complete cleaning of a wall-mounted heat pump in Boisbriand , on Montreal's North Shore . The client contacted us after noticing a significant loss of efficiency in their HVAC system, accompanied by unusual noise during operation. Upon arrival, the cause was obvious: the outdoor unit was completely covered with a thick layer of dirt and dust .
Symptoms before our intervention
Before our visit, the client observed:
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weak cooling despite an active compressor ;
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increased electricity consumption ;
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and a constant noise coming from the outside fan .
Upon visual inspection, our technician noted:
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a clogged protective grille ;
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heat exchanger fins saturated with dust and pollen ;
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and several areas of total obstruction of airflow , preventing the heat pump from breathing properly.
This situation is common when outdoor units are exposed to vegetation, spring pollen, and urban dust, especially in the absence of annual maintenance.
The AirGreen professional cleaning process
1. Securing and preparing
Before any work began, we disconnected the heat pump's power supply and protected the wall and surrounding elements. The unit was partially disassembled to remove the side panels and access the core of the heat exchanger.
2. Mechanical cleaning and controlled pressure washing
We used a low-pressure water jet to avoid damaging the fragile fins, combined with a biodegradable cleaning product designed to dissolve dust and grease without harmful residues.
Gentle brushing then removed the layer of ingrained dirt between the fins, while an industrial vacuum cleaner removed the remaining debris at the base of the condenser.
3. Sanitation and final inspection
Once the cleaning was complete, we applied an antibacterial treatment to the internal surfaces to prevent the growth of mold and mildew.
Finally, the unit was rinsed, dried, and tested. Pressure, airflow, and temperature measurements confirmed a complete return to original performance .
Results after cleaning
After our intervention:
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The airflow has doubled .
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Energy consumption has fallen .
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and the operating noise has been significantly reduced.
The customer immediately noticed improved thermal comfort and faster cooling of their interior space.
Why regular maintenance is essential
An unmaintained wall-mounted heat pump can lose up to 40% of its efficiency . Dirt buildup blocks heat dissipation, forcing the compressor to work harder, which leads to:
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premature wear of components ;
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an increase in electricity consumption ;
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and the risk of costly breakdowns .
An annual cleaning helps prevent these problems while extending the life of your HVAC equipment.
The AirGreen approach: rigor, ecology and expertise
At AirGreen, every service call is conducted with:
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environmentally friendly products that are safe for the environment;
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specialized tools designed for modern HVAC systems;
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and a methodology that complies with manufacturers' recommendations .
We operate with the same rigor in Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, on the North Shore and the South Shore , offering each client a meticulous, safe and sustainable cleaning service.
Conclusion
The service call in Boisbriand perfectly illustrates the importance of regular preventative maintenance . A dirty outdoor unit significantly reduces the performance and lifespan of your HVAC system. Thanks to our thorough cleaning, the client's heat pump has regained its full efficiency and reliability .