Essential maintenance on a roof exposed to the elements
At AirGreen , we recently completed a full cleaning of a heat pump installed on the flat roof of a residential building in Côte-des-Neiges–Notre-Dame-de-Grâce , a typical Montreal neighborhood where many buildings have HVAC systems exposed to the most demanding climatic conditions.
On this roof, the outdoor wall-mounted heat pump showed clear signs of dust and debris accumulation . The client had noticed a decrease in cooling performance , accompanied by unusual noise and a slight, irregular water leak near the roof drain. These symptoms indicated significant fouling of the condenser and fins .
Diagnosis before cleaning
Upon climbing onto the roof, our team quickly observed:
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A thin layer of grey dust covering the top and grilles of the heat pump;
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Partially obstructed fins , preventing proper air circulation;
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An accumulation of dirt around the fan ;
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Traces of leaf residue and pollen trapped between the metal fins;
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And a partially blocked roof drain , which increased the risk of stagnant moisture around the unit.
These conditions, although common on Montreal's flat roofs, can seriously compromise the energy efficiency of an HVAC system if not addressed in time.
Complete cleaning process
At AirGreen, each flat roof heat pump cleaning follows a rigorous protocol designed to ensure the performance, safety and durability of the system.
1. Securing and inspection
Before any work began, we disconnected the heat pump's power supply and secured the work area. A detailed visual inspection was performed to verify the condition of the connections, the compressor, and the fan.
2. Dry pre-cleaning
Using a compressed air blower and a soft brush, we removed the accumulated dust from the outer surface and between the fins. This step prevents the dirt from turning into mud once the cleaning product is applied.
3. Application of the biodegradable detergent
We then applied an eco-friendly cleaning product , specially designed for aluminum surfaces and safe for the environment. This product works deep down to dissolve grease, mold, and organic deposits accumulated over months.
4. Controlled jet rinse
A rinse with fresh water under moderate pressure removed the residue without damaging the fragile fins. We also took this opportunity to clean the nearby roof drain to ensure efficient drainage of rainwater and wash water.
5. Condensation drain control
We inspected and cleared the heat pump's condensation drain , which is often prone to blockages caused by dust and limescale deposits. This preventative cleaning avoids the risk of water infiltration and internal corrosion.
6. Drying, disinfection and restarting
Once the system was perfectly clean, we applied an antibacterial and antifungal treatment to the external surfaces. The heat pump was then tested: the airflow , refrigerant pressure , and blowing temperature returned to their optimal values.
Results and benefits of cleaning
After the service, the heat pump immediately showed an improvement in efficiency of over 20% , quieter operation , and cooler air inside the building. The client also noticed that the system consumed less energy to achieve the same comfortable temperature.
Thanks to this interview:
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The unit is protected against compressor overheating ;
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The system's lifespan is extended;
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The occupants benefit from healthier and better filtered air ;
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The risk of costly breakdowns is significantly reduced.
Why flat roof maintenance requires special attention
HVAC units installed on flat roofs in Montreal, Laval, or Longueuil are particularly exposed to:
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Urban dust ;
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The leaves and pollen from the surrounding trees;
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Extreme temperature variations ;
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And sometimes, due to poor rainwater drainage .
These factors accelerate soiling and make regular maintenance essential. At AirGreen, we have the equipment and expertise to work safely, even on high or hard-to-reach roofs.
AirGreen's commitment: efficiency, safety and sustainability
Our certified technicians follow a protocol that complies with manufacturers' recommendations and building safety standards . Each cleaning is accompanied by a preventative check of essential components: pressures, fittings, vibrations and drainage.
By choosing AirGreen for the maintenance of your HVAC system, you benefit from a service:
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Professional and comprehensive , including cleaning, disinfection and verification;
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Safe , with particular attention paid to flat roofs;
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Sustainable and ecological , thanks to our biodegradable products and responsible practices.
Conclusion
This flat-roof heat pump cleaning in Côte-des-Neiges–Notre-Dame-de-Grâce perfectly illustrates the importance of regular maintenance to preserve the performance and reliability of any HVAC system. At AirGreen, we ensure that every service call guarantees the comfort, safety, and peace of mind of our clients in Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, and on both the North and South Shores.