Careful maintenance is required for appliances installed high up under a balcony.
During a recent intervention in Brossard , our AirGreen team was mandated to perform the complete cleaning of two outdoor wall-mounted heat pump units installed high up, under a wooden balcony structure.
This type of installation, common in multi-story homes, requires special attention during maintenance: restricted access, accumulated dust and poor ventilation under the balcony represent a technical challenge that our technicians have mastered perfectly.
Before our intervention: ingrained dirt and reduced efficiency
The customer contacted us after noticing that the airflow coming out of the units seemed reduced and that they were making more noise than usual.
Upon our arrival, our technicians noted several issues requiring immediate attention:
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Heat exchanger fins covered with a thin film of dust and urban pollution;
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Traces of grease deposits around the fan;
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Clogged air filters;
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Accumulation of cobwebs and dirt on the rear surfaces, difficult to access without disassembly;
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The space under the balcony limits natural ventilation, which accentuates the overheating of the units.
These conditions explain the decrease in the efficiency of the HVAC system , an increase in electrical consumption , and in the long term, a risk of compressor deterioration .
Our cleaning procedure: safety, precision and efficiency
Working on units fixed more than two meters above the ground requires not only experience, but also specialized equipment.
Our technicians used a secure, lightweight scaffolding , allowing stable and precise access to each unit.
Here are the steps of the cleaning carried out on site:
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Safe power outage and complete visual inspection.
We checked the refrigeration lines, wall fixings and insulation protections. -
Pre-dry cleaning to remove accumulated dust from the grids and fins.
This step helps prevent debris from turning into mud during wet washing. -
Application of a biodegradable and non-corrosive cleaner.
This product dissolves grease and pollutants while respecting metals and seals. -
Gentle rinse at low pressure.
The water is precisely directed to prevent any seepage towards the electrical components.
The objective: to restore the thermal conductivity of the fins and ensure optimal heat dissipation. -
Cleaning the fan and exhaust ducts.
These often-neglected areas can accumulate mold and reduce air circulation. -
Final antibacterial disinfection.
It prevents the formation of microorganisms in this confined space, ensuring healthier air.
After cleaning: performance restored
Once both units were restarted, the results were immediate:
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Operating noise reduced by approximately 30%;
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Significantly improved airflow ;
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Pressures and temperatures conform to factory settings ;
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Interior comfort restored within the first few minutes of operation.
The customer also noticed that the temperature reached inside was more stable, a sign that the compressor's performance had regained its initial efficiency .
The importance of regular maintenance for elevated units
Installations located high up under structures, such as balconies or staircases, are more exposed to hot air stagnation and condensation.
Over time, this promotes:
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Premature corrosion of the metal chassis;
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The progressive fouling of the fins and fans;
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A decrease in seasonal yield (SCOP/SEER);
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And, in the long term, higher operating costs .
That is why AirGreen recommends a complete maintenance at least once a year , and a visual dusting at each change of season.
AirGreen's expertise: safe and sustainable interventions
At AirGreen, we pride ourselves on combining technical rigor with respect for the environment .
All our cleaners are environmentally friendly , without harsh acids or solvents, and our services comply with manufacturers' recommendations .
Every detail counts: from the positioning of the water jet to the restoration of the fixings, our approach aims for the durability of the system.
Our clients benefit from a turnkey service , including a maintenance report and personalized recommendations to keep their HVAC system in top condition all year round.
Final result: a double cleaning, restored comfort
Thanks to this intervention in Brossard , the two outdoor units have regained optimal performance.
The airflow has become powerful and stable again, the noise is reduced, and energy consumption is now under control.
Further proof that regular preventative maintenance is key to preserving the performance and longevity of a residential HVAC system.
