A neglected outdoor unit: a risk to performance
At AirGreen , we often remind our customers that a heat pump isn't just made up of the indoor wall unit. The outdoor unit plays a vital role: it's the heart of the system, responsible for the heat exchange between your home and the outside air.
Recently, our team travelled to Terrebonne , on the North Shore of Montreal , to perform a complete cleaning of a Hisense outdoor unit , which was visibly dirty and partially obstructed.
The customer had noticed a decrease in heating efficiency over the past few weeks, as well as an unusual noise coming from the compressor. These symptoms, while fairly common, often indicate a buildup of dirt on the condenser , reducing airflow and forcing the compressor to work harder.
Preliminary inspection: signs of advanced fouling
Upon our arrival, several indicators confirmed an urgent need for maintenance:
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Dust and gravel accumulated on the base and around the unit;
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Condenser fins covered with a thin layer of dirt and pollen stuck on by the humidity;
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Cluttered rear area , limiting ventilation;
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Powdery white deposit on the top cover, a sign of surface oxidation.
These conditions, although frequent, can reduce the energy efficiency of an HVAC system by 20 to 30% , while increasing the risk of compressor overheating.
Steps for a complete cleaning of the outdoor heat pump
1. Securing and disconnecting
Before any work was carried out, we disconnected the unit's power supply . This is an essential safety measure to protect both the equipment and our technicians.
We then removed the protective grille to gain direct access to the condenser and fan.
2. Mechanical cleaning of the fins
Using a soft nylon brush , we removed the dust, plant debris, and gravel residue embedded between the fins. This manual cleaning clears the air ducts without deforming them , which is crucial for maintaining optimal airflow.
3. Application of a biodegradable cleaner
We then applied a biodegradable, pH-neutral detergent , specially formulated for condenser coils.
This product dissolves grease and pollen without damaging aluminum or harming the environment.
4. Low-pressure rinsing
After a contact time of a few minutes, the unit was thoroughly rinsed with clean water under low pressure . This step removed any residual particles and restored the shine to the fins.
5. Check the fan and wiring
During the natural drying process, our team inspected the fan motor , the starting capacitor , and the electrical connections . No major damage was detected, but the connections were lightly tightened as a precaution.
6. Cleaning the area around the unit
Finally, we cleared the immediate perimeter of the heat pump:
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removal of dead leaves and rubble,
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repositioning the hose support to avoid any contact with the cables.
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checking the level of the concrete base.
Interview results
After restarting, the results were immediate:
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Significantly improved airflow at the fan outlet;
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Stable discharge temperature , indicating better heat exchange;
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Operating noise reduced by half ;
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And most importantly, a return to normal thermal comfort in the house.
The customer also noted that the system reached the desired temperature more quickly , while consuming less electricity. Clear proof of the effectiveness of regular maintenance.
Why exterior cleaning is essential
Many users believe that maintenance is limited to cleaning the indoor filters. In reality, the outdoor unit operates year-round and accumulates dust, sand, leaves, pollution, and grass clippings.
Maintenance-free:
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The compressor overheats and wears out prematurely;
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The fins become clogged, slowing down heat exchange ;
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Energy consumption is increasing significantly ;
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The system becomes noisier and less efficient .
At AirGreen, we recommend two cleanings per year :
One in the spring before the warm season, and one in the fall before heating. This frequency ensures stable performance and maximum equipment lifespan.
The AirGreen approach: rigor, respect and sustainability
Our HVAC cleaning services are based on three fundamental principles:
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Compliance with equipment and manufacturer standards :
We only use approved products, without corrosive solvents. -
Ecology and safety :
All our cleaners are biodegradable and safe for your plants, animals and outdoor surfaces. -
Measurable performance :
Each cleaning is followed by a pressure and temperature test to validate the actual improvement in performance.
Whether in Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, or on the North Shore , our technicians intervene with the same professionalism to bring your HVAC systems back to life.
Entrust the maintenance of your heat pump to experts
If your outdoor unit appears dirty, noisy or less efficient, contact AirGreen .
We will restore your system to its original full capacity and efficiency , while guaranteeing quiet and economical operation.