In the West Island, many brick houses and duplexes have HVAC equipment installed near the foundation, on a concrete slab, just like in the photo. At AirGreen , we frequently respond to service calls, preventative maintenance , and diagnostics for wall-mounted heat pumps in Dollard-des-Ormeaux , especially when the cold season and freeze/thaw cycles begin to put more strain on the unit.
This is a Lennox wall-mounted heat pump (mini-split) with a compact outdoor unit. The exact model is not visible in the image; therefore, we describe the intervention as typical of a Lennox wall-mounted heat pump from the MLA (new generation) line , which corresponds well to the size and residential use observed.
What the photo tells us (useful clues for the service)
Even before opening the unit, certain visual details already guide our approach:
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Lennox outdoor unit installed near a brick wall, on supports/bases above the slab.
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Visible electrical disconnect switch at top right: good sign for maintenance (safety disconnection on site).
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Presence of leaves , debris and traces of snow on the ground: a common situation in autumn/winter, which increases the risk of obstruction and heat exchange losses.
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Front grille and fan: access for cleaning and inspection of the coil is central to this type of maintenance.
Why wall-mounted heat pump maintenance is crucial in Dollard-des-Ormeaux
On the West Island, wall-mounted heat pumps often operate for extended periods: cooling in the summer and heating for much of the fall and winter (depending on the configuration). As a result, without maintenance, the following is quickly observed:
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a decrease in efficiency (more kWh for the same comfort),
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more frequent or less effective defrosting ,
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risks of ice and debris accumulation,
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more noise and vibration,
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premature wear of components (fan motor, circuit board, contacts, etc.).
The goal of an AirGreen service is not just to "clean". It's to restore the machine to its performance parameters and reduce the risk of breakdowns during critical periods.
Our AirGreen approach: diagnosis + complete maintenance (on-site method)
1) Electrical safety and checks
We always start with a safety procedure:
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cut-off at the disconnect switch
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visual inspection of the wiring and electrical input,
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checking for signs of overheating (discoloration, odor, damaged sheaths),
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checking connections and grounding.
Why this is important: a slightly loose connection can create resistance, heat up and cause intermittent operation, especially when the machine requires more heating power.
2) Mechanical inspection: stability, vibrations, fastening
In the photo, the unit rests on supports. Let's check:
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level and stability,
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condition of the anti-vibration pads ,
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tightening of the fixing points,
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clearance around the unit (air in/out).
A simple seat adjustment can reduce perceived noise in the house and limit long-term mechanical fatigue.
3) Cleaning the outdoor unit (coil, base, grille)
This is often the most rewarding part for performance:
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removal of leaves and debris around the base,
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controlled cleaning of the outer coil (without damaging it),
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inspection of the grille and fan,
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check drainage and defrosting area.
In a context like this (leaves + beginning of snow), special attention is paid to anything that could impair heat exchange and promote ice formation.
4) Performance checks: pressures, temperatures, operation
A wall-mounted heat pump is judged by its performance. Depending on the day's conditions, we perform:
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reading the parameters (if applicable),
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air temperature and exchange measurements,
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observation of cycles (start-up, stabilization, defrosting in heating mode),
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Symptom checks: reduced capacity, abnormal frosting, fan noise, speed variation.
The objective: to confirm that the Lennox heat pump is operating within a normal range, and to detect deviations early (even if the device "still works").
5) Checking the refrigerant connections and insulation
Even if the photo doesn't clearly show the lines, we are still checking:
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condition of the insulation on the line (cracks, exposed sections),
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friction points, fasteners, mechanical protection,
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signs of leakage (oil, localized soiling).
Damaged insulation can create losses, condensation, and complicate heating in cold weather.
Adjustments and advice specific to Quebec winters
In Dollard-des-Ormeaux, winter puts outdoor units to the test. During this type of service, we emphasize simple but crucial points:
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Clearance : avoid snow accumulation in front of the blower; keep an area clear for air.
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Autumn debris : leaves and twigs must be removed regularly (risk of blockage).
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Ice : if you observe an abnormal and persistent accumulation, this is not "normal"; it is often a sign that a check/maintenance is necessary.
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Noise/vibration : a change in noise is an early indicator (support, fan, fixing, defrosting).
What this service actually changes for the customer
After a complete maintenance check of a Lennox wall-mounted heat pump, the goal is generally to:
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more stable operation
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better heat exchange (therefore greater efficiency),
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fewer problematic defrost cycles,
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a reduction in the risk of breakdowns during peak cold periods,
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extended system lifespan.
And above all: more consistent comfort, without "surprises" when the temperature drops.
Why AirGreen for your Lennox service in the West Island
Our team regularly works in the West Island area (Dollard-des-Ormeaux, Pointe-Claire, Kirkland, Beaconsfield, Pierrefonds-Roxboro, etc.). Our approach is results-oriented:
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structured service (security → inspection → cleaning → testing),
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Pay attention to installation details (supports, disconnect switch, clearance, vibrations).
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clear and realistic recommendations, without overselling,
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interventions adapted to the local climate and the actual use of the machine.
Signs that indicate it's time for maintenance
You should schedule a service if you notice:
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reduction in heating or air conditioning
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more frequent or persistent frost/ice,
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new noises (vibration, friction, irregular fan speed),
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less pleasant odors or air
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Electricity consumption is rising without explanation.
Preventive maintenance often costs much less than an emergency repair in the middle of winter.
Conclusion
This Lennox wall-mounted heat pump installed in Dollard-des-Ormeaux perfectly illustrates the realities of Greater Montreal: an outdoor unit close to the foundation, exposure to leaves and snow, and the importance of regular maintenance to preserve performance. At AirGreen , we combine cleaning, electrical and mechanical checks, and performance testing to ensure reliable, efficient, and long-lasting operation—exactly what you expect from a heat pump in Quebec.