Protect your investment and gain peace of mind
At AirGreen, we understand that purchasing a multi-zone heat pump is a major investment—whether it’s for a primary residence, a duplex in Montréal, or a business in Laval. Yet homeowners often overlook a crucial aspect: regular maintenance of their HVAC system. By following a consistent maintenance routine, you can not only extend the lifespan of your multi-zone heat pump by at least 5 years, but also optimize its energy efficiency, lower your electricity bills, and avoid costly repairs. Here’s our complete guide to caring for your system with diligence, expertise, and practical know-how.
Why should you maintain your multi-zone heat pump regularly?
A multi-zone system allows you to heat and cool multiple rooms independently, thanks to one outdoor unit connected to several indoor wall-mounted heads. This type of installation is very common on the South Shore, especially in Longueuil and Brossard, where the layout of multi-level homes or multi-unit properties makes it an ideal solution. However, poor airflow, dust build-up, or low refrigerant levels can quickly reduce the system’s performance.
Here are the main reasons to perform regular HVAC maintenance:
-
Prevent clogging of filters and coils
-
Avoid unexpected breakdowns, especially during Laval’s winters
-
Optimize energy consumption
-
Maintain stable indoor comfort
-
Increase the unit’s lifespan (from 10–12 years up to 15–20 years)
Monthly maintenance: what you can do yourself
Some simple but essential tasks can be done without a technician:
Cleaning the air filters
The filters of the indoor wall-mounted units should be cleaned every 4 to 6 weeks, especially during high-usage periods (summer/winter). In Montréal, where urban pollution is more prevalent, it’s recommended to clean them even more frequently.
-
Turn off the wall unit
-
Remove the filter
-
Vacuum or rinse with lukewarm water
-
Let it dry completely before reinstalling
A clean filter ensures better air quality and reduces strain on the motor.
Checking the outdoor unit
On the North Shore, in areas like Terrebonne or Saint-Jérôme, fallen leaves, branches, and snow can block the outdoor unit. Check monthly to ensure:
-
No debris is obstructing the unit
-
There is adequate airflow (at least 50 cm of clearance all around)
-
The unit is level and stable
Seasonal maintenance: what AirGreen recommends
We recommend two professional maintenance visits per year: one in the spring (before cooling season) and one in the fall (before heating season). Here’s what our certified technicians do during a multi-zone HVAC maintenance service:
Deep cleaning of the coils
The evaporator coils inside and condenser coils outside are thoroughly cleaned to avoid any drop in efficiency. Even a thin layer of dust can reduce heat exchange by up to 30%.
Checking refrigerant levels
Refrigerant leaks can be hard to spot. A lack of R-32, R-410A, or R-454B refrigerant results in decreased performance and premature compressor wear. Our technicians perform a complete inspection of the refrigerant circuit.
Inspection of electrical and electronic connections
With the harsh winters in Montréal and Laval, electronic systems can suffer from fluctuations. We check:
-
Electrical connections
-
Control boards
-
Temperature sensors
Calibration of wall-mounted units
Indoor multi-zone units must be calibrated to ensure uniform temperature across each room. Poor calibration can cause overheating in certain zones and overwork the compressor.
Additional tips to maximize longevity
Install a programmable multi-zone thermostat
This allows you to adjust the temperature based on your schedule and avoid unnecessary operation. In Longueuil, a client reduced their annual consumption by 18% after installing a smart thermostat connected to their indoor units.
Avoid running all zones at full capacity simultaneously
The system is designed to distribute the load. Running all indoor heads at 100% simultaneously can overload the compressor, especially during deep winter cold spells.
Hire a certified installer
At AirGreen, we’ve had to correct several installations done by unlicensed subcontractors. For example, a family in Boucherville was experiencing excessive nighttime noise. We discovered an improperly angled outdoor unit and poorly insulated refrigerant lines.
Real-life example: extended lifespan in Pointe-Claire
In 2016, we installed a 24,000 BTU Fujitsu multi-zone heat pump in a house in Pointe-Claire. Thanks to regular maintenance by our team and simple homeowner actions (monthly cleaning, properly programmed thermostat), the system still runs at full capacity today without any major repairs. Result: nearly 9 years of optimal use without extra costs.
Mistakes to avoid at all costs
-
Skipping seasonal maintenance: that’s when issues are caught early
-
Blocking wall-mounted units with furniture
-
Neglecting filter cleaning for months
-
Ignoring strange noises or unusual smells
-
Hiring non-specialized technicians for maintenance
Why choose AirGreen for your multi-zone heat pump maintenance?
For over 10 years, we’ve specialized in the installation and maintenance of multi-zone heat pumps across Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore, and the South Shore. Our rigorous process, specialized equipment, and in-depth knowledge of brands like Fujitsu, Gree, Bosch, Mitsubishi Electric, Sharp, and Tosot make us a trusted and recognized partner.
Our technicians don’t settle for the basics. They anticipate problems, provide a full report after each visit, and take the time to explain the right habits to adopt. We believe that durability starts with prevention, and that every client deserves tailored support.
Summary: key steps to extend the life of your multi-zone heat pump
-
Clean filters monthly
-
Keep the outdoor unit clear of obstructions
-
Schedule HVAC maintenance twice a year
-
Use a smart multi-zone thermostat
-
Monitor for unusual signs (noise, smell, reduced performance)
-
Rely on a certified team like AirGreen
Take care of your system today to avoid unpleasant surprises tomorrow. At AirGreen, we’re here to ensure your long-lasting comfort, in every zone of your home or business.