Maximize the lifespan of your wall-mounted heat pump with expert tips from an AirGreen technician
At AirGreen, we understand how important your wall-mounted heat pump is as a key investment in your home or business’s year-round comfort. Yet many property owners in Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, on the North Shore or the South Shore don’t realize that a few simple, regular actions can significantly extend the lifespan of their system. Our certified HVAC installation technicians are lifting the curtain on some of the most overlooked—but crucial—practices to keep your unit running at peak performance for years to come. Here are the 7 professional secrets we always apply during our service calls, and that you can also implement at home.
Regular maintenance: the essential foundation
Secret #1: Clean the filters every month
This is the simplest task, but also the most often overlooked. Clogged filters block proper airflow, force the compressor to work harder, and reduce energy efficiency. At AirGreen, we recommend monthly filter cleaning, especially during peak usage seasons—whether for cooling in the summer or heating in the winter. Clean filters not only help extend the life of your compressor, but also reduce energy consumption by 5 to 15%.
Secret #2: Schedule professional HVAC maintenance annually
Even if you perform basic maintenance yourself, nothing replaces a thorough inspection from a certified wall-mounted heat pump technician. During our annual maintenance visits, we check refrigerant levels, compressor operation, circuit integrity, thermostat calibration, and inspect the control board and fans. This proactive approach allows us to spot issues before they become costly breakdowns.
Protecting your outdoor unit year-round
Secret #3: Keep the outdoor unit clear in every season
Your wall-mounted heat pump’s outdoor unit is constantly exposed to the elements. Allowing snow, fallen leaves, or dust to accumulate can block the coils and impair thermal exchange. In winter, be sure to avoid snowbanks that can interfere with proper airflow. On both the North Shore and South Shore, our technicians recommend maintaining a 12- to 24-inch clearance around the outdoor unit and removing fresh snow after every storm.
Secret #4: Install a well-designed protective awning
Many homeowners don’t realize that a well-positioned awning can help extend the lifespan of the outdoor unit. It shields the system from direct precipitation, ice buildup, and debris accumulation—without blocking airflow. During several installations in Saint-Lambert, Boisbriand, and Brossard, we included this simple yet effective solution, especially useful in areas more exposed to harsh weather.
Adjust your usage to reduce wear
Secret #5: Avoid frequent temperature changes
Constantly adjusting your thermostat setpoint causes your heat pump to cycle on and off repeatedly, which accelerates wear and tear on internal components, especially the compressor. We recommend keeping a consistent temperature, with only minor differences between day and night. To optimize comfort while reducing cycles, consider installing a programmable thermostat.
Secret #6: Run the heat pump year-round
Contrary to popular belief, modern wall-mounted heat pumps don’t need to be shut off in winter. The models we install at AirGreen—like the Fujitsu KZAH, the Gree Extreme, or the Sharp ZU1—are designed to operate efficiently in temperatures as low as -30°C. Frequently turning the system on and off can lead to condensation buildup and moisture accumulation inside the unit. Running the system continuously at a moderate level preserves both performance and system longevity.
Technical intervention: knowing when to act
Secret #7: Don’t delay repairs when you hear noises or notice strange odors
Any unusual sound, irregular airflow, or odd smell from your wall-mounted heat pump is a red flag. In our experience in Montréal, we’ve often seen clients wait too long to call us. A slight whistling sound could mean a refrigerant leak, and a smell could indicate mold developing in the ducts. Taking action early prevents major breakdowns and more expensive repairs.
Real examples: long-term benefits
In Laval, we recently serviced a customer’s Gree Extreme 18,000 BTU wall-mounted heat pump that was installed 9 years ago. Thanks to consistent maintenance—monthly filter cleaning and annual professional servicing—the unit is still operating with near-original efficiency. No major components have needed replacement. In contrast, a customer in Longueuil who had never cleaned or serviced their unit experienced a compressor failure after just 5 years.
The actions that really make a difference
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Clean the filters every month
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Keep the outdoor unit free from obstructions
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Avoid drastic temperature fluctuations
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Book an annual AirGreen service call
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Watch for unusual sounds or smells
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Add a protective awning if possible
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Keep the unit running in winter, unless there's an issue
Why choose AirGreen for your wall-mounted heat pump maintenance?
At AirGreen, we don’t just sell and install HVAC systems—we’re committed to supporting our customers over the long term. Thanks to our custom maintenance contracts, our certified technicians—serving all of Greater Montréal, from the North Shore to the South Shore—provide reliable, thorough service tailored to your needs. Every visit includes a technical evaluation and precise, transparent recommendations.
Protect your investment, maximize your comfort
A well-maintained wall-mounted heat pump is more than just a functioning appliance: it’s a system that delivers comfort, energy savings, and peace of mind for over 10 to 15 years. By following these expert secrets and relying on AirGreen’s trusted support, you’re guaranteed to get the most out of your installation.