A central heat pump is a major investment for any home or building located in Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore or the South Shore. Unfortunately, many well-meaning DIY enthusiasts unknowingly make mistakes that seriously affect the performance, longevity, and safety of their system. At AirGreen, we’ve seen firsthand the direct consequences of these often costly and avoidable errors. In this article, we highlight the five most common pitfalls, while offering practical tips to avoid unintentionally sabotaging your own HVAC system.
When DIY Causes More Harm Than Good
Installing or maintaining a central heat pump might seem simple for some seasoned handymen. Yet, this kind of equipment requires advanced knowledge—not only in mechanics and electrical systems, but also in provincial safety codes. One misstep, a poorly secured part, or a random maintenance attempt can have serious consequences: premature failure, reduced energy efficiency, voided warranties, or even danger to the occupants.
1. Improper Cleaning of the Central Heat Pump
One of the most common mistakes is attempting to clean the central heat pump without the right tools or training. This includes:
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Using high-pressure water jets on the outdoor condenser, which bends the fins of the heat exchanger.
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Applying incorrect chemicals to the coils.
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Forgetting to clean indoor ducts and the condensate drain pan.
At AirGreen, we’ve been called to repair several units that were seriously damaged after a "DIY cleaning". The result: premature replacement of the fan or motor, unnecessary expenses, and a clear drop in energy performance.
2. Forgetting or Neglecting to Replace the Air Filters
Some DIYers think it’s enough to shake or blow the dust off the filters. In reality, a dirty filter restricts airflow, forcing the compressor and fan to work twice as hard. This increases energy use and accelerates wear and tear.
A filter should be replaced every 1 to 3 months, depending on system use and indoor air quality. It’s crucial to use the correct size and recommended filtration level for your unit.
3. Modifying the Heat Pump’s Electrical Setup Yourself
Some DIYers try to connect their central heat pump to a smart thermostat without checking compatibility with the system or consulting an electrician. This can result in:
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Short circuits
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Electrical overloads
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Lost communication between thermostat and HVAC system
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Voided manufacturer warranties
We’ve seen multiple homes in Longueuil and Laval where thermostat installations caused a complete shutdown of the central system, requiring emergency intervention from our team.
4. Skipping Professional Annual Maintenance
A common myth: "If the heat pump is working, it must be fine." This line of thinking leads many homeowners to skip the mandatory annual maintenance, which is often a condition of most manufacturer warranties (Bosch, Goodman, Fujitsu, etc.).
The consequences are many:
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Reduced seasonal efficiency ratings (SEER/HSPF)
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Shortened compressor lifespan
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Increased electricity usage
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Undetected refrigerant leaks (R-410A, R-32, R-454B)
A real-world example: in Sainte-Thérèse, a customer who skipped three years of maintenance ended up with a major evaporator coil leak. The issue wasn’t covered under warranty due to the lack of documented maintenance.
5. Trying to Install a Central Heat Pump Yourself
One of the most serious mistakes we see—especially with the rise of online tutorials—is attempting a DIY central heat pump installation, without an RBQ license, without refrigeration certification, and often without municipal permits.
An unlicensed installation can result in:
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Rejection of grant applications (like Hydro-Québec’s LogisVert)
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Refrigerant leaks
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Poor ventilation (insufficient duct pressure)
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Serious electrical hazards
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Inefficient system performance
At AirGreen, we recently replaced a DIY install in a home in Repentigny: the outdoor unit wasn’t level, the ducts were poorly insulated, and the system never reached the desired temperature. After our intervention, the homeowners saw an immediate 35% drop in their electricity bill.
Key Takeaway: Trust Your System to the Experts
A central heat pump, whether it’s made by Fujitsu, Bosch, Goodman, Lennox, Trane, or Gree, is a complex system that demands specific expertise. DIY work, while seemingly cheaper in the short term, often turns out to be disastrous in the long run.
Here’s what we recommend:
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Always hire a certified professional for installation and maintenance.
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Keep records of all service visits to maintain eligibility for grants.
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Schedule preventive maintenance at least once a year.
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Use quality filters and replace them regularly.
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Never tamper with electrical or refrigeration components.
Why Choose AirGreen?
At AirGreen, we specialize in the installation, maintenance, and repair of central heat pumps throughout the Greater Montreal Area, including Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore, and the South Shore. Our technicians are certified, continuously trained, and follow all safety and energy efficiency standards.
Each installation is tailored to your building’s specific needs and your lifestyle. We also help you secure applicable grants (LogisVert, Rénoclimat, etc.) and maximize system performance.
Real-Life Examples of AirGreen Interventions
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Installation of a 5-ton Bosch BOVA central heat pump in Laval, including replacement of galvanized ducts, addition of zoned thermostats, and 18 SEER energy optimization. Project completed in 3 days, LogisVert grant obtained: $5,000.
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Complete cleaning and realignment of a bent coil in a Goodman heat pump in Longueuil, after a DIY high-pressure cleaning job. Result: system saved, performance restored.
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Electrical code correction of a Fujitsu central heat pump in Boisbriand, after a non-HVAC-certified electrician created a faulty connection.
Your Peace of Mind Starts Here
Avoid costly mistakes. Trust a team of local experts known for their expertise and transparency. At AirGreen, we protect your comfort, your investment, and your safety.