Prevent instead of repair: the right steps to preserve your central heat pump in winter
Québec’s winter doesn’t spare any outdoor equipment—especially heating and air conditioning systems like central heat pumps. At AirGreen, we know that keeping your central heat pump running smoothly during winter is essential, especially when temperatures drop below -20 °C. And yet, many homeowners underestimate the importance of preventive maintenance and proper winter protection for their HVAC system. In this article, we share our real-world expertise with you, offering practical tips, mistakes to avoid, and proven solutions to ensure long-lasting performance from your central heat pump throughout Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore, and the South Shore.
Why Québec winters put your central heat pump to the test
Central heat pumps are built to withstand harsh weather conditions. Still, ice build-up, heavy snow, frigid winds, and persistent moisture can cause malfunctions, reduce energy efficiency, or even damage vital system components.
Common risks:
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Ventilation of the outdoor unit gets blocked by snow or ice
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Frost forming on the condenser fins
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Fan blocked by frozen debris
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Failures caused by improper defrost cycles
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Increased energy consumption to maintain a stable indoor temperature
Choose a heat pump built for Québec winters
One of the best ways to protect your central heat pump during winter is to choose a model specifically designed for northern climates. That’s why we recommend—and regularly install—units like:
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Fujitsu Airstage LZ or KZAH Series, with stable performance down to -26 °C
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Bosch BOVA IDS Premium R-454B, known for quiet operation and energy efficiency even at -30 °C
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Goodman GSZC18, combining strength and output in low temperatures
Case Study: A successful AirGreen installation in Blainville (North Shore)
Last January, a family in Blainville contacted us after a complete failure of their old HVAC system during a cold snap. We provided a full solution: replacement with a Bosch BOVA IDS Premium central heat pump (3 tons / 36,000 BTU), along with a redesigned ductwork system to ensure optimal heat distribution.
Challenges we faced:
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The old system’s outdoor unit was directly exposed to northern winds
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The original concrete base was cracked, causing harmful vibrations
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No snow shield or protective structure had been installed
AirGreen’s solutions:
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Custom-built winter shelter for the outdoor unit, allowing airflow while shielding against snow
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Raised and reinforced concrete base with vibration insulation
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Added smart sensors to optimize defrost cycles
The result: stable performance even during February’s -28 °C cold wave and a 23% drop in monthly energy use.
The right actions to extend your central heat pump’s lifespan
Here are practical recommendations from our HVAC installation experts in Montréal and surrounding areas:
Elevate your outdoor unit
Place the unit on a solid, raised base at least 30 to 40 cm off the ground to prevent snow accumulation and ensure proper drainage during defrost cycles.
Install a protective shelter (never fully enclosed)
A well-designed shelter shields against the elements while allowing proper airflow. A sloped roof prevents snow from falling directly onto the unit and keeps out heavy objects or ice.
Check and clean the area regularly
Don’t let snow or ice block the condenser fins or fan. A quick weekly inspection is enough to catch obstructions early.
Schedule professional preventive maintenance
Our technicians recommend a full maintenance visit before winter, including:
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Refrigerant pressure checks
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Cleaning the outdoor coil
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Verifying defrost cycles
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Compressor performance tests
A professional HVAC maintenance service from AirGreen can prevent up to 70% of common winter breakdowns.
What you should never do
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Never cover the outdoor unit completely with a sealed tarp: it traps moisture and can cause corrosion.
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Don’t break ice with a hammer: this can damage the fins or the coil.
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Don’t ignore unusual noises: they could signal a frozen fan or compressor issue.
Grants available for upgrading your central heat pump
Under Hydro-Québec’s LogisVert program, many of our clients have received up to $5,000 in subsidies for replacing their system with a high-efficiency unit.
AirGreen assists you with all the paperwork to maximize your eligibility.
Customer testimonial – Longueuil (South Shore)
“Thanks to AirGreen, we replaced our failing old unit with a Fujitsu KZAH R-32 central heat pump just before December’s storm. The service was quick and clean, and our house stayed cozy even when it hit -25 °C outside. Thank you for the professionalism.”
— Fortin Family, Longueuil
Why choose AirGreen for protecting and maintaining your HVAC system
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Certified experts in central heat pumps with over 15 years of experience
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Fast service across Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, North Shore, and South Shore
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Personalized recommendations based on your property’s layout and wind exposure
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Custom maintenance, repairs, and installation services
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Complete support for available government grant programs