A poorly maintained central heat pump can lead to reduced energy efficiency, costly breakdowns, and overall discomfort in the home. At AirGreen, we’ve seen through countless service calls across Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, as well as the North Shore and South Shore, that many clients face recurring issues simply because they overlook key maintenance principles. This article dives deep into the most common maintenance mistakes, how they harm the performance of a central HVAC system, and most importantly, practical solutions to avoid them.
Why Preventive Maintenance Is Absolutely Essential for Central Heat Pumps
A central heat pump is a complex system that handles both heating and cooling for the entire home. Its optimal performance relies on a delicate balance between mechanical components, electronic systems, and thermodynamic settings. Neglecting maintenance doesn’t just affect performance—it shortens the system’s lifespan.
Mistake 1: Ignoring Air Filter Cleaning
This is without a doubt the most common mistake. A clogged filter restricts airflow, forcing the system to work harder to maintain the desired temperature. This leads to:
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Increased electricity consumption
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Premature wear on the fan motor
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A significant drop in indoor air quality
What to do:
We recommend monthly cleaning of filters or replacing them every three months, depending on the model. During our service calls in Laval and the South Shore, our technicians make sure to inspect and clean each filter to ensure optimal airflow.
Mistake 2: Neglecting the Outdoor Unit
Often exposed to leaves, debris, snow, and ice, the outdoor unit is essential to heat exchange. If it gets blocked:
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Heat transfer becomes inefficient
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The compressor overheats
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System lifespan drops
What to do:
At AirGreen, we advise keeping at least 60 cm of clearance around the unit and cleaning it every season. In Montréal, where winters are harsh, it’s also crucial to prevent snow and ice buildup around the unit.
Mistake 3: Not Inspecting Electrical Connections
Loose or oxidized electrical connections can cause short circuits, sudden shutdowns, or even fire hazards.
What to do:
During our preventive maintenance in Longueuil or on the North Shore, our specialists check the condition of wiring, capacitors, and relays, preventing electrical risks and ensuring safe, efficient performance.
Mistake 4: Delaying Professional Maintenance for Too Long
Waiting until a problem appears before calling a professional is a costly mistake. A working heat pump isn’t necessarily working well.
What to do:
We recommend a complete annual maintenance, ideally before winter sets in. At each visit, our technicians perform:
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Refrigerant pressure checks
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Deep coil cleaning
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A comprehensive system performance analysis
Mistake 5: Using a Poorly Calibrated or Incompatible Thermostat
An improperly calibrated thermostat can trigger inadequate heating or cooling cycles, leading to overconsumption.
What to do:
We install smart thermostats compatible with the central systems we install in Laval and Montréal. These allow precise regulation, tailored to your lifestyle, with energy savings as a result.
Case Study: Neglected Maintenance in Sainte-Thérèse (North Shore)
A customer in Sainte-Thérèse contacted us after noticing a sharp drop in performance from their Bosch BOVA 36,000 BTU central heat pump. Our team found:
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Filters hadn’t been cleaned in over six months
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The outdoor unit was blocked with leaves
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The indoor coil was covered in dust
After a complete maintenance by our team, performance was fully restored, with a 22% increase in energy efficiency confirmed by the customer.
Our Professional Tips for Optimal Maintenance
Here’s a quick guide you can apply at home:
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Clean filters every month
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Check the outdoor unit visually each week
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Schedule a yearly checkup with a certified professional
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Invest in a modern thermostat and program it according to your daily routine
Why Choose AirGreen for Your Central Heat Pump Maintenance?
At AirGreen, we stand out thanks to:
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Our deep technical expertise on brands like Fujitsu, Bosch, Goodman, Trane, Arcoaire, and many more
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Our wide coverage area, serving Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore and the South Shore
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Our personalized service, tailored to your home, your habits, and your thermal needs
Each maintenance visit comes with a detailed report, targeted recommendations, and automatic reminders to help keep your system in top shape year-round.
Avoid Mistakes, Maximize Your Heat Pump’s Lifespan
Maintaining your central heat pump isn’t a luxury—it’s a smart investment in comfort, energy efficiency, and long-term HVAC performance. Don’t let avoidable mistakes cost you peace of mind.
Reach out to AirGreen for professional and thorough HVAC maintenance, right at home, no matter where you are on the island or the outskirts. Together, let’s ensure your system stays healthy for seasons to come.