Maximize the performance of your central heat pump: essential seasonal maintenance
At AirGreen, we know that HVAC maintenance isn’t just a formality — it’s an absolute necessity to ensure the longevity, energy efficiency, and optimal comfort of your system. Whether it’s a Fujitsu, Bosch, Goodman, Lennox, or Gree unit, a well-maintained central heat pump is an investment that pays off, both in summer and winter. Here’s a detailed and practical guide based on our extensive experience from hundreds of installations and service calls across Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore, and the South Shore.
Why seasonal maintenance is essential for your central heat pump
A central heat pump, whether used for heating or cooling, runs year-round. Its performance depends directly on regular and high-quality HVAC maintenance. A neglected system will lose efficiency, consume more energy, and be at higher risk of costly breakdowns.
Seasonal maintenance is the best way to:
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Prevent expensive repairs
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Optimize energy performance
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Extend the lifespan of your equipment
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Ensure consistent comfort in every room of your home
Spring maintenance: prepping your system for cooling season
Spring is the perfect time to prepare your central heat pump to face the summer heat. At AirGreen, our technicians carry out a comprehensive inspection of all internal and external components.
Key steps for this season:
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Thorough cleaning of the outdoor coil to remove debris accumulated over the winter.
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Check refrigerant levels (R-32, R-410A, or R-454B depending on the model).
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Inspect the compressor and fan to ensure proper operation.
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Check air filters and replace them if needed.
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Test the thermostat and communication between the system components.
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Calibrate pressure and temperature to ensure maximum efficiency.
Real-life example: During a spring maintenance in Longueuil, we detected the early signs of a refrigerant leak (R-32) on a Bosch BOVA unit, which could have cut the system’s efficiency in half during summer. By acting quickly, we prevented a major repair.
Summer maintenance: ongoing performance checks
In summer, your central heat pump often runs at full capacity. While a complete service isn’t always necessary, a quick check-up can make a big difference.
Summer recommendations:
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Keep the outdoor unit clear: make sure it's free from leaves, branches, or debris.
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Listen for unusual noises: whistling, clicking, or vibrations can point to mechanical issues.
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Check room temperatures: any inconsistency might indicate poor airflow or a clogged filter.
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Clean filters every 30 to 45 days.
Pro tip: Schedule a mid-season inspection if you notice a drop in performance or a spike in energy usage.
Fall maintenance: prepping the system for heating season
This is the most crucial maintenance season for central heat pumps in Montreal and on the North Shore, where temperatures can drop rapidly. At AirGreen, we provide a complete winter-ready tune-up tailored to Québec’s climate.
Key fall maintenance steps:
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Full ductwork cleaning and inspection: moisture buildup can lead to mold.
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Check electrical heating elements and the compressor for reliable winter operation.
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Reset heating parameters on the smart thermostat (compatible models).
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Test the auto-defrost mode on the outdoor unit.
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Secure all wiring and sensors against weather exposure.
Real case: In Laval, a customer with a 5-ton Goodman central heat pump experienced intermittent heating during extreme cold due to incorrect thermostat calibration. After our service, the system ran smoothly again.
Winter maintenance: stay vigilant during extreme cold
In winter, your system is under the most pressure. A high-performing central heat pump should continue heating effectively even at -20°C and below.
Recommended winter tasks:
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Monitor defrost mode: excessive ice buildup can block airflow.
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Keep the outdoor unit clear of snow: maintain at least 24 inches of clearance around it.
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Monthly quick inspections: AirGreen offers preventive visits adapted to harsh Québec winters.
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Monitor electricity consumption: a sudden spike may signal a malfunction.
Real-life story: In Montreal, a customer with a Fujitsu central heat pump saw their hydro bill double during a cold snap. A faulty sensor was keeping backup resistance heating on constantly. After replacement, energy usage returned to normal.
Why choose AirGreen for your HVAC maintenance?
We don’t just do routine maintenance. Every service call is tailored based on:
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The heat pump model (Bosch, Lennox, Trane, etc.)
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The building’s energy profile
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The system’s performance history
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Local climate factors in each Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, or North Shore neighborhood
Our certified technicians use the latest diagnostic tools, are trained on up-to-date HVAC standards, and are fully familiar with systems using R-32 or R-454B, which are often eligible for incentives like Hydro-Québec’s LogisVert program.
Mistakes to avoid when maintaining a central heat pump
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Delaying seasonal maintenance: this compromises system reliability.
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Using the wrong cleaning products: some solvents can corrode coils.
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Ignoring unusual noises: that small sound could be the sign of a major breakdown.
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Neglecting ductwork: a blocked duct significantly lowers air quality and system efficiency.
Maintenance tasks you can do yourself
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Change air filters every 1 to 2 months
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Clear fallen leaves and snow from the outdoor unit
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Visually inspect accessible ductwork
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Regularly check thermostat accuracy
For everything else, trust AirGreen’s expertise.
A proactive approach for long-term savings
Regular, strategic maintenance season after season keeps your central heat pump in top shape for 12 to 15 years, while reducing electricity usage by up to 30%. This smart management pays off even more with high-efficiency systems like those with Inverter technology or two-stage compressors, which we frequently install.