Replacing an aging central heat pump isn’t just about comfort – it’s a strategic decision when it comes to energy savings, HVAC performance, and long-term durability. At AirGreen, we’ve guided hundreds of homeowners throughout Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore and South Shore through this important transition. Thanks to our on-site expertise and in-depth knowledge of brands like Fujitsu, Gree, Lennox, Trane, Bosch, Goodman, and others, we help you recognize the signs showing that a replacement is not only justified, but necessary.
Why replace an old central heat pump?
A central heat pump that’s been running for 10 to 15 years no longer meets today’s standards for energy efficiency and indoor comfort. Even with good maintenance, several essential components begin to degrade, reducing the overall effectiveness of the system.
Sign #1 – Sudden spikes in your electricity bill
One of the first tangible warning signs is an unexplained increase in energy consumption. In Montreal and surrounding areas, our clients often notice higher heating or cooling bills despite typical usage.
Why is this happening?
Over time, the compressor loses performance, refrigerant can leak, and coils become dirty. An inefficient central heat pump ends up working harder – and consuming more – just to maintain the desired temperature.
What we do at AirGreen: During an inspection visit, we compare your historical energy usage with your system’s current performance. If the energy output is dropping sharply, we’ll recommend a replacement.
Sign #2 – Frequent and expensive repairs
When your service calls are more frequent than the cold winter days, it may be time to reconsider the viability of your system.
Real-life example: In Laval, we recently replaced a 2007 Lennox central heat pump that had required three repairs over two years: blower motor, control board, and refrigerant leak. The total cost had already surpassed $1,800 – more than 40% of the price of a new high-quality modern system.
Sign #3 – Less comfort throughout various zones of your home
Uneven heating or cooling or rooms that remain uncomfortable no matter what you set the thermostat to is a clear sign of failure.
Common causes:
-
Insufficient airflow in ducts
-
Poor thermostat calibration
-
Central blower malfunction
In Longueuil, a client complained about consistently cold areas upstairs. Our team diagnosed a mechanical issue with the ventilation motor. The solution? A full replacement with a Bosch BOVA Series R-454B central heat pump, for silent, zoned, and optimal performance.
Sign #4 – Excessive noise or abnormal vibrations
A quiet central heat pump is the new normal in 2025. If your unit makes metallic noises, rattles, or vibrates, there’s likely a misalignment, worn component, or compressor issue.
In the North Shore, we recently replaced a 2009 Goodman in a triplex in Blainville. The noise at night was bothering not only the owner but also the tenants. Installing a Fujitsu model with Inverter compressor restored peace – and improved the building’s sound insulation rating.
Sign #5 – Your system uses outdated refrigerant
Older central heat pumps often run on R-22 (Freon), a gas now banned in Canada for environmental reasons. Not only is this refrigerant expensive to recharge (when available), but it’s also extremely harmful to the planet.
Benefits of new systems:
-
Eco-friendly refrigerants like R-32 or R-454B
-
Higher energy efficiency
-
Eligibility for Hydro-Québec’s LogisVert grants
In Saint-Lambert, a couple opted to replace their old R-22 unit with a Bosch IDS Premium R-454B central heat pump rated at 36,000 BTU. The result: 40% less energy consumption and a $5,000 grant.
What are the benefits of replacing it?
-
Significant energy savings
-
Better heating and cooling performance
-
Smaller environmental footprint
-
Access to provincial and federal rebates
-
Peace of mind thanks to warranties and new-system reliability
How AirGreen supports you through this transition
At AirGreen, we believe every project is unique. We offer a custom analysis of your current system, a free estimate, and we help you choose the best system based on:
-
Your home’s layout
-
Your comfort goals
-
Your budget
-
The grants available in your area
We also handle the entire installation process, including thermostat calibration, duct balancing, and system energy optimization.
Real projects completed by AirGreen
Replacement in Montreal (Ahuntsic)
3-ton Trane central heat pump replaced with a Goodman 18 SEER R-32. Improved basement comfort and obtained a $4,200 grant.
Replacement in Brossard
Old 2005 ACD unit replaced with a Gree 60,000 BTU central unit. Zoned system for two-storey home, with 38% increase in energy efficiency.
Replacement in Laval (Duvernay)
Installed a Lennox EL18XP1 central heat pump in a multi-generational home. Ultra-quiet system controllable via Wi-Fi.
Conclusion
If you recognize one or more of these clear warning signs, it’s time to act. A well-planned replacement of your aging central heat pump can transform your everyday comfort while optimizing your long-term finances. At AirGreen, we bring our local expertise to the residents of Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore and South Shore, offering modern, reliable, and energy-efficient HVAC solutions.
Contact us today for a free evaluation and discover how a new central heat pump can improve your home’s quality of life.