JB
Verified by
Jean-François Beaulieu
RBQ Certified Master Plumber
✓ 18 years experience in Quebec
Spring maintenance (before the hot season)
Before turning on your AC for the season, perform these checks:
- Filter cleaning: wash filters with warm water or replace if very dirty. A clean filter can reduce energy consumption by 5-15%.
- Outdoor unit inspection: remove debris accumulated over winter (leaves, branches). Ensure clearance around the unit (minimum 50 cm / 20 inches).
- Startup test: turn on the system and verify cooling is effective. If air isn't cold after 10 minutes, call a technician.
Annual professional maintenance (recommended)
A CMMTQ-certified technician will:
- Professional cleaning of evaporator and condenser coils
- Refrigerant level check
- Electrical connection and compressor inspection
- Airflow and temperature differential testing
- Moving parts lubrication
AC Price Table — Quebec
Indicative price ranges for the Montreal area. Rates may vary by city, complexity and contractor.
| Service | Min | Max |
|---|---|---|
| Wall-mounted AC maintenance (full cleaning) | $120 | $250 |
| Heat pump maintenance (spring or fall) | $150 | $300 |
| R-410A réfrigérant recharge | $150 | $400 |
| Annual service contract (2 visits) | $250 | $450 |
Indicative ranges compiled by UrgencePlomberieQC.com, July 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I clean my AC filters?
Filters should be cleaned or replaced every 1-3 months depending on use and pets. During heavy use (summer), check them monthly.
Can my AC break down without maintenance?
Yes. Lack of maintenance is the main cause of AC breakdowns. Dirty coils force the compressor to work harder, shortening its lifespan and increasing breakdown risk.
Can I maintain my wall AC myself?
You can clean filters yourself. But coil cleaning, refrigerant checks and electrical tests must be performed by a CMMTQ-certified technician for safety and warranty reasons.
When do you need to recharge refrigerant?
Refrigerant doesn't normally deplete. If the technician detects low refrigerant, this indicates a leak. The leak must be repaired before recharging the system.
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