Condo heat pump compressors are a crucial component of the system. Given the high costs associated with compressor repair and replacement, we recommend replacing the entire heat pump if the system fails to function due to a compressor malfunction.

Lack of in-suite maintenance or issues with building mechanical systems are the leading causes of unexpected heat pump failures in condos. Here are the five most common heat pump problems reported by our clients:

1. No heat or air conditioning: The heat pump fails to turn on.
2. Frequent on and off cycles: The heat pump cycles on and off continuously.
3. Thermostat issues: The thermostat does not call for heating or cooling, or the screen is blank.
4. Unexpected rattling noises: The heat pump produces constant loud noises.
5. Inadequate heating and cooling: Poor airflow in your suite leads to insufficient heating or cooling.

If you’re experiencing any of these problems, contact us today!

Water source heat pumps are distinct from fan coil units due to their ability to switch between heating and cooling modes at any time throughout the year. This versatility is made possible by a component known as the reversing valve, which allows the compressor to provide both heating and air conditioning as needed.

As a result, during transitional seasons such as April and September, condo residents don’t have to wait for management to switch between heating and cooling. Heat pumps can efficiently operate in both modes, ensuring consistent comfort throughout the year.

Yes, GTA Restore provides water source heat pump repair and maintenance services for condos. We specialize in professional in-suite HVAC services throughout Toronto and the GTA. While some condominium managements have fixed annual maintenance agreements with a building HVAC contractor, HTS offers annual heating and air conditioning repair and maintenance services directly for individual condo owners. Feel free to contact us to schedule service for your suite’s HVAC system.

During an annual heat pump maintenance appointment, GTA Restore follows these steps:

1. Conduct a Visual Inspection
2. Operate the System Using the Thermostat
3. Remove the Panel and Replace the Filter (Clean the return air panel if needed)
4. Turn Off the Main Power and Remove the Inner Panel
5. Vacuum the Air Coil Surface Inside
6. Clean and Inspect the Fan and Motor Assembly for Dirt and Debris
7. Examine Chassis Water Hoses for Cracks or Leaks
8. Check the Drain Pan and Clean if Necessary
9. Ensure the Condensate Drain is Not Clogged
10. Replace the Inner Panel and Reinstall with a Clean Filter
11. Restore Power
12. Provide a Deficiency Report to the Condo Owner and Property Manager

Our condo technicians are fully insured and certified to offer the following services:

• Condo Heat Pump Inspection and Reporting
• Water Source Heat Pump Repair Services
• Annual Maintenance for Condo Heat Pumps
• Upgrades and Retrofits for Condo Heat Pumps
• Installation and Replacement of Condo Heat Pumps
• Parts and Warranty for Condo Heat Pumps

If you need any of the services listed above, please contact us today!

Condo heat pump systems use R-22 or R-410 refrigerants to provide both heating and air conditioning through a refrigeration cycle. Known as water source heat pumps, these systems utilize water to transfer heat to or from the building's water loop, which circulates in a closed-loop system from the mechanical room to every floor and suite. This water loop helps to cool the compressor in summer and prevent freezing in winter. For optimal performance, the water temperature in high-rise condos with in-suite heat pump units should be maintained between 60°F and 90°F. If the temperature drops below this range, the unit will automatically shut off until the temperature is restored to the standard range.

What sets Water Source Heat Pumps apart from other condo HVAC systems is their ability to switch between heating and cooling modes at any time during operation. This is achieved through a reversing valve, which directs the refrigerant to the water heat exchanger for cooling or the air heat exchanger for heating.

Note: To ensure proper operation of water source heat pumps, the water temperature in the building's closed-loop system must remain between 60°F and 90°F. Buildings with heat pump HVAC systems use a central boiler and chiller to regulate this temperature. This setup helps high-rise buildings save energy by balancing heating and cooling needs, maintaining the required temperature through the building's closed-loop water system during intermediate seasons.

Omega and Whalen heat pump systems are among the most commonly used water source heat pumps in high-rise condo suites throughout the Toronto and GTA area. GTA Restore provides comprehensive heating and air conditioning services, including repair, maintenance, and installation, specifically for Whalen and Omega heat pump systems in condo buildings. If you have an existing Whalen or Omega heat pump system, contact us today for a free replacement quote!

Most heat pump manufacturers provide a standard warranty of 1 year for parts and 5 years for the compressor on all new installations throughout Ontario. This may vary depending on the manufacturer. At GTA Restore, we also include a 1-year full labor warranty with all our water source heat pump installations. Our services are performed by experienced technicians and are fully insured. For more details about our extended warranty program, contact us today!

Repair costs for condo heat pumps can vary widely. For basic electrical issues, you can expect to pay between $180 and $1,200 plus HST. If your heat pump is diagnosed with a refrigerant leak or mechanical malfunction, repair costs can range from $1,000 to $3,500 plus tax.

The cost of replacing a condo heat pump can vary based on the building and unit specifications. Each condo is unique, with its own engineering requirements. In Toronto and the GTA, installing a new heat pump in a condo typically ranges from $3,000 to $5,500 plus applicable taxes.

Due to condominium bylaws and specific requirements, a thorough assessment of the existing HVAC system is necessary before any installation can take place. After evaluating the current system specifications, we can suggest suitable replacement options. Unlike residential furnaces and air conditioners, condo heating and cooling systems have limited options due to specific HVAC regulations. As a result, we only provide certified products, parts, and equipment for repair or replacement projects.

Condo heat pumps, also known as water source heat pumps, use electricity to provide both heating and air conditioning.

A condo heat pump system consists of four major components:

1. Heat Pump Chassis
2. Electrical Board
3. Blower Fan Motor and Assembly
4. Thermostat and Wiring

Mechanical wear and tear is the leading cause of compressor failure in older heat pump systems in Toronto and the GTA. Typically, it is advised to replace the entire heat pump chassis when the compressor fails due to leaks or mechanical issues.

The reversing valve controls the transition between heating and cooling modes. If it malfunctions, your heat pump may become stuck in either heating or cooling mode and fail to switch between the two.

• Insufficient heating or cooling, or both
• Frost or ice buildup around the chassis area
• No heating or cooling output

• Most water leakage issues are caused by clogged drain pans. To prevent in-suite water leak problems, many condo buildings perform annual heat pump maintenance. Water damage is a leading factor in rising insurance premiums for high-rise buildings.

• If your building is over 10 years old, please reach out to us to schedule an on-site assessment. We collaborate closely with condo property managers and residents to provide the most dependable condo HVAC services in Toronto and the GTA.

  We partner directly with condo water source heat pump manufacturers to offer cost-effective HVAC replacement solutions. Our services include:

  • Building HVAC Engineering Analysis
  • Project Feasibility
  • Environmental Benefits
  • Estimates and Cost Projections
  • Condominium HVAC Financing
  • Pump Maintenance Programs and Warranties

• Yes, absolutely!

  Your condo heat pump system can indeed shut down or malfunction due to central HVAC and plumbing issues within your building. Our technicians thoroughly check for these issues during emergency inspections to rule them out. If your heat pump failure is due to a building-wide problem, others in the building may experience similar issues. In such cases, a condo HVAC specialist will need to provide a report to your property manager addressing the situation.