A fast and expert response for a private school in Laval left without heating in the heart of winter
At AirGreen, we understand that in the world of commercial heating, some calls simply can’t wait. When the central heating system of a private school in Laval failed during a freezing February morning, it was a full-blown emergency: over 200 students and staff were at risk of spending the day in the cold. At 6:48 AM, the school principal called us in a panic. By 8:32 AM, our commercial heating team was already on-site. Here’s a look back at this critical HVAC emergency, carried out with speed, precision, and professionalism.
Complete failure of the central heating system: assessing a high-risk situation
The existing forced-air heating system, a natural gas commercial unit installed nearly 20 years ago, had just given out. Restart attempts were unsuccessful, and the electrical panel showed signs of overload. Classroom temperatures had already dropped below 15°C, and students were set to arrive in less than an hour.
Our commercial HVAC technicians immediately secured the area, cut off the power supply, and conducted a thorough inspection of the furnace and ductwork. We quickly determined that the main blower motor had burned out, and the control board was completely fried. In such extreme cases, every minute counts.
Immediate response: strategic choice of a high-performing temporary solution
Given the urgency and the need to mitigate health and safety risks, we opted for a temporary solution while waiting to replace the entire system. That same morning, we installed two 15 kW industrial-grade portable electric heaters, CSA-certified for school use, connected to two dedicated circuits on the school’s secondary electrical panel.
These units were strategically placed to ensure even heat distribution across main hallways, the cafeteria, and the most frequented classrooms. Thanks to our emergency equipment fleet, we delivered, installed, and activated these units in less than an hour.
Planning and installation of a new commercial HVAC system in Laval
In parallel, we advised the school on replacing their failed central heating system. After assessing energy needs, total area, existing ventilation, and available budget, we recommended installing a Goodman GMEC96 gas-fired central system rated at 120,000 BTU, two-stage, paired with a Venmar EVO5 700 HRV air exchanger, to ensure optimal comfort and superior indoor air quality.
Why the Goodman GMEC96 model?
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96% AFUE energy efficiency, offering significant heating cost reductions.
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Two-stage technology for steady and even indoor temperatures.
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Compatible with the school’s existing ventilation system and smart thermostats.
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Durable components built for intensive commercial use, with a 10-year manufacturer’s warranty.
Technical challenges and solutions implemented
The school’s mechanical room lacked the space to accommodate the new unit without modifications. We therefore carried out a custom platform adjustment, reshaping the existing concrete base and optimizing the duct network. All this was done without disrupting classroom activities, thanks to meticulous scheduling over three evenings and one Saturday.
Additionally, the transition from the temporary heaters to the permanent system was managed smoothly and without service interruption.
A warm school again, with students and teachers safe and comfortable
By the following Monday, the new system was fully operational. Teachers reported consistent classroom temperatures, and the administration sincerely thanked us for our quick response, efficiency, and professionalism. The school now benefits from an annual commercial HVAC maintenance contract with AirGreen, including seasonal visits, combustion testing, and safety checks.
What this intervention demonstrates about our expertise
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Ability to respond in under 2 hours, even during critical emergencies.
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Proven expertise in commercial heating in Laval and across the North Shore.
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Temporary and permanent solutions tailored to the realities of commercial buildings.
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A proactive team that plans, installs, and optimizes every HVAC element.
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A trusted relationship built with the client from the first call.
AirGreen: your trusted partner for commercial heating in Montréal, Laval, and beyond
Schools, community centers, office buildings, and industrial facilities trust AirGreen for their thermal comfort and safety. Whether it’s a furnace replacement, central heat pump installation, or heating emergency, we’re ready to respond quickly, with precision and honesty.
We serve the entire Greater Montréal region, including Laval, Longueuil, the South Shore, and the North Shore, and we work with the most reliable brands in the industry: Goodman, Lennox, Trane, Bosch, Fujitsu, Haxxair, and more.
Responsible for a commercial building without heating or proper ventilation?
Don’t let a critical situation spiral out of control. Contact us now: we guarantee a fast response, honest advice, and concrete solutions. At AirGreen, we don’t just fix—we secure your comfort.