When poor ventilation silently affects your comfort
Comfort issues in a home are often blamed on weak heating or an aging wall-mounted air conditioner. But in many cases across Laval, it’s actually a failing ERV (energy recovery ventilator) that’s to blame. At AirGreen, we’ve been called to many homes where the symptoms were subtle, but the consequences very real: humid air, persistent odors, or constant allergies. Here are 5 discreet signs your home may be giving you, indicating that a new ERV isn’t just desirable—it’s urgent.
1. Persistent condensation on windows, even in winter
Do you often see droplets of water or frost on the inside of your windows, especially in bedrooms or the kitchen? That’s a sign of poor ventilation preventing moisture from escaping. This excess humidity can weaken window frames, promote mold, and make the indoor air feel heavy. A modern ERV, like models from Fantech or Venmar, continuously removes moist air without losing heat.
2. A musty smell that never really goes away, especially in the basement
Many homes in Laval, especially in neighborhoods like Chomedey or Duvernay, were built with little or no mechanical ventilation in the basement. Air stagnates, and mold spores slowly multiply. A properly calibrated new ERV can transform stale air into healthy air—without needing to open windows or invest in expensive air purifiers.
3. Your allergies are worse at home than outside
That’s not normal. If your eyes itch, your nose runs, or you have a persistent cough only when you're home, chances are your indoor air quality is compromised. At AirGreen, we installed a Venmar AVS S10 ERV in a Fabreville home where the kids constantly suffered from rhinitis. Two weeks after installation, their symptoms had dropped by over 70%. The link was clear.
4. Some rooms are more humid or drier than others
Uneven humidity levels in different rooms often mean air exchange isn't happening evenly. This could be due to an outdated or poorly maintained ERV. One client in Sainte-Dorothée contacted us after noticing 65% humidity in the bathroom and only 30% in the bedroom. We replaced the unit with a Fantech ERV with integrated humidity control, and levels quickly balanced out.
5. Your ERV is over 10 years old (and sounds like a tired motor)
Like any HVAC equipment, air exchangers have a limited lifespan. After 8 to 10 years, motors wear down, filters lose effectiveness, and energy efficiency drops dramatically. Worse, some models like the Fantech VHR704 are no longer manufactured, making repairs virtually impossible. In these cases, replacement is the only viable solution, and the investment pays off quickly in energy savings.
Why replace now and not later?
Quebec winters are long, and poor air quality can seriously impact your comfort, health, and even your home’s structure. At AirGreen, we offer free evaluations in Laval, and we recommend the right units based on:
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The size of your home
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The humidity levels measured on-site
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Your existing HVAC system
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Available grants (such as Hydro-Québec’s LogisVert program)
Successful ERV installations in Laval
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Duvernay: Installed a Venmar AVS E15 ECM in a 2,200 sq. ft. home – humidity reduced from 68% to 45% in 3 days.
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Pont-Viau: Replaced an old non-recovery air exchanger with a Fantech VHR150, now integrated with the central system.
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Chomedey: Asthmatic client – clear air quality improvement with a Lennox HRV3-150 ERV.
What you gain with a new ERV
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Improved respiratory health for all occupants
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A home protected against mold and moisture-related damage
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Greater energy efficiency thanks to heat recovery
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Consistent indoor air quality, year-round
Mistakes to avoid
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Believing a basic bathroom fan is enough
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Neglecting maintenance on your existing ERV
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Choosing a model without considering the Quebec climate
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Installing a unit yourself without calibration, which can cause a pressure imbalance in your home
Why choose AirGreen
Our team of HVAC professionals in Laval installation, HVAC maintenance, and ERV replacements has completed hundreds of successful interventions on the North Shore. Our certified technicians assess every situation thoroughly and recommend tailored solutions with excellent value. We only work with trusted brands like Fantech, Venmar, Lennox, and Lifebreath.
We also know all the available grants and guide you through the application process at no additional cost.
Conclusion: Don’t let your home’s air compromise your well-being
If you live in Laval and have noticed one or more of the signs listed above, it’s time to take action. Installing a new ERV can radically improve your daily comfort, protect your home, and support your health.
Contact us today for a free estimate.