You might be breathing polluted air without even knowing it
At AirGreen, we regularly meet homeowners in Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, on the North Shore and the South Shore who believe the air inside their home is cleaner than the air outside. Yet, the reality is often the opposite. Indoor air can be up to five times more polluted than outdoor air. Dust, spores, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), excess humidity, gases, mold... all invisible particles we breathe every single day.
And the health consequences are very real: chronic allergies, respiratory issues, constant fatigue, migraines, even worsened conditions like asthma. The lack of proper ventilation is often the main cause. This is where installing a high-performance air exchanger makes all the difference.
What makes indoor air so toxic?
A silent buildup of household pollutants
In a well-insulated home—especially renovated or new ones—air doesn’t circulate much. While that’s great for energy efficiency, it can become an invisible trap for pollutants. Here are some of the most common sources:
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Chemical cleaning products (cleaners, detergents, air fresheners)
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Paints, varnishes, glues
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Combustion stoves, fireplaces
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New construction materials and furniture (formaldehyde, benzene...)
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Stagnant humidity encouraging mold
Without fresh air circulation, these pollutants build up. And if you have pets, a steamy bathroom, or an active kitchen, the problem only gets worse.
The crucial role of balanced humidity
Another underestimated factor is indoor humidity levels. If too low, it dries out mucous membranes and irritates airways. Too high, it promotes mold growth and dust mites. A good air exchanger with humidity control helps maintain an ideal level between 40% and 50%, dramatically reducing health risks.
Why an air exchanger changes everything
The essential role of an air exchanger in your HVAC system
An air exchanger, or HRV (heat recovery ventilator), continuously renews your home's air without wasting energy. It removes stale air (full of CO2, humidity, odors, pollutants) and replaces it with fresh outdoor air—while recovering the heat to avoid energy loss.
Immediate and long-term benefits:
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Dramatic reduction in respiratory issues and allergies
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Improved sleep and focus
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Elimination of persistent odors
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Prevention of mold and condensation
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Increased property value
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Enhanced overall quality of life for everyone in the home
Case Study: an AirGreen installation on the South Shore
A few months ago, a family in Brossard contacted us: their children were suffering from persistent allergies and unexplained nighttime coughing. Their home, although well insulated, lacked mechanical ventilation. After a complete air quality analysis, we installed a Venmar AVS® HRV air exchanger with integrated humidity sensors.
The result: within two weeks, symptoms had drastically improved. Indoor humidity is now stable at 45%, the air is constantly refreshed, and lingering cooking odors are gone. The parents even told us that they sleep better, a benefit they hadn’t anticipated.
How do you know if you need an air exchanger?
Here are some tell-tale signs that you may be breathing overly polluted indoor air:
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Foggy windows in winter
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Lingering odors (cooking, pets, dampness)
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Visible mold or musty smells
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Chronic coughing, blocked nose, constant fatigue
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Unusual or worsened allergies
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A “heavy” air feeling or discomfort in certain rooms
Common mistakes to avoid
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Confusing bathroom fans or range hoods with central ventilation: they aren’t enough to clean the entire home’s air.
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Installing an air exchanger without professional balancing: the balance between air intake and extraction is critical.
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Choosing a unit not suited for your home’s size or Québec’s climate
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Neglecting maintenance: a clogged filter greatly reduces your exchanger’s performance.
Our AirGreen approach: expertise and transparency
At AirGreen, we do more than just sell HVAC systems. We provide customized solutions based on a full evaluation of your home. Our team:
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Analyzes your indoor air quality
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Calculates ventilation needs based on square footage and occupancy
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Recommends the best models (Venmar, Lifebreath, Broan, Aldes…)
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Performs meticulous installations in full compliance with standards
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Ensures regular maintenance for long-lasting performance
Our services are available throughout Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore, and the South Shore.
Financial assistance available
Did you know that some air exchangers qualify for grants through programs like Rénoclimat or Hydro-Québec’s LogisVert? Our team helps you put together your application to maximize eligibility and reduce installation costs.
Practical tips before installation
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Request a free air analysis if you notice several of the symptoms mentioned.
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Choose a model with heat recovery (HRV) to optimize energy efficiency.
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Check for easy access to filters for simple maintenance.
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Choose a specialized company like AirGreen for a certified, guaranteed installation.
Why choose AirGreen for your air exchanger?
Our HVAC expertise is backed by over 15 years of experience installing ventilation and heat pump systems throughout Greater Montréal. What sets us apart:
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Accurate and transparent diagnostics
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A team that’s certified and dedicated
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Partnerships with top brands
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Exceptional after-sales service
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Full support for grants and paperwork
In conclusion: don’t underestimate the air you breathe
The air you breathe at home may be affecting your health, comfort, and overall quality of life. A simple air exchanger can completely transform your everyday environment, making it healthier, fresher, and more pleasant.
At AirGreen, we’re with you every step of the way to ensure a high-quality HVAC installation, perfectly tailored to your needs. Contact us today for a personalized assessment.