A Revealing Residential Building: How a High-Performance Air Exchanger Transforms Indoor Air Quality
As part of our mission to enhance comfort and health for occupants through innovative HVAC solutions, we recently completed the installation of an air exchanger in a multifamily residential building in Laval, which dramatically demonstrates the impact of filtered air on residents' well-being. This article details a striking experiment conducted in this building: before and after the installation of a high-performance air exchanger.
An Older Building, a Common Issue: Polluted Air
The building in question, located in the Chomedey area of Laval, consists of over ten units, all built before 2000. While the insulation was adequate, the increased tightness of the walls and windows prevented effective natural ventilation. The result was the accumulation of humidity, CO₂, and indoor pollutants (VOCs, dust, mold), noticeable both to the occupants and measured by our instruments.
Before any intervention, we conducted a comprehensive air quality analysis: relative humidity levels of up to 75% in some units, lingering odors, condensation on the windows during winter, and CO₂ levels above 1,500 ppm during peak hours — well beyond the recommended threshold of 1,000 ppm.
The Challenge: Improving Air Quality Without Compromising Energy Efficiency
At AirGreen, we know that installing an air exchanger allows indoor air to be refreshed without heat loss, while reducing concentrations of pollutants. For this project in Laval, our team recommended installing several HRVs (Heat Recovery Ventilators) from the Venmar AVS N Series 160 CFM with integrated HEPA filters. This model is known for:
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Its airflow capacity suited to multifamily buildings.
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Its highly efficient heat exchange (>75%).
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Its advanced filtration system, ideal for urban environments.
The Installation: A Precise Coordination
The intervention took five days and involved three skilled AirGreen technicians. Each unit was installed in the central ventilation ducts of the building, with fresh air intakes on the roof and well-insulated exhausts. We also installed smart wall controls in each apartment, allowing residents to adjust the ventilation based on their needs (continuous, intensive, or intermittent mode).
Challenges Encountered:
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Restricted access to certain vertical ducts required custom modifications.
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The need to avoid any noise disturbance led to the addition of acoustic silencers on the main ducts.
Despite these constraints, all systems were delivered, installed, and tested successfully within the set timeframe.
After Installation: Measurable Improvement in Air Quality
Two weeks after installation, a new round of tests was carried out to compare the results.
| Measured Parameter | Before Installation | After Installation |
|---|---|---|
| CO₂ (ppm) | 1,500+ | 650–850 |
| Relative Humidity (%) | 70–75% | 40–50% |
| Total VOCs (ppb) | 900–1,100 | 200–300 |
| PM2.5 Dust (µg/m³) | 35–50 | 10–15 |
The residents’ feedback didn’t take long to arrive: improved sleep, reduced persistent odors, less condensation on windows, and even a decrease in respiratory symptoms for several occupants.
“I no longer need to open my windows to breathe fresh air, even in winter. The change is immediate and striking.” – Mrs. Lafleur, resident for 15 years.
Why Filtering the Air in a Building is Essential in Laval
In Laval, urban density combined with major roadways exposes buildings to significant outdoor pollution. Without a high-performance ventilation system, this pollution accumulates indoors. Fine particles (PM2.5), nitrogen oxides, pollen, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) easily penetrate poorly ventilated apartments.
Thanks to air exchangers equipped with high-efficiency filters, we can not only filter out these contaminants but also preserve heat during winter — a crucial advantage for homeowners concerned about their heating bills.
A Worthwhile Investment Thanks to Available Grants
This project also benefited from a subsidy from Hydro-Québec's LogisVert program, which covers part of the cost for energy-efficient ventilation systems. Thanks to our services, the building owner received up to $1,400 in financial aid, in addition to long-term savings on heating costs.
AirGreen Expertise for Multifamily Buildings
This project is just one example of how our personalized and meticulous approach to HVAC installation has brought tangible improvements to indoor comfort. At AirGreen, we don’t just install equipment: we analyze, plan, install, and provide continuous support for each client with professional follow-up.
Our Commitments:
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Rigorous selection of equipment based on actual needs.
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Quick, clean installation, compliant with the latest standards.
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Technical support and recommendations for optimal maintenance.
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Assistance in obtaining available subsidies.
Advice for Property Owners in Laval, Longueuil, and Rive Nord
If you manage a building or condominium on the North Shore or the South Shore, it’s essential to monitor indoor air quality, especially in winter. Polluted air can harm the health of occupants, promote mold growth, and accelerate material degradation.
Here are a few signs that an air exchanger might be needed:
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Frequent condensation on windows.
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Lingering odors even after airing out the space.
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Coughing or allergies among occupants.
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Excessive humidity or visible mold.
In all of these cases, our team can conduct a complete evaluation of your current ventilation system and propose a suitable solution.
Conclusion: Clean Air for a Peaceful Everyday Life
This project in Laval demonstrates that filtering and refreshing indoor air with a well-designed air exchanger truly changes the lives of residents. At AirGreen, our priority is to offer durable, efficient HVAC solutions tailored to each building, considering the climatic and urban realities of Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, Rive Nord, and Rive Sud.
Trust AirGreen to transform your living space into a healthy, comfortable, and energy-efficient environment.