An invisible yet mandatory transformation of residential ventilation in Montréal
By 2026, a quiet revolution is taking place in the world of residential HVAC systems in Québec. The reason? The arrival of new government regulations on mechanical ventilation systems, particularly targeting air exchangers installed before 2010. For many homeowners across Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore and the South Shore, this means a looming obligation to replace their old air exchanger, or risk falling out of compliance with the latest standards on health, energy efficiency, and safety as set by Québec’s Building Code.
At AirGreen, we’re already helping our clients navigate this regulatory shift — all while significantly improving their indoor air quality.
What are the new requirements coming in 2026?
Starting in January 2026, ventilation systems will need to meet the following criteria:
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Mandatory ENERGY STAR certification for air exchangers installed in residential buildings
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Minimum heat recovery rate of over 65%
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Adjusted airflow based on the actual living area
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Accessible electronic controls and smart sensors to manage humidity levels
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Centralized air filtration and maintenance alerts
Why does this directly affect homeowners in Montréal?
Many Montréal properties — especially older plexes, renovated condos built before 2010, and single-family homes — are still equipped with first-generation air exchangers, which are often noisy, inefficient, and lack energy recovery features.
These systems:
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Consume excessive electricity
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Don’t offer smart control options
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Are poorly suited for current home sizes
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And worst of all: don’t filter outdoor air effectively
Case study: Mandatory replacement in Villeray (Montréal)
A triplex owner in Villeray recently contacted us after receiving a notice from the city requiring his property to be brought up to HVAC code prior to a rental inspection. His air exchanger, a 2004 model, lacked energy recovery and delivered under 40 CFM — only half of the required minimum.
AirGreen’s proposed solution:
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Removal of the old unit
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Installation of a Venmar EVO5 700 HRV with 115 CFM airflow, 75% certified heat recovery rate, and electronic wall control
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Addition of air return grilles in enclosed rooms
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Smart programming based on occupancy hours
Result: The inspection passed, indoor comfort improved, and the owner received a $500 LogisVert grant from Hydro-Québec.
What are the risks of keeping an old system after 2026?
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Legal non-compliance: difficulty obtaining permits (rental, resale, expansion)
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Municipal penalties or certification refusals during inspections
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High energy consumption and increased heating/cooling costs
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Health risks due to poor indoor air quality (pollutants, radon, humidity)
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Potential property value loss
How to prepare for the regulation shift without stress
At AirGreen, we’ve created a personalized transition plan for concerned property owners:
1. Free technical assessment
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Evaluation of your current air exchanger
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Review of airflow rate, noise, efficiency, and duct condition
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Subvention eligibility check for HVAC grants
2. Tailored recommendation
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Selection from certified brands: Venmar, Fantech, Lennox, Broan
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Equipment adapted to your living space, household size, and building layout
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Optional integration with smart thermostats and home automation systems
3. Professional installation
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Safe and clean removal of the old unit
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Ductwork reconfiguration if required
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Full user training for daily use and preventive maintenance
Advantages of a next-generation air exchanger
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Quiet operation ideal for restful sleep
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Energy savings through efficient heat recovery
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Real-time air quality monitoring via mobile app
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Superior filtration of outdoor pollutants, dust, and odors
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Seamless integration with your HVAC system (heat pump, humidifier, dehumidifier)
Available grants for replacement before 2026
The Québec government and cities like Montréal, Longueuil, and Laval offer:
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$500 LogisVert grant
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15% equipment rebate through some energy-efficiency programs
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Financing assistance for multi-unit property owners
Key Takeaways
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Starting in 2026, outdated air exchangers will no longer comply with Québec’s HVAC standards.
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This requirement affects thousands of properties in Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore and the South Shore.
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AirGreen is here to help you replace your system with certified, smart, and grant-eligible units.
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It's better to get ahead of the curve now than deal with legal or financial consequences later.
Contact us today to book a free inspection of your current air exchanger and get ahead of the 2026 regulation deadline.