Installing an air exchanger often hides more than you’re told
At AirGreen, we’ve spent years working on HVAC systems that were installed without any long-term performance considerations. Behind a professional facade, some installers overlook crucial elements that end up compromising indoor air quality and the durability of the system. Whether you live in Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, on the North Shore or the South Shore, it’s vital to know these technical tips and frequent mistakes to avoid nasty surprises.
Today, we’re pulling back the curtain on what some installers would rather keep quiet – so you can make informed decisions for your home or building.
The most common shortcuts in air exchanger installation
1. Skipping airflow calibration
Many installers install the unit without adjusting the airflow based on the actual size of the house or building. This causes a pressure imbalance, excess humidity, or overly dry air.
2. Placing the stale air intake too close to the fresh air intake
This leads to polluted air recirculation, especially in townhouses or densely populated urban areas like Montréal.
3. Not insulating ducts in attics
In winter, warm air flowing through uninsulated ducts loses temperature, encouraging condensation and mold. This is a major mistake we frequently correct, especially in Laval and on the North Shore.
4. Ignoring the unit’s noise level
Some low-cost models produce a high noise level, which quickly becomes unbearable if the unit is installed near a bedroom or workspace. At AirGreen, we only install certified quiet models, such as the Venmar EVO5 500 HRV or Lifebreath MAX Series.
What we do differently at AirGreen
We believe that every installation is unique. Here are the steps we follow to ensure a high-performing, long-lasting system:
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Full building assessment: layout, orientation, number of occupants, observed humidity level.
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Tailored air exchanger selection based on the client’s reality: HRV or ERV, CFM volume, noise level, filter type.
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Strategic placement of exhaust and supply vents to avoid dead zones or airflow crossover.
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Airflow balancing using professional measurement tools.
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Clear explanations to the client on recommended maintenance, indicator lights, and optimal system use.
Testimonials from our clients in Greater Montréal
Longueuil – Remote-working family
“After the first exchanger was installed by another company, we still had condensation on the windows. AirGreen found the airflow was unbalanced and the ducts weren’t insulated. Since they came, everything is dry and the air feels much fresher.”
Montréal – Triplex owner on the Plateau
“The previous installer placed the stale air intake right next to the fresh air intake on the back wall. Result: constant cooking smells in the bedrooms. AirGreen repositioned everything and cleaned the ducts. I recommend them without hesitation.”
Blainville (North Shore) – New home
“We thought everything was up to standard, but after six months, humidity was still around 65% in winter. AirGreen replaced the undersized unit with a Lennox HRV700, and installed a humidity controller. Result: much healthier air.”
Recommended models for a successful installation
Here are a few models we regularly recommend and install for our residential and commercial clients:
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Venmar EVO5 500 HRV: quiet, compact, ideal for single-family homes
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Lifebreath MAX Series 155 ECM: excellent energy efficiency, MERV 13 filters, perfect for the South Shore
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Lennox HRV700 or ERV300: reliable, easy to maintain, suited for large homes
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Fantech VHR150: robust and durable, great value for multi-unit buildings
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Venmar AVS X Series: smart-home compatible, ultra-quiet
All these models are eligible for Hydro-Québec’s LogisVert grants, which can go up to $1,600, depending on your region and housing type.
Mistakes to avoid if you’re planning an installation soon
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Choosing a model based on price alone
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Skipping a full building assessment by a specialist
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Installing an oversized unit in a small home
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Forgetting mandatory annual maintenance (filter cleaning, duct inspection)
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Not asking for proof of airflow balancing
A good air exchanger, poorly installed, becomes a bad investment.
Our promise: transparency, precision, results
At AirGreen, we don’t compromise on installation quality. We train our technicians to detect and correct the most common errors, while offering custom solutions. We serve the entire Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, North Shore, and South Shore areas with an approach based on listening, technical expertise, and reliability.
Call on our team if you want a system that’s discreet, high-performing, and built to last, with no unpleasant surprises.