Incorrect use of your air exchanger can seriously compromise indoor air quality. Here’s how to avoid the most common mistakes and ensure clean, balanced air throughout your home or building.
Why the air exchanger is a key component in any HVAC system
At AirGreen, we know that a well-used air exchanger is essential to maintaining optimal air quality, especially in regions like Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore, and the South Shore, where the climate varies significantly and places specific demands on ventilation. It’s not enough to simply install a high-performing exchanger — it must also be used properly, or it can become ineffective, even harmful.
Let’s look at the 7 most common mistakes we encounter during our HVAC inspections and maintenance visits, and the concrete solutions we recommend to avoid them.
1. Incorrect airflow settings
A common error: airflow that’s too low or too high
An improper airflow rate is one of the most widespread issues. Too little airflow won’t remove enough humidity or pollutants. On the other hand, excessive airflow can create unpleasant drafts or cool the home unnecessarily.
Our recommendation
During every air exchanger installation, our technicians precisely adjust the airflow rates based on the building’s size, occupancy, and specific needs. It’s essential to have these settings checked at least once a year, especially after any renovations.
2. Dirty or poorly maintained filters
A clogged filter = an ineffective exchanger
A dirty filter restricts airflow, overburdens the system, and harms air quality. It encourages the buildup of dust, mold, spores, and other pollutants.
Our AirGreen solution
We provide a full HVAC maintenance service that includes cleaning or replacing air exchanger filters. We recommend doing this every 3 to 6 months, depending on usage and the presence of pets, allergens, or recent construction.
3. Incorrect connection to return and supply ducts
Poor configuration disrupts natural airflow
We’ve seen many installations where air exchanger ducts are poorly placed, leading to pressure imbalances or stagnant zones within the home.
The AirGreen approach
Our experts carefully evaluate each configuration: single-family homes, condos, multi-unit buildings, or commercial properties. Each duct is strategically installed to ensure smooth, balanced airflow, no matter the season.
4. Neglecting the heat recovery core
The heart of the system is often overlooked
The core of the air exchanger, which enables heat recovery, can accumulate dust or mold if not cleaned regularly. This reduces energy efficiency and raises the risk of air contamination.
Our recommendation
An annual professional cleaning is crucial. During our service calls in Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore, and the South Shore, we disassemble, wash with mild soapy water, and thoroughly inspect the core.
5. Improper use of automatic and manual modes
Using auto mode at the wrong time
Many clients leave their exchanger in automatic mode, which isn’t always appropriate — especially during renovations, humid periods, or heavy cooking.
What we recommend
At AirGreen, we educate every client on the different operating modes. Manual or high-speed mode is often preferable during specific times, like after showers, in winter, or when occupancy is high.
6. Installation in poorly ventilated or unsuitable locations
Location = performance
An exchanger installed in a confined space (closets, unventilated attics) can accumulate moisture or overheat, significantly reducing its lifespan.
What we do differently
Our installations always meet the highest standards. We choose a location that ensures easy maintenance access, natural ventilation around the unit, and optimal duct distribution throughout the building.
7. Neglecting to check outdoor air intakes
Blocked exterior grilles = a suffocating system
Outdoor air intakes can become clogged with leaves, snow, ice, or insect nests. This blocks fresh air from entering and prevents proper exhaust of stale air.
Our AirGreen practice
We always inspect intake and exhaust vents during our maintenance visits. We also install climate-appropriate exterior grilles and advise you on seasonal upkeep.
Our recommendations for healthy year-round ventilation
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Have your air exchanger professionally inspected annually.
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Clean or replace the filters every 3 to 6 months.
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Check the condition of outdoor air intakes, especially in winter.
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Adjust the airflow and operating modes according to the season and household activity.
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Avoid installations done hastily by non-specialist contractors.
AirGreen expertise: more than just ventilation
At AirGreen, our mission is clear: to provide families and businesses in the Greater Montréal area with superior air quality, thanks to custom HVAC installations, high-quality products, and rigorous maintenance service.
Whether you’re a homeowner or a commercial building manager, we offer tailored solutions to optimize your air exchange system while ensuring maximum energy efficiency.
Planning an air exchanger project in Montréal, Laval, Longueuil or on the North or South Shore?
Don’t wait until mistakes compromise your indoor air quality. Contact us today for an inspection, preventive maintenance, or professional air exchanger installation. At AirGreen, we breathe quality.