Understanding Air Exchangers: A Must for Every Home in Québec
At AirGreen, we know just how essential an air exchanger is for the comfort and health of a home or building. Yet, for many homeowners and property managers in Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, on the North Shore, and the South Shore, this system often remains unknown or misunderstood. This article aims to demystify air exchangers, explain how they work, their advantages, and how to choose one—in a way that’s clear, practical, and accessible. In just five minutes, you’ll understand everything you need to know before installing one or upgrading your current system.
What exactly is an air exchanger?
An air exchanger is a mechanical ventilation system (HRV or ERV) that removes stale indoor air while bringing in fresh outdoor air. This process is essential, especially in well-insulated homes, where indoor air can become more polluted than outdoor air.
There are two main types:
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Standard air exchanger (ERV – Energy Recovery Ventilation)
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Heat Recovery Ventilation (HRV)
The main difference? HRVs recover heat from the outgoing air to preheat incoming air during winter, reducing energy consumption.
Why install an air exchanger?
1. Improved indoor air quality
An air exchanger removes excess humidity, allergens, CO2, odors, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and other indoor pollutants.
2. Prevention of mold and moisture issues
High humidity promotes mold growth, which is harmful to both health and your home’s structure. An air exchanger effectively regulates indoor humidity.
3. Energy savings
With an HRV, you recover up to 80% of the heat from outgoing air in winter. This helps to minimize heat loss and reduce your energy bill.
4. Year-round comfort
The system improves air distribution and maintains a healthier, more balanced, and more comfortable indoor environment.
How does an air exchanger work?
The air exchanger includes two main ducts:
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One that extracts stale air from areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms.
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Another that brings in filtered fresh air into living spaces.
A heat exchange core transfers the heat from the outgoing air to the incoming air without mixing the two flows. This is known as the heat recovery principle.
Installation: what we do at AirGreen
At AirGreen, we install air exchangers in all types of residential and commercial buildings, whether it’s a single-family home in Longueuil, a condo in Laval, or an office on the North Shore.
Typical steps in our installations:
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Personalized on-site assessment
We analyze air volume, building layout, relative humidity, and your specific needs. -
Choosing the right unit
We offer trusted brands like Venmar, Fantech, Lifebreath, and Vanee, based on efficiency, noise level, filtration, and ease of maintenance. -
Custom installation
Our certified technicians ensure a discreet, efficient installation that meets Québec Building Code standards. -
Airflow verification and duct balancing
A proper system needs balanced airflow to guarantee optimal ventilation without creating negative pressure inside your home. -
Full client walkthrough
We show you how to maintain the filters, set up cycles, and adjust settings depending on the season.
When should you consider adding or replacing an air exchanger?
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New or renovated homes with tight insulation
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Recurring humidity or mold issues
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Stuffy indoor air or persistent odors
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Allergies or respiratory sensitivities
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Insufficient natural ventilation
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When an existing system is more than 10 to 15 years old
Financial aid and grants available
Several government and municipal incentive programs can help cover the cost of installing or replacing an air exchanger. For example:
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Rénoclimat program from the Québec government
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Local grants in Laval, Longueuil, or the South Shore depending on the municipality
At AirGreen, we take care of checking your eligibility and guiding you through the administrative steps.
Maintenance tips
An air exchanger needs regular maintenance to keep working at peak performance:
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Clean the filters every 2 to 3 months
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Inspect grilles and ducts annually
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Winter defrosting for units sensitive to freezing
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Annual preventive maintenance (we offer custom packages)
Real testimonials: our expertise in action
“We had a Venmar EVO5 air exchanger installed at our place in Boucherville by AirGreen, and the difference is amazing. The air is fresher, drier, and our allergies are nearly gone. Fast, clean, and very professional service.”
– Marc-Antoine P., South Shore
“My building in Laval had serious humidity problems. AirGreen found the perfect model and completed the installation in a single day, with zero disruption to my tenants.”
– Geneviève D., property manager
Why choose AirGreen for your air exchanger?
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Over 15 years of local HVAC expertise
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Certified, highly qualified installers
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Honest advice tailored to each client
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Responsive after-sales service
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Fast service across Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, North Shore, and South Shore
In summary: an air exchanger is more than a luxury
Whether it’s to improve your indoor air quality, reduce your energy costs, or protect your family’s health, having an air exchanger installed by professionals like us at AirGreen is a smart and long-lasting decision.
Contact us today for a free estimate and personalized advice. Our team is ready to deliver top-quality HVAC installation services across the Greater Montréal Area.