Air exchangers play a vital role in maintaining indoor air quality, whether it’s in a home or a commercial building. Yet, the fundamental differences between a residential and a commercial air exchanger are often misunderstood—or completely overlooked. At AirGreen, with our proven expertise in air exchanger HVAC installation across Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore and the South Shore, we’re shedding light on these crucial distinctions. This article offers a technical, strategic, and practical deep dive into the real differences between these two types of systems.
Understanding the role of an air exchanger in any building
An air exchanger ensures continuous renewal of indoor air while recovering heat from outgoing air to optimize energy efficiency. This process is essential for preventing excess humidity, stagnant air, and mold growth. But the context of use—a private home or a commercial facility—completely changes the needs, technology, and installation requirements.
Airflow capacity: a question of scale
Treated airflow (CFM): the key variable
A typical residential air exchanger runs at around 100 to 200 CFM (cubic feet per minute), or about 170 to 340 m³/h. That’s sufficient for single-family homes up to 3,000 square feet.
On the other hand, a commercial air exchanger can easily exceed 1,000 CFM, even reaching 10,000 CFM in larger buildings. Why? Because these facilities house more people, more equipment, and have far more complex ventilation needs (restaurants, clinics, offices, schools, etc.).
Direct consequence on design
Commercial models require more powerful fans, reinforced structure, oversized ductwork, and often sophisticated electronic regulation to maintain variable airflow by zone (conference rooms, kitchens, warehouses…).
Embedded technology: smart control vs streamlined efficiency
Residential models: energy efficiency and discretion
Modern residential air exchangers (HRVs or ERVs) are built around:
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High-efficiency ECM motors.
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Standard filtration (MERV 6 to 8).
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A simple wall-mounted interface or integration with a smart thermostat.
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A compact unit, usually installed in the attic, basement, or mechanical room.
Commercial models: centralized control and advanced filtration
On the commercial side, you’ll find:
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BMS (Building Management System) control panels.
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High-grade filtration (MERV 13+, HEPA in hospitals).
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CO2 and humidity sensors with connectivity.
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Modular structure for rooftop or mechanical room integration.
Installation constraints: complexity and building adaptation
Residential: space optimization
At AirGreen, when we work in a house, the key is often to minimize space usage and noise, while maintaining optimal efficiency. We integrate the air exchanger into an existing system (central heat pump, ductwork) or install a dedicated low-profile duct network.
Commercial: strategic sizing
In commercial contexts, the challenges are entirely different:
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Meeting strict ventilation standards (NBC, ASHRAE 62.1).
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Interdisciplinary coordination (electricians, mechanical engineers, architects).
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Rooftop or mechanical room installation, requiring anchor structures.
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Easy maintenance access and technician safety.
Cost and grants: two different realities
Residential: fast return on investment
Installing an air exchanger in a house typically ranges from $2,000 to $5,000, depending on complexity. Programs like Hydro-Québec’s LogisVert Grant or certain municipal incentives can help reduce these costs.
Commercial: custom investment
In commercial settings, projects are typically custom-quoted, ranging from $15,000 to $100,000 or more, depending on building size and specific needs. The investment pays off in energy savings, regulatory compliance, and increased comfort for occupants.
AirGreen case studies: two different worlds
Residential – Laval, bungalow home
We installed a Venmar EVO5 700 HRV in a 1,600 sq. ft. bungalow in Laval. The challenge? Limited space in the crawlspace. Solution: wall-mounted unit in the garage, insulated flexible ducts, discreet exhaust grille. Result: fresh air, stable humidity levels, and a happy client.
Commercial – Longueuil, daycare center
A complex project: commercial-grade Zehnder ComfoAir Q600 exchanger with dual HEPA and UV-C filtration, in a 5,000 sq. ft. daycare facility. Objective: pristine air quality. Coordinated with an architect to integrate the unit on the roof. Result: perfect thermal comfort and full compliance with Ministry of Families regulations.
Maintenance: obligations and frequency
Residential
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Frequency: every 3 to 6 months.
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Tasks: filter cleaning, vent inspection, motor check-up.
Commercial
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Frequency: monthly to quarterly, depending on use.
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Tasks: deep cleaning, electronic calibration, audit reports.
AirGreen offers custom maintenance plans tailored to each type of equipment and building, across the North Shore and South Shore.
How to choose between the two?
If you're a homeowner, a residential air exchanger will meet your needs in 95% of cases. But if you’re a building manager, business owner, restaurateur, school director, or contractor, your needs call for a custom, certified system that meets commercial ventilation standards.
Why choose AirGreen for your air exchanger needs in Greater Montréal?
At AirGreen, we’re experts in both residential and commercial HVAC installations. Our team is trained to:
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Accurately assess your needs.
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Recommend the most suitable equipment (Venmar, Lifebreath, Zehnder, Broan…).
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Install professionally, within your budget, timeline, and all applicable standards.
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Provide responsive, professional after-sales support.
A final expert tip
Don’t wait until you’re uncomfortable or dealing with humidity issues to act. A good air exchanger improves your health, comfort, and building longevity. But if it’s poorly chosen or installed, it can be useless—or worse. Contact AirGreen today for a custom, professional assessment, anywhere in Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore, or the South Shore.