Incredible Story: How a Daycare Drastically Reduced Infections by Upgrading Its Ventilation System

A smart ventilation system at the heart of children's health

In today’s world, where indoor air quality and children’s health are top priorities, the story of a daycare in Laval that significantly reduced respiratory infections simply by upgrading its ventilation system is one worth telling. At AirGreen, we strongly believe that smart ventilation plays a key role in preventing illness and creating comfortable learning environments. This project is clear proof of the real impact a well-adapted air exchanger can have.

The challenge: an overcrowded daycare, stagnant air, frequent illnesses

This daycare, located in Laval, welcomed an average of 40 children per day. Every winter, staff saw a spike in absences due to respiratory infections — colds, flu, bronchitis. Parents complained, educators were overwhelmed, and the atmosphere became increasingly difficult to manage. The indoor air felt heavy, often humid, and the windows stayed shut to retain heat.

After learning about the new generation of ventilation technologies, the administration contacted AirGreen for a free on-site assessment. Our specialists quickly identified an outdated air exchanger, running continuously without any sensors, poorly adapted to the high occupancy, and unable to effectively refresh the air.

The AirGreen solution: a smart air exchanger from Lifebreath

We recommended installing a Lifebreath air exchanger with integrated CO₂ and humidity sensors, specifically designed for high-occupancy spaces like schools and daycare centers. This system automatically adjusts ventilation based on:

• The number of people detected in the room

• CO₂ levels in the indoor air

• Humidity levels caused by daily activities

The installation took just one day and didn’t interrupt daycare operations. We integrated an easy-to-use central digital control panel, allowing staff to monitor air quality in real time and adjust settings as needed.

The results: a significant drop in infections after just one winter

The impact was immediate:

• 45% reduction in absences due to respiratory illness compared to the previous year

• Noticeable improvement in children’s concentration and behavior

• Fewer complaints from parents

• Better staff retention thanks to a healthier environment

This project became a reference case for AirGreen and is frequently mentioned when explaining the concrete benefits of smart HVAC installation in sensitive environments.

Why does this technology make such a difference?

1. Real-time adaptive ventilation

Unlike standard systems, this smart air exchanger adjusts intensity based on immediate needs. This prevents energy waste while ensuring optimal air quality, even during peak activity hours.

2. Continuous monitoring and built-in alerts

The system automatically notifies when maintenance is needed or if CO₂ levels hit a critical threshold. No more waiting for symptoms to appear — the system takes action before issues arise.

3. Full compliance with current health regulations

AirGreen’s solution not only meets the standards of CNESST and the Ministère de la Famille, but also exceeds them in terms of prevention and proactive safety.

Technical specs of the installed system

• Model: Lifebreath RNC 205-TPD

• Capacity: up to 250 CFM (ideal for buildings up to 3,000 sq. ft.)

• Sensors: built-in CO₂ and relative humidity sensors

• Performance: 80% heat recovery efficiency

• Eligibility: approved for the Hydro-Québec LogisVert program, offering up to $950 in financial assistance

Grants available for educational institutions

Installations in daycare centers and private schools are partially subsidized through various programs, including:

• Hydro-Québec’s LogisVert program

• Laval-specific municipal aid

• Funding programs for community-use buildings

At AirGreen, we handle all administrative steps and gather the required documents to help you maximize your grants.

Common mistakes we help you avoid

Using a residential air exchanger in a high-traffic building

This often leads to insufficient ventilation, premature equipment failure, and complaints.

Installing a system without conducting a proper airflow analysis

Every building has specific needs. At AirGreen, we always perform a complete evaluation of the required air exchange rate.

Skipping post-installation maintenance

Even top-tier systems require regular cleanings to maintain performance. We offer turnkey HVAC maintenance services tailored to institutional needs.

Why work with AirGreen?

For over 15 years, we’ve been installing and maintaining HVAC systems in educational, commercial, and residential settings in Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore, and the South Shore. We understand the unique constraints of child-focused environments — their comfort needs, air quality standards, and the importance of minimal disruption.

Our team is trained, certified, and specialized in complex projects, where health, safety, and performance must go hand in hand. This Laval daycare project is a perfect showcase of our expertise.

Do you manage a daycare or school?

Here’s how to take action today:

1. Contact us for a free on-site evaluation

2. Receive a detailed quote including potential grant calculations

3. Schedule a fast, disruption-free installation

4. Benefit from full technical support and customized maintenance plans