The essential role of a professional in air exchanger installation
Installing an air exchanger may seem simple at first glance, but the technical reality of this kind of HVAC equipment requires deep expertise. At AirGreen, we’re often called in to fix poorly executed jobs done by handymen or non-specialized contractors. A bad installation is more than just uncomfortable—it can lead to serious issues like excessive humidity, mold, abnormal energy consumption, or even the recirculation of stale air into your living areas.
Understanding the importance of an air exchanger in a home or commercial building
An air exchanger ensures constant renewal of the indoor air. It removes stale air and brings in fresh air while recovering the heat from the outgoing air to maximize energy efficiency. This process is critical in cities like Montreal, Laval, and Longueuil, where buildings are well insulated but often poorly ventilated.
The efficiency of an air exchanger depends on precise sizing, properly calculated ductwork, and strategic placement. A bad installation undermines all of this and can cancel out the benefits you were counting on.
Common mistakes in non-professional installations
At AirGreen, we’ve seen countless errors during our service calls to fix faulty installs:
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Improper sizing: A unit that's too small doesn’t ventilate enough, while one that's too large wastes energy.
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Poorly placed ductwork: Ducts that are too long, too narrow, or poorly insulated lead to energy loss.
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Exhausting air near sensitive zones: Some installers make the mistake of exhausting stale air near an entryway or window, which causes recirculation.
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Poor sealing: Cold or damp air can infiltrate the system, destabilizing thermal comfort and increasing energy costs.
A real case: replacing a poorly installed air exchanger in Laval
A homeowner in Laval contacted us after noticing heavy condensation on windows, lingering odors, and a damp feeling in the house. The air exchanger, installed by a general contractor, had been connected to existing dryer ducts—an extremely serious mistake.
We conducted a full assessment, removed the faulty setup, and installed a Venmar AVS Nox 300 HRV model, designed for mid-sized homes with a controlled airflow of 159 CFM. We redesigned the duct system so that fresh air would circulate efficiently in living areas, while stale air was properly extracted from bathrooms and the kitchen.
The result: immediate return to comfort, humidity under control, and a noticeable improvement in air quality.
Why choose AirGreen for your air exchanger installation
A thorough evaluation of your needs
We assess every home or commercial space according to its unique characteristics: air volume, number of occupants, room layout, insulation, etc. This detailed diagnosis allows us to propose the right unit and ensure a custom-tailored installation.
Hands-on expertise across Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore, and the South Shore
Our teams operate daily throughout the Greater Montreal region. We know the local regulations, architectural quirks of Plateau homes or Brossard townhouses, and the thermal needs of century-old houses in Saint-Eustache.
We use the best brands
We work with trusted brands like Venmar, Lifebreath, Fantech, and Broan, offering HRV (Heat Recovery Ventilator) or ERV (Energy Recovery Ventilator) models depending on the application. Each unit is selected for its performance, energy efficiency, and reliability.
Full after-sales service
Installation is just the beginning. We offer regular maintenance for filters, motors, and ductwork, and we’re always available for fast service calls when needed.
Available grants and financial incentives
Another benefit of working with a professional like AirGreen: we help guide you through available grant programs. For example:
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Hydro-Québec’s LogisVert Program
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Rénoclimat
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Municipal-specific rebates
By choosing a certified unit and professional installation, you can receive several hundred dollars in grants, on top of long-term energy savings.
Practical tips before installing
Before installing an air exchanger, we recommend the following steps:
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Have your home assessed by an HVAC professional.
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Get a personalized analysis based on your space (surface area, number of occupants, daily usage).
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Avoid temporary or low-cost installs, especially ones found online.
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Check your eligibility for grants to maximize your return on investment.
Mistakes to avoid
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Installing an air exchanger yourself without proper knowledge.
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Choosing a unit solely based on price.
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Neglecting annual maintenance of filters.
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Failing to verify compliance with CSA standards and provincial ventilation codes.
Client testimonial: a successful installation in Longueuil
Mr. B., a resident of Longueuil, contacted us to replace his old exchanger, which had poor ventilation. We installed a Lifebreath RNC 200 HRV model, perfect for his single-story home. In under two days, the entire install was complete, including airflow calibration, pressure testing, and client training for basic maintenance. The result: a healthier home, reduced allergens, and constantly fresh air—even in winter.
Conclusion: a safe and long-lasting investment
Installing an air exchanger is not something to take lightly. Calling in an HVAC expert like AirGreen guarantees optimal performance, long-term comfort, and most importantly, helps you avoid costly problems tied to bad installations.
We serve all of Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore, and the South Shore, offering localized service, tailored advice, and installations that meet the highest quality standards.
Contact us today for a free ventilation evaluation and enjoy cleaner, healthier air tomorrow.