A poorly maintained air exchanger can cost you far more than just a filter replacement
At AirGreen, we often meet clients in Montréal, Laval, or on the South Shore who complain about an inefficient ventilation system, lingering odors, or increased electricity bills. In most cases, the problem isn’t the unit itself, but rather a lack of regular maintenance.
A heat or energy recovery ventilator (HRV or ERV) is an outstanding solution for improving indoor air quality, but like any mechanical system, it requires proper care. A neglected system can lead to overconsumption, premature breakdowns, and even put your health at risk. Here’s how to avoid the costly trap of poorly maintained air exchangers, with insight from AirGreen’s expertise.
The consequences of neglecting your air exchanger
Lack of maintenance has real effects on your ventilation system’s performance. A dirty or poorly calibrated air exchanger can:
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Reduce airflow by up to 50%, limiting the circulation of fresh air.
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Clog ducts and filters, increasing allergen levels inside your home.
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Force motors to overwork, shortening their lifespan.
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Cause abnormal noises and vibrations.
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Weaken the heat recovery performance, driving up your heating bills.
On-site example – Montréal, Villeray:
A client had a Lifebreath 155 MAX exchanger installed 6 years ago, never once maintained. The result: loud motors, black filters, and extremely high humidity. We carried out a full disassembly, disinfection, filter replacement, duct cleaning, and airflow calibration. The unit’s performance was restored to 92% of its original capacity.
Signs your air exchanger is not properly maintained
It can be hard for homeowners to detect a problem. These are the warning signs we frequently observe:
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Stale odors in the house, even when the unit is running.
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Condensation on windows, even in dry weather.
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Faster-than-usual dust accumulation.
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Louder noises or stronger vibrations from the unit.
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Weak or uneven airflow throughout the house.
Real-life case – Longueuil, Fatima sector:
A Venmar EVO5 500 HRV had lost more than 40% of its capacity after 3 years without maintenance. The homeowner considered replacing it. After our full maintenance, the unit regained full efficiency, avoiding the cost of a new unit altogether.
Essential maintenance tasks recommended by AirGreen
To extend the lifespan of your air exchanger and maintain its performance, we recommend a strict periodic maintenance routine. Here’s what should be done:
Every 3 to 6 months:
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Clean the filters (with a vacuum or rinse in warm water, depending on the model).
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Check intake and exhaust grilles.
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Visually inspect accessible ductwork for cleanliness.
Annually:
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Inspect the unit’s interior: motor, fans, belts, wiring.
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Clean the heat or energy recovery core for ERV models.
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Calibrate airflow balance.
Every 2 to 3 years:
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Thorough cleaning of ventilation ducts.
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Check access hatches, duct insulation, and sealing.
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Replace HEPA or activated carbon filters, if applicable.
Why professional maintenance is more effective
While some tasks can be done by the homeowner, professional deep maintenance allows us to:
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Access technical components that users should not dismantle themselves.
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Use precise instruments to measure airflow and fine-tune the system.
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Detect early signs of wear or moisture buildup inside the ducts.
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Apply antibacterial and antifungal treatments in critical areas.
South Shore example – Boucherville:
During a preventive service on a Fantech FLEX100H unit, we detected moisture infiltration in an uninsulated duct—completely invisible to the naked eye. Thanks to this quick intervention, the client avoided major mold growth.
What’s the real cost of neglecting maintenance?
Replacing an air exchanger can cost between $2,500 and $5,000, depending on the model and installation complexity. A preventive annual maintenance service costs between $180 and $300 on average — less than 10% of the replacement cost.
By maintaining your unit, you:
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Extend the system’s lifespan to 15 years or more.
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Preserve optimal indoor air quality for your family.
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Lower your energy bills.
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Avoid costly emergency repairs.
AirGreen: your partner for air exchanger maintenance in Montréal and beyond
We provide service throughout Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore, and the South Shore, with fast, professional, and guaranteed service.
What sets us apart:
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Certified team specialized in HVAC maintenance.
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In-depth knowledge of top brands: Venmar, Lifebreath, Aldes, Fantech, Broan, and more.
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Customized maintenance plans to suit your needs.
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Detailed tracking history for each unit to anticipate service needs.
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Rapid response for seasonal checkups and emergency calls.
Think there’s a problem with your air exchanger?
Contact AirGreen now for a professional inspection or maintenance service. Keep your comfort intact and avoid unpleasant surprises.