A poorly executed ventilation project can cost you — in money and in health
In the Laval area, more and more homeowners are attempting to install their own air exchangers (ERV or HRV) in an effort to save money. While the intention may seem commendable, the technical reality and HVAC risks are a whole different story. At AirGreen, we’ve been called in many times to intervene after failed DIY installations, often marked by critical mistakes that directly impact indoor air quality, energy efficiency, and even the building’s structure.
Through several testimonials collected from homeowners in Laval, we reveal here the real consequences of a poorly installed air exchanger, and why it’s crucial to leave this kind of work to a professional HVAC company like AirGreen.
Testimonial #1: Poorly installed ERV in a two-storey home in Sainte-Dorothée
The context:
A young couple bought a Venmar AVS N Series HRV 160 CFM air exchanger online and installed it themselves in their two-storey home in Sainte-Dorothée.
Problems encountered:
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Improper duct balancing, causing negative pressure in the house
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Cold air blowing into the children’s bedroom in the middle of winter
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Frost buildup inside the exchanger due to incorrect drainage
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Persistent odors despite the ventilation system
AirGreen intervention:
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Complete removal of the DIY installation
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System reconfiguration with dynamic air balancing
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Thermal insulation of the ducts
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Recalibration of airflow based on Novoclimat standards
Result:
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Home finally balanced in pressure
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Measured indoor air quality within recommended standards
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Noticeable reduction in humidity in the upstairs rooms
Testimonial #2: Bad HRV installation in a duplex in Laval-des-Rapides
The context:
A homeowner wanted to install a Fantech VHR 150, a model known for its performance. He followed an online tutorial and completed the job in two days.
Issues that appeared:
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Excessive condensation in flexible ducts, leading to mold growth
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Improper electrical connection, causing the breaker to trip repeatedly
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No depressurization test done, creating dead zones with no air exchange
AirGreen intervention:
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Cleaning and decontamination of the ductwork
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Safe reconnection to the electrical panel with a GFCI breaker
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Installation of motorized dampers to improve airflow distribution
Result:
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Humidity levels reduced to 45%
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Musty smell eliminated from the living room
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A relieved customer who regretted the “short-term savings”
Why air exchanger installation requires HVAC expertise
Installing an air exchanger isn’t just about connecting a few ducts. It’s a precision job where each error can completely compromise the system’s core purpose: providing clean, balanced, and energy-efficient air.
Required skills:
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Knowledge of CSA B52 and B214 standards, applicable in Quebec
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Mastery of air balancing techniques
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Ability to perform a performance test (airflow, static pressure, heat recovery efficiency)
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Understanding of safe electrical integration
Hidden costs of poor installations
Many believe they’ll save $1,000 to $2,000 by installing an ERV themselves. In reality, the accumulated costs of a faulty installation can easily exceed that.
Common risks:
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Excessive energy consumption due to poor configuration
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Air leaks, heat loss, and thermal discomfort
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Biological contamination (mold, bacteria) from bad moisture control
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Voided manufacturer warranty, and disqualification from programs like LogisVert
Our recommendation: trust your installation to AirGreen
At AirGreen, we’ve completed hundreds of air exchanger installations in Laval and surrounding areas. Every project begins with a technical evaluation, followed by installation work that meets the strictest HVAC standards in Quebec.
Our commitments:
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Free in-home evaluation
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Units from top brands like Venmar, Fantech, Lifebreath, Aldes
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RBQ-certified installers, specialized in air exchangers
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Ability to integrate the ERV into your existing central HVAC system
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Access to available grants, including LogisVert
In conclusion: avoid nightmares, make the right choice from the start
Installing an air exchanger is an investment in health, comfort, and energy savings. The testimonials from our clients in Laval speak for themselves: a bad installation costs more money, more stress, and more risk. When you entrust your project to AirGreen, you gain local expertise, meticulous service, and long-term peace of mind.
Contact us today for a free estimate and full support with your air exchanger project in Laval.