Living in a healthy, energy-efficient, and comfortable environment has become a top priority for homeowners and real estate developers in Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, as well as on the North Shore and South Shore. In this context, the installation of an air exchanger in new constructions is no longer a luxury—it’s an essential requirement to ensure optimal air quality, prevent humidity issues, and comply with current energy efficiency standards. At AirGreen, we work daily on this type of project, offering custom, reliable, and long-lasting solutions. Here’s why this investment is now indispensable.
Indoor air quality: a major health concern
In new homes, insulation is generally very effective. While this improves energy efficiency, it can pose a significant issue: indoor air quickly becomes stale without proper air renewal. Building materials, paints, furniture, and even human breathing release volatile organic compounds (VOCs), moisture, and CO₂.
Without an air exchanger, these pollutants accumulate, drastically lowering quality of life and potentially causing long-term health problems: allergies, headaches, chronic fatigue, respiratory issues, and more.
We recently installed a Venmar AVS® N Series air exchanger in a newly built home in Rosemont–La Petite-Patrie, a fast-growing residential neighbourhood in Montreal. After the installation, the owners immediately noticed a significant improvement in the freshness of the indoor air, and condensation issues on the windows disappeared.
A solution aligned with modern building standards
Building codes in Quebec now require increasingly strict energy performance levels, especially in terms of ventilation. Adding a heat recovery ventilator (HRV) or energy recovery ventilator (ERV) is an effective way to meet these standards without compromising comfort.
At AirGreen, we often recommend the installation of a Venmar VRC HRV1305 air exchanger or the Lifebreath RNC205, depending on the building’s specifications. These models recover up to 80% of the heat from exhausted air, reducing heating demands while ensuring continuous ventilation.
Fighting humidity and mold
Another major challenge in new constructions is managing indoor humidity. High humidity levels promote the growth of mold, which can damage the building structure and harm the occupants’ health.
In a new home in Boucherville, on the South Shore, we were called in just a few months after the owners moved in. They had noticed black spots in a ceiling corner. We quickly identified poor indoor ventilation as the culprit. Installing an air exchanger with built-in humidity sensors, properly calibrated for airflow, permanently solved the issue.
Energy efficiency and long-term savings
Installing a heat recovery air exchanger helps reduce the overall energy consumption of the home. By recovering heat from exhausted air to preheat incoming air, the need for heating is reduced, resulting in lower energy bills.
We completed an installation in Laval-des-Rapides in a brand-new triplex, where we integrated a centralized ventilation system with a high-efficiency HRV air exchanger. According to the owners' readings a few months later, they saw an average reduction of 12% in their natural gas consumption, with no sacrifice in comfort.
Available financial assistance: programs and grants
It’s important to note that installing a high-performance air exchanger may qualify for grants. Programs like Rénoclimat or certain municipal incentives encourage homeowners to adopt energy-efficient equipment, including ENERGY STAR® certified air exchangers.
We assist all our clients with these processes. For example, in Blainville, a couple received a $590 grant for adding an Energy Star-certified Lifebreath HRV, thanks to our help in preparing their application.
Tailored solutions for every type of building
Every construction is unique. That’s why we always conduct a thorough analysis of the building before making any recommendations. Whether it’s a bungalow, condo, multiplex, or two-story home, we tailor the machine type, duct layout, motor power, and filtration needs to the specific situation.
We recently installed a compact Venmar EVO5 air exchanger in a condominium unit in Villeray, where space was extremely limited. Thanks to our precise planning, we were able to integrate the system without sacrificing living space or the unit’s design.
The AirGreen expertise: a trusted partner
At AirGreen, we understand that every project represents a significant investment. That’s why our approach is built on three pillars:
-
Personalized guidance: we help every client choose the solution best suited to their needs and budget.
-
Professional installation: our certified technicians carry out installations that meet the highest standards.
-
Follow-up and maintenance: we offer maintenance plans to ensure the longevity and consistent performance of your air exchanger.
In Terrebonne, after installing a Venmar ERV air exchanger in a multi-generational home, we trained the owners on seasonal maintenance, ensuring optimal and long-term use of the system.
Practical tips before installation
Before investing in an air exchanger, we recommend that homeowners and developers consider the following:
-
Available space for the unit and ductwork
-
Desired noise level (especially in smaller units)
-
Presence of a central or multi-zone HVAC system
-
Filtration needs (dust, pollen, urban pollution)
-
Eligibility for grant programs
We offer free technical visits throughout the Greater Montreal area, to provide clear estimates and tailored recommendations.
Conclusion: a smart, durable, and essential investment
At a time when energy performance and indoor air quality are becoming top societal priorities, installing an air exchanger in new constructions is not just a smart choice—it’s a necessity. At AirGreen, we have the expertise, the products, and the customer commitment to make every project a success.
Contact us today for personalized support on your residential or multi-unit construction project.