An inadequate ventilation system can turn your everyday comfort into a real headache. At AirGreen, we regularly meet homeowners and property managers in Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, as well as on the North Shore and the South Shore, who are unaware that their ventilation system is the source of numerous air quality issues, excessive energy consumption, and even premature deterioration of their buildings. This article aims to shed light on this "invisible enemy" and guide you toward practical solutions and professional help.
Poor Ventilation: A More Common Problem Than You Think
In many homes and commercial buildings across the Greater Montreal area, the ventilation system is often outdated, poorly maintained, or simply not suited to the real needs of the space. This lack of efficiency can lead to:
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A build-up of humidity, fostering mold and unpleasant odors
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Poor indoor air quality (CO₂, VOCs, fine dust)
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Excessive energy consumption due to inefficient air distribution
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Thermal discomfort in certain rooms (cold in winter, hot in summer)
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Negative pressure inside the home, creating drafts and infiltrations
These symptoms, although sometimes subtle, are signs of a ventilation system that is doing more harm than good.
Impact on Health and Energy Efficiency
Poorly refreshed air directly impacts the health of the occupants: headaches, allergies, respiratory irritations, chronic fatigue... Children, the elderly, and those with asthma are particularly vulnerable.
From an energy perspective, an improperly calibrated ventilation system forces heating and cooling systems to compensate, leading to higher energy costs. We often observe an annual increase of 10 to 20% in electricity bills, simply due to a faulty ventilation system.
The Crucial Role of a High-Performance Air Exchanger
One of the best ways to optimize your indoor ventilation, while improving air quality and reducing energy losses, is by installing a heat recovery ventilator (HRV or ERV).
At AirGreen, we recommend energy-efficient models tailored to the size of the building, with high-performance filters, silent operation, easy maintenance, and, most importantly, compliance with the highest standards set by ASHRAE and the Quebec Building Code.
Case Study: Replacing an Outdated System in Laval
We were recently called to inspect a single-family home in Laval, where the occupants complained of a constant feeling of humidity and fatigue. The analysis revealed an old bathroom fan running continuously, with no mechanical fresh air intake. The rest of the house relied solely on open windows.
We recommended the installation of a Vanee V160E HRV, a high-performance central unit connected to the existing ductwork. The installation was completed in one day. The result:
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Humidity stabilized at 45% inside the house
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Odors eliminated within 48 hours
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Significant improvement in air quality measured by an IAQ sensor
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A 12% reduction in electricity bills within three months
How to Tell If Your Ventilation Needs an Upgrade?
Here are some clear signs that your ventilation system might need attention:
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Constant condensation on windows
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Persistent odors in enclosed rooms
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A feeling of stale or dry air
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Visible mold in corners or closets
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Unusual noises from the ventilation system
If you notice any of these issues, it’s time to call in HVAC experts like AirGreen for a complete system evaluation.
Key Steps for a Successful Ventilation Upgrade
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Personalized Diagnostic: Technical inspection of your home or building.
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Selection of an Appropriate Air Exchanger: Capacity, efficiency, certifications.
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Professional Installation: Integration into the existing system or addition of new ducts.
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Airflow Balancing: Adjusting the balance between intake and exhaust airflow.
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Start-Up and Instructions: We show you how to operate and maintain your system.
Our AirGreen Solutions: Effective, Sustainable, Subsidizable
We offer top-tier air exchanger models from recognized brands like Vanee, Lifebreath, Fantech, Zehnder, Broan, and Aldes. Many of these are eligible for subsidies through the LogisVert program by Hydro-Québec and other municipal programs, depending on your area (e.g., Longueuil, South Shore, Montreal, etc.).
Why Choose AirGreen for Your Ventilation Needs?
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Local Expertise: Fast interventions across the Greater Montreal area
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Certified Team: Technicians trained to the latest industry standards
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Tailored Approach: No generic solutions — every project is unique
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After-Sales Support: Ongoing assistance, maintenance advice, and continued service
Practical Tips for Maintaining Your Ventilation System
Even the best systems need regular maintenance:
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Clean filters every 3 months
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Inspect ducts every 2 to 3 years
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Monitor airflow balance
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Call a professional for any unusual issues
Final Word: Take Action Before Problems Escalate
Ignoring inefficient ventilation may seem insignificant, but the long-term consequences are real: health, comfort, building structure, and energy costs. At AirGreen, we’ve transformed dozens of homes across Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore, and South Shore into healthy, comfortable, and energy-efficient spaces simply by modernizing their ventilation systems.
Don’t wait for the critical signs. Trust your air to specialists.