An invisible but vital transformation: the essential role of residential ventilation in a Montréal household
At AirGreen, we know that a heat recovery ventilator is far more than a simple comfort accessory. For some families, it becomes quite literally a respiratory lifeline, essential for maintaining a healthy indoor environment. This true story, which took place in Saint-Bruno-de-Montarville, on the South Shore of Montréal, perfectly illustrates just how much a proper ventilation system can radically change the lives of families struggling with severe allergy-related respiratory issues.
A modern home… with a hidden problem
When the Lemoine family moved into their newly renovated home in 2023, everything seemed perfect: a spotless residence, well insulated, recently equipped with a new central heating and cooling system. But after just a few weeks, their 7-year-old son began showing persistent allergy symptoms: nightly coughing, a blocked nose, morning headaches, and even some mild skin rashes.
Despite their spotless interior, the air constantly felt heavy. The parents initially suspected seasonal allergies, but the symptoms persisted… even in the middle of winter.
Diagnosis: inadequate ventilation
It was only when they contacted our team that the issue was quickly identified. We carried out an indoor air quality assessment and found high humidity levels and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), mainly coming from newly installed construction materials. Additionally, the absence of a proper heat recovery ventilator prevented the renewal of stale indoor air.
Our recommendation was clear: install a high-performance heat recovery ventilator to ensure continuous, efficient, and quiet air exchange—one that also meets current code standards.
Choosing the system: Vanee AI Series ECM HRV
We proposed a Vanee AI Series ECM HRV unit, ideal for medium-to-large-sized homes, with the following features:
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Airflow capacity: 165 CFM (cubic feet per minute)
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Ultra-efficient ECM motor technology, quiet and energy-saving
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Smart sensors for CO2, humidity, and air quality
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Integrated MERV 13 filtration system, effective against allergens
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Wall-mounted installation in the mechanical room, with ducting connected to the existing central system
This unit is eligible for specific LogisVert grants available on the South Shore, which can help cover a portion of the installation costs as part of a residential energy efficiency improvement project.
A custom installation completed in a single day
Our team arrived on-site early one morning. After securing access, we began with:
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Planning the duct network to ensure even airflow distribution throughout the main living areas.
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Installing the HRV unit in the mechanical room adjacent to the laundry area.
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Connecting it to the existing central system, minimizing invasive work thanks to our expertise in residential retrofits.
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Calibrating the smart sensors and airflow settings.
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Training the client on how to use the smart wall-mounted controls.
By the end of the day, the unit was up and running—perfectly integrated and fully operational. Within the first 48 hours, the family noticed a dramatic improvement in indoor air quality.
Results observed: immediate relief
In the days following the installation, their son’s allergy symptoms completely disappeared. The parents also noted:
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A noticeable improvement in sleep quality
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A reduction in humidity in closed-off rooms
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A consistently fresher smell throughout the house
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Less dust accumulating on furniture
What this installation proves
This intervention proves that thermal comfort alone isn’t enough to ensure well-being at home. One must also think about the quality of the air we breathe every day. In a region like Montréal, Laval, or the South Shore, where homes are well insulated against the cold, ventilation becomes a health issue more than ever.
Why choose AirGreen for your heat recovery ventilator?
At AirGreen, we go beyond the simple sale or installation of HVAC systems. We offer:
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A personalized analysis of your indoor air quality
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Tailored solutions for every type of building, whether residential, commercial, or multi-unit
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A turnkey service, fast, professional, and guaranteed
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Proven expertise in mechanical ventilation systems, whether HRVs or ERVs depending on your needs
Practical tips: mistakes to avoid when choosing a heat recovery ventilator
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Ignoring the size of your home: an undersized unit won’t provide adequate coverage for your entire space.
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Overlooking filtration quality: especially if you have allergies or respiratory sensitivities.
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Poor positioning of exhaust and intake vents: this can cause cold drafts or ineffective airflow.
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Skipping regular maintenance: filters must be cleaned and replaced several times a year to ensure consistent performance.
In conclusion
This HRV installation in Saint-Bruno-de-Montarville was much more than a technical project—it was a healthcare intervention. For this family, it brought back peace of mind, free of allergy flare-ups, and allowed them to enjoy their beautifully renovated home to the fullest.
We strongly encourage all families in Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore, and the South Shore to seriously consider the importance of a proper ventilation system. At AirGreen, we’re proud to have contributed to this invisible yet essential transformation.
Struggling with indoor air quality issues? Contact our team today. We have the right solution for your situation.