A breath of pure, quiet air: the promise of unmatched comfort
At AirGreen, we know that one of the most decisive criteria when choosing an air exchanger is its noise level. Whether you're in the heart of the Plateau in Montreal, in a residential area of Laval, or in a multigenerational home on the South Shore, the noise generated by a ventilation system can quickly become a daily nuisance. In this article, we reveal how to achieve efficient indoor ventilation without compromising the peace and quiet of your living space. Our expertise in HVAC installation allows us to identify best practices, top products, and mistakes to avoid so that you can enjoy performance and silence.
Why is the noise from air exchangers a major issue?
In a modern home, acoustics play a key role in overall quality of life. A poorly chosen or improperly installed air exchanger can create a constant humming, an annoying whistling, or even mechanical vibrations that echo throughout the building’s structure. These sounds, often heard in bedrooms or quiet living areas, disrupt focus, sleep, and general comfort.
We’ve been called many times to intervene in Longueuil and Repentigny to replace noisy ventilation systems installed without proper consideration for duct resonance or the airflow requirements of the space. These real-life experiences have allowed us to refine our techniques and help our clients restore a healthy AND peaceful atmosphere.
Key factors for a quiet air exchanger
1. Choosing the right model: performance meets discretion
Not all air exchangers are created equal when it comes to noise. Some models from trusted brands like Venmar AVS, Fantech, or Lifebreath offer "ultra-quiet" versions, equipped with variable-speed motors, insulated housings, and fans designed to reduce air turbulence.
We particularly recommend models with ECM motors (Electronically Commutated Motors), which automatically adjust speed to maintain optimal noise levels, even at high airflow. In a recent installation in a duplex in Boisbriand, we opted for a Venmar EVO5 700 HRV, known for its excellent balance between performance and noise level (less than 1.0 sones at medium speed).
2. Strategic placement of the unit
The location of the air exchanger is critical. It should be kept away from sleeping areas or living rooms, ideally installed in an isolated corner of the basement or in a well-insulated mechanical room. One of our installations in Boucherville involved relocating an old system that was too close to the family room floor. By repositioning the unit and adding anti-vibration mounts, we reduced perceived noise by over 60%.
3. Quality ductwork and proper installation
An air exchanger can be quiet at the source but still loud in use if the ducts are poorly insulated or improperly sized. We always prioritize rigid insulated ducts, with flexible elbows to absorb vibrations, and we add acoustic dampers near wall vents when needed. A proper balanced air pressure setup between intake and exhaust is also essential to avoid whistling.
4. Regular maintenance to preserve quiet operation
Even the best equipment can become noisy without proper maintenance. Clogged filters, unbalanced fans, or blocked ducts increase motor strain and, as a result, noise levels. At AirGreen, we offer seasonal HVAC maintenance services, including full cleaning of the air exchanger, dust removal from ducts, and motor and bearing inspections.
Case Study: Noise reduction in a home in Laval
We were recently contacted by a family in Chomedey who complained of a loud whistling in their master bedroom caused by an old high-power air exchanger installed too close to the room. After inspection, we found:
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A motor too powerful for the size of the home
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Poorly secured flexible ducts
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No acoustic dampers
We replaced the unit with a Lifebreath 155 MAX with an ECM motor, repositioned the vents, installed acoustic-grade ducts, and soundproofed the wall where the unit was mounted. The result: smooth operation, fresh air, and complete silence in the bedrooms.
Tips for clients: how to ensure noise-free ventilation
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Avoid entry-level models, which often seem attractive on paper but are noisy in real-world use.
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Always opt for professional installation: improper duct angles or a poorly suspended unit can cause vibrations.
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Adjust airflow to your actual needs: too much power = unnecessary noise.
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Schedule annual maintenance with certified technicians to prevent premature wear and tear.
Why choose AirGreen for your ventilation projects?
With a team of specialists trained specifically in residential and commercial ventilation systems, we master every technical detail of quiet HVAC installations. Our projects across Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore, and the South Shore are always tailored to the building’s layout, lifestyle habits, and desired acoustic comfort level. Each project is documented, measured, and tested to guarantee you clean and quiet air.
Toward lasting acoustic comfort
Silence is not a luxury. It’s a necessity. As HVAC experts, we believe that thermal comfort and air quality must always come with imperceptible operation. Whether it’s for new construction, an energy-efficient renovation, or a system replacement, AirGreen offers solutions that are sustainable, efficient, and… silent.
Book an appointment with us for a personalized evaluation of your indoor ventilation. Let’s create a peaceful climate together.