When an Air Exchanger Becomes the Key Solution Against Humidity and Mold
In the world of residential HVAC, some service calls leave a lasting impression. That was the case with this installation carried out by our AirGreen team in a single-family home in Brossard, on the South Shore of Montreal. What initially appeared to be a simple ventilation recommendation turned out to be an essential intervention to preserve the integrity of a home threatened by excessive humidity.
The Context: A Home Overwhelmed by Humidity
When we received a call from Ms. Lavoie, owner of a two-storey home built in the 1980s in Brossard, she was dealing with chronic condensation on windows, a persistent musty smell, and visible mold spots in the basement and main bathroom. Despite having a solid heating system, nothing seemed to improve the situation.
After an on-site inspection, our HVAC technician quickly identified the root of the issue: a lack of effective mechanical ventilation. There was no air exchanger installed, and the bathroom fans were outdated and underpowered. In a well-insulated home like this one, the humid air simply had nowhere to escape.
The Solution: Installing a High-Performance ERV
To fight the excessive humidity while maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature and strong energy efficiency, we recommended installing an ERV (energy recovery ventilator). Unlike a standard HRV, the ERV manages both heat and humidity by balancing indoor and outdoor air based on climate conditions—ideal for homes in Quebec.
We selected the Fantech VHR150R-ES model, a compact, reliable ERV known for its efficiency in cold climates. This unit offers:
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An airflow rate of 160 CFM, ideal for homes between 2,000 and 2,500 square feet.
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75% thermal energy recovery, helping to retain indoor heat during the winter.
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Built-in automatic humidity control.
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Quiet operation, perfect for family homes.
Technical Details of the Brossard Installation
The installation took approximately 6 hours of work completed in a single day. Here are the key steps performed by our team:
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Drilling through the exterior wall with thermal cutting to ensure perfect insulation.
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Connecting to the existing ductwork, while adding two new extraction vents (bathroom and basement).
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Installing the main unit in the basement mechanical room, near the electrical panel.
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Integrating a digital wall controller allowing the homeowner to manage airflow based on indoor humidity.
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Calibration and a depression test to verify balance between air intake and exhaust.
Our team also carried out a full cleaning of the existing ventilation ducts, eliminating mold residue and accumulated dust.
Results After Installation: An Immediate Transformation
Just days after the ERV installation, Ms. Lavoie noticed a dramatic improvement in indoor air quality:
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The musty smell in the basement had disappeared.
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No more morning condensation on windows.
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A fresher atmosphere indoors, even without opening the windows.
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Noticeable drop in humidity levels, confirmed with a hygrometer.
A month later, she contacted us again to share that her seasonal allergies had significantly eased, a clear sign that the indoor air was now cleaner and more stable.
Why Choose an ERV in a Brossard Home or Elsewhere on the South Shore?
Modern or well-insulated homes—common in Brossard, Longueuil, and across the South Shore—can quickly become overly humid if they don’t have proper ventilation. The ERV offers several key benefits:
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Maintains an ideal humidity level (35% to 45%) year-round.
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Prevents mold and structural damage.
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Reduces heating costs by reusing energy from exhaust air.
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Improves respiratory health for occupants.
Available Grants for ERV Installation
Through the LogisVert program by Hydro-Québec and other local initiatives, some ERV installations may be partially subsidized, especially when part of a full HVAC system upgrade. At AirGreen, we guide our customers through the grant application process at no extra cost.
The AirGreen Expertise: More Than Just an Installation
This project in Brossard perfectly reflects our approach: listening to the customer, in-depth analysis, tailored technical advice, and flawless installation. With our experience on the South Shore, but also across Montreal, Laval, and the North Shore, we know how to adapt every solution to the reality of our clients.
At AirGreen, we believe a great HVAC system is not just about high-performance equipment—it’s also about deep understanding of housing challenges in Quebec. That dedication and human approach are what set us apart.
Practical Tips: Spotting Signs of Excessive Humidity
Here are a few clues that might indicate you need an ERV in your home:
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Frequent window condensation
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Presence of mold on walls, ceilings, or tile joints
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Persistent musty odor
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Air that feels heavy or stale
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Frequent allergy or respiratory symptoms
If you notice one or more of these signs, don’t wait—reach out to us. A free on-site estimate could make all the difference.
Conclusion: When Ventilation Means Prevention
Thanks to the installation of a simple ERV, Ms. Lavoie not only saved her home from mold damage, but also improved her and her family’s quality of life. This project is proof that ventilation—often overlooked—is actually a fundamental component of indoor comfort.
At AirGreen, we continue every day to put our expertise to work for families in Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, Brossard, and beyond—so that the air in your home is always healthy, dry, and comfortable.