Understanding the often-overlooked connection between indoor air quality and seasonal allergies
Every spring, thousands of residents in Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore, and the South Shore suffer from sneezing, irritated eyes, headaches, and respiratory congestion. While obvious culprits like pollen or outdoor dust are often blamed, there’s a more insidious source, much closer to home: your ventilation system. At AirGreen, we’ve seen time and again that chronic or seasonal allergies can be worsened—or even triggered—by an outdated or poorly maintained HVAC system.
A ventilation system: allergen filter or allergen amplifier?
The goal of a well-functioning HVAC system is simple: to improve thermal comfort while ensuring a healthy and safe indoor air quality. However, when neglected, that same system can become a real allergen reservoir: buildup of dust, mold spores, dust mites, pet hair, chemical pollutants, and more.
Where do allergens hide in your ventilation network?
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Dusty air ducts: Over time, a significant amount of allergenic particles build up inside the ducts, especially if they’ve never been cleaned or if the home is older.
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Clogged or inadequate filters: Dirty or poorly matched filters no longer trap fine particles and instead release them back into the air.
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Dirty air exchangers: A poorly maintained air exchanger can circulate stale air rather than properly refreshing it.
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Excess moisture in the ducts: Encourages mold growth, a major trigger for respiratory allergies.
AirGreen case study: Full cleaning of a residential ventilation system in Outremont
In early spring, a family with three children in Outremont contacted us, reporting recurring allergy symptoms among their kids. After a thermographic inspection and a full audit of their central HVAC system (installed in 2013), we found significant accumulation of fine dust and traces of mold in several areas of the ductwork.
Our intervention included:
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Complete cleaning of the ventilation ducts using a HEPA rotary brush system.
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Filter replacement with a high-performance MERV-13 model, capable of trapping pollen, mold, and dust mites.
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Disinfection of the duct system with a Health Canada-approved product.
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Inspection and maintenance of the air exchanger to ensure proper air renewal.
Result: within 48 hours, the allergy symptoms had drastically decreased. Three weeks later, the family wrote to thank us – their sleep quality had significantly improved.
Why choose AirGreen for your HVAC cleaning?
At AirGreen, we specialize in deep cleaning residential and commercial ventilation systems throughout Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore, and the South Shore. Our certified technicians use top-tier industrial equipment, and follow a strict protocol to guarantee safe, thorough cleanings every time.
Our services include:
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Cleaning of air ducts and ventilation grills (heating, cooling, ventilation).
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Complete HVAC system maintenance (heat pumps, air conditioners, air exchangers).
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Detection and elimination of mold and microbial pollutants.
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Indoor air quality analysis with improvement recommendations.
Signs your ventilation might be to blame
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You notice more dust on your furniture shortly after cleaning.
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You or your loved ones suffer from rhinitis, nasal congestion, or a persistent dry cough.
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You detect musty or stale odors in some rooms.
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The air feels heavy or stagnant, even with windows open.
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Your heat pump or air conditioner is running, but you don’t feel any real improvement in comfort.
Ventilation and health: a direct and underestimated relationship
According to the Institut national de santé publique du Québec (INSPQ), poor indoor air quality can worsen chronic respiratory illnesses, contribute to childhood asthma, and even increase the risk of sleep disturbances and chronic fatigue.
At AirGreen, we believe that a well-maintained ventilation system is an investment in your family’s health. We recommend a full professional cleaning every 3 to 5 years, depending on the type of system and the layout of your home.
Practical tips to maintain your HVAC system daily
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Replace your filters every 2 to 3 months.
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Clean your ventilation grills with a damp cloth to prevent dust buildup.
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Avoid blocking air outlets with furniture or thick rugs.
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Have your ducts inspected if you've recently renovated your home.
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Schedule annual maintenance with a certified company like AirGreen.
AirGreen: your HVAC partner in Greater Montreal and beyond
As a locally established company in Greater Montreal, we take pride in helping families and businesses improve their comfort and quality of life. Thanks to our specialized services in HVAC maintenance, ventilation cleaning, and air quality analysis, we deliver healthier, safer, and more enjoyable indoor environments all year round.
Each service call is customized to your specific needs, with one clear objective: to provide reliable, professional, and long-lasting service.
Suffering from allergies at home? It’s time to have your ventilation inspected. Contact AirGreen today for a professional diagnosis.