When air becomes urgent: critical HVAC intervention during a heatwave
During a major heatwave on the South Shore, with temperatures approaching 40°C including the humidex, an animal shelter located in Saint-Hubert urgently reached out to AirGreen. Their ventilation systems were overwhelmed, and indoor temperatures had reached a dangerous level, putting the health of the animals at serious risk. At AirGreen, we understand that HVAC ventilation is not a luxury—it’s a necessity, especially in sensitive environments.
This technical and human story reveals how our team deployed a controlled mechanical ventilation solution designed to respond quickly to an emergency situation. Here’s the breakdown of our intervention and why professional ventilation can quite literally save lives.
A critical call received at the peak of the heatwave
On Friday morning, as weather alerts intensified, our team received a distress call from a small animal shelter on the South Shore. Their portable fans were no longer sufficient, and the heat in the enclosures was becoming unbearable, with dogs and cats showing signs of respiratory distress. The building had no central HVAC system, and the windows offered only minimal airflow.
Our technical team immediately initiated an emergency dispatch, including an on-site assessment, delivery of temporary equipment, and planning for the permanent installation of a mechanical exhaust ventilation system.
On-site analysis: challenges of an aging, poorly ventilated building
Upon arrival, we identified several major constraints:
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The building had no existing ductwork for ventilation.
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Interior rooms had no operable windows.
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The high number of sheltered animals created elevated humidity.
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No circulation of fresh air was available to reduce ambient temperatures.
It was therefore essential to act quickly with a standalone HVAC ventilation system, capable of bringing in filtered fresh air, extracting stale air, and complying with the constraints of a building used for animal care.
The AirGreen solution: high-efficiency mechanical ventilation
Equipment installed: VENMAR EVO5 250 HRV
To address the emergency and provide a long-term solution, we selected a Heat Recovery Ventilation (HRV) system from Venmar, model EVO5 250 HRV, known for its energy efficiency and reliability in light commercial applications.
Technical specifications:
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Airflow rate: up to 250 CFM
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Thermal efficiency: up to 85%
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Air filtration: MERV 8, replaceable
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Multi-zone compatible
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Suspended wall installation
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Energy Star certified
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120V / 15A electrical connection
Technical installation: a logistics and precision challenge
We opted for a suspended installation in the shelter’s technical mezzanine to minimize floor space usage and maintain clear areas for staff and animals. Our technicians designed a rigid insulated galvanized duct network, 6 inches in diameter, with:
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2 outdoor air intakes
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4 exhaust grilles in the animal zones
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2 supply grilles in the rest and treatment areas
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An automatic overpressure damper to adjust based on occupancy
The entire system was installed and commissioned in under 48 hours, with startup supervised by our commercial ventilation specialists.
Measurable results: drastic improvement in conditions
Before installation:
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Average indoor temperature: 36°C
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Relative humidity: 80%
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No extraction of stale air
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High risk of heatstroke among animals
After installation:
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Temperature stabilized at 25–26°C
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Humidity reduced to 55%
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Continuous circulation of filtered and renewed air
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Noticeable reduction in odors and CO₂
Testimonial from the shelter director
“We thought we’d have to evacuate the animals. Thanks to AirGreen, the situation was brought under control quickly. Their professionalism and speed made all the difference.”
Why choose AirGreen for your ventilation projects in Montréal and surrounding areas
At AirGreen, we do much more than just install machines. We design custom ventilation solutions, adapted to the real-life constraints of our clients—whether for animal shelters, medical clinics, offices, or schools.
Our expertise includes:
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Single or dual-flow mechanical ventilation
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HRV/ERV systems for sensitive environments
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Balancing and intelligent regulation
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Replacement of outdated systems
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24/7 technical support for critical situations
Every project is planned with precision, executed with rigor, and validated by performance testing. We serve Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, as well as the entire South and North Shore, with the same high standard of quality.
Key advice for buildings at high thermal risk
Never underestimate the importance of ventilation
In environments like animal shelters, veterinary clinics, or daycares, a lack of fresh air can quickly become dangerous. Installing an HVAC system should never be postponed.
Choose a certified installer
Only a company like AirGreen, with a valid RBQ license, proven experience, and a team trained to current standards, can guarantee a system that’s high-performing, safe, and eligible for local grants.
Don’t skip annual HVAC maintenance
A well-installed system is not enough. Regular HVAC maintenance extends the life of your equipment and ensures consistent air quality, even during extreme summer heat.
A long-term solution… installed in 48 hours
The story of this animal shelter on the South Shore perfectly illustrates what we do at AirGreen: act fast, do it right, and deliver sustainable solutions. During an extreme heatwave, our technicians installed a high-performance ventilation system, ensuring thermal comfort, animal health, and the peace of mind of the staff.