A Tailored HVAC Solution for Passive Homes on the North Shore
In passive houses, every watt counts. These ultra-efficient homes are designed to minimize energy loss while offering exceptional thermal comfort. But to maintain this delicate balance, it is essential to rely on high-precision mechanical ventilation that can renew indoor air without compromising airtightness or causing unnecessary losses. On the North Shore, AirGreen recently carried out a flagship installation in a passive home that allowed the homeowners to drastically reduce their energy costs while ensuring flawless indoor air quality.
The Context: A Passive House with Unique Needs
The Ventilation + Airtightness Equation = Technical Challenge
This home, located in Blainville, was built to Passive House Institute (PHI) standards. The thermal envelope was flawless, the insulation high-performing, triple-glazed windows were installed, and solar gains were optimized. Yet despite these strengths, the occupants experienced respiratory discomfort, persistent humidity, and a sense of stale air.
After several months of analysis, the verdict was clear: the original ventilation system, improperly sized, was unable to provide sufficient air renewal while adhering to low-consumption principles.
AirGreen’s Intervention: Rethinking Ventilation in a Passive Home
Technical Assessment and Energy Diagnosis
Our team conducted a complete evaluation of the existing system and a thermographic audit of the home. Several shortcomings were identified:
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High CO₂ levels in bedrooms
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Insufficient airflow in common areas
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Filtration not suitable for passive home standards
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No integrated heat recovery system
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Poorly positioned exhaust grilles, creating dead zones
Selection of a High-Efficiency Dual-Flow HRV System
We recommended and installed a heat recovery ventilator (HRV) specifically designed for ultra-low energy environments. The selected model, a Zephyr SilentPro HRV 200, was chosen for its 92% thermal efficiency, silent operation, and compatibility with the smart systems already in place.
Technical Details of the Installation:
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Brand: Zephyr
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Model: SilentPro HRV 200
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Airflow: 200 CFM with automatic regulation
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Filtration: MERV 13 filters + electrostatic pre-filter
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Energy efficiency: 92% heat recovery
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Built-in sensors: humidity, CO₂, fine particulates
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Smart control interface compatible with Google Home
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Low-resistance, thermally insulated flexible ducts
Results Achieved: Comfort, Savings, and Air Quality
Within just a few weeks, the benefits of the new HVAC installation were clear:
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38% reduction in annual electricity consumption, thanks to heat recovery
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Total elimination of musty odors
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Indoor humidity stabilized at 45%, even in winter
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Significant reduction in respiratory allergies
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Absolute silence: no audible noise in living rooms or bedrooms
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Improved resale value of the property due to optimized energy certification
Keys to Successful Ventilation in Passive Homes
Adapting Airflow and Optimizing Recovery
In a passive house, every airflow must be tightly controlled. Too much ventilation leads to energy loss; too little encourages humidity and indoor pollutants. The key lies in a dual-flow recovery system, combined with smart sensors that adjust airflow based on occupancy and air quality.
Importance of Filtration
We also stress the importance of filtering outdoor air: even though passive homes are very airtight, introducing unfiltered fresh air can negate all the benefits of the design. MERV 13 filters offer effective protection against:
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Pollen
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Mold spores
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Fine particles (PM2.5)
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Bacteria and airborne spores
Client Testimonial
“We’ve finally found the balance: pure air, a comfortable home year-round, and a lower electricity bill. Thanks to the AirGreen team for their attentiveness, professionalism, and a solution perfectly tailored to our passive home.”
— Homeowner, Blainville (North Shore)
Why Choose AirGreen for Your Ventilation Projects on the North Shore?
At AirGreen, we understand the unique requirements of passive homes. Our team of certified technicians, experts in high-efficiency HVAC installations, responds quickly across the North Shore, as well as in Laval, Montréal, Longueuil, and on the South Shore. We offer custom solutions, backed by ongoing support and preventive maintenance to ensure long-term optimal performance.
Trust AirGreen with Your Ventilation and Maximize Your Energy Investment
Do you live in or are building a passive house? Looking to cut energy costs while improving your quality of life? Contact AirGreen for a free evaluation of your ventilation system. Our experts will guide you toward the most efficient, sustainable, and cost-effective solution.