A well-designed ventilation system is at the heart of a healthy, energy-efficient, and comfortable home. And yet, just a few kilometers apart, residential ventilation systems in Montréal and Laval show significant differences. At AirGreen, experts in HVAC solutions in Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, North Shore and South Shore, we've observed these variations firsthand through hundreds of real client projects. This in-depth comparison is based on our field experience and offers a valuable and practical perspective, whether you’re a homeowner, property manager, or future buyer.
Two Cities, Two Architectural and Climate Realities
Montréal: A City of Historic and Dense Housing
In Montréal, homes are often older, sometimes over a century old. Many neighborhoods, such as the Plateau, Rosemont or Villeray, are filled with row houses, duplexes, and triplexes built long before modern ventilation standards. These structures often lack space for traditional ductwork.
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Common challenge: no crawl space or drop ceilings
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AirGreen solution: heat recovery ventilators (HRVs) with flexible ducts or direct-flow ductless systems
Another factor: urban density. Outdoor space is often limited, which complicates the exhausting of stale air or the installation of a fresh air exchanger with an exterior vent. We therefore recommend compact units with low noise and high energy efficiency.
Laval: More Modern Construction, Designed for Today’s HVAC Systems
In contrast, Laval homes tend to be newer, often built according to post-1990 construction standards. These houses are better insulated, more spacious, and built with full mechanical systems in mind.
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Advantage: accessible utility spaces, attics, and basements with suspended ceilings
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Result: easier installation of full ductwork, centralized air exchangers, and even zoned ventilation systems
At AirGreen, we've observed a greater number of centralized ventilation installations in Laval, often paired with a central heat pump or multi-zone wall-mounted air conditioner.
Real-Life Installations: Montréal vs Laval
Installation in Montréal – Project on Fabre Street, Plateau-Mont-Royal
The client owned a renovated duplex without drop ceilings. Our team installed a Venmar EVO5 700 HRV air exchanger, compact, with ducts concealed inside closets. The challenge was to minimize visual impact while ensuring optimal airflow in closed rooms like bedrooms and the basement.
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BTU requirement: not applicable, standalone ventilation system
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Installation time: 2 days
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Notable detail: reduced noise thanks to a wall-mounted configuration with anti-vibration supports
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Result: increased comfort, regulated humidity, reduced cooking odors
Installation in Laval – Project in a Fabreville Bungalow
In this single-family home, our team installed a central ventilation system with a Venmar X30 ERV air exchanger, connected to the existing forced-air heating system. The homeowner wanted to improve air quality during the winter without sacrificing energy efficiency.
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Installation time: 1 day
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Complementary solution: added HEPA filters and wall-mounted smart thermostat control
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Main benefit: even distribution throughout the home, with automated control based on indoor humidity
Standards, Grants, and Efficiency: Regional Disparities
Available Grants
In both Montréal and Laval, certain ventilation systems—especially heat recovery models—can qualify for provincial grants or municipal energy renovation programs. However, eligibility depends on the type and age of the building.
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Hydro-Québec’s LogisVert Program: possible if ventilation is part of a full HVAC improvement project
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AirGreen recommendation: conduct a pre-installation energy evaluation to optimize available incentives
Performance Differences Based on the Building
In older Montréal homes with poor insulation, even the best ventilation system can lose effectiveness if air leaks aren’t controlled. In Laval, the synergy between modern insulation and mechanical ventilation delivers superior results, particularly in terms of indoor air quality and moisture reduction.
Common Mistakes and Our Expert Advice
Montréal: Underestimating Project Complexity
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Ignoring limited access to duct routes
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Choosing an overly powerful or poorly sized unit
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Overlooking the importance of air tightness
Laval: Overequipping an Already Well-Insulated Home
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Installing an overly strong ventilation system without adjusting airflow
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Skipping regular filter maintenance (more common in homes with pets or kids)
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Relying solely on CO2 sensors without monitoring humidity levels
Our AirGreen Recommendations:
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Always conduct a full building diagnosis before installing an air exchanger
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Choose a system tailored to the architectural style and everyday use of the building
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Avoid one-size-fits-all setups: every home deserves a custom solution
Why Trust AirGreen for Your Ventilation Project?
With hundreds of projects completed in Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, North Shore, and South Shore, our team understands the unique traits of each area. We carefully select high-performing equipment from trusted brands like Venmar, Lifebreath, Broan, and Aldes, and customize every configuration to your exact needs.
Our commitment:
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Certified technicians, experts in residential and multifamily ventilation
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No-compromise installations, efficient and aesthetically discreet
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Personalized support, including for grant applications
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Tangible results in comfort, energy savings, and air quality
Conclusion: Montréal vs Laval – A Custom Approach is Key
Comparing residential ventilation in Montréal and Laval means realizing that a good system isn’t just about a brand or machine—it’s about installation expertise and adaptation to the building itself. At AirGreen, we believe every home deserves a tailored approach to guarantee comfort, performance, and durability.
Thinking about a ventilation project? Contact us for a free evaluation and benefit from our recognized HVAC expertise across Greater Montréal.