Poor ventilation could have cost a Longueuil family their lives. Here’s how AirGreen prevented the worst.
In the field of heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC), some service calls are unlike any others. One winter morning in Longueuil, we received what seemed to be a routine inspection request—but it quickly turned into a real life-saving intervention. Thanks to our ventilation expertise, a family narrowly escaped a deadly but invisible threat: carbon monoxide poisoning in a residential garage with no proper ventilation.
Context: a garage converted into a workshop… without proper ventilation
The client contacted us with a recurring concern: a persistent gas smell and frequent headaches whenever he spent long hours in his garage, which he had transformed into a mechanical workshop. During the winter, the doors remained closed to keep the heat in, but the lack of fresh air and the absence of any proper ventilation system worsened the issue.
As soon as we arrived in Longueuil, we recognized a critical situation. The garage was regularly used to start vehicles and handle chemicals—without any setup to remove stale air. A quick air quality assessment revealed alarming levels of carbon monoxide.
Intervention: a custom emergency plan
At AirGreen, our role is not limited to equipment installation: we protect lives. We immediately recommended installing a heat recovery ventilator (HRV) system, capable of continuously renewing indoor air, even in the middle of winter, while minimizing heat loss.
We chose a compact yet high-performance unit: the Fantech FLEX 100H HRV, a model designed for small residential spaces, featuring dual energy-efficient ECM motors, a maximum airflow of 104 CFM, and an enthalpic core optimized for Quebec’s cold climate. This system perfectly met the needs of a garage-workshop like this one.
Technical details of the installation
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Installed model: Fantech FLEX 100H HRV
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Location: Residential garage, Longueuil
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Installation type: Wall-mounted with galvanized steel ductwork
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Special feature: Integrated CO sensor to automatically activate the system at critical thresholds
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Installation time: Less than one day
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Included preventive maintenance: Filter cleaning, airflow calibration, damper inspection
Challenges encountered during the intervention
The main challenge was the tight layout of the garage, with equipment already installed on the walls and ceiling. We had to rethink the duct layout to ensure effective extraction of polluted air without interfering with the workspace. A fresh air intake grille was also installed at the opposite end of the room, creating a continuous directional airflow that expelled contaminants.
Measured results and immediate impact
As soon as the system was turned on, CO levels dropped below 5 ppm, a threshold considered safe. The client, visibly relieved, immediately noticed a boost in concentration and comfort. Thanks to our fast, tailored response, the garage became a safe, ventilated space fit for everyday use.
What this story teaches us
Any garage, workshop, or enclosed space used for mechanical or craft activities must be properly ventilated. Opening a window occasionally is not enough: a controlled mechanical ventilation system is the only reliable safeguard against invisible and deadly pollutants like carbon monoxide.
Here are some practical tips we now regularly share following this experience:
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Never run a vehicle inside a closed, unventilated space, not even for a few minutes.
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Always install a working CO detector in your garage or workshop.
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Have your HVAC equipment inspected regularly, especially if you’ve repurposed a space in your home.
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Consider installing a residential HRV, specifically designed for Quebec winters.
Why choose AirGreen for your ventilation in Longueuil and beyond
At AirGreen, we don’t just sell equipment. We evaluate each situation individually, based on space dimensions, usage patterns, and technical constraints. Our certified technicians offer custom-tailored solutions, all compliant with Quebec building code standards.
Our experience in Longueuil is just one example among dozens across Montréal, Laval, the North Shore and the South Shore. Whether for single-family homes, businesses, workshops, or multi-unit buildings, we have the right HVAC solution.
AirGreen, your partner for clean, safe air
This miraculous rescue is tangible proof that ventilation is not a luxury—it's a vital necessity. Whether you own a garage, a workshop, or a basement converted into an office, we support you at every step, from the initial evaluation to ongoing maintenance.
Don’t let an invisible problem endanger your safety. Contact our specialized HVAC team, where every intervention is guided by expertise, responsiveness, and a true passion for doing things right.
Contact us today for a free assessment of your ventilation needs in Longueuil, Montréal, Laval, the South Shore or the North Shore.