Can poor ventilation really affect your health? On the South Shore of Montréal, a concerned homeowner contacted us about the well-being of his family. We recently carried out a CVAC (HVAC) intervention that clearly demonstrated the importance of having a properly designed, well-maintained ventilation system that is adapted to the home.
Worrisome Symptoms and a Suspicious Home
When we were called to this single-family home located in Saint-Lambert, the homeowner was reporting recurring health issues among several family members: eye irritation, persistent coughing, frequent headaches, and in some cases, chronic fatigue. Medical professionals suspected that the cause was poor indoor air quality, potentially linked to an inadequate or poorly maintained ventilation system.
We quickly dispatched our team of HVAC experts serving the South Shore to carry out a comprehensive analysis of the central ventilation network. This technical and hygienic inspection uncovered several concerning findings.
Analysis of the Existing Ventilation System
An Outdated and Clogged Installation
The existing system was over 20 years old, and the ducts had never been cleaned. Stale air was circulating poorly throughout different zones of the house, leading to humidity buildup and an accumulation of contaminants.
Our diagnostic tools revealed:
-
A high level of mold spores in some ducts;
-
Excess concentrations of fine dust, pet dander, and chemical pollutants (especially in the basement);
-
A complete lack of HEPA filtration or any integrated air purification.
A Design Poorly Suited to the Home’s Needs
The original system had not been optimized for the actual layout of the house. Several rooms lacked return air vents, which disrupted airflow balance and created negative pressure zones, pulling outdoor pollutants into the home.
AirGreen’s Intervention: A Clean Ventilation System and a Transformed Home
At AirGreen, our mission goes far beyond technical installation. We aim to restore comfort, quality of life, and respiratory safety in every home. Here’s what we accomplished for this South Shore residence:
Intervention Steps:
-
Full diagnostic of the existing network using inspection cameras, pollutant detectors, and static pressure tools.
-
Professional duct cleaning according to NADCA standards, eliminating mold and debris buildup.
-
Replacement of the heat recovery ventilator (HRV) with a Venmar EVO5 700 HRV, featuring a built-in MERV 13 filter.
-
Rebalancing the system by adding new return vents in the bedrooms and living room.
-
Installation of a central Lennox PureAir S air purifier, integrated with the HRV for continuous filtration.
-
Post-intervention air quality monitoring over 14 days, showing a dramatic improvement in indoor air quality.
Why Poor Ventilation Makes You Sick
Invisible but Harmful Contaminants
Inadequate ventilation can turn your home into a breeding ground for invisible pathogens:
-
Mold spores: irritate the respiratory system, especially for children and people with asthma;
-
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs): released by building materials, paints, and cleaning products, causing headaches and nausea;
-
Carbon monoxide and radon: in extreme cases, poor ventilation allows dangerous gases to build up.
Humidity and Condensation: A Perfect Environment for Bacteria
When air isn’t circulating properly, indoor humidity rises, especially in bathrooms, kitchens, or basements. This creates the perfect environment for the growth of bacteria and fungi, directly affecting the occupants’ health.
Results Observed After Our Intervention on the South Shore
Client Testimonial
“Within the first week, we noticed a difference. The air smelled fresher, my children’s symptoms decreased. We truly feel better at home.”
Post-Installation Technical Data:
-
86% decrease in airborne mold spores.
-
Relative humidity stabilized at 45% throughout the home.
-
Improved energy efficiency thanks to the new ENERGY STAR–certified HRV.
-
Estimated 12% annual reduction in heating costs.
How to Avoid Health Problems Caused by Ventilation
Our Essential Recommendations:
-
Have your ventilation system inspected every 2 to 3 years;
-
Choose modern HRVs with MERV 13 or HEPA filters;
-
Schedule full duct cleanings at least every 5 years (more frequently if you have pets or allergies);
-
Ensure air distribution is balanced throughout the house;
-
Avoid scented chemical products that mask odors instead of eliminating them at the source.
Why Trust AirGreen with Your Ventilation Services
At AirGreen, we operate throughout Greater Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore, and the South Shore with technicians specialized in residential and commercial ventilation. Our services always include:
-
Accurate diagnostics using air quality analysis tools;
-
Custom solutions tailored to each setup;
-
Certified ENERGY STAR products and high-end equipment;
-
Proactive after-sales service, with personalized maintenance tips.
Conclusion: Yes, Poor Ventilation Can Affect Your Health
This case from the South Shore clearly demonstrates the link between deficient ventilation and health issues. Thanks to an expert HVAC intervention, we transformed a harmful environment into a healthy, comfortable living space.
If you suspect your ventilation system is outdated, ineffective, or poorly designed, don’t wait until symptoms appear. Trust your family’s health to experienced professionals.
Contact us today for a complete ventilation diagnostic on the South Shore, Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, or the North Shore.