Effective ventilation solutions to improve comfort and occupant health in Montréal condominiums
In a dynamic city like Montréal, where condominium buildings are multiplying to meet growing housing demand, indoor air quality has become a crucial priority for building managers. At AirGreen, we understand that a high-performance ventilation system goes far beyond simple air renewal. It directly impacts the health of occupants, the durability of buildings, and overall comfort. Here are 5 practical and technical tips to improve ventilation in a condo building, tailored to the specific realities of Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, as well as properties located on the North Shore and South Shore.
Understanding the specific ventilation challenges in condominiums
Multi-unit buildings present unique challenges: shared or independent ventilation, risks of odor transfer, excessive humidity, and sometimes outdated or improperly sized equipment. A well-designed HVAC ventilation system in a condominium helps:
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Limit the spread of mold.
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Reduce the risks of allergies or respiratory illnesses.
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Improve residents' perception of comfort.
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Optimize the building’s energy performance.
Here are our 5 professional tips to optimize ventilation in condo buildings.
1. Install a controlled centralized ventilation system
In newer or renovated buildings, a centralized ventilation system with a heat recovery ventilator (HRV or ERV) is strongly recommended. This type of system provides:
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Constant indoor air renewal, even with windows closed.
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Humidity and contaminant control.
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Energy recovery to reduce heat loss in winter, which is particularly beneficial in Montréal’s climate and surrounding areas.
At AirGreen, we recently installed a centralized ventilation system by Venmar AVS N Series in a 24-unit building in Laval. This system is equipped with an energy-efficient ECM motor and an automatic humidity sensor, allowing for reduced energy consumption while improving indoor air quality.
2. Perform regular inspections and maintenance on ductwork
Professional HVAC maintenance is essential to ensure good air circulation. In many buildings visited by our team in Longueuil and on the North Shore, we’ve observed:
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Air ducts clogged with dust or debris.
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Rusted or ineffective ventilation grilles.
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Exhaust fans operating below capacity.
We recommend a full inspection every 2 to 3 years, including duct cleaning, filter replacement, and air flow adjustments. Our certified technicians use inspection cameras and specialized equipment to deliver service that meets all current standards.
3. Separate the air networks between units
A common issue in older buildings is the unintended sharing of air between units, causing the transfer of cooking smells, smoke, or humidity. To resolve this, we suggest:
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Installing autonomous ventilation systems per unit.
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Adding backdraft dampers to existing ducts.
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Performing a complete review of the air distribution system.
In Brossard, we helped a condo board solve this problem by replacing outdated bathroom exhaust fans with Panasonic WhisperCeiling units—much quieter and more efficient—combined with controlled airflow registers.
4. Encourage natural ventilation and balanced pressure
While mechanical ventilation is essential, it's important to make use of natural ventilation when possible. To do this:
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Ensure the building is properly sealed without blocking key openings.
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Verify that windows are well-positioned to promote cross-ventilation.
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Control differential pressures between spaces to prevent unwanted air infiltration.
Our team recently advised a condo manager in Terrebonne who was receiving complaints about drafts in stairwells. By adjusting the speeds of exhaust fans and installing pressure sensors, we re-established a healthy balance between air extraction and fresh air supply.
5. Educate residents on proper ventilation use
A high-performance ventilation system is useless if residents don’t use it correctly. It's important to:
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Provide a clear usage guide to condo owners.
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Explain the importance of leaving HRVs running, even in winter.
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Raise awareness of the need to change filters regularly.
At AirGreen, we support condo boards in establishing ventilation management policies, including information sessions and preventive visits.
AirGreen’s professional support: a real added value for your building
We understand that every condominium is unique. That’s why our team of HVAC ventilation experts offers custom solutions, based on:
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A complete on-site diagnostic.
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An energy efficiency analysis.
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Improvement recommendations with a calculated return on investment.
Whether you manage a small building in Montréal, or a high-rise on the South Shore, we have the expertise, tools, and partners to optimize your indoor air quality.
AirGreen: your trusted HVAC partner in Montréal and surrounding areas
Thanks to our experience and rigorous approach, we’ve carried out dozens of condo ventilation projects, notably in Laval, Saint-Lambert, Repentigny, and Candiac. Our clients value our ability to respond quickly, our transparency, and our adherence to the highest standards.
Investing in a quality ventilation system not only improves residents' comfort, but also increases the long-term value of the building.
Conclusion
Air quality in condominiums is not a luxury—it’s a necessity. By following these 5 technical tips, you not only ensure a healthier environment for your residents, but also reduce maintenance issues, disputes, and energy costs. At AirGreen, we are proud to support building managers in Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, and surrounding areas with their ventilation projects, providing proven expertise and measurable results.
Contact us today for a free evaluation of your ventilation system.