The importance of well-designed ventilation in living environments for seniors
In senior residences, thermal comfort and air quality are much more than simple amenities: they are fundamental elements of daily well-being. At AirGreen, we recently had the opportunity to intervene in a senior residence located in Montreal, facing a recurring problem of poor nighttime ventilation, causing thermal discomfort, insomnia, and irritability among several residents. Here’s how our HVAC ventilation expertise transformed their daily lives.
Initial diagnosis: an outdated network and unsuitable design
Technical evaluation of existing installations
From our first visit, our team conducted a comprehensive analysis of the existing ventilation system, using CO₂ sensors, a temperature and humidity recorder, and a thermal camera to detect pressure losses.
Results:
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Poor air circulation in rooms located at the end of the corridor.
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Obsolete return fans causing continuous noise during the night.
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A lack of fine temperature regulation room by room.
Testimonials from residents and staff
The testimonials confirmed our technical findings:
“Every night, it’s the same scenario: too hot, too noisy… we sleep poorly,” confided a resident of the East wing.
“We noticed people were more irritable at breakfast. You could really feel that sleep was disturbed,” added a caregiver.
The AirGreen solution: custom HVAC ventilation
Complete overhaul of the ventilation network
We designed a customized solution, tailored to the reality of an elderly clientele, prioritizing silence, comfort, and air quality. Here are the key steps:
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Partial dismantling of the outdated duct network.
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Installation of quiet variable flow fans from Fantech.
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Addition of linear diffusers with laminar flow for better air distribution.
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Implementation of an intelligent central control system, allowing automatic adjustment of ventilation based on occupancy and ambient temperature.
Integration of HEPA filters and an ERV air exchanger
To go further, we integrated:
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A high-efficiency Venmar AVS ERV air exchanger to maintain optimal humidity levels.
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HEPA MERV 13 filters ensuring constant air purification, essential for a vulnerable clientele.
Results: return to restorative sleep and improved well-being
Measurable indicators of restored comfort
A few weeks after installation, the results were visible — and measurable:
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34% decrease in CO₂ levels at night.
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Ambient noise reduction of 7 decibels in the rooms.
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Thermal stabilization at 21.5 °C without sudden fluctuations.
Manager’s testimonial
“Since AirGreen’s intervention, the feedback has been unanimous: people sleep better. We’ve even reduced night calls to the nursing station!” — Residence Director.
Why trust AirGreen for your HVAC ventilation projects in Montreal
Our approach: rigor, customization, expertise
At AirGreen, we combine cutting-edge technology, active listening to needs, and field experience to offer HVAC solutions truly tailored to each project. Our projects in Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, North Shore, and South Shore demonstrate our commitment to occupant comfort and health.
Specialized in sensitive environments
Our teams regularly work in:
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Senior centers,
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Daycares,
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Care centers,
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Residential units with specific acoustic or thermal requirements.
Each intervention is preceded by a thorough analysis of site constraints, followed by a clear and quantified action plan, complying with ASHRAE standards and the requirements of the Quebec National Institute of Public Health (INSPQ).
Practical tips for properly ventilating a senior residence
Mistakes to avoid
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Avoid using noisy equipment or equipment not suited to nighttime needs.
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Avoid undersizing wing ventilation.
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Do not neglect air filtration, especially in a post-pandemic context.
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Never forget smart regulation, essential for personalized comfort.
What we recommend
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Install energy recovery ventilators (ERVs) with integrated CO₂ sensors.
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Plan for semi-annual HVAC maintenance including duct cleaning.
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Integrate a remote control system, with a centralized panel for staff.
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Always prioritize acoustic comfort, especially at night.
AirGreen, your trusted partner for improving air quality in living environments
Our work at this senior residence in Montreal is just one example among many of our commitment to providing concrete, reliable, and sustainable HVAC solutions. Whether it's to improve residents' sleep, optimize indoor air quality, or reduce ventilation noise, we are ready to take on the challenge with professionalism, speed, and attention to detail.