When HVAC Technology Becomes a Guardian of Children’s Health
In early childhood environments, indoor air quality plays a vital role in the well-being and health of children. In Montréal, a daycare in the Rosemont–La Petite-Patrie neighborhood recently called on AirGreen for a complete upgrade of its HVAC ventilation system, with one clear goal: to monitor real-time air quality indicators to help prevent respiratory issues.
This initiative, prompted by a rise in symptoms such as dry coughing, throat irritation, and increased absenteeism among children, aimed to create a healthier environment while meeting the new standards set by Québec’s Ministry of the Family.
Initial Assessment: An Outdated, Inefficient, and Non-Compliant System
Before our intervention, the daycare operated with a basic ventilation system over 15 years old—no mechanical fresh air renewal and no monitoring sensors. The result: CO₂ levels regularly exceeded 1,500 ppm, stagnant humidity, and dead zones with no air circulation.
Findings from the Inspection
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Existing system: exhaust-only ventilation in the bathrooms
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Poorly ventilated areas: nap room, playroom, sleeping quarters
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Detected issues: stale air, uneven temperature, noticeable discomfort
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Standards: not compliant with Québec Building Code for childcare facilities
AirGreen’s Solution: Installation of a Centralized Smart Ventilation System
We proposed a fully centralized HVAC ventilation system, with one top priority: integrating smart air quality sensors connected to an automated control system, allowing the daycare staff to monitor CO₂ levels, humidity, temperature, and active ventilation in each room in real time.
Installation Technical Details
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Main unit brand and model: Fantech FLEX 100H HRV with high-efficiency heat recovery
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Distribution: rigid, quiet ductwork to 7 distinct zones
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Integrated sensors: Awair Element – CO₂, VOCs, temperature, humidity, PM2.5
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Interface: wall-mounted control screen + mobile app
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Subsidies: eligible for LogisVert program + municipal support (total of $2,100 in financial aid)
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Work duration: 5 days scheduled over two weekends to avoid any closures
Noticeable Results Within the First Week
Just one week after the system went live, the daycare’s management noticed a clear reduction in respiratory symptoms, fewer complaints about dry air or headaches, and better sleep quality among the children. Staff can now adjust ventilation manually or automatically, based on pre-set thresholds.
“You can feel the difference as soon as you walk in. The air is fresh, light, and we can monitor everything in real time. It’s reassuring for both staff and parents.” — Daycare Director
“The system alerts us if CO₂ levels rise too high. We act immediately, and the children don’t feel the effects.” — Playroom Educator
Why Ventilation Matters So Much in Montréal Daycares
Children: The First to Be Affected by Poor Air Quality
Children’s respiratory systems are still developing. Prolonged exposure to stale or overly dry air can lead to:
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Increased ENT infections
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Worsened respiratory allergies
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Sleep and concentration disturbances
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General fatigue and frequent absences
In Montréal, winter makes things worse: heating systems dry out the air while the lack of air renewal traps pollutants and airborne irritants indoors.
Making Smart HVAC Ventilation Part of an Educational Strategy
Installing a smart ventilation system isn’t just a technical project—it’s a genuine learning tool. At this daycare, the staff used the opportunity to teach children about air quality, healthy environments, and collective responsibility.
Educators use the display screen to explain:
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Why it’s important to open a window
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Why the ventilation system turns on automatically
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How humidity affects our comfort
Why AirGreen Is the Ideal Partner for HVAC Projects in Educational Settings
Thanks to our hands-on experience in sensitive environments such as daycares, primary schools, and community centers, we’ve developed an approach focused on:
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Compliance with provincial standards
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Flexible scheduling (evenings and weekends)
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Measurable and verifiable air quality results
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Compatibility with public grant programs
We don’t just deliver a machine: we provide a complete solution, perfectly adapted to the daily lives of children and educators.
HVAC Maintenance Tips for Daycares and Early Childhood Centers
Clean filters every month
Dust, hair, and fibers build up quickly in high-activity spaces. Regular cleaning extends the system’s lifespan and maintains air quality.
Check sensors every quarter
Even smart sensors need recalibration or dusting to stay accurate.
Schedule professional maintenance once a year
At AirGreen, we offer preventive HVAC maintenance that includes a full inspection, airflow testing, filter replacement, and duct cleaning if necessary.