Managing humidity with a central heat pump: a key factor in year-round indoor air quality in Quebec
In a climate as extreme as that of Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore, and the South Shore, maintaining optimal indoor air quality throughout the year is a constant challenge for both residential and commercial property owners. One of the most common issues: excess humidity in summer, and dry air in winter. At AirGreen, we understand that this imbalance can lead to problems ranging from physical discomfort to structural damage to your home. That’s why we focus on installing and maintaining high-performance central heat pumps that can effectively regulate indoor humidity through all seasons.
Why is humidity such a critical factor in indoor comfort?
The ideal relative humidity level in a building should be between 35% and 50%. When it climbs above or drops below this range, several symptoms appear:
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Too much humidity: condensation on windows, mold growth, musty odors, and damage to walls and floors.
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Air that’s too dry: irritated respiratory tract, dry skin, static electricity, and cracking in wood furniture.
In Quebec’s climate—with its drastic temperature shifts—humidity regulation is even more essential. That’s where a well-sized and properly installed central heat pump truly shines.
The role of a central heat pump in humidity control
A central heat pump doesn’t just heat or cool your space—it actively contributes to controlling indoor humidity. Thanks to its dehumidification cycles in cooling mode and continuous operation, it helps prevent the humidity spikes that promote bacteria and mold growth.
Here’s how it works:
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In cooling mode, the heat pump removes moisture from the warm indoor air. As the air passes over the cold coils, condensation occurs and the water is drained away.
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In heating mode, while the heat pump doesn’t add moisture, it provides stable, even heating, helping avoid the over-drying often caused by electric or wood-based heating systems.
Case study: installing a Goodman central heat pump in Laval
Recently, we installed a Goodman 16 SEER / 9 HSPF 3-ton (36,000 BTU) central heat pump in a single-family home in Laval. The client had chronic humidity issues in the basement, with mold regularly appearing on the north-facing exterior walls in spring.
Our solution:
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Complete removal of the old forced-air system, which was poorly sized and inefficient.
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Installation of a Goodman central heat pump with a 15 kW electric furnace, controlled by a smart thermostat with built-in humidity sensors.
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Redesign of air distribution to properly reach the basement’s trouble spots (especially the north corner).
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Recommendation to add a connected portable dehumidifier, integrated with the heat pump via a smart home system.
The result: after three months of use, the average humidity dropped from 62% to 45%, with a noticeable reduction in musty smells and a visible improvement in air quality.
How to choose the right central heat pump for humidity control?
Here are key factors to consider:
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Capacity (BTU): An oversized unit will cool too quickly without removing enough humidity, leaving the air feeling damp.
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High SEER/HSPF ratings: These ensure superior energy efficiency and better humidity control during operation cycles.
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Smart thermostat compatibility: This allows for precise monitoring and management of humidity levels.
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Trusted brands: At AirGreen, we recommend proven brands like Goodman, Bosch, Lennox, Fujitsu, and Arcoaire, all known for helping maintain clean, balanced air even in harsh conditions.
The importance of HVAC maintenance in humidity regulation
Even the best-performing central heat pump needs regular HVAC maintenance to effectively manage humidity:
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Cleaning of indoor coils: Dust buildup limits dehumidification performance.
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Checking the condensate drain line: A blocked drain can cause leaks or water to pool.
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Inspecting the blower and ductwork: To ensure consistent airflow throughout the space.
At AirGreen, our annual maintenance plans include all these critical checks to ensure your air stays clean and well-balanced year-round.
Available grants to improve indoor air quality
Several government grants are available in Quebec to support the installation of energy-efficient heat pump systems, including:
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Hydro-Québec’s LogisVert Program: up to $5,000 in rebates depending on the model and setup.
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Rénoclimat: free energy assessments and additional incentives for eco-efficient systems.
Our experts assist you through every step of the application process, from equipment selection to submitting the necessary paperwork.
Practical tips to maintain healthy indoor air year-round
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Avoid installing an oversized heat pump, which causes short cycles.
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Have your ductwork inspected and cleaned every 3 to 5 years.
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Use a hygrometer to monitor humidity in key areas (basements, windowless bedrooms).
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Avoid excessive moisture sources (air-drying laundry indoors, long showers without ventilation).
Why choose AirGreen?
AirGreen is a team of passionate experts, specializing in the installation, maintenance, and repair of HVAC systems in Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore, and the South Shore. Our installations are custom-designed, tailored to each building, each need, and every budget.
We don’t just install a machine—we deliver complete comfort solutions for long-term performance, including:
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In-depth humidity assessments
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Recommendations for compatible systems
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Clean, professional installation
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Responsive post-installation support
Thanks to our expertise, many families and businesses have experienced a transformation in their indoor air quality, while achieving significant energy savings.