Home » Air Exchanger | Installation in Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, South Shore and North Shore
Open now · closes at 6 p.m.156 models · 7 brands
HRV and ERV installation · Greater Montréal, South Shore and North Shore

Air exchangers in Montréal, Laval and Longueuil: fresh air all year round, without losing your heat.

An HRV or ERV replaces stale air with filtered outdoor air. Along the way, its core returns to the fresh air up to 72% of the heat, even at −25 °C (best model in our catalogue).

Example: Lifebreath 267 MAX (70% efficiency at −25 °C, HVI). The full calculation is in section 01.
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InstallationReplacementMaintenanceRénoclimat
Your home
HouseCondoPlexNew build
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In a hurry? Call us during business hours: 514 316-2973.
The 7 brands we install. Tap one below to learn all about it
vänEEVenmarBroan-NuToneLifebreathFantechGreenTekDirect AirvänEEVenmarBroan-NuToneLifebreathFantechGreenTekDirect Air
156models installed by our technicians
7brands, from Drummondville, Québec to Bouctouche, N.B.
54%the Code minimum at −25 °C in Greater Montréal
$500from Rénoclimat, under certain conditions
01 · The air lab

Change the temperature and see how much heat the core gives back to your home.

Drag the slider. The four airstreams move, and the temperatures are recalculated with the real data of the selected model.

Try it with a real model from our catalogue
Lifebreath 267 MAX · HRVvänEE V180H75RT · HRVGreenTek PROFILE 1.2E · ERVFantech VHR 70R ES · HRV
Outdoor air−20 °C
Exhaust air−8 °C
Stale air drawn in+21 °C
Fresh air supplied+9 °C
Core: 71 % efficiency at this temperaturePeriodic defrost

Outside, −20 °C. After passing through the core of the Lifebreath 267 MAX, fresh air enters your rooms at about +9 °C, before any heating. Stale air goes back outside at −8 °C — that’s the heat it left behind. In extreme cold, this model defrosts its core by recirculation.

Fresh air comes in at+9 °Cinstead of −20 °C without an air exchanger
Heat returned to the house≈ 1,060 Wrunning continuously at 64 cfm (HVI test airflow)
For a power draw of22 Wor about 48 times more energy returned than used

Indicative physical estimate: the model’s certified efficiency (0 °C and −25 °C, interpolated between the two), indoor air at 21 °C, certification test airflow, balanced airflows. Actual performance depends on the ductwork and settings.

02 · Why an air exchanger

An airtight house keeps the heat in… along with the humidity, odours and stale air.

Today’s homes are built tight to save on heating. Without mechanical ventilation, the air no longer gets renewed enough: condensation, mould, heavy air. Check what you notice and we’ll tell you what it means.

Bright living room with large windows, fresh air throughout the house (illustration)
Condensation or frost at the bottom of windows in winterCooking smells linger for hoursMould spots in corners or in the bathroomDry air in winter: chapped lips, static electricityStuffy air in the bedrooms when you wake upLots of dust that keeps coming backYour current air exchanger is old, noisy or not workingDamp basement or musty smell in summerYou’ve never tested for radon

Indicative: a first pass, not a diagnosis. The visit confirms it with measurements.

What your house is telling youWorth watching: ventilation is a factor.
One or two signs: often a setting, maintenance, or a unit that’s too small.
Too much humidity stays in the house.A properly adjusted HRV removes that excess with the stale air.
Stale air isn’t being replaced fast enough.We check the airflow and the range hood.
First idea: an HRVHave my house checked
03 · HRV or ERV

HRV or ERV: it all comes down to humidity.

Both renew the air and recover heat. The difference is what they do with humidity.

HRVHeat recovery ventilator

Recovers heat, not humidity. In winter, it dries out the house: ideal when there is condensation, lots of occupants or a damp basement.

92 HRV models in our catalogue
ERVEnergy recovery ventilator

Recovers heat and some of the humidity. In winter, it keeps the air from getting as dry; in summer, it leaves some of the humidity outside.

63 ERV models in our catalogue
Health Canada recommends about 30% humidity in winter and 50% in summer. The right unit helps you stay in that range.
Four questions, and we lean one way
In winter, do you see condensation or frost at the bottom of your windows?
YesNo
In winter, does the air feel dry (chapped lips, static electricity)?
YesNo
Are there four or more people living in the house?
YesNo
Do you air-condition the house in summer?
YesNo
Leaning HRVEither oneLeaning ERV
0 question answered out of 4Answer the questions: the needle moves with each answer.Each “yes” pushes the needle toward an HRV (humid house) or an ERV (dry house, air conditioning).

Indicative. We confirm on site after measuring the humidity in your home.

04 · The selector

Four clicks. Three models. Clear reasons.

Each click refilters our 156 models and re-ranks the best ones, using their real data.

Your criteriaStart over
1Your living area
Under 900 sq ft900 à 1 500 pi²1 500 à 2 500 pi²2 500 à 3 200 pi²3 200 à 5 000 pi²Over 5,000 sq ft
2Your home
Condo or apartmentExisting houseNew build
3Your priority
Efficiency in extreme coldLow energy useLifetime core warrantyRénoclimat (HVI)
4Type
Not sureHRVERV
Matching models77
Your top three picks1 500 à 2 500 pi² · existing house · priority: efficiency in extreme cold
Our top pick
Lifebreath RNC 155
Lifebreath · HRV · core warranty lifetimeLifebreath RNC 155
70 %at −25 °C
138 cfmnet airflow
72 Wpower
$70.27per year
  • Covers 2,000 sq ft (range 1,600 à 2,600 pi²)
  • 70 % at −25 °C: above the Code threshold, even in cold regions
  • 72 W continuous, about $70.27 per year
  • Lifetime core warranty from the manufacturer
2nd choice
Lifebreath RNC 205
Lifebreath · HRV · core warranty lifetimeLifebreath RNC 205
69 %at −25 °C
170 cfmnet airflow
58 Wpower
$56.61per year
  • Covers 2,000 sq ft (range 2,000 à 3,200 pi²)
  • 69 % at −25 °C: above the Code threshold, even in cold regions
  • Lifetime core warranty from the manufacturer
  • HVI Section III certified: eligible for Rénoclimat, conditions apply
3rd choice
GreenTek SOLACE 1.5H-EC
GreenTek · HRV · core warranty lifetimeGreenTek SOLACE 1.5H-EC
68 %at −25 °C
172 cfmnet airflow
23 Wpower
$22.45per year
  • Covers 2,000 sq ft (range 2,000 à 3,200 pi²)
  • 68 % at −25 °C: above the Code threshold, even in cold regions
  • Lifetime core warranty from the manufacturer
  • HVI Section III certified: eligible for Rénoclimat, conditions apply
Area covered: indicative rule of 0.35 air changes per hour (9 ft ceilings), the same one used on our spec sheets. The final choice is made after a room-by-room airflow calculation during the visit.

Compact, mid-size or high capacity: our three ranges by the numbers

There’s something for every home, from a small apartment to a large two-storey. Here’s what each range really covers.

Our models ranked by net airflow (0.4 in), spec sheet data. Tap a row to see three examples.
Range
Net airflow
Area covered
Models
HRV / ERV
Best at −25 °C
Who it’s for
Compacts
under 100 cfm
700 à 1,600 pi²
19
13 / 6
65 %
Condo, apartment, small house
Mid-size
100 to 179 cfm
1,200 à 3,300 pi²
89
51 / 38
70 %
Bungalow, cottage, mid-size house
High capacity
180 cfm and up
2,100 à 7,000 pi²
42
25 / 17
72 %
Large house, finished basement, plex
All 156 models

All our air exchangers, with filters by brand and type.

Filter the list below by brand or type, sort it, compare models, then open the spec sheet: airflow, efficiency at −25 °C, power use and warranty are all detailed there.
05 · The model map

Each dot is a model. The higher it is, the better it holds on to your heat at −25 °C.

Filter by brand or type, tap a dot: its spec sheet appears right away.

Brand
AllvänEEVenmarBroan-NuToneLifebreathFantechGreenTekDirect Air
Type
AllHRVERV
HRVERV148 models in the results
Efficiency at −25 °C (higher = holds heat better)

Tap a dot to see the model. Identical models (same ratings) overlap.

Selected dot
Lifebreath 267 MAX
Lifebreath · HRVLifebreath 267 MAX
70 %at −25 °C
75 %at 0 °C
261 cfmnet airflow
$21.47per year
Covers 3,100 à 4,900 pi² · core warranty lifetime
06 · The comparison tool

Three models side by side, row by row.

Add them from the selector or the map, or pick them here. The best in each row lights up.

Lifebreath 267 MAX
Lifebreath 267 MAX
Type
HRV
Net airflow
261 cfm
Efficiency at 0 °C
75 %
Efficiency at −25 °CBest
70 %
PowerBest
22 W
Cost per yearBest
$21.47
Area covered
3,100 à 4,900 pi²
Core warrantyBest
Lifetime
HVI certified (Rénoclimat)
Yes
Defrost
Recirculation
View full specs
vänEE V180H75RT
vänEE V180H75RT
Type
HRV
Net airflow
193 cfm
Efficiency at 0 °C
78 %
Efficiency at −25 °C
68 %
PowerBest
22 W
Cost per yearBest
$21.47
Area covered
2,300 à 3,600 pi²
Core warranty
10 years
HVI certified (Rénoclimat)
Yes
Defrost
Recirculation
View full specs
GreenTek SOLACE 1.5H-EC
GreenTek SOLACE 1.5H-EC
Type
HRV
Net airflow
172 cfm
Efficiency at 0 °CBest
84 %
Efficiency at −25 °C
68 %
Power
23 W
Cost per year
$22.45
Area covered
2,000 à 3,200 pi²
Core warrantyBest
Lifetime
HVI certified (Rénoclimat)
Yes
Defrost
Recirculation
View full specs
07 · The 7 brands

Seven brands, four spots on the map, one installer.

Where they’re made, how they compare, and what each one delivers in numbers across our catalogue.

HartfordLondonDrummondville, QuébecBouctouche
Montréal · AirGreen
West-to-east diagram, not to scale

Drummondville, Québec

About 95 km from Montréal as the crow flies. Venmar has been designing air exchangers here since 1978. Since 2023, it has been Broan-NuTone’s North American centre of excellence for fresh air systems.

The 7 brands in one table

Tap a header to sort; tap a brand to see its profile right below.

Brand
Models ▼
HRV
ERV
Max. airflow
Best at −25 °C
HVI certified
Lifetime core
Head office or plant
vänEE
41
21
20
252 cfm
70 %
22
12
Drummondville, QC
Venmar
41
23
18
252 cfm
70 %
5
19
Drummondville, QC
Broan-NuTone
22
11
11
225 cfm
68 %
20
0
Hartford, WI
Fantech
16
15
1
267 cfm
72 %
5
15
Bouctouche, NB
Lifebreath
14
8
6
371 cfm
70 %
13
7
London, ON
GreenTek
13
7
6
252 cfm
68 %
13
5
Bouctouche, NB
Direct Air
8
7
1
203 cfm
67 %
8
7
Bouctouche, NB
vänEEvänEE · 41VenmarVenmar · 41Broan-NuToneBroan-NuTone · 22LifebreathLifebreath · 14FantechFantech · 16GreenTekGreenTek · 13Direct AirDirect Air · 8
vänEEDrummondville, QC
WhoA Broan-NuTone brand, sold in Canada by Venmar Ventilation
WhereDrummondville, Québec for the AI series
SinceVenmar : 1978
SeriesAI series (current); Gold, Silver, Bronze being phased out by the manufacturer
What sets it apartVIRTUO technology balances the airflow on its own during installation.
vänEE at AirGreenSee the 41 models
41models with us
70–252cfm net airflow, from smallest to largest
70 %best efficiency at −25 °C
39/41models above the Code threshold
21 HRV22 HVI certified, section III20 ERV
Our three benchmarks for this brand
08 · The Code threshold

The Code sets a floor: 54% at −25 °C in Greater Montréal.

Colder than 6,000 degree-days, the floor rises to 60%. See how many of our models pass, in one click.

Where is the house?
Greater Montréal and areaColder regions
54 %minimum at −25 °C
Montréal, Laval, Longueuil and both shores have fewer than 6,000 degree-days: the Code requires 54% at −25 °C.142 of our 151 rated models pass (94 %).Every product page shows its efficiency at −25 °C, with its source. If it’s below the threshold, we tell you and suggest something better.
Our 151 rated models, ranked by efficiency at −25 °C
5
3
1
19
10
65
41
7
< 4040–4950–5354–5657–5960–6465–6970 +
Above the thresholdBelow the threshold
Regulation respecting energy efficiency (Part 11 of the Code), in force since August 30, 2012. The rule applies to new homes; for replacements, we still aim for the threshold.
09 · A day in the house

Drag through the hours: watch the unit keep pace with life at home.

Morning shower, supper, a −25 °C night: the room in question lights up, and the fan speeds up or slows down.

Season
Winter, −25 °CSummer, muggy weather
ShowersHigh speed

The bathroom timer bumps the unit to high speed: the steam leaves before it settles on the mirrors and walls.

In winter, the core returns much of the stale air’s heat to the fresh air: up to 72% at −25 °C on our best models.

10 · The four seasons

One unit, four ways of working.

Pick a season: what it does, the right type, and the quick maintenance task for the moment.

WinterSpringSummerFall
Cozy living room, snow at the window (illustration)

Fall

Target humiditybetween 30 and 50%
0% · dry100% · humid

Health Canada: about 30% in winter and 50% in summer; between 30 and 50% to limit mould.

What the air exchanger doesThe windows close: the air exchanger is once again the house’s only source of fresh air.
HRV or ERVA good time to confirm the HRV or ERV choice before winter.
Task of the momentClean the core and check the drain, once a year.
11 · What it costs

It runs day and night. Here’s what it really costs.

Drag the power slider: the calculation is the same as on our product pages.

Per year, 24 hours a day$27.33about $2.28 per month
Compared with a light bulb left on all year
Your air exchanger (28 W)$27.33
Incandescent bulb, 60 W$58.56
LED bulb, 9 W$8.78

The most frugal of our current models: vänEE V160E65RT, 15 W, or $14.64 a year.

Hydro-Québec, Rate D as of April 1, 2026: 11.142¢/kWh (2nd-tier price, an upper bound before taxes). Power measured by HVI at test airflow; high speed uses more.
12 · Rénoclimat

$500 from Rénoclimat: possible, but not automatic.

Three conditions, three clicks. We’ll tell you where you stand.

Is the unit listed in section III of the HVI directory?86 models in our catalogue are; their spec sheet shows the HVI number.
YesNoNot sure
Will you have a Rénoclimat energy evaluation BEFORE the work?Initial evaluation: $150 plus taxes, refunded when the grant is paid.
YesNoNot sure
Are you doing other work that improves the EnerGuide rating?Insulation, windows, heat pump… An air exchanger alone can raise energy use.
YesNoNot sure
Your situation?Answer the three questions.The verdict updates with every click.
13 · Maintenance

Maintenance and durability: two simple tasks, and the unit lasts.

Tell us when you last cleaned the filters: your schedule for the next 12 months is built starting today.

Last filter cleaning
This month1 month ago2 months agoMore than 3 months
Filters: clean them this month.
Sep2026
Oct2026
Nov2026
Dec2026
Jan2027
Feb2027
Mar2027
Apr2027
May2027
Jun2027
Jul2027
Aug2027
FiltersCore and drain (once a year)Outdoor hoods: clear the snow
My maintenance list0 / 5
Clean both filtersEvery two months: vacuum, then warm soapy water.Clean the coreOnce a year; we suggest the fall, before the cold.Check the drainOnce a year: it should drain freely.Clear the outdoor hoodsAfter storms: snow and frost block the airflow.Clean the room grillesDust on the grilles = reduced airflow.
AirGreen maintenance

Don’t feel like doing it? We’ll take care of it.

Cleaning of the core, filters and drain, plus motor and airflow checks, by appointment.

Request maintenance

Durability: what manufacturers guarantee on the core

Manufacturer’s core warranty, taken from each spec sheet. Filter by brand.

AllvänEEVenmarBroan-NuToneLifebreathFantechGreenTekDirect Air
Lifetime65
15 years1
10 years29
5 years58
1 an2

What makes an air exchanger last

Clean filtersClogged filters make the motors work harder and reduce airflow.
Balanced airflowsA balanced unit doesn’t strain and doesn’t frost up more than it needs to.
A drain that flowsDefrost water has to drain away, otherwise it sits in the unit.
A by-the-book installationInsulated ducts, sloped toward the hoods, unit level.
14 · The AirGreen advantage

Installation, service and follow-up: we handle everything, from the visit to maintenance.

RBQ licence 5645-9605-01, subcategory 15.8 Ventilation. Here’s how it works, step by step.

Modern house in winter, snowy patio (illustration)
Professional installationBy our technicians, under RBQ licence 15.8 Ventilation. Airflows measured and balanced before we leave.
Regular maintenanceFilters, core, drain, motors: we come back every year if you like.
Real follow-upA question after installation? We answer at 514 316-2973 or sales@airgreen.ca.
Transparent pricingWritten quote within 24 hours of the free estimate: no surprises at the end.
1Visit and estimate2Airflow calculation3Installation4Balancing5Follow-up and maintenance
Step 1 of 5

Visit and estimate

An advisor comes to your home, free of charge. They look at your current unit, the ducts, the outdoor vent and the humidity.

15 · Frequently asked questions

The questions we get asked most often.

Is an air exchanger mandatory?

In a new home, yes: houses are built so airtight that the Code requires mechanical ventilation, and it sets a minimum efficiency for HRVs (54% at −25 °C in Greater Montréal). In an existing home, it’s strongly recommended as soon as there’s condensation, lingering odours or mould.

HRV or ERV for a house in Montréal?
Should it run all the time?
How often does it need maintenance?
Does an air exchanger save energy?
What size air exchanger do I need for my house?
How much electricity does it use?
Is there a grant?
Does it replace a dehumidifier?
What about radon?
Why do I still get condensation with my air exchanger?
Do you install all brands?
AirGreen · Residential ventilation

Breathing better starts with a free visit.

We measure, calculate the airflows room by room and give you a written quote. Then you decide, with no pressure.

sales@airgreen.ca
RBQ 5645-9605-01Subcategory 15.8 Ventilation, verifiable in the RBQ registry.
Written quote within 24 hAfter the in-home estimate, free anywhere in Greater Montréal.
Showroom in Boucherville1370 Joliot-Curie St., Suite 712. Come see the units.
$5M liability insuranceFull coverage, from the start of the job to the finish.
Sources checked September 30, 2026
  1. AirGreen catalogue: 156 active air exchangers, spec sheet data (HVI Section III or manufacturer’s sheet), read September 30, 2026.
  2. Régie du bâtiment du Québec, Participant’s Guide – Energy Efficiency Regulation (Part 11), in force since August 30, 2012: minimum sensible efficiency of 54% at −25 °C below 6,000 degree-days, 60% elsewhere.
  3. Gouvernement du Québec, Rénoclimat – assistance for mechanical systems (quebec.ca, updated October 2, 2025): $500 for an HRV or ERV listed in HVI Section III, if the EnerGuide rating improves.
  4. Hydro-Québec, Electricity Rates as of April 1, 2026, Rate D: 11.142¢/kWh above 40 kWh per day.
  5. CMHC and Health Canada: clean the filters every two months, and the core and drain once a year. Health Canada: humidity of about 30% in winter and 50% in summer.
  6. Manufacturer websites (broan-nutone.com, lifebreath.com, fantech.net, greentek.ca, directairhvac.com) and Systemair and Madison Industries press releases, consulted September 30, 2026.

Amounts and estimates shown are for reference only; only the responsible agencies can confirm the assistance granted. Sizing and energy calculations are for comparison; final sizing is done on site.

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