Home Air Exchanger Installation, Repair & Maintenance

An air exchanger also called an HRV (Heat Recovery Ventilator) or ERV (Energy Recovery Ventilator) replaces stale indoor air with fresh outdoor air while recovering most of the heat or energy in the process. In Quebec, building code requires mechanical ventilation in most new homes because modern construction is so well sealed that natural air circulation is not enough. If your home feels stuffy, has condensation on windows, or high humidity levels, a properly functioning air exchanger is often the solution.

An HRV (Heat Recovery Ventilator) transfers heat from outgoing stale air to incoming fresh air, which is ideal for cold climates like Montreal where maintaining warmth is the priority. An ERV (Energy Recovery Ventilator) also transfers moisture, which can help manage indoor humidity in both winter and summer. The right choice depends on your home’s size, humidity levels, and how your home is used. Electrika’s home comfort advisor will recommend the better fit during your home assessment.

Installation cost varies depending on the type of unit (HRV or ERV), the brand and efficiency rating, your home’s existing ductwork, and the complexity of the installation location. A straightforward replacement in an accessible utility room is typically less complex than a first-time installation requiring new ductwork. After our on-site assessment, Electrika provides multiple clear, upfront options so you can make a confident decision before any work begins.

It depends. An air exchanger running more frequently in winter is often normal because indoor humidity rises when people are home more and the house is tightly sealed. However, if it is running non-stop without improving air quality, or if you are seeing excessive condensation, it could indicate an undersized unit, a control issue, or a problem with the ductwork or core. Electrika’s Air exchanger diagnostic inspection will identify the exact cause quickly.

Most manufacturers recommend a professional inspection and cleaning at least once per year, typically in the fall before the heating season begins. Filters should be checked and cleaned every one to three months depending on your home and usage. Regular maintenance prevents unnecessary breakdowns, extends the life of the unit, and keeps your indoor air quality consistently healthy.

A straightforward replacement of an existing unit in an accessible location can often be completed in two to four hours. A first-time installation that requires new ductwork connections, longer runs, or working around limited access points may take longer. Because every home is different, we recommend an on-site assessment to give you an accurate timeline and scope before any work begins.

In some cases, yes especially in replacement installations where the previous unit used a similar duct configuration. In other situations, new dedicated ductwork may be needed to ensure proper airflow balance and system performance. Our technician will assess your existing setup during the home visit and explain what is needed before any work begins.

An improperly installed air exchanger can fail to ventilate effectively, create negative pressure in the home, or cause humidity and air quality problems. Proper sizing, airflow balancing, and code-compliant duct connections are critical. A licensed specialist can also protect your manufacturer warranty many brands require professional installation documentation for warranty claims to be valid.

Yes, in most cases. Most Greater Montreal homes built or renovated to current energy codes are intentionally airtight to reduce heat loss. That same airtightness traps stale air, excess humidity, VOCs, and CO2 inside affecting your family health. An air exchanger is how a properly sealed home breathes replacing stale air with fresh outdoor air without wasting the heat you’ve already paid for.

Yes. Electrika services most major HRV and ERV brands and models available in Quebec. You do not need to replace your unit to get it serviced if your existing system is repairable and worth maintaining, we will tell you that honestly.