That's the question we're asked most often at Ventilation Vortex Air. And the answer depends on your particular situation.
In Montreal, our challenges are unique: pollution from Highway 20, constant construction sites, sticky summer humidity, and winters when everything is hermetically sealed. Your air exchanger works harder here than anywhere else in Quebec.
In this article, we'll give you a complete guide to exactly when to maintain your system, and how to recognize the signs that it's time to act.
Why regular maintenance of your air exchanger is essential in Montreal
Before talking about frequency, we need to understand why it's so important in our region.
Montreal's special challenges
Our urban pollution is intense. Highway 20, permanent construction sites, traffic density - all of these load the air with particles that your exchanger must constantly filter.
In summer, our humidity creates perfect conditions for mold. In winter, the dry, closed air concentrates all indoor pollutants.
"We see filters that turn black in 2 months in certain areas of the city center," explains Mohamed from our team.
Figures that speak for themselves
The statistics are clear:
- 80-90% of pollutants are eliminated by a well-maintained heat exchanger
- 30-50% increase in respiratory risks si le système est négligé (selon Santé Canada)
- 20-25% energy efficiency loss when the unit is dirty
For families and property managers, this means cleaner air, lower electricity bills and improved comfort for everyone.
How often should an air exchanger be cleaned?
The short answer: it depends on your situation. Here's our detailed guide.
Basic filter maintenance
Filter cleaning : Every 3 to 6 months
If you live near a major thoroughfare or in an area with a lot of construction, you'll be looking at 3 months. For quieter suburban areas, 6 months may be sufficient.
Full replacement : Once a year
Even well-cleaned filters lose their efficiency over time. An annual replacement ensures optimum filtration.
"It's not expensive and it makes a huge difference," notes Omar. "We see customers who breathe better just by changing their filters regularly."
Professional core and duct cleaning
Standard frequency : Every 3 to 5 years
This is the general recommendation, but several factors can change the situation:
More frequent (every 2-3 years) if you have :
- A large family (4+ people)
- Pets
- Smokers in the house
- A condo with shared ventilation
- A house near an industrial zone or construction site
Less frequent (every 4-5 years) if :
- If you are a couple with no children or pets
- You live in a quiet residential area
- You meticulously maintain your filters
Signs that cleaning is urgent
Whatever your schedule, some signs call for immediate action:
Persistent unpleasant odors
If it smells musty or moldy even after you've cleaned the house, it's usually the air exchanger.
Low air flow
You can hardly feel the air coming out of the vents.
Excessive humidity
Condensation on windows, feeling of constant dampness, mould appearing.
Visible dust or mould
If you see black spots or dust accumulating rapidly around the grilles.
[Contact us for a free inspection]. if you observe any of these signs.
Common myths about air exchanger maintenance (and the truth)
There are a lot of misconceptions about air exchanger maintenance. Let's set the record straight.
❌ "If I clean the filters, I don't need core maintenance"
✅ The truth: Even with clean filters, ducts accumulate debris, and the heat recovery core clogs up over time. Professional cleaning is essential.
Filters catch coarse particles, but fine dust, moisture and residues pass through.
❌ "A new exchanger needs no maintenance"
✅ The truth: False: even new systems in Montreal quickly clog up.
"We cleaned 2-year-old interchanges that were already problematic," says Mohamed. "Urban pollution is unforgiving.
❌ "I can do everything myself"
✅ The truth: You risk damaging the system. The heat recovery core, for example, costs between 300$ and 800$ to replace if you break it.
Certified technicians have the tools and expertise to clean without causing damage.
How does professional air exchanger cleaning work?
The steps followed by Ventilation Vortex Air
- Free comprehensive inspection
Our RBQ and INVC (soon to be NADCA) certified technicians assess the condition of your system before we begin. - Specialized cleaning
We use HEPA vacuums and friction-suction wands to remove even the most stubborn build-up. - Eco-responsible products
Everything we use is safe for your children and pets. No harsh chemicals. - Complete check
We inspect the condensation drain, the recuperator core and make sure everything is working at full capacity.
Advantages of working with a local professional
Complete, safe cleaning
All parts of the system can be accessed without risk of damage.
Optimizing energy efficiency
Our customers save an average of 50$ to 150$ per year on their electricity bill after a good cleaning.
Longer service life
A well-maintained exchanger can last 15 years instead of 10.
"It's an investment that pays for itself," explains Omar.
How much does it cost to clean an air exchanger in Montreal?
Our packages vary according to the size of the system and the type of residence - condo versus single-family home.
Total transparency : Clear prices, no hidden charges. What we quote is what you pay.
Indirect savings : Lower electricity bills and the avoidance of costly repairs quickly offset the investment.
[Request your free quote]. to find out the exact price for your situation.
Frequency and needs according to Montreal and surrounding areas
Each sector of our region has its own particularities that influence the frequency of maintenance.
Downtown Montreal
Challenge: Increased pollution, condos with shared systems
Recommended frequency : Professional cleaning every 2-3 years, filters every 3-4 months
Urban density and constant traffic foul systems more quickly.
Laval & North Shore
Challenge: Family homes, seasonal pollen, humidity
Recommended frequency : Clean every 3-4 years, paying particular attention to filters in spring
"Families with children and pets in Laval often need more frequent maintenance," notes Mohamed.
Brossard, Longueuil & South Shore
Challenge: Wetter climates, proximity to the river
Recommended frequency : Professional cleaning every 3 years, increased mold monitoring
The river's humidity creates favorable conditions for mold in the systems.
Laurentians
Challenge: Second homes, seasonal use
Recommended frequency : Pre- and post-season maintenance
For cottages, preventive maintenance before winter is crucial.
Why choose Ventilation Vortex Air to clean your air exchanger?
Our competitive advantages
Rapid response 24/7
We travel anywhere in the metropolitan area, even in emergencies.
Free pre-service inspection
No surprises - we assess your situation before recommending anything.
Certified, bilingual and experienced technicians
Mohamed, Omar and our team of 5+ certified technicians understand the unique challenges of each neighborhood.
Safety products
Everything is safe for your children and pets.
Price transparency
No surprises, no hidden costs.
Testimonials and concrete results
Case study - Family in Laval :
After our intervention, their children's allergic symptoms dropped by 40% in just one month.
Customer testimonial - Brossard :
"We felt the difference in air quality the very next day. It smells fresher throughout the house."
More than 500 families throughout the metropolitan area put their trust in us.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
What's the difference between HRV and ERV air exchangers?
HRV recovers heat, ERV recovers heat AND humidity. In Quebec climates, both benefit from the same maintenance.
Can I clean my air exchanger myself?
You can perform basic maintenance (filters, grilles), but complete cleaning requires specialized tools.
What happens if I never maintain it?
Health risks, higher energy costs, premature system failure, possible structural damage.
Is maintenance covered by a home warranty or insurance?
Preventive maintenance is rarely covered, but it can avoid more costly claims for damage caused by negligence.
Take action: improve the air in your home today
Now that you know when and why to maintain your air exchanger, it's time to take action.
A well-maintained exchanger guarantees clean air, lower electricity bills and a system that lasts for years.
In Montreal, with our particular pollution and climate challenges, regular maintenance isn't optional-it's essential for your family's health and comfort.
[Request your free inspection]. today. Our technicians will assess the condition of your system free of charge and provide you with a maintenance schedule tailored to your specific situation.
[Download our PDF guide] You'll find all this information at your fingertips in the "Frequency and best practices for air exchanger cleaning in Montreal" brochure.
Contact us at 514-214-7492 - available 24/7 to answer your questions and plan your service.
At Ventilation Vortex Air, we believe every family deserves to breathe the best air possible. Let us help you get there.
