You love your dog or cat. But that lingering pet smell in your home, even after you've cleaned it up? Not so much.
You vacuum religiously. You wash blankets. You use air fresheners. And yet, as soon as your heating or air-conditioning system goes, that unmistakable animal smell comes back with a vengeance.
If this sounds familiar, the problem is probably in your ventilation ducts. Animal dander, hair and odors have accumulated in your system over months or years. Every time air circulates, it stirs up and redistributes these contaminants throughout your home.
In Quebec, around 55% of households have pets. That's hundreds of thousands of families facing this challenge. And in Montreal, with our long winters when windows remain closed for six months, the problem becomes particularly intense.
The good news? It's fixable. With the right approaches and, in some cases, the help of a certified professional, you can eliminate these odors and significantly improve the quality of your indoor air.
At Vortex Air, we've been helping Montreal pet owners for over 10 years. We know these challenges intimately - we have customers with German shepherds shedding in bags, multi-cat households, and everything in between. In this guide, we'll show you exactly how to solve the problem, step by step.
Why do pet odors persist in your air ducts?
Understanding the source of the problem is the first step to solving it effectively.
Your pets naturally shed hair and scales. These microscopic particles become airborne - floating in the air of your home. Your ventilation system draws in this air via return air, and the particles travel throughout your network of ducts.
Some particles pass through your filters (especially if you use low-quality standard filters). Others settle on the walls of your ducts, in elbows and at junctions. Over time, these accumulations create a permanent source of odor.
And here's the problem: your system continually recirculates this air. Each cycle picks up a little more of these particles, stirs them up, and redistributes them. It's a vicious circle that gets progressively worse.
Between 10 and 15% of the population is allergic to animals. For these people, accumulated dander in the ducts creates constant symptoms - sneezing, congestion, itchy eyes. Even for those who are not allergic, odors can become unpleasant and embarrassing.
The role of animal dander and hair
Many people think it's hair that causes allergies and odors. This is partly untrue.
Visit animal dander are the real culprit. These are microscopic particles of dead skin that your pets are constantly shedding. These flakes contain proteins that cause allergic reactions and also carry your pets' characteristic odours.
Dander is incredibly light and remains airborne for hours. That's why it finds its way so easily into your ducts. Once there, it adheres statically to metal surfaces and builds up slowly.
Visit hair also play a role, but mainly as transporters. Hairs collect dander, oils from your pet's skin, saliva (when they lick themselves), and even urine in some cases. A single hair can carry hundreds of particles of dander.
Breeds that shed a lot - huskies, German shepherds, Persian cats - obviously create more accumulation. But even breeds with less shedding have dander. No animal is completely hypoallergenic.
Natural oils from animal skin also contribute to odor. These oils become rancid over time, especially in a warm, dark environment like the inside of your ducts.
How is the air recirculated in Montreal winters, and why does this accentuate odours?
The Montreal winter transforms your home into an almost hermetically sealed environment. From November to April, your windows remain sealed. Natural air renewal becomes minimal.
Your heating system runs constantly, circulating and recirculating the same air over and over again. Each cycle picks up more dander and hair, stirs it into the ducts, and redistributes it.
In older condos on the Plateau and in Rosemont - often triplex conversions dating from the 1970s-1980s - ventilation systems are particularly problematic. Many have no air exchanger (HRV) to bring in fresh air. They rely solely on recirculation with minimal filtration.
Studies show that in winter, when homes are closed, animal-related allergic symptoms increase by 20% or more. This is no coincidence - it's a direct consequence of excessive recirculation of contaminated air without adequate renewal.
Heating also dries out the air. In a dry environment, dander particles stay in suspension longer. They are more likely to be drawn into your ducts before settling on surfaces.
When it's -15°C outside, opening the windows to ventilate seems unthinkable. Even if you do so briefly, the effect is temporary. As soon as you close them again, you're back to the same recirculation problem.
Mold, bacteria and other secondary contaminants
Dander and hair create a favorable environment for other problems.
Organic build-up in your ducts - dander, hair, oils - can become a breeding ground for bacteria. These bacteria break down organic matter and create their own unpleasant odors, often worse than the original animal smell.
If your ducts have residual moisture (condensation, leaks, past water infiltration), mold can grow on these organic accumulations. Mold adds a musty odor on top of the animal smell.
For sensitive families - young children, the elderly, the immunocompromised - these secondary contaminants pose additional health risks beyond mere olfactory annoyance.
The NADCA (National Air Duct Cleaners Association) methodology recommends professional duct cleaning every 3 to 5 years under normal conditions. For pet owners, especially those with multiple farts or breeds that shed a lot, the recommended frequency is closer to 2 to 3 years.
Without regular maintenance, build-up can increase by 50% or more per year. The longer you wait, the worse the problem gets, and the more complex and costly cleaning becomes.
Step by step: how to eliminate pet odours in ducts
Now let's get down to the nitty-gritty. Here's the whole process, from diagnosis to prevention.
Step 1: Diagnosis and initial inspection
Before you do anything, you need to know exactly what you're up against.
Basic visual inspection (DIY)
Start by looking at your ventilation grilles. Remove them and look inside the first accessible duct sections with a flashlight. Do you see accumulations of hair? Thick dust? Debris?
Check your furnace and air exchanger filters. If they're black with dirt and covered with hair, it's a clear sign that your ducts probably are too.
Take note of odors. Does the smell get worse when the system is running? Do some rooms smell stronger than others? These observations help identify problem areas.
Professional inspection (recommended)
For a complete assessment, an endoscopic camera inspection is ideal. A certified technician can see inside your entire duct system-not just the accessible sections.
At Vortex Air, we offer this free, no-obligation inspection. We come to your home, inspect with our camera, and show you exactly what we find. You see the images in real time on our screen.
This inspection reveals:
- The extent of dander and hair accumulation
- The presence of mould or dampness
- The general condition of your ducts
- Areas requiring special attention
Then we give you our honest recommendations. If your ducts need a complete cleaning, we'll tell you. If it's less urgent, we'll tell you that too. No fear-mongering, just the facts.
Our technicians are INVC certified, and our company is in the process of obtaining NADCA certification. These certifications guarantee that we follow industry best practices.
Call us for a quick inspection in Montreal - free of charge. There's no obligation. You get a professional assessment of your situation and then decide how to proceed.
Step 2: Professional cleaning
If inspection reveals significant build-up, professional cleaning becomes necessary.
Certified cleaning methodology
At Vortex Air, we use the suction-pulse method with HEPA filtration - the industry standard recommended by NADCA and INVC.
Removal of dander and accumulations
Specialized rotating brushes are inserted into each section of your ducts. These brushes mechanically dislodge anything that has accumulated - dander, hair, dust, debris. We work methodically, section by section, so that nothing is missed.
Accumulations stuck to the walls require this mechanical action. Simply vacuuming is not enough - you have to remove it first.
Powerful HEPA suction
At the same time, our suction system creates negative pressure in your ducts. Anything we loosen is immediately sucked into our commercial HEPA equipment.
HEPA filters capture 99.97% of particles 0.3 microns and larger. That includes all dander, mold spores, and fine particles. Nothing goes back into your home-everything is captured.
This step typically removes 95% or more from dander accumulations when performed correctly.
Enzymatic treatment for stubborn odors
For particularly persistent odors - especially if you have cats who have urinated in the ducts (it happens) - an enzymatic treatment can be applied.
Enzymes break down the organic molecules responsible for odors. This is different from a simple deodorant that masks - enzymes eliminate the source of odor at the molecular level.
Only Health Canada-approved products with DIN numbers are used. No harsh chemicals that could irritate the respiratory tracts of your family or pets.
MERV 13+ or HEPA filter replacement
After cleaning, high-quality filters are installed. MERV 13 or higher filters capture much more dander than standard filters.
If your system can accommodate it (we check the capacity), HEPA filters are even better. With HEPA filters changed monthly, you can reduce airborne dander by 95% or more.
We also explain how to maintain these filters and how often to change them to maintain efficiency.
Step 3: Prevention to prevent odors from returning
Professional cleaning solves the existing problem. But to avoid a rapid return, prevention is essential.
Weekly brushing of your pets
This is the most effective and least expensive preventive measure. Regular brushing removes dead hairs and dander BEFORE they become airborne and end up in your ducts.
Studies show that weekly brushing can reduce shedding by 30% or more. For breeds with heavy shedding, twice-weekly brushing is even better.
Do it outside if possible, especially in spring and autumn when your pets shed the most. Otherwise, brush them in the bathroom with the door closed and the extractor fan on.
Monthly filter change
With pets, your filters become saturated much more quickly. Even with high-quality filters, change or clean them (depending on type) at least once a month.
A saturated filter loses its efficiency and may even release what it has captured. It also creates resistance that forces your system to work harder, increasing your energy costs.
Set a monthly reminder on your phone. It takes five minutes and makes a huge difference.
Regular professional maintenance
Even with good prevention, professional cleaning every 2-3 years is still recommended for pet owners. This is the interval that maintains optimum air quality without problematic build-up.
Consider a maintenance contract. At Vortex Air, we offer low-cost preventive maintenance packages. This guarantees you regular service without having to think about it, and costs less in the long run than emergency interventions.
HEPA air purifiers in main rooms
A portable HEPA-filtered air purifier in your living room or bedroom captures dander before it enters your ducts. It's a useful addition, not a replacement for duct cleaning, but it helps significantly.
Choose a model sized for your room. A purifier that's too small will be ineffective.
Regular vacuuming with HEPA vacuum cleaner
Use a HEPA-filtered vacuum cleaner to clean your floors, carpets and furniture. Standard vacuums may simply disperse dander in the air rather than capturing it.
Vacuum the areas where your pets spend most of their time at least twice a week.
Step 4: When to consider a system replacement or upgrade (e.g. HRV, heat exchanger)
For some situations, upgrading your ventilation system itself becomes justified.
Installation of a HRV (Heat Recovery Ventilator)
If your home doesn't have an air exchanger, this is the most impactful improvement you can make.
An HRV continuously brings in fresh air from outside while recovering up to 85% of heat from the outgoing air. It dilutes contaminants, including dander, without wasting your heating.
Installation costs between 2,000 $ and 4,000 $, depending on complexity, but the impact on your air quality is dramatic. And you save on heating compared to opening the windows.
Available subsidies
Transition Énergétique Québec (TEQ) offers grants of up to 500 $ for the installation of energy-efficient ventilation systems, including HRVs.
The RénovVert program also offers tax credits for residential ventilation upgrades. Combined, these programs can cover 20 to 30% of the installation cost.
In October 2025, TEQ even launched a pilot program specifically for anti-allergen filters in homes with pets, offering up to 500 $ rebates for the installation of advanced filtration systems.
Upgrade filtration system
If you can't install an HRV right away, upgrading your filtration is a useful intermediate step.
Switch to MERV 13 filters minimum. If your system allows it, HEPA filters are even better. Check with a technician that your system can handle the increased resistance - forcing air through overly restrictive filters can damage your equipment.
Some electronic or UV-C filtration systems can also help reduce biological contaminants. We can evaluate these options during our inspection.
Take advantage of the TEQ subsidy - contact us to check your eligibility. We can help you navigate the available programs and plan the most impactful improvements for your specific situation.
Myths and realities about animal odors in ducts
Let's demystify a few common beliefs that can lead you astray.
Myth 1: «It will evaporate on its own».»
FALSE. Dander and hairs don't evaporate. On the contrary, they accumulate continuously.
Dander adheres statically to the metal surfaces of your pipes. Without mechanical intervention to dislodge it, it stays there indefinitely. Studies show that without maintenance, accumulations increase by 50% or more per year.
Hoping that the problem will go away on its own means guaranteeing that it will get progressively worse until it becomes really serious.
Myth 2: «Hair alone causes allergies/odors».»
PARTIALLY FALSE. The hairs are carriers, but the dander is the real culprit.
Many people think that breeds with less shedding cause fewer allergies. This is not entirely true. Even «hypoallergenic» breeds produce dander. What changes is simply that the dander is carried less by the hair.
For odors, too, dander, skin oils and saliva contribute more than the hairs themselves. Hairs are visible and obvious, but microscopic dander particles are the main problem.
Myth 3: «You can only treat with bicarbonate/vinegar».»
INSUFFICIENT. These natural products may help on the surface, but do not reach the ducts.
Placing baking soda near ventilation grilles may absorb 20% of odors passing in the immediate vicinity. Boiling vinegar can temporarily neutralize some airborne odors.
But these methods do absolutely nothing for the accumulations of dander, hair and oils stuck to the walls of your ducts for meters in length. It's like putting a band-aid on a fracture - it superficially masks without addressing the underlying problem.
For light odors between professional cleanings, these methods can help. But for long-lasting elimination of ingrained odors, professional mechanical cleaning is necessary.
Grey debate: ozone vs. enzymes for treatment
Ozone is a problem. Some companies offer ozone treatments to «neutralize» odors. This is a controversial and potentially dangerous approach.
Ozone is a powerful oxidizing gas that can effectively break down certain odor molecules. But it is also toxic to humans and animals. Even at low concentrations, it irritates the lungs and can aggravate asthma.
In Quebec, the commercial use of ozone generators in occupied residential spaces is essentially prohibited for safety reasons. The INSPQ and Health Canada strongly advise against this approach.
Enzymes are safer. Enzymatic treatments break down the organic molecules responsible for odors without posing any health risks. This is the approach used by responsible professionals.
Enzymes are specific - they target the proteins, oils and organic compounds that create animal odors. They are non-toxic to humans and animals.
Why choose Vortex Air in Montreal?
There are many duct cleaning companies in Montreal. Here's why pet owners trust us.
Certifications and local expertise
INVC certified, NADCA in progress
Our team is trained and certified by the Institut National de Ventilation et de Climatisation. We follow industry-established protocols to ensure complete and safe cleaning.
We're also in the process of obtaining our NADCA certification, the recognized North American standard. These certifications aren't just logos on our site - they represent hundreds of hours of training and a commitment to excellence.
Bilingual service
We speak fluent French and English. Montreal is a bilingual city, and we adapt to your preference. You're comfortable in the language of your choice.
500+ satisfied customers
We've served over 500 families and businesses in the Greater Montreal area. Many are pet owners who return to us every 2-3 years for preventive maintenance.
Our local reputation is built on customer satisfaction. We do the job right, with transparency and respect - because we know you'll be telling your friends and neighbors.
Expertise specific to pet owners
We understand the unique challenges pet owners face. We know that cat dander behaves differently from dog dander. We know which breeds shed the most and which areas of the house accumulate the most.
We treat your home with respect, knowing that your pets are part of your family. We take precautions to keep your farts comfortable while we work.
Transparent process and pricing
Free inspection, always
We come to your home, inspect your ducts with our endoscopic cameras, show you what we find, and give you our recommendations. You see exactly what we see.
This inspection is completely free and without obligation. You decide if you want to proceed. Zero sales pressure.
Clear quotation before you start
The price we give you includes everything. No hidden fees that magically appear. No surprise extras. What we say is what you pay.
We explain exactly what's included: cleaning of all duct sections, treatment if necessary, new filters, and the final photo report.
24/7 Availability
Odor problems can become urgent, especially if you're entertaining guests or if it's affecting your family's health. We respond quickly. We move fast.
Our line is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. If you call on a Sunday evening, we answer.
Customer testimonials
Isabelle, Ahuntsic (2 huskies): «My two huskies shed like it was their job. The wet dog smell was constant even in dry weather. Vortex Air cleaned our ducts and installed MERV 13 filters. The difference is spectacular. We can finally breathe without smelling like a kennel. A1 service, honest price.»
Marc and Julie, Laval (3 cats): «Three cats in a condo made it unbearable. Our guests noticed the smell as soon as they walked in. We were embarrassed. After Vortex Air's cleaning and enzymatic treatment, our condo smells normal. Our cats are still there, but not the smell. We'll call them back in two years for maintenance.»
Sophie, Rosemont (German shepherd): «My son has asthma and our dog was making his symptoms worse. Duct cleaning has cut his attacks in half. I wish I had done it before. The team was professional, respectful of our home, and took the time to explain everything to us.»
Book your free inspection today (514-214-7492). We travel all over Greater Montreal. Let us show you how we can improve your air quality.
Service area and speed of response
Complete coverage of Greater Montreal
Dessert:
- Montreal (all boroughs)
- Laval
- Longueuil and South Shore
- North Shore (Terrebonne, Mascouche, Repentigny)
We know the peculiarities of each sector. The old condos in Ahuntsic with outdated systems, the houses in Brossard with damp basements, the buildings in Saint-Laurent with complex shared ventilation.
Quick response
We understand that when odors become intolerable, you want a solution fast. We do our best to offer you an appointment within 24 to 48 hours.
For truly urgent situations - for example, if you have family visiting in a few days - we can often accommodate requests for expedited service.
Measurable results for families with pets
Healthier air, better breathing
Our customers report regularly:
- 30 to 50% reduction in allergy symptoms
- Less congestion and sneezing
- Better sleep (the impact of breathing clean air all night long is underestimated)
- Less use of antihistamines
For asthmatic children, the improvement can be dramatic. Parents tell us that their children have reduced their medication after the cleaning.
Energy savings
Clean ducts mean better airflow. Your system works less hard to maintain temperature.
Professional cleaning can reduce your energy bills by around 10%. Over a year, for an average home in Montreal, that's 150 $ to 250 $ in savings.
It's not just good for your wallet - it's also good for the environment.
Extending the life of your equipment
A system that forces less lasts longer. Your furnace, your fan, your air conditioner - all benefit from clean ductwork.
Replacing a furnace costs between 4,000 $ and 8,000 $. Extending its life by a few years by maintaining clean ducts is an obvious return on investment.
Breathe easier at home - contact Vortex Air. We understand the challenges pet owners face. We're here to help you enjoy your pets without compromising your air quality.
FAQ - Your questions about pet odours in ducts in Montreal
How much does duct cleaning after pets cost in Montreal?
For a typical house or condo with moderate accumulations, expect to pay between 400 $ and 600 $. If accumulations are very heavy, or if additional enzymatic treatment is required, add 150 $ to 250 $. You'll always be given a clear price after the free inspection, before work begins.
How often should I intervene when I have dogs or cats?
Every 2 to 3 years for most pet owners. If you have several pets (3+), breeds that shed a lot (huskies, German shepherds, Persian cats), or if someone in the house is allergic, consider a cleaning every 18-24 months. Between cleanings, change your filters monthly and brush your pets regularly.
Is the deodorizer enough to eliminate the odor in the ducts?
No. Air fresheners temporarily mask the smell without eliminating the source. It's like putting perfume on dirty clothes - it hides the problem for a few hours, then the smell returns. For lasting elimination, you need to physically remove accumulations of dander and hair from the ducts. Enzymatic treatments after mechanical cleaning help, but only after the build-up has been removed.
Are HEPA and MERV 13 filters worth the investment for pet owners?
Absolutely. Standard filters (MERV 8 or less) capture perhaps 20-30% from the dander. MERV 13 filters capture around 85%, and HEPA filters capture 99.97%. The difference in your air quality is measurable. Yes, these filters cost more (15-30 $ vs. 5-10 $), but the impact on your health and comfort more than justifies the investment. And they also protect your equipment by reducing build-up.
What are the signs that my ducts are contaminated with animal dander or cat urine?
Signs include: pet odor that worsens when the system is running, visible accumulations of hair around grills, increased allergy symptoms in occupants, dust that returns quickly after cleaning, and in extreme cases, persistent ammonia (urine) odor. If you've just adopted a pet and the smell is getting worse quickly, your ducts were probably already contaminated.
Are there any subsidies in Quebec to improve ventilation in homes with animals?
Yes, Transition Énergétique Québec (TEQ) offers up to 500 $ for the installation of energy-efficient HRVs. The RénovVert program offers tax credits for ventilation upgrades. In October 2025, TEQ launched a specific pilot program offering up to 500 $ for advanced filtration systems in homes with pets. These programs change regularly - we can help you check your current eligibility.
Can duct cleaning improve my energy bill?
Yes. Clean ducts reduce resistance to airflow, allowing your system to heat or cool more efficiently. Studies show a saving of around 10% on energy costs after professional cleaning. For an average home in Montreal, that's 150 $ to 250 $ per year. Cleaning partially pays for itself in energy savings.
Can I do it myself or do I need to call in a certified professional?
You can clean the visible grids and the first accessible sections, but this may affect 5% of the system. The rest requires professional equipment - specialized rotary brushes, commercial HEPA vacuums, and the expertise to access all sections of the network. DIY also risks dispersing more contaminants than it removes. For truly effective cleaning that eliminates odors over the long term, call in a certified professional.
Is it safe for my pets during cleaning?
Yes, completely. We use mechanical methods (brushes and vacuum) that pose zero risk to your animals. If we apply an enzymatic treatment, the products we use are approved by Health Canada and non-toxic to animals. Many of our customers keep their pets at home while we work, without any problems. If your pets are nervous about loud noises, you can put them in a closed room while we work.
How long does the procedure last?
For a typical house or condo, allow 3 to 5 hours for a complete cleaning. Larger homes with complex systems can take 6 to 8 hours. We work efficiently without compromising quality. You can stay at home while we work, or go out - it's your choice.
Does the smell disappear immediately after cleaning?
In most cases, yes. As soon as the cleaning is complete and your system starts working again, you'll notice the difference. The air smells fresher, without that characteristic animal odor. If an enzymatic treatment has been applied, it may take 24-48 hours to reach maximum effectiveness. But the improvement is immediate and continues to improve over the following days.
