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Monday January 13 2025

The importance of air exchangers during Quebec winters

In winter, maintaining good indoor air quality while optimizing energy efficiency is crucial, especially in high-rise buildings. Air exchangers play an essential role in this process. Here’s how they work and their benefits.

How air exchangers work

Air exchangers ensure ventilation by removing stale air from inside the building and bringing in fresh air from outside. This process occurs through separate ducts, allowing for efficient heat exchange. The outgoing air, often warmer, transfers its heat to the incoming air, preheating it without wasting heating energy.

Types of air exchangers

Counterflow heat exchangers: These systems maximize thermal exchange efficiency by circulating incoming and outgoing air in opposite directions.
Crossflow exchangers: Although less efficient, these systems are useful in compact spaces, with incoming and outgoing air circulating perpendicularly.

Benefits of air exchangers

Improved air quality: By reducing the concentration of pollutants like CO2 and fine particles, air exchangers contribute to a healthier indoor environment.
Energy savings: By recovering heat from outgoing air, they reduce the heating load on systems, leading to significant energy savings.
Humidity control: Air exchangers help maintain optimal humidity levels, essential for comfort and health. Proper humidity control can also prevent mold growth and enhance heating efficiency.

Tips for using air exchangers

Regular maintenance: Clean filters and inspect ducts to ensure optimal performance.
Proper use: Adjust settings based on your building’s ventilation and heating needs.

Additional tips

Keep curtains open during the day: In winter, open curtains during the day to let in sunlight. This helps naturally warm the interior and reduces window condensation. Condensation often forms when warm, humid indoor air contacts cold window surfaces. Allowing sunlight in can mitigate this and improve indoor comfort.
Store window screens in winter: Remove screens during winter to enhance air circulation and reduce window condensation. This helps maintain a more uniform temperature and prevent moisture buildup.

By using an air exchanger and following these tips, you can not only improve indoor air quality but also achieve significant energy savings, which is particularly beneficial during Quebec winters.

Sébastien St-Pierre
Director of the Technical Department