Wildfire season has become an annual reality for Bay Area residents. When smoke fills the air, your home should be a sanctuary of clean air. Here's how to protect your indoor air quality.
Understanding Wildfire Smoke
Wildfire smoke contains:
Fine particulate matter (PM2.5)
Carbon monoxide
Volatile organic compounds
Harmful gases
These particles are small enough to penetrate deep into your lungs and even enter your bloodstream, making protection essential.
Immediate Steps During Smoke Events
1. Seal Your Home
Keep smoke out:
Close all windows and doors
Seal gaps with weather stripping
Close fireplace dampers
Avoid using exhaust fans that pull outside air in
2. Upgrade Your HVAC Filter
Your HVAC system can be your best defense:
Install MERV 13 or higher rated filters
Consider HEPA-level filtration (MERV 17+)
Replace filters more frequently during smoke events
Run the fan continuously to circulate filtered air
3. Create a Clean Air Room
Designate one room as your clean air sanctuary:
Choose a room with few windows
Add a portable HEPA air purifier
Keep the door closed
Use this room for sleeping and extended time
Long-Term Air Quality Solutions
Whole-Home Air Purification
Professional systems integrate with your HVAC:
HEPA filtration removes 99.97% of particles
Activated carbon filters address gases and odors
UV-C light systems kill airborne pathogens
Continuous protection during smoke events
Enhanced Filtration Systems
Upgrade your standard filter housing:
Media air cleaners with deep-pleated filters
Electronic air cleaners using ionization
Combination systems for comprehensive protection
Ventilation with Filtration
Fresh air is important, but not during smoke events:
ERV/HRV systems with HEPA pre-filters
Smart ventilation that responds to outdoor air quality
Manual controls to shut off fresh air intake
HVAC Settings During Smoke Events
Recirculate Mode: Most HVAC systems should run on recirculate (not fresh air) during smoke events.
Fan Setting: Set to "On" rather than "Auto" for continuous filtration.
Temperature: Maintain comfortable temperatures to keep windows closed.
Monitoring Air Quality
Stay informed:
Check AirNow.gov for real-time AQI
Use PurpleAir.com for hyperlocal readings
Install indoor air quality monitors
Sign up for Spare the Air alerts
Recovery After Smoke Events
Once air quality improves:
Open windows to ventilate with fresh air
Replace HVAC filters (they've worked hard)
Clean or replace portable air purifier filters
Vacuum and dust to remove settled particles
Protecting Vulnerable Populations
Extra precautions for sensitive groups:
Children and elderly
Those with asthma or respiratory conditions
People with heart disease
Pregnant women
These individuals should prioritize clean air rooms and limit exposure during smoke events.
Investment in Clean Air
Consider air quality protection an investment in your family's health:
Whole-home purification systems
HEPA room purifiers
High-quality MERV 13 filters
Air quality monitors
The health benefits far outweigh the investment, especially for Bay Area residents facing annual wildfire smoke exposure. Contact us for air quality solutions tailored to your needs.