Simple Ways to Improve Indoor Air Quality After a Nearby Fire
Wildfires or neighborhood fires can severely impact the air quality inside your home, even if you’re miles away. The smoke and fine particles can seep indoors, causing discomfort and potential health risks. Here are some simple and effective ways to improve your indoor air quality and keep your home a safe haven after a fire nearby.
1. Seal Your Home
Check your windows, doors, and any other potential entry points for smoke. Close them tightly and use weather stripping or door sweeps to seal gaps. For windows, consider using damp towels or draft blockers to prevent smoke infiltration.
2. Upgrade Your HVAC Filters
Your HVAC system is your first line of defense. This simple way to improve indoor air quality after a nearby fire: Replace your regular air filter with a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter or one rated MERV 13 or higher. These filters are designed to capture smaller particles, including those from smoke.
3. Use an Air Purifier
Invest in a good-quality air purifier equipped with a HEPA filter. Place it in the room where you and your family spend the most time. Be sure to check and clean or replace the purifier’s filters as recommended by the manufacturer.
4. Clean you Air Ducts
Invest in this crucial air duct cleaning service especially after a fire. Anything that has been trapped there for years can get even further dirty after a fire. Learn more about this valuable service. Average cost can be from $699 - $899 per system. Check with your local hvac expert or ac contractor near me.
5. Keep Your HVAC System Running
Set your HVAC system to recirculate air rather than pulling in fresh air from outside. This helps filter the air already inside your home without introducing more smoke from outdoors. If your system has a fan-only setting, use it to keep air moving through the filter continuously.
6. Avoid Activities That Lower Air Quality
During a fire event, avoid activities that can add more pollutants to your indoor air, such as burning candles, using a gas stove, or smoking indoors. Even vacuuming can stir up settled particles, so use a vacuum with a HEPA filter if needed.
7. Create a Clean Air Room
Designate a specific room in your home as a "clean air" room. Keep the door closed and run an air purifier inside. This can provide a safe space, especially for vulnerable family members like children, the elderly, or anyone with respiratory issues.
8. Ventilate Carefully
Once the fire has been contained and air quality improves, ventilate your home by opening windows and using fans to push stale air out. Be sure to check local air quality reports to ensure it’s safe to do so.
Final Thoughts
Proactive measures can make a big difference in protecting your indoor air quality during and after a fire in the area. Regular maintenance of your HVAC system and investing in proper filtration and purification systems can help you stay prepared for future events. Need help with your HVAC system or air filtration setup? Contact us today—we’re here to help you breathe easy! - Air Conditioning Guys your Local Expert
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