How to Protect your Home from Smoke

Wildfires in California have become more frequent and intense in recent years, leading to significant air quality concerns. Smoke from wildfires contains harmful particles that can infiltrate homes, posing serious health risks. Protecting your home from smoke is essential, especially for those with respiratory conditions, young children, and the elderly. Here are the best ways to safeguard your indoor air quality and keep your home as smoke-free as possible.

1. Seal Your Attic to Prevent Smoke Infiltration

One of the primary ways smoke enters homes is through small gaps and cracks in the attic. Proper attic air sealing is a crucial step to prevent outside air from seeping in. Here’s how you can effectively seal your attic:

Inspect for Gaps and Cracks: Use a flashlight to check for openings around plumbing vents, electrical wiring, and recessed lighting fixtures.
Apply Weather Stripping and Caulk: Seal any gaps with high-temperature caulk or weather stripping to minimize airflow.
Check Insulation Levels: Ensure that your attic insulation is properly installed to reduce the amount of outside air entering your living spaces.
Close Attic Access Points: If you have an attic hatch or pull-down stairs, use an insulated cover to create a tight seal.

By taking these measures, you can prevent smoke and pollutants from making their way into your home, keeping indoor air cleaner and safer.

2. Upgrade to a High-Efficiency Air Filter

Your HVAC system plays a vital role in maintaining air quality, and using a high-quality filter can significantly reduce smoke particles in your home. Here’s what to consider when selecting an air filter:

Choose a MERV 13 or Higher Filter: MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) ratings indicate how effective a filter is at capturing airborne particles. A MERV 13 or higher filter can trap fine smoke particles, pollen, and dust.
Replace Filters More Frequently: During wildfire season, replace your HVAC filter every 2-4 weeks instead of the usual 2-3 months.
Consider HEPA Filters: If your HVAC system supports it, HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filters provide the best protection against microscopic particles.
Use Portable Air Purifiers: For additional protection, place HEPA-equipped air purifiers in high-traffic rooms like bedrooms and living spaces.

Maintaining your air filter and HVAC system ensures better air circulation and protection against airborne pollutants.

3. Use the ‘Recirculate’ Mode on Your Thermostat

When wildfires impact outdoor air quality, it’s crucial to prevent smoke from entering your home. The recirculate or circulate option on your thermostat can help limit exposure by keeping indoor air contained. Here’s how:

Set Your HVAC System to ‘Recirculate’ or ‘Fan On’ Mode: This prevents outdoor air from being pulled into your home.
Keep Windows and Doors Closed: Close all windows and doors to minimize smoke intrusion.
Run Your Air Conditioner (if applicable): Central air conditioning systems with high-efficiency filters can help filter smoke particles.
Use Ceiling Fans for Airflow: Keep indoor air moving with ceiling fans to help distribute filtered air more effectively.

By following these steps, you can create a safer indoor environment and reduce smoke exposure.

4. Additional Tips to Protect Indoor Air Quality

In addition to attic sealing, high-efficiency filters, and thermostat settings, consider these extra steps to enhance indoor air protection:

Avoid Activities That Contribute to Indoor Pollution: Refrain from burning candles, using wood-burning stoves, and smoking indoors, as these activities can worsen indoor air quality.
Use Damp Cloths and Mops: Wipe down surfaces frequently to remove fine particulate matter that may have entered your home.
Stay Hydrated and Monitor Symptoms: Drink plenty of water to keep your respiratory system hydrated and watch for symptoms like coughing, difficulty breathing, or eye irritation.
Create a ‘Clean Room’ in Your Home: Designate a room with minimal air leakage and use a portable air purifier to maintain the best air quality possible.

We’re Here to Help – Free Air Filters Available

If you’ve been affected by the wildfires, we understand the challenges of maintaining good indoor air quality. To support our community, we’re offering free brand-new air filters to those in need. Simply stop by our office, and we’ll be happy to provide one for you.

Taking proactive steps to protect your home from wildfire smoke can make a significant difference in your health and well-being. For more tips and assistance, feel free to reach out to us at https://www.pacaire.com/ or call us at 805-737-2564. Stay safe and take care!