When wildfire air quality alerts are issued, it's a clear sign that the air outside is full of harmful smoke and pollutants. But with the rising temperatures, you might wonder: "Should I run my AC during a wildfire air quality alert?" The answer is "yes," but you’ll need to make a few adjustments to protect the air quality inside your home.
Why Your AC Can Help During a Wildfire Air Quality Alert
Your air conditioner can still keep your home cool during wildfire smoke, but it’s important to understand how it works with your indoor air. While your AC is great at regulating temperature, it isn’t designed to filter out all the fine particles from wildfire smoke. By taking the right precautions, you can help prevent smoky air from entering your home.
Here’s how you can keep your home comfortable and safe during a wildfire air quality alert:
1. Switch to Recirculation Mode
Your air conditioner typically pulls in air from outside, cools it, and then distributes it inside. During a wildfire air quality alert, it’s crucial to switch your AC to "recirculate mode," so it doesn’t pull in the polluted outdoor air. Recirculating the air keeps your AC from drawing in smoke and helps filter the air already inside your home.
2. Upgrade and Check Your Air Filters
Your air filter plays a big role in improving indoor air quality during a wildfire. During a wildfire air quality alert, your filters will trap the larger particles of smoke and pollutants. However, if your filter is old or clogged, it won’t work effectively. Check your filter regularly, and if it looks dirty, replace it immediately.
For better protection against wildfire smoke, consider upgrading to a high-efficiency filter with a MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) rating of 13-16. These filters are designed to capture smaller particles like those found in smoke, keeping your air cleaner.
3. Keep Windows and Doors Closed
During a wildfire, it’s essential to keep your home sealed off from the outside air. Close all windows and doors to prevent smoke from getting inside. This not only helps your AC work more efficiently but also keeps harmful particles from infiltrating your home’s air.
4. Add an Air Purifier
While your AC does help filter the air, it may not catch the smallest particles from wildfire smoke. A portable air purifier with a HEPA filter can provide additional protection by removing fine particles from the air inside your home. Place it in the room where you spend the most time for maximum effectiveness.
5. Monitor Outdoor Air Quality
To fully consider the impact of running your AC during a wildfire, it’s important to keep track of outdoor air quality levels. You can use the EPA’s AirNow website, which provides up-to-date air quality information, including AQI (Air Quality Index) levels in your area. Other reliable resources include local air quality apps or weather services that offer real-time air quality monitoring. If air quality is hazardous, take extra precautions to keep indoor air as clean as possible.
6. Schedule Regular HVAC Maintenance
Regular HVAC maintenance is key to keeping your system running smoothly—especially during wildfire season. A professional technician can inspect your system, clean your ducts, and replace your filters to ensure your home’s air quality stays as clean as possible.
When to Turn Off Your AC
While it’s generally safe to run your AC during a wildfire air quality alert, there are a few situations where it might be better to turn it off temporarily. If your AC pulls in outdoor air and you notice a strong smell of smoke indoors, turn your AC off and rely on fans or portable air conditioners instead. It’s also wise to turn off the AC if you notice any strange sounds or performance issues that could indicate a problem with your system.
Stay Cool and Safe During Wildfire Alerts
Running your AC during a wildfire air quality alert can help you stay comfortable, but it’s important to take the right steps to protect your indoor air. Switch to recirculate mode, replace your filters, and keep your home sealed. And if you’re unsure whether your HVAC system is prepared for wildfire season, schedule a maintenance check with a professional to ensure everything is in top shape.
Need help preparing your HVAC system for wildfire season? Contact us today to schedule a filter replacement or tune-up, and breathe easier knowing your air quality is protected.
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