Protecting Your Indoor Air Quality During Wildfire Smoke Events
As wildfires continue to affect several communities across Newfoundland and Labrador, our hearts go out to everyone impacted. Whether you’ve been directly affected or are experiencing the effects of drifting smoke, now is the time to be extra cautious about the quality of the air you’re breathing—especially indoors.
Even if your home is far from an active fire, wildfire smoke can travel great distances and quickly degrade indoor air quality. At YYT Safe Dryer Vents, we want to share some important public safety information for homeowners who rely on HVAC systems, HRVs, or other air handling equipment to keep their homes comfortable and safe.
HVAC & Air Handling Systems: What to Know During Wildfire Smoke Conditions
Most residential HVAC systems are designed to bring in outside air. During a smoke event, this can result in unwanted fine particulate matter entering your home and posing health risks, especially for children, older adults, and those with respiratory conditions.
Here are some essential steps you can take to help protect your household:
1. Use “Recirculate” Mode
Set your HVAC system or heat pump to “recirculate” mode. This setting prevents your system from drawing in outdoor air and helps filter the air already inside your home.
2. Avoid Using Exhaust Fans
Limit the use of kitchen range hoods, bathroom fans, or dryer vents if possible during heavy smoke periods. These systems can create negative air pressure, inadvertently pulling in smoky outdoor air through gaps or poorly sealed areas.
3. Upgrade Your Air Filter
Use the highest MERV-rated filter your system can handle—MERV 13 or higher is ideal during smoke events. These filters capture finer particles and can greatly reduce smoke exposure indoors. If you’re unsure which filter is right for your unit, we can help.
4. Use Portable HEPA Air Purifiers
Consider placing HEPA-filter-equipped air purifiers in high-use areas like bedrooms or living spaces. These units can provide added protection in spaces where people spend most of their time.
5. Seal Drafts and Gaps
Check for any drafts around windows and doors and seal them if needed. Every little bit helps when it comes to keeping smoky air out.
6. Monitor Local Air Quality
Keep an eye on local air quality alerts through government channels or apps like AirVisual or WeatherCAN. If air quality reaches unsafe levels, stay indoors with windows and doors closed as much as possible.
We’re Here to Help
YYT Safe Dryer Vents is committed to helping families across Newfoundland and Labrador maintain safe, healthy indoor environments. If you’re unsure about the best way to operate your HVAC system during wildfire smoke conditions—or if your filters need an upgrade—don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re happy to advise or assist with a service call if needed.
As we all hope for rain and relief in the days ahead, let’s look after one another and take the necessary steps to stay safe indoors.
Stay safe. Breathe clean. And know that your community stands with you.
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