Summer often conjures images of backyard barbecues, family road trips, and kids splashing in the pool. But in places like California, summer can also mean something less pleasant: wildfires. Even if the flames are miles away, the smoke has a way of creeping into our homes, affecting the air we breathe and the systems we rely on to stay cool.
For families, especially those with young children or members with respiratory issues like asthma, it’s crucial to keep indoor air clean during these smoky months. We’ll explain how to run your HVAC system during wildfire season to keep your home safe and comfortable.
Why Wildfire Smoke Is a Big Deal for Your Home
Wildfire smoke is a health hazard. It contains tiny particles known as PM2.5, which can penetrate deep into the lungs and even enter the bloodstream. Exposure can lead to symptoms like coughing, shortness of breath, and aggravate conditions such as asthma. Children, the elderly, and those with preexisting health conditions are particularly vulnerable.
Beyond health concerns, smoke can also wreak havoc on your home’s systems. It can clog air filters, reduce the efficiency of your air conditioning, and even damage components over time. That’s why preparing your AC for summer wildfire smoke is essential.
What Smoke Does to Your HVAC System Over Time
You might not notice it right away, but smoke can cause serious wear on your HVAC system. Smoke carries particulates like soot, carbon, and dust, which can settle in your ductwork, fan motors, and coils. Over time, this buildup can lead to:
- Reduced airflow
- Poor cooling performance
- Higher energy bills
- More frequent breakdowns
Long-term exposure can even shorten the life of your system, making replacement necessary sooner than you’d expect.
How to Run Your HVAC System During Wildfire Season
Knowing how to run your HVAC system during wildfire season can help you keep the air inside your home cleaner and your family safer. Here are a few key things you can do:
- Switch to Recirculation Mode: Set your system to recirculate indoor air rather than pulling in air from outside. This helps keep smoky air out.
- Use High-Efficiency Filters: Install filters with a Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) of 13 or higher, if your system can handle it. These filters are more effective at trapping fine particles.
- Run the Fan Continuously: Keeping the fan on helps circulate air through the filter, improving indoor air quality.
- Seal Leaks: Check for gaps around windows and doors, and seal them to prevent smoke from entering.
- Avoid Using Exhaust Fans: Kitchen and bathroom fans can pull smoky air into your home. Limit their use during smoky periods.
The Role of Your Thermostat During Fire Season
Your thermostat isn’t just a tool to control temperature — it can help you manage air quality too. Smart thermostats offer:
- Scheduled fan control, so your air circulates even when the AC isn’t cooling.
- Remote access, so you can switch to recirculation mode if you’re away.
- Filter change reminders to keep maintenance on track.
If your current thermostat doesn’t do these things, it might be time for an upgrade.
Tips to Protect Your AC From Wildfire Smoke
Smoke can be tough on your AC system. Here are some tips to protect your AC from wildfire smoke:
- Regularly Replace Filters: During wildfire season, check and replace your air filters more frequently. A clogged filter can reduce airflow and strain your system.
- Schedule Routine Maintenance: Regular check-ups can help identify and address issues before they become major problems. If it’s time for maintenance, schedule your Fresno AC services with Lee’s Air, Plumbing & Heating. We’ll keep your system in top shape.
- Use Portable Air Purifiers: In addition to your AC, portable air purifiers with HEPA filters can help clean the air in specific rooms.
- Create a Clean Room: Designate a room in your home to keep as smoke-free as possible. Use an air purifier, keep windows and doors closed, and spend most of your time there during heavy smoke days.
How Often Should You Replace Filters During Fire Season?
Normally, HVAC filters are changed every two to three months. During wildfire season? Think every two to three weeks, especially if the smoke is heavy in your area. Keep a few extra filters on hand so you’re not caught off guard.
Tip: Set a reminder on your phone or calendar to check the filter weekly. If it looks grey or clogged, it’s time to swap it out.
Creating a Smoke-Ready Safe Room in Your Home
Designating one room in your home as a smoke-free zone can help during really bad air quality days. Here’s how to set one up:
- Use a room with minimal windows, like a bedroom or an interior office.
- Seal windows and doors using plastic sheeting or duct tape.
- Run a HEPA air purifier constantly in this space.
- Avoid using electronics that generate heat or pollutants.
This room can be a lifesaver during red or purple AQI days.
Additional Considerations for Families
For households with children, elderly members, or individuals with respiratory conditions, taking extra precautions is important:
- Monitor Air Quality: Keep an eye on local air quality indexes (AQI) to know when it’s safest to go outside.
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help your body cope with the effects of smoke inhalation.
- Limit Indoor Pollutants: Avoid activities that can worsen indoor air quality, like burning candles and using gas stoves.
- Have an Emergency Plan: Know where to go and what to do if wildfire smoke becomes too intense or if evacuation becomes necessary.
How to Clean Your AC After Smoke Exposure
Once the air clears up, it’s a good idea to give your system a post-smoke cleanup:
- Change or clean all filters.
- Vacuum around intake vents and registers.
- Wipe down surfaces where soot may have settled.
- Schedule a professional inspection to check ducts and coils.
This helps remove lingering particulates and keeps your air quality high going forward.
Why Indoor Air Quality Should Be a Priority
During wildfire season, you’re probably keeping windows and doors closed to block out the smoke. But unless your indoor air is being filtered properly, pollution can still build up inside. Poor indoor air quality can lead to:
- Frequent headaches
- Trouble sleeping
- Worsening asthma symptoms
- Long-term respiratory issues
Using your air conditioning system with the right filters and settings can make a big difference in protecting your family’s health.
The Bottom Line: Keeping Cool and Breathing Clean
Preparing your AC for summer wildfire smoke isn’t just a comfort thing — it’s about protecting your home, your HVAC system, and most importantly, your family’s health. Smoke from wildfires carries fine particles that can creep indoors, affect air quality, and put a strain on your AC if it’s not ready for the challenge. By learning how to run your HVAC system during wildfire season — like setting it to recirculate, using high-efficiency filters, and keeping your fan running — you can help keep indoor air healthier.
On top of that, following smart tips to protect your AC from wildfire smoke, such as changing filters more often, sealing up leaks, and scheduling professional maintenance, gives your system a much better shot at handling the extra workload. A little effort now goes a long way in staying cool and breathing easier when wildfire season heats up.
Why Choose Lee’s Air, Plumbing & Heating?
When the smoke rolls in and temperatures climb, you need a team you can count on — and that’s where Lee’s Air, Plumbing & Heating comes in. We’ve been helping families across California keep their homes safe, cool, and comfortable for decades. Our technicians know exactly what your HVAC system needs to handle the unique challenges of wildfire season, and we don’t cut corners.
Here’s why local homeowners trust us:
- Real Local Experience: We’ve served Fresno, Sacramento, and nearby areas for decades. That means we know the local wildfire seasons, air quality challenges, and how to help your HVAC system handle it all.
- Friendly, Knowledgeable Technicians: We provide honest advice and dependable services. Our professionals truly care about your comfort.
- Fast, Dependable Scheduling: We make it easy to book an appointment, even during busy wildfire season, so you’re never left waiting when the air starts to turn.
Schedule Your Service Today!
Preparing your AC for summer wildfire smoke is something you shouldn’t put off. Your home should be a safe zone, especially during smoky days.
At Lee’s Air, Plumbing & Heating, we’re here to help you protect that comfort. Whether you need an AC tune-up or want to explore ductless mini-split AC installation services in Sacramento, Fresno, or one of the surrounding areas, our team’s got you covered. Call us today to schedule your service!
