Preparing for Wildfires: Protecting Your Home from Smoke Damage

As wildfires and their devasting effects have become increasingly common and widespread, it is important for homeowners to consider taking proactive measures to protect their homes and families from the harmful consequences of smoke damage.

There are practical steps you can take to minimize the risk of smoke infiltration to your home, including properly sealing your home and HVAC system, using the right kind of air filters, and regularly changing your filters. These kinds of efforts among others can go a long way in safeguarding your indoor air from wildfire smoke and you and your loved ones from harm.

Whether you live in an area that is susceptible to wildfires or someplace that is experiencing the effects of those fires, when it comes to protecting your home from smoke damage, prevention is key. Here are some steps you can take to significantly reduce the risk:

• Create a Defensible Space: If you live in a wildfire-prone area, clearing dry vegetation, debris, and other flammable materials from around your property creates a defensible space. This space acts as a buffer zone, reducing the likelihood of fire and smoke reaching your home.
• Install Fire-Resistant Materials: Similarly, for those who live in the vicinity of potential wildfires, opting for fire-resistant building materials, such as Class A roofing, can help prevent fire and smoke from penetrating your home's exterior.
• Seal Openings and Gaps: If you live in an area where the outdoor air quality is affected by wildfire smoke, seal any gaps or openings in your home's structure, such as vents, windows, and doors, to prevent smoke from seeping into your living spaces.

Your HVAC system plays a crucial role in maintaining indoor air quality. During wildfire events, it is especially important to safeguard your HVAC system to prevent smoke infiltration. Consider the following steps:

• Regular Filter Changes: Change your HVAC filters regularly, following the manufacturer's recommendations. Use filters with a higher rating, such as MERV 13 or higher, which are designed to capture smaller smoke particles effectively.
• Sealing HVAC Intake: Create a seal around the HVAC intake to prevent smoke from entering the system. Use weatherstripping or sealant to close any gaps between the intake and the surrounding wall or ceiling.
• Professional Inspection and Maintenance: Schedule regular maintenance and inspections for your HVAC system. A professional cleaning company, such as Stanley Steemer, can provide specialized deep cleaning services to ensure your system is in optimal condition, minimizing the risk of smoke infiltration.

Filters play a critical role in trapping airborne particles, including smoke. Here's why filter maintenance is vital:

• Capturing Smoke Particles: High-rated filters, such as those mentioned earlier, are designed to capture smoke particles more effectively, preventing them from circulating in your home.
• Regular Replacement: Regularly replacing filters ensures that they can continue to function efficiently. Clogged filters not only reduce the system's performance but also allow smoke particles to bypass the filter and enter your living spaces.
• Indoor Air Quality: Clean filters contribute to better indoor air quality, promoting a healthier living environment for you and your family. Fresh filters help remove smoke particles, allergens, and other pollutants, enhancing respiratory health.

It may also be beneficial to consider installing an in-duct air purifier system, like Restore™, that uses a combination of UV-C light and activated carbon cells to actively capture and remove particulates like wood smoke in addition to chemical vapors and biological contaminants before it enters your home.

By implementing these key measures, you can take a significant step toward better protecting your home and loved ones from the harmful consequences of wildfire smoke while also improving your indoor air quality. Furthermore, given the ongoing threat that wildfires and their smoke pose to homes and communities nationwide, it is essential to stay well-informed about local guidelines and diligently follow expert recommendations whenever wildfires impact your area.

Stanley Steemer provides professional air duct cleaning services that will keep your HVAC system clear of allergens and particulates including wood smoke from wildfires. To reduce the impact of smoke damage in your home, call 1-800-STEEMER to speak with a representative 24/7 or visit our online scheduling tool to plan a consultation.

To learn more about wildfire smoke and indoor air contamination, visit the EPA’s web article on Wildfires and Indoor Air Quality (IAQ).