Wildfire season is happening already. Will we get wildfire smoke in NYC this year? It seems likely given the windy and dry conditions. There were fires very close to NYC last year, and smoke can travel here from the west coast and Canada thousands of miles away.
Wildfire smoke is smelly, messy and downright dangerous: the EPA states that even short term exposure can cause headaches, eye and sinus irritation, respiratory problems, cardiovascular problems, and even premature death.
Here’s how to protect your family, your health, and your home from wildfire smoke.
Wildfire smoke in NYC: 5 ways to reduce your exposure
1. Start with a clean HVAC system
Over time, dust, debris, and other contaminants build up in your HVAC filters and inside your ductwork. That makes it more likely that particulate matter from wildfire smoke will end up airborne in your living space instead of being filtered out.
Ideally before you start up your air conditioning system this spring, have a professional come in to do a detailed cleaning, inspection, and tune up of your system. You’ll get the best price and priority service with a service agreement, plus you’ll gain a trusted service team that understands your home and your system.
Learn more:
5 Reasons to Change HVAC Filters More Often
2. Consider HVAC filter upgrades
Traditional HVAC filters are meant to keep dust and contaminants out of your equipment so it performs better. Standard HVAC filters may not be capable of removing particulate matter, VOCs, or allergens from the air in your home.
MERV and HEPA filters are designed to remove smaller particles from the air and can help not only reduce airborne wildfire smoke, but also improve allergy symptoms. However, it’s important to consult with a professional before changing filters to ensure that the reduced air flow and pressure doesn’t cause problems with your system.
Learn more:
Air Filters for Allergies: 5 Facts You Need to Know
3. Get better air purification
If you’re concerned about wildfire smoke in NYC, chances are you have a standalone HEPA device in your home. But there are so many downsides with those devices: they can be loud, unsightly, and they only filter the air in a small area.
Instead, consider installing a whole-home air purification system that’s quiet, out-of-sight, and keeps your entire home contaminant-free.
Learn more:
REME HALO: Best Whole Home Air Purifier
4. Keep smoke out of your home
Make it easier on your HVAC and air purification equipment by keeping as much wildfire smoke out of your home as you possibly can.
Be prepared by staying on top of air quality conditions, so you know when conditions may be bad in your location. Here’s a useful resource: Air Quality Index.
When smog and smoke conditions are poor, keep your windows and doors closed, and close your HVAC fresh air intakes (don’t forget to open them again when the smoke clears).
5. Don’t add to the problem
When there’s poor air quality outdoors, don’t add to the problem indoors. It’s common sense to avoid smoking tobacco or other substances. But you may not know that you should also avoid burning candles, incense, or using any type of fireplace or woodburning stove.
Experts also advise avoiding the use of aerosol sprays and even vacuuming, which stirs up dust and other particles. It’s also a good idea to avoid frying or broiling in the kitchen when air quality conditions are particularly bad.
Arista can help protect you from wildfire smoke in NYC
Arista has been trusted by NYC elite homeowners since 1949. We understand that you are concerned about the impact of poor indoor air quality on your family and your property, and we’re here to help with expert HVAC service and solutions.
Learn more about Arista Elite Residential Service or contact us today.