Wildfire smoke is a fact of life in the San Fernando Valley, especially near the foothills in Sylmar, Porter Ranch, Chatsworth and West Hills. The tiny particles in smoke can get inside even with the windows closed. Your heating and cooling system can help, if it is set up the right way.
These tips are based on the U.S. EPA guidance on wildfires and indoor air quality.
Rather have a licensed HVAC pro handle it?
Free referral to a licensed local HVAC pro. A real person calls you back, 7 AM – 8 PM, 7 days a week.
1. Upgrade your filter
The EPA recommends a high-efficiency filter, such as a MERV 13, or the highest rating your system fan and filter slot can handle. Not every system can push air through a thicker filter, so if you are not sure, ask an HVAC technician. Keep a spare on hand before fire season.
2. Keep the air moving through the filter
A filter only cleans air that passes through it. During smoky days the EPA suggests setting the system fan to On instead of Auto so air keeps circulating through the filter, even when you are not heating or cooling.
3. Stop bringing smoky air inside
- If your system has a fresh-air intake, close it or switch to recirculate.
- Do not run a whole-house fan during smoke; it pulls outdoor air through the house.
- Evaporative (swamp) coolers also draw in outdoor air, so they can bring smoke inside.
- Keep windows and doors closed while the air is bad.
4. Add a portable air cleaner
A portable air cleaner sized for the room can make a big difference, especially in a bedroom. Choose one that is HEPA or has a smoke CADR rating that fits the room size, and avoid ozone generators, which the EPA warns can irritate the lungs.
5. Create a clean room
Pick one room, often a bedroom, to keep as clean as possible: windows and doors closed, a portable air cleaner running, and no candles, frying or gas stove use in the home while it is smoky.
After the smoke clears
Check your filter; it may be dark and clogged after a big smoke event, and a clogged filter hurts airflow and comfort. If you notice a lingering smoky smell, dusty vents or rooms that are harder to cool, a licensed contractor can inspect and clean the system and check your ducts for leaks.
Need a licensed pro?
Want better filtration, sealed ducts or an air quality checkup? We will connect you with a licensed local contractor for free.
Near you: HVAC services in Calabasas · HVAC services in Porter Ranch · HVAC service in Sunland-Tujunga
Valley HVAC Network is a free referral service, not an HVAC contractor. All work is done by independent contractors licensed by the California CSLB. Learn how it works.
Prefer a callback?
Leave your name and number and a real person will call you back to connect you with a licensed local HVAC contractor. It’s free for homeowners, with no obligation. Or call (818) 658-2668.