Do Nearby Forest Fires Affect How Often You Should Change Your HVAC Filter?

Even though the drought in California is largely over, our risk for wildfires is not. We may not be expecting the most severe year this upcoming season, but we also know that there are going to be fires around the corner, and – unless something drastically changes – it’s an issue that is going to continue to affect our air quality in the upcoming season.

The heat we experience every summer here in the Sacramento region puts a toll on our air conditioners. But, during wildfire season, our ACs actually have to work a lot harder. That is because wildfires have a tendency to cause issues with air filters, requiring upkeep on the part of the homeowner in order to reduce the damage that the AC can take and ensure proper air flow.

The Impact of Forest Fires on Indoor Air Quality

For homeowners living in areas prone to forest fires, like we do in the Sacramento region, it is important to pay attention to the effects that the wildfire has on your HVAC. One key aspect of maintaining indoor air quality under such conditions involves assessing how often to change your HVAC filter.

Forest fires can significantly affect air quality, introducing a higher concentration of particulates and pollutants into the air. This would normally lead to severe issues with our health and wellness. But our ACs are tasked with addressing this potential risk by filtering out the particles from the air.

HVAC filters play a vital role in trapping and removing airborne particles, including smoke and ash from forest fires, from indoor air. During forest fire events, the air quality deteriorates rapidly as smoke and fine particulate matter infiltrate the environment. These contaminants not only pose health risks but can also clog HVAC filters much faster than under normal conditions, impacting the system’s ability to function effectively and maintain clean indoor air.

Increased Frequency of Filter Changes

Under normal circumstances, it is generally recommended to change your HVAC filter every 90 days for typical fiberglass filters, or every 6 to 12 months for higher-end pleated filters. If you forget to change your air filter for a few extra weeks, this is not usually an issue, since the filters are unlikely to fill and clog as easily.

However, during and following nearby forest fire events, the frequency should increase significantly. The dense concentration of particulates from smoke and ash in the air means filters can become saturated more quickly, reducing their efficiency and potentially compromising your HVAC system’s performance and the indoor air quality of your home.

• During active forest fire events or in heavily smoke-affected areas, it may be necessary to change your HVAC filter as often as every 2 to 4 weeks, depending on the severity and duration of the smoke exposure.
• It’s essential to visually inspect the filter regularly during these times. If the filter appears visibly dirty, clogged, or saturated with particulates, it should be replaced immediately, regardless of the last change date.

That means that, if wildfires start up again, you should assume that you are going to be changing your filter with incredible frequency – days and weeks, not months.

Enhanced Protection with Higher Quality Filters

Investing in higher-quality HVAC filters, such as those rated MERV 13 or higher, can provide enhanced protection against the fine particulates found in smoke. These filters have a higher efficiency in trapping small particles, thus offering better protection for your HVAC system and indoor air quality during forest fire events.

However, it’s important to consult with your HVAC professional to ensure that your system can accommodate these higher-efficiency filters without restricting airflow or impairing system performance. Often, the more expensive filters with higher MERV ratings can actually cause your HVAC to work less efficiently so, during particularly hot days, you may not have as much cool air as you planned while you’re also dealing with the wildfire smoke.

Professional HVAC Maintenance and Consultation

In areas prone to forest fires, professional HVAC maintenance becomes even more critical. An HVAC professional can provide valuable insights into:

• The best type of filter for your specific system and situation.
• The optimal frequency for filter changes during increased air pollution events like forest fires.
• Additional steps you can take to protect your HVAC system and indoor air quality during such events, including system upgrades or the installation of air purification systems.

Nearby forest fires can significantly affect how often you should change your HVAC filter due to the influx of smoke and particulates into the air. Increasing the frequency of filter changes during these times is essential to maintain your HVAC system’s efficiency and protect your home’s indoor air quality. Consulting with HVAC professionals and considering higher-quality filters can further enhance your home’s resilience against the impacts of forest fires on your HVAC system.

If you’re looking for an HVAC company in Sacramento to help your air conditioner work at peak efficiency, even during wildfires, please contact California Energy Consultant Service, today.