FAQ: Helping to Protect Your Home from Wildfire Smoke with Your HVAC System

Wildfire smoke can significantly decrease indoor air quality, leading to health issues and discomfort.

Yes, if you have an HRV or ERV , they can bring wildfire smoke into your home.

During periods of high wildfire smore, it may be beneficial to turn off your HVR/ERV.

If you have a high quality filter, such as a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter, and you do not have an HRV/ERV or if your HRV/ERV is deactivated, then running the HVAC system could help filter out some wildfire smoke particles.

High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters are the most effective against wildfire smoke particles.

It is recommended to check/change your filters as recommended by the manufacturer.  If you experience periods of prolonged wildfire smoke you should check your filters more often.

Installing a whole home HEPA filter or buying a room HEPA filter can help.

Turn off your ERV/HRV to avoid bringing in outdoor air during a wildfire event.

It’s generally not recommended to shut off HVAC systems completely during a wildfire, however you should turn off your HRV/EVR if applicable.¹

Yes, using air purifiers alongside the HVAC system could further improve indoor air quality during a wildfire event.

Turn off the HVAC system and Call on Reliance™ to inspect your system.