Why wildfires are a danger to my health

Wildfires produce huge plumes of smoke and gases that are annoying and harmful to our health. The small particles, in the range of 2.5 microns produced by wildfires, are of the greatest concern. To compare this size, a human hair is about 50 -70 microns in diameter. We measure their concentration with a number designated as the PM2.5 measurement (more is worse).

The main concern with PM2.5 particles is that they can work themselves deeply into the lungs (and even the bloodstream) causing lung and heart problems.

Sources:

https://www.epa.gov/system/files/documents/2026-06/wildfire-guide-for-public-health-officials-2026.pdf

https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/resources/overview-diesel-exhaust-and-health

How to protect yourself

Filtration, Filtration, Filtration.

The ‘obvious’ filtration is to use a HEPA filter, but here are some thoughts:

1. Will a lower grade (MERV13 and up) work for you?

2. Is the filtration device pulling in enough air volume? This is measured in CFM or cubic feet per minute.

3. Does the filtration device filter air throughout your house?

Small devices with low airflow and the inability to flow air throughout the house may be less effective than high volume air filters with lower (and cheaper to replace) filters.

We’ve been aware for some time that particulate pollution is a health concern and that is why HVACQuick.com designs, builds, and sells a variety of products and systems to effectively and economically filter your air.