This guide is general information, not medical advice. If you have health concerns, please consult a medical professional.
Smoke gets inside
During smoke events, fine particles (PM2.5) can enter homes through windows, doors, gaps and ventilation systems.
Steps agencies recommend
Check AirNow for local air quality, keep windows and doors closed during heavy smoke, use high-efficiency HVAC filters where your system allows, and consider a portable HEPA air cleaner sized for the room.
Follow guidance from public health officials and your medical provider, especially for sensitive groups.
Consumer monitor vs professional test
Home monitor
- Good for trends over time
- Accuracy varies
- Can't identify mold types
- No inspector interpretation
Professional test
- Calibrated equipment
- Lab analysis
- Inspector finds sources
- Report with next steps
When the sky turns orange, a closed home with a good filter is your best friend.
AirCare 365 · Bay Area
Want real numbers for your home?
Inspection, lab-analyzed air samples and a digital report. $520 online, $0 today.
Checking your home
Particulate readings taken during and after smoke season show how well your home keeps smoke out and how quickly it recovers.
Want measured information about your home?
AirCare 365 provides indoor air quality and mold and indoor air quality testing across the Bay Area.
Sources
Serving San Francisco, San Mateo, Menlo Park, San Jose, Sunnyvale, Palo Alto, Oakland, Fremont and the rest of the Bay Area.
Read next
- Indoor Air Quality Basics for Bay Area Homes
- Indoor Humidity Levels: What Range to Aim For
- How to Test Air Quality in Your Home
- Mold Spores: What They Are, Where They Hide in Bay Area Homes, and How to Test for Them
Looking for a visit? Explore Bay Area home air quality testing.