08/07/2026
It's wildfire season β and with the current fires burning and smoke settling across the Pacific Northwest, most of us here in Kitsap County are spending more time indoors than usual. And honestly, that makes sense. But while you're inside avoiding the outdoor air quality, don't forget about what's happening to the air inside your home. π«οΈ
Most homes are not tightly sealed. Every time you go in and out β every door opening, every pet coming inside, every gap around windows and doors β particulates are making their way in. Your indoor air quality during a smoke event is more compromised than most people realize.
Here's what to do:
π² Stay on top of your filter. This is the single most important thing you can do right now.
π² If you have someone in your home who is very sensitive to the smoke, consider stepping up to a higher MERV rating β but do it carefully.
MERV 8 β standard filter, captures larger particles
MERV 11 β a solid middle ground for most homes
MERV 13 β the highest we recommend for residential systems. Captures significantly more fine particles including smoke particulates
β οΈ Do NOT go above MERV 13. Yes, MERV 16 filters exist β but they are far too restrictive for residential HVAC systems, especially older ones. Running a filter that's too restrictive forces your system to work harder, reduces airflow, and can cause real damage over time.
π² If you do upgrade your MERV rating β set a monthly reminder to check it.
This is the part most people miss. The higher the MERV rating, the smaller the particles it captures β which means it fills up faster. A MERV 13 filter can clog significantly sooner than your normal replacement schedule. A clogged high-MERV filter causes the exact same problems as a clogged standard filter β reduced airflow, system strain, water leaking, and potential damage.
Upgrade if you need to. Just check it more often.
Sources: U.S. EPA β https://conta.cc/4wNErGe | U.S. DOE β https://conta.cc/4wNErWK | ASHRAE β https://conta.cc/4z9JAKn