Smoke from wildfires across northern Ontario and parts of Canada has been reducing air quality in many communities, including London and surrounding areas. Even when the smoke seems light outdoors, tiny airborne particles can still make their way inside your home.
The good news is that with the right HVAC setup and a few simple precautions, you can significantly reduce the amount of smoke circulating indoors and create a healthier living environment for your family.
Why Wildfire Smoke Gets Inside Your Home
Wildfire smoke contains microscopic particles known as PM2.5. Because these particles are so small, they can enter homes through open doors, windows, ventilation systems, and small gaps around the building.
Poor indoor air quality may be especially concerning for:
- Young children
- Older adults
- People with asthma or allergies
- Anyone with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions
When air quality alerts are issued, it’s a good idea to keep outdoor air out as much as possible while improving the filtration of the air already inside your home.
1. Upgrade Your Furnace Filter
One of the easiest ways to improve indoor air quality is by replacing your furnace filter with a higher-efficiency option.
A quality MERV 16 furnace filter captures much finer particles than many standard filters, including:
- Wildfire smoke
- Dust
- Pollen
- Other microscopic airborne contaminants
Replacing a dirty filter also helps maintain proper airflow, allowing your HVAC system to operate more efficiently.
2. Add Whole-Home Air Purification
While a high-quality filter captures particles, a whole-home air purifier helps improve overall indoor air quality throughout your house.
The iWave-R Air Purifier installs directly inside your HVAC system and continuously treats the air as it circulates.
It can help reduce:
- Smoke particles
- Odours
- Allergens
- Bacteria
- Viruses
- Other airborne pollutants
Unlike portable air purifiers that only clean a single room, whole-home air purification works wherever your heating and cooling system delivers air.
3. Keep Your HVAC System Running During Smoke Events
If your HVAC system allows it, running the fan continuously can help circulate indoor air through your filtration system more often.
This increases the number of times smoke particles pass through your filter, helping improve overall indoor air quality throughout the day.
If you’re unsure whether continuous fan operation is appropriate for your system, our technicians can help.
4. Reduce Indoor Sources of Pollution
When outdoor air quality is poor, avoid creating additional pollutants indoors whenever possible.
Try to:
- Keep windows and doors closed.
- Avoid burning candles or incense.
- Limit indoor smoking.
- Use kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans only when necessary if outdoor smoke is severe.
Small changes can make a noticeable difference during prolonged smoke events.
5. Know When Your HVAC System Needs Attention
If you notice excessive dust, lingering smoke odours, poor airflow, or your system hasn’t been serviced recently, it may be time for a professional inspection.
A properly maintained HVAC system performs better, filters air more effectively, and helps keep your home comfortable throughout the summer.
Cleaner Indoor Air Starts Here
At Aire One Heating & Cooling London, we help homeowners improve indoor air quality with professional filtration, air purification, and HVAC solutions designed for every home.
Whether you’re interested in upgrading your furnace filter, installing a whole-home air purifier, or scheduling an indoor air quality assessment, our experienced team is ready to help.
Breathe easier, even when outdoor air quality isn’t at its best.
Book your indoor air quality consultation with Aire One London today.
