It works great for filtering particles such as ash, soot, and other debris from nearby fires, and to neutralize harmful gases, chemicals, and odors that make up smoke. An air conditioner doesn't work like an air purifier. Although some may filter smoke a little, don't try to use them as air purifiers. In addition, you should be responsible for using your air conditioner properly to prevent premature deterioration.
Air conditioners use air filters to remove contaminants from the air circulating in the home. By operating the air conditioner, indoor air is circulated, heat is removed, and some particles are also filtered out of the air. If you want to ensure that your air filtration works at peak efficiency, get the highest level of filters possible. HEPA filters trap very small particles.
Change air filters frequently to keep them working at peak performance. Wildfire season is inevitable unless you plan to move. As is the case every year, the effects can be devastating. Some homes and businesses burn to the ground, but perhaps most importantly, it can lead to unhealthy air conditions across the country.
Local officials can advise people to stay at home, but even if you do, some of the smoke from outside can get in and make your space unhealthy. With no apparent solution, the question arises: “Do air conditioners filter wildfire smoke?” The short answer to the question is yes. If the area you live in is prone to wildfires, you can prepare properly before the season starts. One of the routes you can take is to purchase a high-quality portable air filter or air conditioning filter.
If you choose to go for the latter, make sure the HVAC filter has a high Minimum Efficiency Report Value (MERV) rating, generally greater than ten. The higher the number, the better the filter will be at removing contaminants. Filters also range in thickness from one to five inches. Try to change the filter more often during wildfire season, as they can get dirty faster than usual.
Air conditioners cannot filter cigarette smoke and the smoke will affect the life of the air conditioner filter. If you decide to purchase a high-efficiency HVAC filter to increase filtration, choose one with a MERV 13 rating, or a rating as high as the system fan and filter slot can accommodate. We all know that air conditioners have air filters to treat this type of dust and other particles, but the particles in cigarettes are so heavy that they can cover the entire filter with debris in a few days.
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