2026 Wildfire Season Is Here: Is Your Air Ready?

Wildfires are no longer an issue that affects only the West Coast. Communities all over the United States have been dealing with smoky skies this year, and although you can't do anything about the fires raging outside, you can take steps to ensure that the air inside your house stays clean.

Indoor Air Quality Issues During Wildfire Season

The particles released during wildfires are known as PM2.5 particles because of their small size, which allows them to penetrate even the smallest cracks in windows and air filters. During periods of heavy smoke, the air quality indoors might even be worse than outdoors. Breathing such particles into your lungs causes irritation and even serious respiratory diseases.

Get a Better Filter Ahead of Time

While the typical 1-inch fiberglass air filters are effective at protecting your HVAC system, during wildfire season you'll want to make sure you're breathing clean air too. To achieve this, purchase a filter with MERV rating of 11 or higher. Thicker filters, such as 4-inch filters, will work more effectively when dealing with smoke.

Prepare ahead of time, don't wait until the sky becomes orange. Filter Monster makes it simple to find the right filter, delivered straight to your door. Breathe easier this wildfire season.