Smoke smell removal: what is the best solution?
For anyone who has lived through a wildfire, the devastation can be heartbreaking. Sometimes there can be a total loss of property and other times just minor damage. Even for those whose property is not directly affected by flame and fire, there is smoke that can linger. Smoke can travel for thousands of miles. It has even travelled from country to country affecting the air quality for millions of people in its wake. What is the best smoke smell remediation? Let’s take a look at how to clear the smell and why it important to do so.
What are the dangers of forest fire smoke?
Sitting around a campfire enjoying a smores is great family fun. After the holiday many people come home smelling like campfire smoke and this smell can be a great reminder of the fun that they had. Campfires are often controlled with what is burned in it. This is also for a short period of time. On the other hand, forest fires can burn for months and at times years with no control of what is being burned in it. The smoke from a forest fire can have harmful particles that make up the smoke that travels through the air. Gases move with the smoke particles that eventually you breath in. These gas and particles can cause inflammation of the lungs causing difficulty breathing, coughing and even dizziness. Smoke smell remediation is more than just removing the smell, it helps remove the particles that cause physical damage.
Air Duct Cleaning
A HVAC system in a house or business can be described as the lungs of the building. Fresh air comes in and is pumped through the home and dirty air is then removed from the building. This allows everyone to breath easier. When there is smoke in the air, the particles travel in with the smoke and are moved through homes and businesses. The air is cleaned of these particles before being pumped through the building. However, the particles can begin to build up in the air duct system and also clog the vents. This buildup can begin to leave a lingering smell, regardless of the cleaning of the air. Having professionals complete an air duct cleaning can remove these particles and reduce the smell. This is one method of smoke smell remediation.
HEPPA Filter negative air scrubber
A negative air machine attaches to the HVAC system, creating a vacuum seal. When the air is passed through the machine it removes up to 99 percent of the particles in the air. When combined with a charcoal filter, it is a great smoke smell remediation since the carbon filter helps removes the linger smoke smell in the air.
How to protect yourself from wildfire smoke
Smoke smell remediation is common following a fire, but during fire season there are some things that can be done to protect yourself.
• Stay inside when possible. Most buildings are designed to ensure that fresh air is flowing. Clean air is easier to breathe. When possible, seal the windows and doors to prevent smoke from entering.
• Set HVAC to recirculation. Recirculating the air will allow the air to be cleaned but not bring air in from outside, preventing smoke from entering the building.
• Create a clean room. Using a charcoal portable air filter machine, set up a room where the air is being cleaned constantly cleaned. This style machine is not attached to the HVAC system and is a one room use.
• Wear a mask outside. Many masks are designed to prevent harmful particles found in smoke from entering your lungs.
Conclusion:
History has shown that wildfires are on the increase in North America. Even for those who do not live close to where there is a large number of wildfires, smoke is a concern. Wildfire smoke smell remediation is needed for everyone in North America. There are things that can be done to limit smoke such as ensuring the air ducts and HVAC system are cleaned and maintained on a regular basis. During the height of wildfire, protect yourself, with a clean air room and proper masks. This wildfire season be ready for the smoke.
