Each year, the arrival of wildfire season brings real, measurable health risks to people across the US, with these events becoming larger, more frequent and more destructive in recent years. In this increasingly challenging environment, HVAC contractors and facilities decision-makers must rethink their strategies to ensure safe, breathable air indoors - particularly in the summer and early fall when wildfires are most active.

Many of our customers will be acutely aware of the impact of wildfires following the smog which covered New York only two years ago following Canadian wildfires. However, the impacts are felt nationwide: according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), wildfire smoke now contributes to about 50% of the nation's fine particulate matter (PM2.5) pollution on high-smoke days, up from about 20% just two decades ago.

At Brookaire, we serve a wide network of contractors and facility managers across New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, Connecticut, New York, Washington D.C., and Minnesota, where the effects of wildfire smoke are increasingly being felt. This guide offers clarity and leadership on how to prepare.

Understanding the Health Impact of Wildfire Smoke

The smoke from wildfires contains a hazardous mix of gases and fine particles. Of particular concern are PM2.5 particles: tiny, airborne pollutants that can penetrate deep into the lungs and enter the bloodstream. Exposure to PM2.5 has been linked to a wide range of respiratory and cardiovascular conditions, including asthma, bronchitis, heart attacks, and strokes.

A 2022 study from Stanford University highlighted by Unicef found that wildfire smoke is up to 10 times more harmful to children's respiratory health than other forms of air pollution. Meanwhile, data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shows that emergency room visits for respiratory issues spike during wildfire events, even in areas hundreds of miles from the fire's origin.

Facilities that house vulnerable populations, such as schools, hospitals, and senior care centers, face an even greater responsibility to prepare. But even commercial and industrial spaces, which rely on equipment that requires a clean air environment, are at risk.

Why Indoor Spaces Aren't Immune

It's a common misconception that staying indoors is a sufficient defense against wildfire smoke. While being inside does help reduce exposure, the truth is that most buildings - especially older or poorly sealed ones - aren't airtight. Smoke can enter through HVAC systems, small gaps in windows and doors, and even during routine building access. Once inside, particulate matter can linger, affecting both air quality and occupant health.

This is where filtration becomes a critical line of defense.

The Role of Air Filters in Wildfire Smoke Protection

Not all air filters are created equal. While standard filters may be effective for capturing dust and pollen, they often fall short when it comes to trapping the ultra-fine particles present in wildfire smoke. To effectively mitigate wildfire smoke indoors, facilities should consider:

• High MERV-rated filters: Filters rated MERV 13 and above are capable of capturing PM2.5 particles, offering stronger protection against wildfire smoke.
• HEPA Filters: For facilities requiring the highest level of protection, HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filters are capable of capturing 99.97% of airborne particles down to 0.3 microns. While not suitable for every HVAC system due to airflow requirements, HEPA filters are ideal for critical environments such as hospitals, laboratories, and cleanrooms where air purity is non-negotiable.
• Activated carbon filters: These filters absorb not just particles but also harmful gases and odors associated with smoke.
• Proper maintenance: Even the best filter can become ineffective if not replaced regularly - especially during periods of intense outdoor air pollution.

Brookaire offers a full portfolio of products to help meet these challenges. Our carbon air filters are particularly effective in capturing gaseous pollutants and VOCs (volatile organic compounds), making them an excellent choice for wildfire season readiness.

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Among our most advanced solutions is the DeltaPleat™ GasGuard G8: a high-performance gas-phase V-bank filter engineered to target formaldehyde, acetic acid, ozone, sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen dioxide. While it was originally developed for museum environments, its ability to protect sensitive materials and maintain high indoor air quality makes it ideal for any space impacted by wildfire smoke.

Backed by third-party testing and shown to capture up to 60% more harmful gases than standard carbon filters, GasGuard G8 delivers industry-leading protection when it's needed most. And with its ability to reduce labor costs and filter change frequency, it also offers a sustainable solution for ongoing operations.

Explore more about this breakthrough Advanced Gas Phase air filter for sensitive environments.

Steps HVAC Contractors Can Take Now

If you're an HVAC contractor working with clients in the Northeast, Midwest, or beyond, you play a pivotal role in helping them prepare for wildfire season. Here are key steps you can take:.

• Audit existing filtration systems: Check what type of filters your clients are currently using and whether they're adequate for wildfire smoke protection.
• Upgrade filters where necessary: Recommend MERV 13+ or carbon-based solutions that offer enhanced particle and gas removal.
• Schedule seasonal replacements: Summer and fall are peak risk periods - schedule filter replacements accordingly to ensure optimal protection.
• Educate customers: Share practical knowledge with building owners and facilities teams so they understand the importance of good filtration and proper maintenance.

What Facilities Managers Should Do Today

If you manage a school, hospital, office complex, or industrial facility, you'll want to take wildfire season seriously. Here's what you can do:

• Review your building's ventilation system: Make sure it's filtering outside air and not just recirculating indoor air.
• Install high-efficiency filters: If your HVAC system can support them, upgrade to MERV 13+ filters or add carbon pre-filters to boost gas capture.
• Stock replacement filters: Supply chain disruptions are real. Order in advance and take advantage of Brookaire's batch ordering tools.
• Monitor air quality: Use indoor air quality monitors to get a clearer picture of pollutant levels inside your building.

Breathe Easy with Brookaire

Our filters are manufactured in the USA using premium materials and cutting-edge technology. And with services like scheduled job site delivery, job tagging, custom filter builds, and a Net Promoter Score consistently above 90, we're the trusted partner you can count on. To get started, browse our full selection of air filters, search your own custom air filter, or contact us today to speak to an air filtration expert.