Wildfire season in Colorado isn’t just something happening “out there” in the forests. If you live in Englewood, you’ve probably woken up to smoky skies, itchy eyes, and that unmistakable campfire smell.
Even when you keep your windows shut, the smoke still seems to sneak in. And when it does, your HVAC system becomes your home’s first line of defense. At the heart of that defense? Your air filter.
But during wildfire season, the rules change. So let’s get into it:
Why Your Filter Matters More During Fire Season
Wildfire smoke contains tiny particles known as PM2.5, which are small enough to reach deep into your lungs. Breathing them in can lead to headaches, coughing, fatigue, and may worsen asthma or allergy symptoms.
If your HVAC filter is clean and effective, it helps trap those particles before they circulate through your home. However, if the filter’s clogged or too weak, it’s not doing much more than letting smoke pass right through.
How Often Should You Change Your HVAC Filter?
In a normal season, changing your HVAC filter every one to three months is enough. But once the wildfires roll in and smoke fills the air, that timeline gets a lot shorter.
During wildfire season, we recommend checking your filter every 2 to 4 weeks.
Yes, really. Smoke particles are so fine and heavy that even the best filters can get overwhelmed quickly. If the filter looks gray, dusty, or you can’t see light through it, it’s time for a replacement.
What Kind of Filter Should You Use?
Let’s keep this simple:
- Basic fiberglass filters? Skip them. They’re cheap, but they can’t catch the small stuff.
- MERV 8 filters? Better, but still not enough during heavy smoke.
- MERV 11 or higher? That’s the sweet spot for most Colorado homes during fire season.
- HEPA filters? Excellent filtration, but not all systems can handle it.
Unsure which filter to use? Contact us and we’ll help you choose the right one for your system and clean air.
A Quick Story from Right Here in Englewood
Last August, one of our regular customers in Englewood called because her daughter’s asthma was flaring up even though all the windows were shut tight and the air purifier was running.
We stopped by and found that her HVAC filter hadn’t been changed in over two months. It was packed with ash and fine dust from wildfire smoke. We replaced the filter with a high-efficiency option, and within hours, the air felt noticeably cleaner. Her daughter was able to breathe easier that night.
It’s those small, easy-to-miss details that make all the difference.
What Happens If You Don’t Replace Your Filter?
When smoke’s in the air and your filter isn’t doing its job, here’s what you’re dealing with:
- Lingering smoky odors indoors
- Higher risk of breathing problems
- More allergy and asthma flare-ups
- Dust buildup on furniture and surfaces
- Higher energy bills because your HVAC system has to work harder
Your HVAC system wasn’t designed to work against a clogged filter, and when it tries, the wear and tear can lead to costly repairs down the road.
Noticing a Persistent Smell Indoors?
If the smell still lingers after you’ve changed the filter, there could be other issues causing it.
You could be dealing with:
- Air leaks around doors or windows
- Unsealed ducts pulling in smoky outdoor air
- An HVAC system that needs upgraded filtration
- A need for a whole-home air purifier
We offer indoor air quality assessments to identify the root of the issue. No guessing. Just solutions.
Think Your Air Smells Fine? Think Again.
Even if your home doesn’t smell like smoke, that doesn’t mean the air is clean. Wildfire particles are often too small to see, and they don’t always come with a strong odor. That’s why checking your filter regularly is one of the simplest ways to protect your air quality during fire season.
Pop off that vent cover and take a quick look. If the filter looks dusty, gray, or blocks light, it’s time to replace it.
Best Indoor Air Quality Services in Englewood, CO
Wildfire smoke, dust, and allergens can linger in your home long after the skies clear. At Jump HVAC, we offer indoor air quality testing, advanced filtration solutions, and whole-home air purifiers to help you breathe cleaner, safer air. We’ll inspect your current system and recommend options that fit your space and your needs. Our team knows what works best for Colorado homes dealing with wildfire smoke and seasonal allergens. Request your free estimate today and take the first step toward cleaner air.