Equipment Considerations for Smoke Preparedness

Alison Lerch Fire Adapted Communities Coordinator Ashland Fire & Rescue Decoding the Equipment

▪ ▪ MERV: Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value ▪ ▪ The higher the MERV value, ▪ Portable Air Cleaner the more efficient the filter ▪ Air Scrubber will be in trapping airborne particles. ▪ Air Curtain ▪ HEPA: High Efficiency Particulate ▪ Air Door Air ▪ Combined with Activated Carbon (Charcoal) Air Filters

▪ MERV 13 or HEPA ▪ Install in your HVAC system ▪ Specific for each system ▪ Thickness ▪ Size ▪ Purchase from a trusted source & stock up! ▪ Check/Change every 4 weeks during smoke events Portable Air Cleaners or Air Purifiers

▪ Choose a unit that is appropriate for your room size; multiple units may be necessary for larger spaces ▪ Make sure the unit will filter PM2.5 molecules ▪ Filters are washable and usually last 1 year Air Curtain Air Scrubber

▪ Air purifier installed as part of your HVAC system ▪ Must be installed by an HVAC Technician ▪ Contact local HVAC companies for a free in-home consultation Other Equipment Considerations

▪ No Central ? Run your HVAC system on Recirculate/ using MERV13/HEPA filter ▪ Window Air Conditioning units should not be used during smoke events. ▪ Portable Air Quality Monitor ▪ Provide real time air quality information to employees and customers Next Steps

▪ Get to know your HVAC system! If you do not have control over HVAC maintenance, contact the person that does. ▪ Formulate your budget. ▪ Stock up on MERV13 filters and choose an appropriate indoor air cleaner/purifier. ▪ Consider more permanent solutions. ▪ Work together and talk with your peers about what is working!

The actions we take as a community will ultimately make us more adapted and resilient during wildfire season. Thank you!

Alison Lerch Fire Adapted Communities Coordinator [email protected]