AI Generated Image
How your AC will and won't protect you from NYC's gnarly smoke-filled air
Gothamist • • business
Key Points:
- New Yorkers are dealing with smoky air from Canadian wildfires and are advised by the EPA to keep windows and doors closed, using air conditioning instead of fresh air to maintain indoor air quality.
- Routine maintenance of air conditioners, such as rinsing and changing filters every 4-6 weeks and sealing gaps around window units, is recommended to reduce smoke infiltration and improve efficiency.
- Central AC systems in NYC may not be well-prepared to filter wildfire smoke, and renters should ensure landlords maintain air filters properly; portable ACs with single hoses may draw in smoke and should be used minimally.
- Air conditioners do not purify indoor air; the use of air purifiers with HEPA filters is necessary to effectively clean smoke particles, and the EPA provides guidance on selecting and placing air cleaners.
- To protect indoor air quality, avoid indoor smoking, using gas or wood-burning appliances, aerosol sprays, frying, and burning candles, and reduce strenuous activity to limit smoke inhalation.
