Each year, wildfires are becoming larger and more intense. According to the World Economic Forum, the summer wildfire season is around 40 to 80 days longer than it was in the 1990s. Unfortunately, these fires are often burning very close to cities and towns. The toxic fumes caused by wildfires can be especially intense in adjacent communities, but smoke can also travel quite far from the actual fire. Smoke odor removal from homes has become a big problem for a lot of people.

What Exactly Is Smoke Odor from Wildfires?

Long after the wildfire has been extinguished and the direct threat from the flames has passed, there can be a lingering scent of smoke in the home. Even homes that were never in direct danger from the fire itself can suffer from smoke damage.

The smell of smoke is actually evidence that soot and smoke particles have been deposited within the home. These small particles can easily coat surfaces and become embedded in fabrics like upholstery, carpets, and drapes. They can also get into the home’s ventilation system and prolong the odor problem.

Soot and smoke particles are dangerous because they contain toxic chemicals. These chemicals are especially dangerous to small children, older individuals, and people with pre-existing health conditions. Inhaling soot can cause breathing problems, heart issues, and even cancer. It is imperative that smoke odors are removed from homes as soon as possible.

DIY Tips for Smoke Odor Removal

If a home has slight smoke odor problems after a distant wildfire, the homeowners can attempt to resolve the issues with a few simple steps:

• Clean all surfaces including walls and counters.

• Change the filter in the ventilation system. Use the best possible filter.

• Launder all possible fabric items like blankets, clothes, and towels.

• Clean the carpets and rugs.

When to Call in the Professionals

In most cases, homes that have noticeable smoke odor should be inspected by a professional smoke remediation expert in order to ensure the space is as safe as possible. These experts can perform thorough smoke odor removal services and restore the home back to its previous condition.

The best smoke remediation experts can offer a variety of solutions including:

1) Professional air duct cleaning

Soot and smoke particles often settle within HVAC systems and are circulated each time the system is used. It can take a very long time to wait for the system filters to remove all traces of these harmful particles.

Professional air duct cleaning services use mechanical brushes that agitate the ducts and high-powered vacuum technology that removes all traces of smoke particles from the system. Professional cleaning companies also clean the fans, furnaces, and AC units to make sure that all smoke particles have been removed.

2) Air scrubbers

In some cases, the best option for smoke odor removal is to use air scrubber technology in the home. These enclosed units are designed specifically for filtering tiny particles like smoke and soot from the air. Air scrubbers are self-contained, meaning that they do not require a connection to existing ductwork or ventilation to the outdoors. Most smoke remediation companies offer air scrubbers for rent or to purchase.

3) Activated charcoal filters

Many professional smoke remediation companies also offer activated charcoal filters to enhance smoke odor removal. These filters are able to remove volatile organic compounds, including soot and smoke particles, from the air. They are very effective for smoke odor removal.

Choosing the Right Smoke Remediation Experts

For the most effective and efficient smoke odor removal, it is best to call in the professionals. Smoke remediation experts can thoroughly remove smoke odor issues from homes faster than homeowners could on their own. The experts have the right types of high-tech tools and equipment to make sure the job is done right.

When choosing a smoke remediation expert, homeowners should make sure to look for a company with many years of experience in the industry. They should also look for a company that is certified by the National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA) as well as appropriate state and local authorities.

Unfortunately, wildfire problems including smoke odor removal are going to be a common occurrence for many people in the years to come. Working with a reliable and reputable air solution company can make a big difference for the health of those who live in affected areas.