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Check Your Local Air Quality

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Smoke:
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Wildfires (points)
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AQI Map (WAQI)

At-a-Glance: What Today's AQI Means

Air Quality Index (AQI) simplifies outdoor air conditions on a scale from 0 to 500. Lower is better. If AQI is high, use a higher-rated filter indoors and limit outdoor exposure.

aqi chart 0 to 500

What Are Common Air Pollutants and Why They Matter

PM2.5 (Fine Particles)

PM2.5 (Fine Particles)

From smoke, combustion; tiny enough to reach lungs and bloodstream.

PM10 (Coarse Particles)

PM10 (Coarse Particles)

Dust, pollen, mold spores—irritating to eyes, nose, and throat.

Ozone (O₃)

Ozone (O₃)

Forms in sunlight; can irritate airways and worsen asthma.

Nitrogen Dioxide (NO₂)

Nitrogen Dioxide (NO₂)

From traffic, gas appliances; respiratory irritant.

Sulfur Dioxide (SO₂)

Sulfur Dioxide (SO₂)

Industrial sources; can trigger breathing issues.

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)

From paints, cleaning products, cooking; contribute to odors and indoor irritation.

Why it matters: Poor air quality can aggravate asthma/allergies, reduce sleep quality, and increase long‑term health risks. Indoors, a well‑sealed home with the right filter helps reduce exposure.

Air Quality Tips by Range

AQI 0-50

Run HVAC on "Auto" with a MERV 8–11 filter; replace on schedule.

AQI 50-100

Consider MERV 11; close windows during high pollen hours.

AQI 101-150

Upgrade to MERV 11–13; run fan to recirculate through filter; avoid indoor burning/candles.

AQI 151-200

Use MERV 13; create a clean room; use portable HEPA if available; seal drafts.

AQI 201-300

Stay indoors; MERV 13+ run HVAC continuously; change filters more often.

AQI 301-500

Shelter indoors; MERV 13+ change filter once visibly loaded; avoid introducing smoke/chemicals.

Check Your Local Air Quality

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Air Quality Guides &
Articles

Discover expert tips, seasonal guides, and indoor air hacks to help you breathe easier—whether you're battling wildfire smoke, allergy season, or everyday pollutants.

FAQs: Air Quality & Filters