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Santa Ana winds and wildfire smoke

Fall and early winter bring Santa Ana winds to the valley, and late summer and fall can bring wildfire smoke. Both are hard on AC systems.

Before a wind event

• Clear loose items, branches and trash from around the outdoor unit.
• Make sure the filter is fresh going in.

After a wind event

• Check the filter. One windy week can load it like a month of normal use.
• Look at the outdoor coil. If it's caked with dust, rinse it gently with the power off, or have a technician clean it.

During wildfire smoke

• Set the system to recirculate and keep windows closed.
• A MERV 11 or 13 filter (if your system supports it) catches more smoke particles.
• Change the filter once the smoke clears.