Indoor Air Quality

If you’ve been asking yourself, “Why is it so smoky in Calgary?”, you’re not alone. Calgary’s Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) has spiked to dangerous levels in recent seasons, sometimes hitting 10+, which means the air is at a high-risk level for human health. The city recently experienced 52 hours of smoke this season — the highest in years. Wildfire smoke is a big part of the problem. Scientists have found that wildfire smoke is more toxic than other types of pollution, and the microscopic particles it carries can cause inflammation in the lungs. These fine particles (PM2.5) affect everyone — but seniors, infants, pregnant women, and people with respiratory or heart conditions face the highest risks. This guide explains what’s in Calgary’s indoor air quality right now, how it impacts your health, and practical steps you can take to protect your family when the outdoors gets smoky. What’s in Calgary’s Indoor Air Right Now? Your Calgary home’s air is not just “air.” It’s a mix of gases, dust, allergens, and smoke particles that can build up in sealed indoor spaces. Some of the most common pollutants in Calgary homes include: These pollutants often build up to levels 2–5 times higher indoors compared to outdoors, according to environmental health experts. Seasonal factors make things worse: How Poor Indoor Air Quality Affects Your Health The symptoms of poor indoor air quality show up quickly — itchy eyes, runny nose, headaches, fatigue, or difficulty breathing. Over time, the risks become more serious. Certain groups in Calgary are especially vulnerable: Since Calgarians spend about 90% of their time indoors, knowing what’s in your home’s air is essential to protecting your health. Why Is It So Smoky in Calgary? Wildfire activity across Alberta and British Columbia has made smoky skies more frequent in Calgary. When outdoor air is filled with smoke, it quickly seeps into homes through doors, windows, and ventilation systems. Unlike dust or pollen, wildfire smoke particles are so small that standard air filters can’t always catch them. This is why Calgary residents often notice worsening asthma, allergies, and even heart-related symptoms during wildfire season. How to Protect Yourself Indoors The good news? There are practical steps you can take to improve indoor air quality in Calgary homes — even when wildfire smoke makes the outdoors unbearable. Conclusion: Take Control of Your Indoor Air Calgary’s air has become increasingly smoky and unpredictable, making indoor air quality more important than ever. While we can’t control wildfire smoke outdoors, we can take real steps to protect the air we breathe inside our homes. From HEPA purifiers and upgraded HVAC systems to regular maintenance and indoor air quality testing, small actions make a big difference for your health and comfort. If you’re concerned about indoor air quality in Calgary, consider scheduling a professional assessment. Clean indoor air isn’t just about comfort — it’s about protecting your family’s long-term health in a city where smoky skies are becoming the new normal.

Affordable, effective indoor air quality solutions are more accessible than ever, and Calgary families are making them a top priority for healthier, safer living spaces.

Introduction As the cold winter months settle in across Calgary, our homes become sealed environments to retain warmth, inadvertently trapping pollutants and compromising indoor air quality. This decline in air purity can significantly impact our health and comfort, making it crucial to understand the factors contributing to this issue and adopt effective strategies to combat it. In this article, we’ll explore the top ways to improve indoor air quality during the winter season, drawing insights from industry experts and our own research to help you and your family breathe easier. Factors Affecting Indoor Air Quality in Winter Strategies to Improve Indoor Air Quality Fortunately, there are numerous effective strategies you can employ to enhance the quality of air in your home during the winter months. From upgrading your HVAC system to implementing targeted cleaning practices, these proven methods can help you breathe easier and maintain a healthier indoor environment. The Shift Air Advantage At Shift Air, we understand the importance of maintaining a healthy indoor environment, especially during the winter months. As a leading HVAC contractor serving the Calgary area, we are dedicated to helping homeowners and businesses improve their indoor air quality through a comprehensive range of services. Our team of experienced professionals is equipped to assess your indoor air quality, identify the root causes of any issues, and implement tailored solutions to enhance the purity of the air you breathe. From duct cleaning and HVAC filter replacements to the installation of high-performance air purifiers and heat recovery ventilators, we have the expertise to create a healthier, more comfortable living or working space. Don’t compromise on the air quality in your home or workplace this winter. Contact Shift Air today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards breathing easier and improving your overall well-being.