Current conditions
Use AirNow and BAAQMD rather than assuming outdoor air is safe from appearance or smell. Smoke can change quickly.
Local reading 34
During wildfire smoke, filtration comes before assumptions
Review current conditions, then connect the observation to its source, system location, and a written scope.
DIRECT ANSWER
Start with the condition, not the sales package
When smoke affects the Bay Area, check current Air Quality Index and public-health instructions. BAAQMD and AirNow recommend reducing outdoor-air entry when appropriate, creating cleaner indoor air with non-ozone-producing filtration, and considering MERV 13 or higher central filters when the HVAC system can safely use them.
Duct cleaning is not an automatic smoke response. First manage exposure and filter loading. After conditions improve, investigate persistent visible deposits or odor with a source-and-path assessment. The City of Sunnyvale's HVAC and residential project resources become relevant if the conversation expands into equipment replacement or alteration.
READ THE AIR PATH
What deserves a closer look
Compatible recirculation
Central systems can filter recirculated air, but settings and filters must fit the equipment. Some homes also have outdoor-air intakes that need qualified review.
No ozone
CARB advises against intentional ozone generators. Choose mechanical filtration and verified source-control measures instead of reactive-gas marketing.
USE THIS SEQUENCE
Move from observation to a written decision
Check official alerts
Follow BAAQMD, AirNow, and local emergency directions.
Set up cleaner air
Use compatible central or portable filtration and keep devices maintained.
Inspect filters more often
Heavy smoke can shorten useful life.
Evaluate afterward
Only consider duct work when documented deposits or another system condition supports it.
CALL PATH
Ask about the evidence and the written scope
Sunnyvale Airflow Guide is an independent lead-generation website, not an air duct cleaning company. Calls may connect you with an independent service provider. Service availability, qualifications, pricing, and terms must be confirmed directly with that provider.