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Apr 26, 2023

NY air quality: Can I use my air conditioning? Is air inside better?

Authorities this week urged New Yorkers to stay indoors to limit health risks

Authorities this week urged New Yorkers to stay indoors to limit health risks from the dangerously poor air quality outside amid hazy smoke-filled skies caused by Canadian wildfires.

But many factors determine just how safe the air remains inside amid wildfire air pollution, including the quality of air conditioning units, filtration systems and the age of buildings, said Cornell Professor Max Zhang.

"Whether there is a difference between indoor and outdoor air depends on the conditions inside your home," he said. Older buildings, for example, are typically less air-tight than newer construction and struggle with leakage that reduces air quality indoors.

Here's what the vet says:Are pets safe outdoors in NY's smoky air?

The USA Today Network New York asked readers to submit their questions about air quality and wildfire smoke in New York this week. We're answering this question and others over the coming days and weeks.

If you have a question about air quality in New York, fill out our online form, and your submission will go straight to USA Today Network reporters who are covering this issue. You may be contacted for more information about your question.

Yes, but there are many factors to consider to maximize your air quality, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. Among them:

When?:Smoke forecast brightens for Hudson Valley

Also:Is breathing wildfire smoke like smoking cigarettes? In some ways, it's worse

Among the advice for non-HVAC air conditioning:

For further details, visit the EPA website, at EPA.gov.

Impact:Wildfire smoke shows you can't hide from new climate reality in New York

What questions do you have about how the wildfire smoke is affecting air quality in New York?

Are you worried about loved ones with breathing problems? Should you cancel outdoor events this week or weekend?

We’d love to hear your questions, and help answer them with our coverage. Fill out the form below and your submission will go straight to a USA Today Network reporter. We may reach out to you for more information about your question.