Your House Isn’t Sealed—And Wildfire Smoke Knows It

Wildfire smoke and fine-particle pollution are exposing a problem many homeowners do not realize they have: most homes are not sealed systems. Even when windows are shut, outdoor air—and PM2.5 particles—can find its way indoors through gaps, leaks, and poorly controlled ventilation.For this TechMobility Topics episode, we look at why indoor air quality may be worse than it appears and why simply closing the door is not a reliable defense when smoke conditions worsen. The conversation also explores the Passive House approach: an airtight, well-insulated building standard designed around controlled ventilation, consistent comfort, and dramatically reduced energy use.The result is a practical case for thinking beyond air purifiers and temporary fixes. Better-performing homes can help keep polluted outdoor air where it belongs—outside—while improving day-to-day comfort and reducing the energy needed to heat and cool the home.