The short answer
Air Scrubbers and Purifiers
Air scrubbers are the workhorses of smoke removal. These machines pull air through a series of filters, including HEPA and activated carbon, to trap smoke particles and absorb odors. You will often see them running in a room for hours or days, depending on the level of contamination.
For a whole-home approach, the pros may place multiple units in different rooms. Some models also use ultraviolet light to break down volatile organic compounds in the smoke. This helps reduce the lingering chemical smell that can stay after a fire.
If you are dealing with smoke damage, you might notice a difference in air quality after scrubbing. However, a single pass rarely removes all odors. That is why the pros often combine air scrubbers with other methods for thorough results.
- HEPA filters trap fine particles
- Activated carbon absorbs odors
- UV light breaks down chemicals
- Units are placed in each affected room
- Run for extended periods
- Portable and easy to move
Ozone Generators
Ozone generators produce ozone gas that reacts with smoke molecules and neutralizes odors. The pros use these in unoccupied spaces because ozone can be harmful to breathe. You may find that the room needs to be sealed off while the machine works.
Ozone treatment can be effective for porous materials like upholstery and drywall. However, it does not physically remove soot or residue. That is why the pros often use ozone as a follow-up to cleaning, not as a standalone solution.
Be cautious with ozone around pets and plants. The pros will typically ventilate the area thoroughly after treatment. If you have asthma or respiratory issues, you should stay away until the ozone dissipates.
Thermal Foggers
Thermal foggers use heat to turn a deodorizing solution into a fine mist that penetrates deep into fabrics, carpets, and wall cavities. The fog spreads through the air and settles on surfaces, neutralizing smoke odors at the source. This method is useful for hard-to-reach areas.
The pros might use thermal fogging after initial cleaning to tackle lingering smells. The fog can reach spaces that a cloth or sponge cannot, like inside ductwork or behind baseboards. You may need to leave your home for a few hours while the treatment settles.
Thermal fogging is not a substitute for cleaning soot. It works well on surfaces that are already wiped down. In humid climates, where odors can linger, this technique can be particularly helpful.
HEPA Vacuums and Dry Sponges
HEPA vacuums are essential for removing dry soot and ash from surfaces. Unlike a regular vacuum, a HEPA model traps tiny particles without releasing them back into the air. The pros use these to clean floors, walls, and ceilings after smoke exposure.
Dry sponges, also called chemical sponges, are used to wipe soot off walls and ceilings without water. Water can smear soot and make stains worse. These sponges are a staple in smoke cleanup because they lift residue away cleanly.
You might see the pros using these tools in combination with cleaning agents. The goal is to remove as much soot as possible before any wet cleaning begins. This two-step approach helps prevent streaks and odors from setting in.
Hydroxyl Generators
Hydroxyl generators create hydroxyl radicals that safely oxidize odor-causing molecules. Unlike ozone, hydroxyl is safe for occupied spaces, so the pros can run these machines while you are at home. This makes them a popular choice for continuous odor control.
These generators are often used as a final step to eliminate any remaining smoke smell. They work by breaking down the chemical bonds that cause odors, rather than just masking them. You might notice a fresh, clean scent after treatment.
Hydroxyl generators are not effective on heavy soot. They work well on odors that remain after cleaning. If you have smoke damage, the pros may use this equipment alongside other methods to ensure your home smells fresh again.
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Call Now (678) 672-1781Frequently asked questions
Can I remove smoke odor myself?
You can try wiping surfaces with dry sponges and running an air purifier. However, deep smoke odor often requires professional equipment like ozone generators or thermal foggers. If the smell persists, consider hiring a local water damage pro for thorough treatment.
How long does smoke removal take?
The time depends on how severe the smoke damage is. A light smoke smell might clear in a day, while heavy soot and odor can take several days. The pros may need to run air scrubbers and ozone generators for multiple days to fully neutralize the smell.
Is smoke removal covered by insurance?
Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Smoke damage from a fire is often covered, but you should check your policy details. Document the damage and keep receipts for any cleaning supplies you buy. Your insurance company can tell you what steps to take.