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Technologies to improve indoor air quality

There are a few technologies that can help eliminate pollutants and airborne viruses like COVID-19 from the air. Below, you’ll find links to pages with more information about three specific technologies.

HEPA air cleaners

Learn about High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) cleaners, and how best to use them to improve indoor air quality.

UVGI systems

Learn about upper room ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI) systems, and how and where to use them to improve indoor air quality.

HVAC systems

Learn about Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems, and how best to use them to improve indoor air quality.

How do I know if a technology is safe?

The three technologies listed above are known to be effective at improving indoor air. However, many others are marketed as effective. To help you select, we recommend:

  • Avoid air cleaners or HVAC systems that use ionization or oxidation, as these may generate ozone. Ozone is harmful to health.
  • Purchase technologies that have been verified by a trusted third-party organization. These organizations include Consumer Reports, American Home Appliance Manufacturers (AHAM), or the California Air Resources Board (CARB). Without third-party verification to confirm a company’s claims, it’s unknown if a new technology is actually effective. These organizations include Consumer Reports, Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers (AHAM), or the California Air Resources Board (CARB).
  • Never spray or fog the air with disinfectant, as this can have harmful health effects.
  • The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers has an overview of different air cleaner technologies, as well as data gaps or unknowns that exist.
  • You can also read this article about air cleaning technologies from the National Collaborating Centre for Environmental Health.
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