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  1. Home
  2. Indoor Air Quality (IAQ)

Should you use an air cleaner?

Many factors need to be considered in determining whether use of an air cleaner is appropriate in a particular setting. Therefore, the decision whether or not to use an air cleaner is left to the individual. EPA has not taken a position either for or against the use of these devices in the home.

Additional IAQ Resources

  • The Inside Story: A Guide to Indoor Air Quality EPA 402-K-93-007, April 1995
  • Indoor Air Pollution: An Introduction for Health Professionals EPA 402-R-94-007, 1994
  • Residential Air Cleaning Devices: A Summary of Available Information EPA 400/1-90-002, February 1990
  • Guide to Air Cleaners in the Home  EPA 402-F-07-018, October 2007
  • Ozone Generators That are Sold as Air Cleaners (only available via the web site)

Related Questions

  • What is a HEPA filter?
  • What is a MERV rating?
  • What guidelines are available to compare air cleaners?
  • Will air cleaners reduce health risks?
  • What are ionizers and other ozone generating air cleaners?
  • Does EPA certify/register or provide lists of acceptable air cleaners or manufacturers/sellers?

Indoor Air Quality (IAQ)

  • Learn about Indoor Air Quality
    • Introduction to IAQ
    • Improving Indoor Air Quality
    • Climate Change and IAQ
  • IAQ by Building Type
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    • Multi-Family Housing
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    • Offices & Other Large Buildings
  • Indoor Air Pollutants and Sources
    • Carbon Monoxide
    • Indoor Particulate Matter
    • Secondhand Smoke/Aerosol
    • Volatile Organic Compounds
  • IAQ Science and Technologies
    • IAQ Science
    • IAQ Science Webinar Series
    • Air Cleaners
    • Air Sensor Technology and IAQ
  • Networking and Funding
    • CIAQ
    • Tribal Homes and IAQ
    • Cooperative Agreements
  • Webinars, Meetings and Resources
  • IAQ Trending Topics
  • IAQ Frequently Asked Questions
  • Publications about IAQ
  • Regional and State IAQ Information
Contact Us about Indoor Air Quality
Contact Us to ask a question, provide feedback, or report a problem.
Last updated on March 11, 2025
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