Page 20 Fall Home Improvement 2026 Lincoln Daily News claims through independent testing and certification • High-quality filters can capture some viruscarrying droplets and bacteria-sized particles, but an air purifier should be viewed as one layer of risk reduction rather than a substitute for ventilation, hygiene, or medical guidance. Odor and Chemical Control • Activated carbon filters can help absorb odors from pets, cooking, trash, and smoke. • For chemical fumes and volatile organic compounds, carbon depth and filter replacement frequency matter more than marketing labels. Potential Reduction of Airborne Germs Air purifiers may help reduce some airborne germs when they use effective filtration and are operated continuously in an appropriately sized room. Limitations and Risks • Air purifiers do not remove: - Pollutants that have settled in carpets, furniture, bedding - Dust on surfaces - Mold growth on surfaces (although HEPA filters may capture airborne mold spores) - Nicotine and other gaseous pollutants - Dander from involuntary rodent infestations - Cockroach allergens - Some types of volatile organic compounds (VOC) - While HEPA filters can capture airborne pollen, pollen and other allergens that have settled onto surfaces will not be removed until they become airborne again - Standard HEPA filters do not remove gases such as carbon monoxide, radon, or many chemical vapors Is it really going to make a difference with my health? Medical and public health guidance generally supports air purifiers as useful tools for reducing indoor airborne particles, especially for people affected by asthma, allergies, smoke exposure, or certain cardiovascular and respiratory concerns. However, their effectiveness depends on correct sizing, continuous use, proper filter replacement, and choosing the right technology for the pollutant. A purifier should support, not replace, medical treatment or broader indoor air quality improvements. What the Evidence Suggests • HEPA purifiers can lower airborne particle levels, which may reduce exposure to asthma and allergy triggers. • Studies have reported improvements in some cardiovascular and respiratory markers when particulate pollution is reduced indoors. • Clinical benefits are most likely when the purifier is used in the right room, at the right fan speed, and with filters replaced on schedule.
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