A refrigerator includes a rear assembly panel coupled with an assembly cover panel that includes at least one vent. At least one circulation fan is positioned between the rear assembly panel and the assembly cover panel and is proximate the at least one vent. A filter is positioned between the rear assembly panel and the assembly cover panel and is coupled to a photocatalyst to form an activated carbon filter. A light-emitting diode (LED) panel assembly includes a plurality of LEDs positioned on the rear assembly panel and is positioned to project light on the activated carbon filter. An air circulation path extends through the at least one vent and the activated carbon filter and is configured to direct air along the air circulation path, and the activated carbon filter is configured to filter airborne bacteria and particulate matter from the air as the air passes through the activated carbon filter.