Folks, a lot of you comment on this video to tell me all of the reasons this unit will not work. I hate to disappoint everyone, but it DOES work. I've been using it for two years and have not had a problem. I did a follow-up video where I made it more efficient (Even Better DIY Air Cleaner and Dust Filter). I know that there are many ways to make a high powered super efficient unit, but I chose to make one that is cheap. Everyone has their own idea of cheap, but I used my definition. So if you're going to tell me it's impossible for this to work, you're wrong. It may not work as efficiently as you would like it to, but it has served me well for two years and it's still going strong.
Nice work sir! You just gave me an idea for not only cleaning the air in my shop, but I am also going to build some for my living room. I believe I could build them so they look like an end-table to sit lamps on but also to filter all the dust in the air. I'm with you sir! There are always a bunch of folks....aka 'experts; who have opinions but have never actually taken the time to build one. Keep doing you sir and don't worry about the naysayers!
Thank you for sharing your skills and knowledge. I'm a woman. This is very helpful. I have enough intelligence and sense to know it is just as helpful for intelligent men! Subscribed
*Works great with **Fastly.Cool** , exactly as described. Love the fact that it can push, pull, or exchange air with the push of a button. The remote is a nice bonus too!*
When he says, this will save your lungs; he speaks truth. I'm 50 and have worked in attics (alarm guy), underneath homes, and spent many days sawing wood, and working in my dusty lawn while mowing. I have damaged my lungs to the point where I had to add oxygen to my bipap machine, yep, oxygen. So, start taking care of your lungs RIGHT NOW!!!!
Hey I was an alarm guy too. When the only way was to hard wire every window and door. I still remember working by myself wiring the house, boy those attics were hot. Sometimes I would spend a week wiring a house. And there was no zone panels, trouble shooting was a real bitch. I did this for about 7 years before I could hire somebody to help me. 20 years later I had my own central station and had about 25 people working for me. Sold my business to the local Sonitrol dealer.
I use my flashlight to see how much dust there is. And then ask myself, do I really wanna be breathing that? I wear my “Antifa” mask (masks with cartridges) and they work great. Cant smell anything through those and my eye protection never gets foggy.
Great setup. Simple clean and quick. 1. Put weather stripping in each slot to stop air blowby around the filters. 2. Put foam insulation in the gaps at your fan corners to stop dust from settling there. 3. Use different grades of filters say MERV 8 then MERV 11 then MERV 13. This will catch a ton more dust. Your MERV 8 filter will need more frequent changing but is also a lot cheaper. The MERV 13 will catch the finest of partials that you don't see but get deep in your lungs.
This is terrific. Thanks. A lot of us have duct taped filters to box fans and found that they do a pretty good job, and the motors in the fans don't burn out with the extra resistance from the filter. I think your adding a front side filter is a good move. I've noticed that on all of my DIY filter/fan combos that dust does build up on the blades. As there's no dust inside the filter box, this is air somehow moving across the blades from the exit side of the fan. This seems counter intuitive, but the moving fan blades will be the coolest surface so 'stuff' wants to collect on them. Young wood workers should never forget that after all the solvents and glues etc... one of the most dangerous long term risks for woodworkers is the tiniest dust particles settling in their lungs. Multiple sources say that these tiny particles are permanent... I don't know (Do I have formica dust from the 1960s? yikes!). Keep your exposure low, live long and enjoying making stuff.
Probably would help a lot if people did as much work outside as they could. If you live in the southern US this is a lot easier than other areas. We are jealous!
I made two of these HEPA filters for my home one for the home office and one for our bed room. I know for a fact they saved my husbands life. Remember to change your filters! Wasn't really aware the difference they made till I changed the filters. I'll never let them get that bad again.
If you make a circular shroud for the fan (with as little clearance as possible for the blades) it will greatly increase the unit's efficiency. Otherwise, pressure differential will cause blow-back and leakage through the gaps around the blades (especially the big, open corners in your example). If you were to add up all the surface area of the spaces around your fan you would probably be shocked at how big of a hole you wind up with where the air is just being recirculated around the fan and not forced through the unit and filters at all. I might also suggest that weather stripping in the filter slots would be a light-weight and easy way to help seal the outer edges of the filters and prevent blow-back and leakage, as air - like water - will follow the path or least resistance and if it can avoid being forced through the filters, it will. Likewise, a thin seal of soft rubber, etc. on the door surface will help prevent leakage, as well. A second suggestion would be to stop the 'vortex effect' (which also decreases efficiency by wasting the inertia of the air leaving the fan) by making an 'egg-crate' grid composed of squares an inch or two square and at least a couple inches deep to 'straighten' the flow and redirect it into the exit filter while it still has the velocity to flow through the material. This could be made out of inexpensive & lightweight material and should be as close to the fan as possible.
You are correct, and I've been looking at this recently. Matthias Wandel did a video that I've been studying. I plan on doing an update video with any alterations I make to the unit. Thanks for watching.
@orcasea59 where did you learn your fan wizardry? I am going to attempt to make a shroud for my box fan based on your recommendation. Also, you talk about eliminating the vortex...if I created a one to two foot exit "tunnel" that is slightly angled to a smaller opening--lets say angled to a 17 inch square from the 20 inch box, in a sense funneling the air upon exit, would that reduce the vortex effect? Or how about just having a one to two foot tube the same diameter of the shroud, it seems that may help channel the air to maintain velocity. Lastly, it seems pointless to have a filter on the "exit" side of the fan...not sure if it makes a difference having that filter on the exit versus the entrance side, other than providing an opportunity for the fine particles that were not pre-filtered to come in contact with the fan and motor---what does your fan wizardry say about that?
The shrouding of the fan blades is a must, otherwise the air just recirculates. I have several of these fans in my shop where I duck taped a 20X20 filter to the back of the fan. It is barely able to pull air through one filter, I don't see how it could work with more than one filter. I made a better filtration unit using a squirrel fan inside a sealed wood box and one filter as the side of the box.
orcasea59 Air does not flow like water especially if there is any turns, bends, ripples any thing that the air hits will send that air else where if not for blow backs almost all the time. But here for example air is being moved from all directions possible, that's why the blades get dirty, it's not getting air from the back pull position!
Many years ago a friend and I made something similar to this but with just one filter for carving when using power tools. Instead of a box fan we used an attic exhaust fan. Tons of air movement and worked like a champ.
The nice thing I liked from this video was the transparence of the men explaining the cons they had to face as they were experimenting this project. Thank you.
I'm not sure why other window fans have become such pieces of garbage ruclips.net/user/postUgkxGjG43--gYqIoT4Xkur2PqCrtbKwTv2h6 but this one definitely is nice. It's quiet, it has buttons for different functions that you generally don't have to keep pressing over and over again like some of the others, and the remote is a nice feature. Still, button simplification could go further to single functions for each and every one, but it's decent enough. It's a very quiet fan, the quietest window fan that I have ever had, and that alone is worth the extra money over the cheaper ones.
Nice! With the recent wildfire smoke we built a similar one but used a rubber made storage tote for the box, layered merv 5, merv 12 and a hepa layer for filtration at air intake where the tote lid would go, used pipe insulation to make gaskets, used a Milwaukee m18 fan to have adequate air movement in a compact size with option to use 110 or 18 volt, position inside the tote on the bottom against another gasket on the end for air exit and an access panel to change the battery
Nice video succinct and to the point, no verbosity, just 5 minutes and there you have it! And including the plans is a much appreciated gesture. You guys are awesome - I'm subscribing! I'm also a musician but a novice at woodworking, hopefully I can make this and save my lungs too. Cheers guys!
Ty, this will be perfect for me. I live in AZ and with dogs my downstairs seems to be covered everyday in a layer of dust. And for my workshop lol.. thank you again
@@dougc78 totally agree w both of u. We are in Texas and live on a farm w dogs we adore. We give them baths and treat them like children the only negative thing about them is the dust and hair. We are excited to make this and try it out. Praying 🙏it helps.
I am very familiar with construction, filters and own a Hepa 500. I guarantee you this unit will save you $500. and work just as well. It will absolutely work and I thank you for putting one of the best video guide on how to build a filter. Excellent job guys!
I love it. I have one I made for remodeling. Difference with mine I use a inline or floor blower fan that I put in the work area. I run a reusable plastic tube that runs to the filter in a window or outside. By properly putting up dust barriers I create a negative air work space keeping the rest of the home clean.
Got one in my basement. 20 x 20 Walmart fan. 20 x 20 high quality filter and duct tape. Tape the filter to the front of the fan. Works great and doesn’t weigh a ton.
But as a shop project I bet yours isn't as nice as his is. He put some thought into this one. And, as for duct tape? Why? The suction from the fan will hold it tight against it.
@@beebob1279 putting some space between the filter and fan is better on the motor and increases the speed (dont ask me why I dont understand, it just does) also think you shouldnt put a filter in front of the fan output....
@@shelbytydings3457 I've been doing that but my fan finally died after many years of continual use because it was sucking in lots of dust and crap from the front and it gradually ruined the fan and it died while I was away for a week.
Thank you for the compliment! Obviously you have the wisdom to see past the project, and look into my soul. If you're going to build something, you might as well over-build it. Right?
FranklinWoodWorks I’m definitely a hacker, cobbling stuff together with duct tape and bailing wire. But more often than not, I end up rebuilding the things that matter, sometimes more than once. I frequently kick myself that I should just build it right the first time!
@@MorganBrown I used a box fan with duct taped filters for a while. I finally got tired of looking at something so ugly, so I decided to do it right (over-engineer it). I have a future build in the works where I make a new assembly table with a similar unit as the base. That way I get ground level air filtration as well. Thanks for watching.
@@FranklinWoodWorks2016 There's a time to overbuild and a time to expend 90 seconds taping a furnace filter to a metal framed box fan. And, btw, you only need one filter per fan.
Your DIY AIR CLEANER project is verrrry well done! Very meticulous. I made a DIY AIR CLEANER, albeit not as sweet as yours. Mine is a simpler concept: $2 estate sale box fan, leave plastic safety screens and wire/plug in place, encase in plywood, caster wheels on the bottom, hinges and carry handle w simple hook lock on top door, cheap furnace prefilter, and my used HVAC MERV 11 5" thick ( higher the MERV number more it cleans down to micron level for allergy and asthma sufferers). I swap out my furnace HVAC MERV 11-13 filters 3-4 ti es a year, then swap out MERV filter in my DIY air filter at the same time, use an airgun to blow dust out of prefilter, change it once a year.
Those are good ideas. I'm working on a design for a new assembly/outfeed table that will also have a filtration unit as the base. I plan to use a more robust fan, so I'd be interested in the reusable filters.
Thank you for taking the time to share this. Very helpful. I am in the process of giving my classroom shop a little tune-up and as i have tried to keep all my sanders and dusty machines in one area- a dust filter is going to be a must. I will be including my students on this and all other builds where our shop is concerned and hopefully they will take more pride in using our shop when they also have a hand in helping to make it better. Thanks to you we will be designing our own system based on your advice. Thanks again. 👍👍
Thank you for the kind words! There are so many ways to handle the unavoidable dust, and my way was the best that worked for me. Many folks don't understand why I used so many filters. My explanation is that having cheap low merv filters in a rotation is far cheaper than one high merv filter that will get clogged very quickly. I'm sure with a class of interested students, you will all come up with a design that works great.
Hi, I just wanted to let you know that I’m really enjoying your videos, and appreciate you sharing your knowledge and skills with the rest of us. Take care!
Thanks Bro! I really appreciate you watching and taking the time to comment. Just so you know, I also use original music in my videos, and either me or my son records the music. Here's the catch, if it's classical music, my son did it. Not to be creepy, but I usually look at other's channels before replying. It keeps me from stepping into a hornet's nest with trolls. I see that you are a believer? I am too, and used to play in my church's band. Wish I could still do that. Now I just play for my own enjoyment.
This is a great idea. I want to make 2 of these. Thank you for sharing this fan system with me. It will save me alot of money. Keep up the great videos.
I made a similar setup but used door seals that you can pickup from your local Home Depot to make sure it had a nice tight fit with no “leaks”. Setup is beautiful and does the job. I also threw in a few pieces of felt as a bushing in between the fan and wooden box to prevent vibration at higher speeds. Cheers and thanks for the help!
I will cautiously give you suggestion. I say cautiously because I really don't know anything about COVID-19 and how it is communicated in a setting such as a classroom. Ideally, you would want to exhaust air out of the classroom, and filter the incoming air, but I don't think that would be possible. Simply duct-taping a quality HEPA filter onto the front of a fan may accomplish much of the air filtration you are looking for. However, the exhaust of the fan may keep the atmosphere of the classroom in turmoil, possibly causing more transmission that filtration. For about $150 you could have three fans with HEPA filters going on a relatively low speed, but noise may be an issue. I wish I could offer something that I know would be effective. I wish you the best and I appreciate your desire to keep yourself and your students as safe as possible.
What a great idea. This will do under my house to keep down mold or orders. As well as in the house as well. Now all you guys need to do is make it solar with a timer. Thank guys. Keep it up.
Your shop filter is well done workmanship. I like the idea because now it can be hung out of the way unlike the ones I'm seeing where all the guy does is put a filter on the fan and let it go. Nice project for the winter. Those filtration systems are just too expensive. This helps to reduce my surplus wood and makes it easier to breathe. I'm now looking for your sequel to watch.
Thanks for sharing, i've had an issue with air quality in my shop but don't have the funds to get an expensive air filter, this will be a great solution for the time being.
Only two filters needed one is a pre-filter around a Merv 6 to Merv 8 and the other will be your main filter 5 inch deep pleaded Merv 16. Regular propeller type of fans do not do well with high static pressure(resistance to flow caused by filter) if you can scavenged used or buy new squirrel Cage type blower used in the air conditioning units or furnaces of homes often thrown out by HVAC guys when replacing old ones with new ones. They flow of air very excellent when filter start to get clogged they have the strength to keep pushing the airflow at a high velocity. And in a dusty shop I would at least recommend a 20“ x 30“ filter size and just neck it down to your fan. You are woodworkers you can do this.
You have brought up an argument that has been beat to death. I agree that this is not the most efficient contraption, but it is cheap to build (what I had on hand), and it is very cheap to maintain. In a follow-up video I added a cowling around the fan that really increased the efficiency of the fan. I'm planning a future build for an assembly table that will have another filtration unit as the base. I will scavenge a better blower for that one.
Well, I know it works! Mine isn't so fancy but it works good enough for me to keep my two cat's even with lung issues. I only have one layer and a lot of ugly duct tape. But it works. Been using them for two years now, (yes changing the filters about every six months), I have two. One points into the living room from the back of the house, and one points into the living room from the front of the house. The air is cleaned up within 20 minutes of vacuuming.
Just a little piece of advice in regards to the switch … to make things simple, could’ve just added a smart outlet plug in & turned the fan on/off via a remote. Obviously this is no use for this particular video now lol but just a future reference or to any others reading the comments that are deciding on using the same method(s) 👍🏼👍🏼 great work, though! New subscriber!
I actually did that, but I still wanted to be able to change speeds on the fan. I figured it wouldn't add any value to the video, so I left it out. Guess I should have left it in.
this i will defiantly will be build because i have a lot a of fine dust collecting every where from my sander even though it dose have dust collection on it . thank you for share this
Nice video. I worked on heavy equipment for years they have two air filters first one catch alot then second catches. That works on $100,000++ equipment Thanks nice video
Nice, informative video. I like the slide in filter setup you use. A suggestion for higher, easier air filtration "airflow" might be to change out 1 or 2 fewer filters and instead ADD a second fan. In a sort of push-pull arrangement. EXAMPLE: A lower MERV filter > fan > high MERV filter > 2nd fan > low or high MERV filter. [depending on your preference]. Initial lower MERV filter for larger particles like sawdust, pet fur, dander. Then the middle of the box would have a high MERV filter for smaller particulates, like smoke. Finally the last filter could be a low or high MERV filter.
That is an idea to think about. Two fans in series will not increase the amount of air moved, but may be able to overcome the resistance of the filters easier.
Very nice design. Possibly build to hold a 4 to 6 inch thick hepa filter close to the fan for the fine dust and a 1 inch thick filter for the initial removal of the larger debris.
I checked your description to see who the music is from. My first thought was... is this a Pink Floyd song I haven't heard before? Great work on the filter, and on the music as well! You've got a wide range of skills, sir.
Thank you for this wonderful video. I am a single mother of two little ones and would love to have one of these in our house. Unfortunately no one to build it for us yet.
I usually just duct tape the filter to the intake side of the box fan. Then I put a plastic bag over it and carry it outside, cut the tape, and lift the fan out of the bag. Then let the bag drop flat, gather it closed, and tie it shut. Of course if you have time to make the fancy box and space for it when you are not using it that is good too.
If what you're doing is working for you, keep doing what you're doing. I did the same thing, and it was basically fine. But one thing I like to do on my channel is duplicate an expensive jig or other shop item for as little as possible. Granted, I used really nice plywood on mine, and there were other things I could have done to make more inexpensive,but I think mine is essentially equivalent to a commercially made home wood shop unit. And like most commercial models I've seen, I mounted mine on the ceiling so its out of the way all the time.
I did a real basic one by just duct taping the filter onto the box fan. I use 3 of them around the house. Merv 13 make it into an air scrubber for asthma too. Just gotta make sure you got box fans that are not a fire hazard.
Thank you. I am broke with asthma. This will help tons. Covid is no friend of trigger asthma. Daily I get looks of horror so need to do something asap.
This was a great video..i especially like the ease of design and construction. I saw a new air filter that does not hang. The thought being if it is pulling air up any particulates are going to travel right up into the woodworkers face. Seems this design allows for placement anywhere in the shop I want by just designing the appropriate mounting brackets. Great job! Thanks for saving me so much money and helping to extend my lifespan!
simple and to the point and when the screens are in tight yes it works.but it works only about 65% which was what those screens only do.you need a more powerful intake system,and tight woven mesh for finer dustmites and such.but for simply dust and not smell works fine.
Very nice filter. I've done this with duck tape and the cardboard box my box fan came in which had about 4in of depth available for filters. I used the cheapest filter I could find in front of a $35 MERV 14 filter. I tested with a dylos air quality meter. I was able to easily get down to 0 big parts and sub hundred small particles with that set up. I didn't do exit and entry filtering though. And I believe I put the filters on the pull side. I'm not sure if it makes much of a difference. It did take it awhile to clean the air though. Plus I had to walk around the room with it because of all the dead air spots in my shop.
No matter the brand, Kobalt, SawStop, Dewalt or Festool, everyone uses 80/20 rail and MDF zero clearance inserts to make the tools perform equally. You'd think the manufacturers would catch on by this point. Nice jigs, great vids.
Excellent video - I don't have all the awesome tools that you do so mine will be a simple design with just one filter. I will use it close to the pellet stove to move & filter the warm air plus filter the dust during cleanings.
I have been looking for a DIY to make. This is pretty cool. Found a design that you use 4ea 4” x 20” x 20”. They used duct tape to hold it together with a cardboard bottom. With the filters flow inward. The box fan air flow outward. Apparently it doesn’t bog the fan. Still like this build too.
Very, very good! I plan on using 2 fans and several filters front and back, but had no idea on how to start. I was going to use 3/4 aluminum angle, but the strips are a lot more practical. Thanks friend and keep up the good work! P.S., I also want to add soundproofing to tamp down the roar of the fans. 😀
I built one similar and used the same cheep lasco fan with plastic blades. I only used 2) 20x20x1 filters merv 8 and this style of fan didn't do anything with both filters. I took one out and it did do better but only on high speed. If you want to use multi-able filters I would recommend to spend a couple more bucks and get a box fan with steel blades, it will draw a lot more air and work a lot better.
I agree that the steel blade fan will move more air. I mitigated this issue with the filters I used. In the video, Richard used 4 filters with a 7 merv, but he has since gone to the same set up I use. My first 3 filters have a 4 merv rating, and it only catches the big stuff. My last filter is a 7. Because the first three filters are really cheap, I can change out the first one in the chain without breaking my wallet. My airflow is really good and I'm happy with the results.
use 5 inch deep pleated filters/ i use the 20x20x5 merv 13 and constructed some framing to make up the diff in height witha bit of a gap between filter and fan. then seal in sure tape or duct tape
This is quite a DIY project! The concept is sound, but the number of filters seems to be overkill. One filter on the front and one on the back should be good enough for a wood shop's purpose don't you think? We only review home air purifiers ourselves, so your video intrigued us to take a look. Cool concept!
You are correct that two good filters are enough. But there is a problem with that kind of design. Dust in a wood shop varies greatly in size, and if you want to get the small stuff, you have to have good - and expensive - filter. One project would destroy a good filter. $15 to $25 per day would price an effective filtration system out of reach for most woodworkers. By stacking really cheap filters ($1) in front of the fan, they will catch all the really big stuff. They more they catch, the better they get at it. This leaves the expensive filter on the back of the fan, to only catch the remaining small stuff. A the first cheap filter clogs up, simply rotate the 2nd and 3rd filter forward, and put a new cheap filter in. I have found that I can get a couple of months or more (depending on my activity level) out of the good filter, and I only spend about $1 per week on the cheap filters. This build was not just about clean air, but clean air in the most economical way. Hope that explains where my head is at.
Man you make wood working look fun. I work in I.T. and have been looking for things to do while stuck at home. This is one of them. I presently have two of the same box fans and use a Merv 11 pre filter on one and Merv 12 on the other. The post filter is Merv13 (Just found them for $6/peice on Azon). I used to place a fiber glass prefilter before the Merv 11/12 filters but the biggest issue is tape. I use duct table. I wanted to think of a way to easily make slots like you did. I wanted something simpler. Like a front and back door only. Just play not on the inside and one on the outside. I finally found cut to shape carbon profilers (24"x48"). The price isn't too prohibitive. My question about the shims. You mentioned not all filters are 20x20. I didn't know that. I was thinking of using window foam seal to make up for the extra space. My thought is that it would add a pressure seal as be able to compress gently enough. Thoughts? Great work. I live in a condo so I don't have anywhere to make something like this. I could but would have to use a hand saw and my cuts are sloppy. lol
This is very sexy, I just tape the filter to the front of the box fan but man that is nice. I use that setup for mycology and I’m not the only one. Good job, it’s beautiful. It works very well especially since a flow hood costs about $800.00.
Folks, a lot of you comment on this video to tell me all of the reasons this unit will not work. I hate to disappoint everyone, but it DOES work. I've been using it for two years and have not had a problem. I did a follow-up video where I made it more efficient (Even Better DIY Air Cleaner and Dust Filter). I know that there are many ways to make a high powered super efficient unit, but I chose to make one that is cheap. Everyone has their own idea of cheap, but I used my definition. So if you're going to tell me it's impossible for this to work, you're wrong. It may not work as efficiently as you would like it to, but it has served me well for two years and it's still going strong.
Nice work sir! You just gave me an idea for not only cleaning the air in my shop, but I am also going to build some for my living room. I believe I could build them so they look like an end-table to sit lamps on but also to filter all the dust in the air. I'm with you sir! There are always a bunch of folks....aka 'experts; who have opinions but have never actually taken the time to build one. Keep doing you sir and don't worry about the naysayers!
i'm no expert but i don't see how this set up is not going to work.
Thank you for sharing your skills and knowledge. I'm a woman. This is very helpful. I have enough intelligence and sense to know it is just as helpful for intelligent men! Subscribed
Just curious why 3 filters for the intake and 1 for the front? Couldn't 1 or 2 be enough? Would 4 hamper air flow by alot?
Like what you did here. Curious about cost. Also the purpose. You said shop but what kind of shop?
*Works great with **Fastly.Cool** , exactly as described. Love the fact that it can push, pull, or exchange air with the push of a button. The remote is a nice bonus too!*
When he says, this will save your lungs; he speaks truth. I'm 50 and have worked in attics (alarm guy), underneath homes, and spent many days sawing wood, and working in my dusty lawn while mowing. I have damaged my lungs to the point where I had to add oxygen to my bipap machine, yep, oxygen. So, start taking care of your lungs RIGHT NOW!!!!
always wear a 3m n-95 respirator. put it on in the morning take it off for lunch and put it back on til you are done. buy them by the box.
60 yr old and WISH I had listened and wore my PPE when I was young! COPD ain’t no picanik!
Good advice
Hey I was an alarm guy too. When the only way was to hard wire every window and door. I still remember working by myself wiring the house, boy those attics were hot. Sometimes I would spend a week wiring a house. And there was no zone panels, trouble shooting was a real bitch.
I did this for about 7 years before I could hire somebody to help me.
20 years later I had my own central station and had about 25 people working for me.
Sold my business to the local Sonitrol dealer.
I use my flashlight to see how much dust there is. And then ask myself, do I really wanna be breathing that? I wear my “Antifa” mask (masks with cartridges) and they work great. Cant smell anything through those and my eye protection never gets foggy.
Great setup. Simple clean and quick.
1. Put weather stripping in each slot to stop air blowby around the filters.
2. Put foam insulation in the gaps at your fan corners to stop dust from settling there.
3. Use different grades of filters say MERV 8 then MERV 11 then MERV 13. This will catch a ton more dust. Your MERV 8 filter will need more frequent changing but is also a lot cheaper. The MERV 13 will catch the finest of partials that you don't see but get deep in your lungs.
This is terrific. Thanks. A lot of us have duct taped filters to box fans and found that they do a pretty good job, and the motors in the fans don't burn out with the extra resistance from the filter. I think your adding a front side filter is a good move. I've noticed that on all of my DIY filter/fan combos that dust does build up on the blades. As there's no dust inside the filter box, this is air somehow moving across the blades from the exit side of the fan. This seems counter intuitive, but the moving fan blades will be the coolest surface so 'stuff' wants to collect on them.
Young wood workers should never forget that after all the solvents and glues etc... one of the most dangerous long term risks for woodworkers is the tiniest dust particles settling in their lungs. Multiple sources say that these tiny particles are permanent... I don't know (Do I have formica dust from the 1960s? yikes!). Keep your exposure low, live long and enjoying making stuff.
Probably would help a lot if people did as much work outside as they could. If you live in the southern US this is a lot easier than other areas. We are jealous!
I made two of these HEPA filters for my home one for the home office and one for our bed room. I know for a fact they saved my husbands life. Remember to change your filters! Wasn't really aware the difference they made till I changed the filters. I'll never let them get that bad again.
I have stumbled onto the "DIY Air Purifier" side of youtube. It's lovely.
If you make a circular shroud for the fan (with as little clearance as possible for the blades) it will greatly increase the unit's efficiency. Otherwise, pressure differential will cause blow-back and leakage through the gaps around the blades (especially the big, open corners in your example). If you were to add up all the surface area of the spaces around your fan you would probably be shocked at how big of a hole you wind up with where the air is just being recirculated around the fan and not forced through the unit and filters at all.
I might also suggest that weather stripping in the filter slots would be a light-weight and easy way to help seal the outer edges of the filters and prevent blow-back and leakage, as air - like water - will follow the path or least resistance and if it can avoid being forced through the filters, it will. Likewise, a thin seal of soft rubber, etc. on the door surface will help prevent leakage, as well.
A second suggestion would be to stop the 'vortex effect' (which also decreases efficiency by wasting the inertia of the air leaving the fan) by making an 'egg-crate' grid composed of squares an inch or two square and at least a couple inches deep to 'straighten' the flow and redirect it into the exit filter while it still has the velocity to flow through the material. This could be made out of inexpensive & lightweight material and should be as close to the fan as possible.
You are correct, and I've been looking at this recently. Matthias Wandel did a video that I've been studying. I plan on doing an update video with any alterations I make to the unit. Thanks for watching.
@orcasea59 where did you learn your fan wizardry? I am going to attempt to make a shroud for my box fan based on your recommendation. Also, you talk about eliminating the vortex...if I created a one to two foot exit "tunnel" that is slightly angled to a smaller opening--lets say angled to a 17 inch square from the 20 inch box, in a sense funneling the air upon exit, would that reduce the vortex effect? Or how about just having a one to two foot tube the same diameter of the shroud, it seems that may help channel the air to maintain velocity. Lastly, it seems pointless to have a filter on the "exit" side of the fan...not sure if it makes a difference having that filter on the exit versus the entrance side, other than providing an opportunity for the fine particles that were not pre-filtered to come in contact with the fan and motor---what does your fan wizardry say about that?
The shrouding of the fan blades is a must, otherwise the air just recirculates. I have several of these fans in my shop where I duck taped a 20X20 filter to the back of the fan. It is barely able to pull air through one filter, I don't see how it could work with more than one filter. I made a better filtration unit using a squirrel fan inside a sealed wood box and one filter as the side of the box.
as an engineer watching this was giving me anxiety. such a nice build but with a huge design flaw lol
orcasea59
Air does not flow like water especially if there is any turns, bends, ripples any thing that the air hits will send that air else where if not for blow backs almost all the time. But here for example air is being moved from all directions possible, that's why the blades get dirty, it's not getting air from the back pull position!
Many years ago a friend and I made something similar to this but with just one filter for carving when using power tools. Instead of a box fan we used an attic exhaust fan. Tons of air movement and worked like a champ.
The nice thing I liked from this video was the transparence of the men explaining the cons they had to face as they were experimenting this project. Thank you.
I'm not sure why other window fans have become such pieces of garbage ruclips.net/user/postUgkxGjG43--gYqIoT4Xkur2PqCrtbKwTv2h6 but this one definitely is nice. It's quiet, it has buttons for different functions that you generally don't have to keep pressing over and over again like some of the others, and the remote is a nice feature. Still, button simplification could go further to single functions for each and every one, but it's decent enough. It's a very quiet fan, the quietest window fan that I have ever had, and that alone is worth the extra money over the cheaper ones.
Nice! With the recent wildfire smoke we built a similar one but used a rubber made storage tote for the box, layered merv 5, merv 12 and a hepa layer for filtration at air intake where the tote lid would go, used pipe insulation to make gaskets, used a Milwaukee m18 fan to have adequate air movement in a compact size with option to use 110 or 18 volt, position inside the tote on the bottom against another gasket on the end for air exit and an access panel to change the battery
Brilliant! Of course, I don't have the tools to do such a project, but that is creative thinking.
Nice video succinct and to the point, no verbosity, just 5 minutes and there you have it! And including the plans is a much appreciated gesture. You guys are awesome - I'm subscribing! I'm also a musician but a novice at woodworking, hopefully I can make this and save my lungs too. Cheers guys!
Ty, this will be perfect for me. I live in AZ and with dogs my downstairs seems to be covered everyday in a layer of dust. And for my workshop lol.. thank you again
Kitt Settle I too live in AZ & have 2 Rotties & am forever cleaning up hair & dust! This will work great in the shop & the house!😁
@@dougc78 totally agree w both of u. We are in Texas and live on a farm w dogs we adore. We give them baths and treat them like children the only negative thing about them is the dust and hair. We are excited to make this and try it out. Praying 🙏it helps.
I am very familiar with construction, filters and own a Hepa 500. I guarantee you this unit will save you $500. and work just as well. It will absolutely work and I thank you for putting one of the best video guide on how to build a filter. Excellent job guys!
When it comes to woodworking, i can't even make a pot holder, nice work guys
If you smoke it right away, you don’t have to “hold it for a friend “
I love it. I have one I made for remodeling.
Difference with mine I use a inline or floor blower fan that I put in the work area. I run a reusable plastic tube that runs to the filter in a window or outside.
By properly putting up dust barriers I create a negative air work space keeping the rest of the home clean.
I’m making this 4” ductape version, but this is more visibly appealing
Got one in my basement. 20 x 20 Walmart fan. 20 x 20 high quality filter and duct tape. Tape the filter to the front of the fan. Works great and doesn’t weigh a ton.
But as a shop project I bet yours isn't as nice as his is. He put some thought into this one.
And, as for duct tape? Why? The suction from the fan will hold it tight against it.
I just put the filter on the back of the fan when it is running. Stays in place just fine. Been using them that way for years.
@@beebob1279 putting some space between the filter and fan is better on the motor and increases the speed (dont ask me why I dont understand, it just does) also think you shouldnt put a filter in front of the fan output....
@@Anna-tc6rz Google static pressure then you'll know why
@@shelbytydings3457 I've been doing that but my fan finally died after many years of continual use because it was sucking in lots of dust and crap from the front and it gradually ruined the fan and it died while I was away for a week.
beautifully over-engineered! ;-) Nice construction.
Thank you for the compliment! Obviously you have the wisdom to see past the project, and look into my soul. If you're going to build something, you might as well over-build it. Right?
FranklinWoodWorks I’m definitely a hacker, cobbling stuff together with duct tape and bailing wire. But more often than not, I end up rebuilding the things that matter, sometimes more than once. I frequently kick myself that I should just build it right the first time!
@@MorganBrown I used a box fan with duct taped filters for a while. I finally got tired of looking at something so ugly, so I decided to do it right (over-engineer it). I have a future build in the works where I make a new assembly table with a similar unit as the base. That way I get ground level air filtration as well. Thanks for watching.
@@FranklinWoodWorks2016 There's a time to overbuild and a time to expend 90 seconds taping a furnace filter to a metal framed box fan. And, btw, you only need one filter per fan.
Your DIY AIR CLEANER project is verrrry well done! Very meticulous. I made a DIY AIR CLEANER, albeit not as sweet as yours. Mine is a simpler concept: $2 estate sale box fan, leave plastic safety screens and wire/plug in place, encase in plywood, caster wheels on the bottom, hinges and carry handle w simple hook lock on top door, cheap furnace prefilter, and my used HVAC MERV 11 5" thick ( higher the MERV number more it cleans down to micron level for allergy and asthma sufferers). I swap out my furnace HVAC MERV 11-13 filters 3-4 ti es a year, then swap out MERV filter in my DIY air filter at the same time, use an airgun to blow dust out of prefilter, change it once a year.
Those are good ideas. I'm working on a design for a new assembly/outfeed table that will also have a filtration unit as the base. I plan to use a more robust fan, so I'd be interested in the reusable filters.
Thank you for taking the time to share this. Very helpful. I am in the process of giving my classroom shop a little tune-up and as i have tried
to keep all my sanders and dusty machines in one area- a dust filter is going to be a must. I will be including my students on this and all other
builds where our shop is concerned and hopefully they will take more pride in using our shop when they also have a hand in helping to make
it better. Thanks to you we will be designing our own system based on your advice. Thanks again. 👍👍
Thank you for the kind words! There are so many ways to handle the unavoidable dust, and my way was the best that worked for me. Many folks don't understand why I used so many filters. My explanation is that having cheap low merv filters in a rotation is far cheaper than one high merv filter that will get clogged very quickly. I'm sure with a class of interested students, you will all come up with a design that works great.
Hi, I just wanted to let you know that I’m really enjoying your videos, and appreciate you sharing your knowledge and skills with the rest of us. Take care!
Thanks Bro! I really appreciate you watching and taking the time to comment. Just so you know, I also use original music in my videos, and either me or my son records the music. Here's the catch, if it's classical music, my son did it.
Not to be creepy, but I usually look at other's channels before replying. It keeps me from stepping into a hornet's nest with trolls. I see that you are a believer? I am too, and used to play in my church's band. Wish I could still do that. Now I just play for my own enjoyment.
I've been using a 20 x 20 high quality HVAC and a 20 dollar box fan for years. At least as good as any room air filter for years.
This is a great idea. I want to make 2 of these. Thank you for sharing this fan system with me. It will save me alot of money. Keep up the great videos.
I made a similar setup but used door seals that you can pickup from your local Home Depot to make sure it had a nice tight fit with no “leaks”. Setup is beautiful and does the job. I also threw in a few pieces of felt as a bushing in between the fan and wooden box to prevent vibration at higher speeds.
Cheers and thanks for the help!
Can you come up with simplist day possible that any teacher can use in their classrooms right now.
I will cautiously give you suggestion. I say cautiously because I really don't know anything about COVID-19 and how it is communicated in a setting such as a classroom. Ideally, you would want to exhaust air out of the classroom, and filter the incoming air, but I don't think that would be possible.
Simply duct-taping a quality HEPA filter onto the front of a fan may accomplish much of the air filtration you are looking for. However, the exhaust of the fan may keep the atmosphere of the classroom in turmoil, possibly causing more transmission that filtration. For about $150 you could have three fans with HEPA filters going on a relatively low speed, but noise may be an issue.
I wish I could offer something that I know would be effective. I wish you the best and I appreciate your desire to keep yourself and your students as safe as possible.
Keeping this project simple makes for a better outcome. Great job and you can breathe a little easier. From one Franklin to another.👍
THank you so much for this video. This looks so much nicer than a box fan with a filter duct taped on it.
What a great idea. This will do under my house to keep down mold or orders. As well as in the house as well. Now all you guys need to do is make it solar with a timer. Thank guys. Keep it up.
Your shop filter is well done workmanship. I like the idea because now it can be hung out of the way unlike the ones I'm seeing where all the guy does is put a filter on the fan and let it go.
Nice project for the winter. Those filtration systems are just too expensive. This helps to reduce my surplus wood and makes it easier to breathe. I'm now looking for your sequel to watch.
nice job, after a sped up period a still shot of what was completed tells the story thank you
I building a 16 x`12 work shop this summer I'm planning to build one of these air filters for it Thank you for posting the video!
Thanks for sharing, i've had an issue with air quality in my shop but don't have the funds to get an expensive air filter, this will be a great solution for the time being.
Only two filters needed one is a pre-filter around a Merv 6 to Merv 8 and the other will be your main filter 5 inch deep pleaded Merv 16. Regular propeller type of fans do not do well with high static pressure(resistance to flow caused by filter) if you can scavenged used or buy new squirrel Cage type blower used in the air conditioning units or furnaces of homes often thrown out by HVAC guys when replacing old ones with new ones. They flow of air very excellent when filter start to get clogged they have the strength to keep pushing the airflow at a high velocity. And in a dusty shop I would at least recommend a 20“ x 30“ filter size and just neck it down to your fan. You are woodworkers you can do this.
You have brought up an argument that has been beat to death. I agree that this is not the most efficient contraption, but it is cheap to build (what I had on hand), and it is very cheap to maintain. In a follow-up video I added a cowling around the fan that really increased the efficiency of the fan. I'm planning a future build for an assembly table that will have another filtration unit as the base. I will scavenge a better blower for that one.
Really appreciate that you made the video. I just constructed one and it works great! My lungs thank you so much!
Well, I know it works! Mine isn't so fancy but it works good enough for me to keep my two cat's even with lung issues. I only have one layer and a lot of ugly duct tape. But it works. Been using them for two years now, (yes changing the filters about every six months), I have two. One points into the living room from the back of the house, and one points into the living room from the front of the house. The air is cleaned up within 20 minutes of vacuuming.
Just a little piece of advice in regards to the switch … to make things simple, could’ve just added a smart outlet plug in & turned the fan on/off via a remote.
Obviously this is no use for this particular video now lol but just a future reference or to any others reading the comments that are deciding on using the same method(s) 👍🏼👍🏼 great work, though! New subscriber!
I actually did that, but I still wanted to be able to change speeds on the fan. I figured it wouldn't add any value to the video, so I left it out. Guess I should have left it in.
Hi, from a guy that likes to fix things I really enjoyed your video great project.
One day, my air will be as pure as this man.
This is just what I need for my shop. Simple and well made.
Great build. I need one of these for myself!!
I love the idea
this i will defiantly will be build because i have a lot a of fine dust collecting every where from my sander even though it dose have dust collection on it . thank you for share this
Be sure and watch the follow up video. It may give you some flexibility.
I think I am going to make myself one of these filters.
Thanks for reminding me I am a kool kid!😊 great design and I subscribed 😉
What a magnificent project Guys. 👍👍👍👍👍
Nice video.
I worked on heavy equipment for years they have two air filters first one catch alot then second catches. That works on $100,000++ equipment
Thanks nice video
Nice, informative video. I like the slide in filter setup you use.
A suggestion for higher, easier air filtration "airflow" might be to change out 1 or 2 fewer filters and instead ADD a second fan.
In a sort of push-pull arrangement.
EXAMPLE: A lower MERV filter > fan > high MERV filter > 2nd fan > low or high MERV filter.
[depending on your preference].
Initial lower MERV filter for larger particles like sawdust, pet fur, dander. Then the middle of the box would have a high MERV filter for smaller particulates, like smoke. Finally the last filter could be a low or high MERV filter.
That is an idea to think about. Two fans in series will not increase the amount of air moved, but may be able to overcome the resistance of the filters easier.
This is super cool. I want to use my garage for auto detailing, so i need a dust collector to keep the dust out of the air and this is perfect.
Very nice design. Possibly build to hold a 4 to 6 inch thick hepa filter close to the fan for the fine dust and a 1 inch thick filter for the initial removal of the larger debris.
"Do what i say, not what i do" earned a sub
I know, those words were made famous, for me anyway, by my Dad. Good call .
I checked your description to see who the music is from. My first thought was... is this a Pink Floyd song I haven't heard before? Great work on the filter, and on the music as well! You've got a wide range of skills, sir.
That there is some fine ingenuity guys. Thanks a bunch.
Damn. That music is hella nice. I need one of these filters for my house with all the dang dust these pets bring.
Thank you for this wonderful video. I am a single mother of two little ones and would love to have one of these in our house. Unfortunately no one to build it for us yet.
Absolutely epic video! Many thanks from Wales for your professional workmanship, patient tutorial for beginners like me and great video production.
New subscriber. A delight to learn something from someone with common sense approach. Not that common anymore. Cheers!
I usually just duct tape the filter to the intake side of the box fan. Then I put a plastic bag over it and carry it outside, cut the tape, and lift the fan out of the bag. Then let the bag drop flat, gather it closed, and tie it shut. Of course if you have time to make the fancy box and space for it when you are not using it that is good too.
If what you're doing is working for you, keep doing what you're doing. I did the same thing, and it was basically fine. But one thing I like to do on my channel is duplicate an expensive jig or other shop item for as little as possible. Granted, I used really nice plywood on mine, and there were other things I could have done to make more inexpensive,but I think mine is essentially equivalent to a commercially made home wood shop unit. And like most commercial models I've seen, I mounted mine on the ceiling so its out of the way all the time.
thank you for that. i've been realizing i need to go save my lungs, and this gives a nice idea for it :)
I did a real basic one by just duct taping the filter onto the box fan. I use 3 of them around the house. Merv 13 make it into an air scrubber for asthma too. Just gotta make sure you got box fans that are not a fire hazard.
Cant wait to make mine
WAY WAY Better than my method...Box Fan,, Filters & Electrical Tape...THUMBS UPP!
Thank you. I am broke with asthma. This will help tons. Covid is no friend of trigger asthma. Daily I get looks of horror so need to do something asap.
This was a great video..i especially like the ease of design and construction.
I saw a new air filter that does not hang. The thought being if it is pulling air up any particulates are going to travel right up into the woodworkers face. Seems this design allows for placement anywhere in the shop I want by just designing the appropriate mounting brackets. Great job! Thanks for saving me so much money and helping to extend my lifespan!
LOVE IT ! I did something like this myself a few years ago but only used one filter.
simple and to the point and when the screens are in tight yes it works.but it works only about 65% which was what those screens only do.you need a more powerful intake system,and tight woven mesh for finer dustmites and such.but for simply dust and not smell works fine.
Very nice filter. I've done this with duck tape and the cardboard box my box fan came in which had about 4in of depth available for filters. I used the cheapest filter I could find in front of a $35 MERV 14 filter. I tested with a dylos air quality meter. I was able to easily get down to 0 big parts and sub hundred small particles with that set up. I didn't do exit and entry filtering though. And I believe I put the filters on the pull side. I'm not sure if it makes much of a difference. It did take it awhile to clean the air though. Plus I had to walk around the room with it because of all the dead air spots in my shop.
Good work! I might have to make one of these for my small shop once I get dust collection hooked up.
Dad Rambles Workshop Thanks!
Well done!
I need the plans so that I may build this one for my shop.
No matter the brand, Kobalt, SawStop, Dewalt or Festool, everyone uses 80/20 rail and MDF zero clearance inserts to make the tools perform equally. You'd think the manufacturers would catch on by this point. Nice jigs, great vids.
Most use baltic birch inserts.
Requested plans can't wait to build this. Great video.
Excellent video - I don't have all the awesome tools that you do so mine will be a simple design with just one filter. I will use it close to the pellet stove to move & filter the warm air plus filter the dust during cleanings.
great background music, commentary and visual.
earned a sub
Very nice project.. thanks
A grommet for the power cord opening would've been perfect. Great job!
Nice Project.
What a great idea! Thanks for sharing, guys!
Good job you guys.
Team work makes the DreamWork
I have been looking for a DIY to make. This is pretty cool. Found a design that you use 4ea 4” x 20” x 20”. They used duct tape to hold it together with a cardboard bottom. With the filters flow inward. The box fan air flow outward. Apparently it doesn’t bog the fan. Still like this build too.
Amazing craftsmanship.
Very, very good! I plan on using 2 fans and several filters front and back, but had no idea on how to start. I was going to use 3/4 aluminum angle, but the strips are a lot more practical. Thanks friend and keep up the good work! P.S., I also want to add soundproofing to tamp down the roar of the fans. 😀
I gave him a thumbs up just for the opening music!
I should have done this already.. sawdust and sanding dust have caused some health issues.. thanks for sharing.
Lasko brand fans blow a lot harder than the homes brand
Smart idea
Nice easy build which is so practical! Thank you and for your excellent and efficient video!
Great idea for home made spray booth.
Great another project I have to make, seriously I enjoyed the video and plan to make one myself, Thanks
Very cool! I'll be building one soon!
I built one similar and used the same cheep lasco fan with plastic blades. I only used 2) 20x20x1 filters merv 8 and this style of fan didn't do anything with both filters. I took one out and it did do better but only on high speed.
If you want to use multi-able filters I would recommend to spend a couple more bucks and get a box fan with steel blades, it will draw a lot more air and work a lot better.
I agree that the steel blade fan will move more air. I mitigated this issue with the filters I used. In the video, Richard used 4 filters with a 7 merv, but he has since gone to the same set up I use. My first 3 filters have a 4 merv rating, and it only catches the big stuff. My last filter is a 7. Because the first three filters are really cheap, I can change out the first one in the chain without breaking my wallet. My airflow is really good and I'm happy with the results.
use 5 inch deep pleated filters/ i use the 20x20x5 merv 13 and constructed some framing to make up the diff in height witha bit of a gap between filter and fan. then seal in sure tape or duct tape
Back when wood wasn't the price of gold
This is quite a DIY project! The concept is sound, but the number of filters seems to be overkill. One filter on the front and one on the back should be good enough for a wood shop's purpose don't you think? We only review home air purifiers ourselves, so your video intrigued us to take a look. Cool concept!
You are correct that two good filters are enough. But there is a problem with that kind of design. Dust in a wood shop varies greatly in size, and if you want to get the small stuff, you have to have good - and expensive - filter. One project would destroy a good filter. $15 to $25 per day would price an effective filtration system out of reach for most woodworkers. By stacking really cheap filters ($1) in front of the fan, they will catch all the really big stuff. They more they catch, the better they get at it. This leaves the expensive filter on the back of the fan, to only catch the remaining small stuff. A the first cheap filter clogs up, simply rotate the 2nd and 3rd filter forward, and put a new cheap filter in. I have found that I can get a couple of months or more (depending on my activity level) out of the good filter, and I only spend about $1 per week on the cheap filters. This build was not just about clean air, but clean air in the most economical way. Hope that explains where my head is at.
the filters should have been on four sides and not all in front. im sure it works but would be more efficient with filters on all sides and.
Fine project. Very well explained and illustrated. Yes, I subscribed to learn about your now shop improvement projects. Thanks.
Man you make wood working look fun. I work in I.T. and have been looking for things to do while stuck at home. This is one of them. I presently have two of the same box fans and use a Merv 11 pre filter on one and Merv 12 on the other. The post filter is Merv13 (Just found them for $6/peice on Azon).
I used to place a fiber glass prefilter before the Merv 11/12 filters but the biggest issue is tape. I use duct table. I wanted to think of a way to easily make slots like you did. I wanted something simpler. Like a front and back door only. Just play not on the inside and one on the outside. I finally found cut to shape carbon profilers (24"x48"). The price isn't too prohibitive.
My question about the shims. You mentioned not all filters are 20x20. I didn't know that. I was thinking of using window foam seal to make up for the extra space. My thought is that it would add a pressure seal as be able to compress gently enough. Thoughts?
Great work. I live in a condo so I don't have anywhere to make something like this. I could but would have to use a hand saw and my cuts are sloppy. lol
where did you find merv 13 filters for $6. link?
wow ,, great idea. Thank you.
This is a great neat project, I hope to do it someday.
That's a great idea! I may need to try something like that in my work space.
Totally stole the idea! But I think the box fan part was reasonably original.
6900 likes is more like it! Thanks for the instructions. You're the greatest.
This is very sexy, I just tape the filter to the front of the box fan but man that is nice. I use that setup for mycology and I’m not the only one. Good job, it’s beautiful.
It works very well especially since a flow hood costs about $800.00.