Watch all the Box Fan Air Filter Videos here: kzitem.info/door/PLAriVJ-zrwINFsLm9NWBSUFdyV1x3ebqZ 🔸 DIY Air Filter | Box Fan Modification | Cleaner Air for Your Home from Pollen or Wildfire Smoke! kzitem.info/news/bejne/mqyA0Wl4hmqpiKQ 🔸 Are DIY Box Fan Filters Safe? kzitem.info/news/bejne/23tq16GEmHeAi6w 🔸⚠ Watch This BEFORE Making a DIY Box Fan Air Filter!!!: kzitem.info/news/bejne/r5V4moCJmmJ_d3o Lasko Air Flex 2 in 1 Box Fan Filter 🔷 Amazon: amzn.to/3NhkSlh 🔷 Menards: www.menards.com/main/heating-cooling/portable-fans/lasko-air-flex-20-air-purifier-box-fan/ff305/p-7720120058360405-c-12727.htm 🔷 Home Depot: www.homedepot.com/p/Lasko-Air-Flex-20-in-3-Speed-Air-Purifier-and-Room-Fan-FF305/315516663 🔷 Walmart: www.walmart.com/ip/Lasko-Air-Flex-2-in-1-20-inch-Box-Fan-and-Air-Purifier-in-One-with-3-Speeds-FF305-White/473758982 🔷 QVC: www.qvc.com/qvc.product.H232553.html 🔷 Boscov’s: www.boscovs.com/product/lasko-air-flex-2-in-1-20in-box-fan-air-purifier/763003 🔷 Wayfair: www.wayfair.com/Lasko--Lasko-23.2-Box-Fan-FF305-L447-K~UNW10066.html 🔷 Amazon: amzn.to/3NhkSlh
@r3alfish
3 жыл бұрын
I'd like to see @Project Farm test this against some top rated air purifiers. 😲
@GanderFlight
3 жыл бұрын
What a great idea- I’ll go leave him a message!!!!
@she_sings_delightful_things
3 жыл бұрын
Yes!
@rickfrank7934
3 жыл бұрын
@@GanderFlight any update?
@GanderFlight
3 жыл бұрын
@@rickfrank7934 I left him a comment - but didn't hear anything - nor do I expect to. Maybe we'll see a video sometime. Head over and leave Todd a message too! Maybe if we get enough folks suggesting it he might indulge.
@ezrawaters6653
3 жыл бұрын
He has done a video on HVAC filters though: kzitem.info/news/bejne/s6GguH9_i6iSaG0
@rose77778888
Жыл бұрын
I did a search looking for the method, and safety of a box fan filter. Thank you
@GanderFlight
Жыл бұрын
You're welcome!
@worldview730
Жыл бұрын
Care to tip us on the best rated filter(s) to use? Also great job & research guys.
@GanderFlight
Жыл бұрын
This article might help you choose a filter for your specific application: www.bobvila.com/articles/merv-ratings/
@JoeSmith-sj4uz
2 жыл бұрын
4 inch filter, More surface area, which would be less strain on the motor?
@GanderFlight
Жыл бұрын
Bigger filters are going to be better - just depends on how much space you have for this setup -- in our bedrooms we didn't have that much space on top of the dressers.
@derrickweese5916
3 жыл бұрын
Filter in the back keeps fan and motor clean. Where as if filter is on the front all the dirt and dust gets sucked into fan and motor
@derrickweese5916
3 жыл бұрын
Clean motor makes fan last longer
@derrickweese5916
3 жыл бұрын
Also if you use 4 filters taped together in a box shape and put back of fan on one open end and set other open end on ground there is less air flow resistance which means motor does not have to work as hard plus gives more surface area to filter air. Doing this should make filters and fan last longer.
@GanderFlight
3 жыл бұрын
True enough- also takes up a TON more space.
@miriamspandereta
3 жыл бұрын
Super project! Not everyone can afford a $300 Honeywell. Thanks!
@GanderFlight
3 жыл бұрын
You bet!
@tintuvarghese1781
3 жыл бұрын
I wonder what’s the difference in airflow. Can I still use it as a fan for the breeze with the filter in the back?
@GanderFlight
3 жыл бұрын
There is definitely less airflow - but I still use them for the breeze with the filter on the back.
@reneehughes5084
3 жыл бұрын
Thanks for the video! The advantage to placing the filter on the back, is that the filter stops the usual build-up of dust and dirt on the fan blades (which .. over time, puts more drag on the blades which may heat the motor up a little with extra work and less airflow). Meanwhile, putting the filter on the front stops the dust/debris escaping, which slows the exit airflow a little and (admittedly, slightly) encourages the build up of dust on the blades and doesn't protect the motor. So for single filter setups, I'd recommend the back mounted filter, and you get the aesthetic benefits that are mentioned in the video and unobstructed access to any front-panel controls. As found in the video experiment... the amount of filtration should be (for all intents and purposes) identical if the fan speed and filters are the same. However, if the experiment ran for months until the filters were clogged and needed replacing... that story might be a little bit different. Taking it further.. two filters of differing types: A lot of wood workers, noticing the sawdust buildup accumulating in their workshops are putting filters on both the front and back of fans (Google/KZitem search: "DIY workshop air filter", and you'll get the idea). These usually involve two or more filters, with the typical air filter for the larger dust/particles/fibres on the back and another, 5 micron HEPA filter (or something similar) on the front. Naturally, this filters the air to a much higher quality, but also increases the cost of construction and ongoing maintenance. While you want a nice sealed "bottle neck" around the fan itself for efficient airflow, it's also better if you have a slightly larger filter than the fan on both sides as this reduces the "back pressure" the filters will place on the motor. If safety is your biggest concern, the best things you can do: 1. Keep your house as clean as possible... the less dust your filters are exposed to, the longer they'll last, and airflow will be less restricted. Put simply, there's less to catch on fire if there's a problem, and it's a situation that's less likely to cause a fire too. :-) 2. Clean and replace the filters regularly, (or as needed in times of low air quality). Clean any build up on the fan blades and suck any dust out of the motor with a vacuum. 3. Electrical safety. If you're enclosing a fan inside a box, then having a dedicated "safety switch" which (depending on the type) is usually either a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) or Residual Current Device (RCD). These devices create an automatic way to cut the power to the fan in the event of a fault. Differing laws and electrical systems are found in differing countries, but research how things are done in your relevant area or talk to your local qualified electrician and they'll give you appropriate advice. However, we can buy RCDs in Australia for around $20-30 in our nearest hardware store. Installation is easy. Plug the RCD into the wall, and then plug the fan into the RCD. Turn on the fan and make sure the switch trips the power by pushing the "Test" button, then hit the "Reset" button to turn the power back on. I hope this helps someone out there in these crazy times!
@GanderFlight
3 жыл бұрын
Thanks for the helpful and well thought out comments!
@zlancenyc
3 жыл бұрын
Yeah, filter on the back is safer in the long run. Esp if used in a woodworking shop
@haydennillardthe3rd556
3 жыл бұрын
Ya makes way more sense on the back nearly every fan ive had that failed was due to dust collecting on the motor and building up till it has to much resistance and fails. Also i never run it on max speed and the motor stays cool enough within spec.
@MrAnimal1971
2 жыл бұрын
Thank you for this information its what i was needing to know :)
@imperiallegionnaire6943
2 жыл бұрын
If you put it on the front, the air won’t go through and it’ll start blowing out the back of the fan
@GanderFlight
3 жыл бұрын
🚨🚨!!NEW!! 🚨🚨If you’d rather purchase a ready made unit, Lasko now offers the Air Flex 2 in 1 box fan that includes a MERV10 filter and filter holder built in! Amazon: amzn.to/3L2u7Fm Home Depot: www.homedepot.com/p/Lasko-Air-Flex-20-in-3-Speed-Air-Purifier-and-Room-Fan-FF305/315516663 Mendards: www.menards.com/main/heating-cooling/portable-fans/lasko-air-flex-20-air-purifier-box-fan/ff305/p-7720120058360405-c-12727.htm
@grnttplmr
3 жыл бұрын
Best reason to put FILTER ON BACK is because you're filtering the air BEFORE the dust gets to the fan motor. If this was near a dust source that can build up (like saw dust) then the dust can not collect on the back of the motor because the filter collected the dust first. This reason alone is important enough to make it the preferred method.
@GanderFlight
3 жыл бұрын
Thanks for the perspective!
@worldview730
Жыл бұрын
Excellent Point!
@Rogers223
3 жыл бұрын
Thank you for the effort put into this video, it’s greatly appreciated
@GanderFlight
3 жыл бұрын
My pleasure!
@tarvebenzie3296
2 жыл бұрын
*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!*
@GanderFlight
2 жыл бұрын
Not sure what fastly cool is and your link just goes to a general amazon page.
@hons3543
3 жыл бұрын
Great video! I saw this idea, (same as yours), some months ago. The idea bounced around my head for a while and I decided to build one. One $18.00 Walmart fan and a 20"X 20" filter, the most expensive one Lowe's sells, taped it on securely and it has been running constantly for 6 months or so. The fan motor hasn't gone south but I change the filter every 2-2.5 months. That worked so well, I got another fan and filter and some duck tape. That one has been running for nearly 3 months. We have a HEPA filter in the bedroom due to my wife's allergies and my COPD. The fan filters do make a difference but I have no way of testing its efficiency.
@GanderFlight
3 жыл бұрын
Glad theyre working out for you!
@RobbsHomemadeLife
3 жыл бұрын
I agree with you, they last a long time and can run for years with a filter. My little dog liked to sleep in from of my box fan air filter. It was kept on 24 hours a day for over 3 years. The fan still works fine. I made a video of my little wooden clamp with a magnet and handle I made to attach the filter. "DIY $6 Magnetic Dust Fan Filter air cleaner for Home & Shop"
@GanderFlight
3 жыл бұрын
Watched the video - cool idea using the magnet!
@evac3928
2 жыл бұрын
I have been using this setup in my metalworking shop since 1989. Never had a problem. I just use a box fan, a filter, and a couple of bungee cords. The Walmart box fan has to be replaced about every decade. I always get the cheapest one. I wish I could find one of those old all metal box fans from the pre ‘80’s. Those things ran forever.
@GanderFlight
2 жыл бұрын
I think my dad still has on of those metal box fans in the garage - simple and effective and still going strong!
@theleequa
2 жыл бұрын
I like your bungee cord idea. I don't feel like getting too fancy but I also don't want to deal with tape. This is the perfect solution and easy too! Glad I read your comment! :)
@steeltag
3 жыл бұрын
well done Josh, we appreciate your efforts and time it took for these tests! I"m going to make a fan/filter combo now b/c of this!
@GanderFlight
3 жыл бұрын
Enjoy!!!
@jasonhsu4711
Жыл бұрын
Great video! While the Corsi Rosenthal box seems better when it comes to performance, this single-filter version is MUCH more portable. I'm pleased to see that the fan motor didn't heat up that much. If you're really that concerned about this issue (or if you want to reduce the electricity usage or make the filter last longer), you can connect the filtered fan to an electrical timer and set it to automatically turn on and off every half hour.
@GanderFlight
Жыл бұрын
The timer is a good idea Jason!
@matthewstover6789
3 жыл бұрын
I’ve used this method while replacing my attic insulation in mid summer. Not only did it filter out the insulation particles it still dropped the attic temperature by 10 degrees. This works and I’m planning to use it to take some of the strain off of our home furnace. 👍👍
@GanderFlight
3 жыл бұрын
Thats a good use for that project!!
@bfurailroad1104
3 жыл бұрын
Perty neat video Sir. You obviously put alot of time & effort into this project. Even the amount of time you spent on just the editing is outstanding. Good job!
@GanderFlight
3 жыл бұрын
Thank you very much!
@practicalguy973
3 жыл бұрын
Great testing! Good to know what the temps are! If people are worried about static pressure and strain on the motor they could get larger filters. I think you can get 20"x20"x2" which would double the filter surface area so more air will pass through. The larger the filter media the longer it lasts before clogging to so that is an advantage. I have that exact fan and been using it in a custom wooden box for 3 years. I made mine for a 20"x25"x5" filter which is 5x the surface area of a 20"x20"x1". I can run the fan on medium and get more airflow in the room compared to the smaller filter on high with all that extra surface area passing air. If you really want the motor to last long and quiet the fan down a little, I put a link to a video on balancing the box fan blade below. The bearings will have less stress on them and it will be less shaky when running but I use mine on medium speed so I'm already putting much less strain on mine so I never tried to balance the blades. kzitem.info/news/bejne/zqWln2mfmGiCjag
@GanderFlight
3 жыл бұрын
Super helpful, thanks Practical Guy!
@pattip1413
Жыл бұрын
I just build a cube using four filters, the fan, and cardboard for the base. 13 merv 20x20 x2. Wow! Amazing filtration. Seems to be helping my COPD person.
@practicalguy973
Жыл бұрын
@@pattip1413 That is a lot of filter surface area going with the 2" filters! Just slightly more than my 20"x25"x5". Sounds like its doing a great job for you and you'll need to change the filters less with that much filter dividing the air going through the box!
@gaugeloore809
Жыл бұрын
Best configuration is a 4 sided cube. 5 sided cube will give you a better cad but 4 on the floor is the cheapest and most efficient way to do it unless you plan to hang it. 4x cube, 1x cardboard and then the fan... Set it on the floor and change your filters after about 6m
@GanderFlight
Жыл бұрын
True - also takes up a TON of floorspace :)
@sunspot42
3 жыл бұрын
The problem isn't so much the fan overheating when the filters are fresh - it becomes an issue as the filters get dirty and they restrict more airflow. Also, restricting airflow is wasting power, since the fan draws the same energy whether the airflow is restricted or not. Without the restriction the fan could circulate - and filter - more air for the same power consumed, and you'd get more filtered air. The solution is to build a box out of air filters, which you can just tape together with duct tape. Get 4 appropriately-sized filters and a matching piece of cardboard and build a 5-sided box with one end left open for the fan. Place the cardboard piece on the ground and build the box around that. Now you have so much surface area for the air to pass thru there will be virtually no restriction to the airflow, so no electricity will be wasted and the fan will be able to filter more air in a shorter period of time than it can manage with one filter. You also won't need to change filters as often. Only real downside is it takes up more space and isn't exactly pretty, although you could always build or repurpose some kind of box or cabinet to hide the whole setup in.
@GanderFlight
3 жыл бұрын
Yes, the box of filters would be overall better - but the amount of space it takes up and the aesthetics are the real killers - I currently have these set up in our bedrooms setting on a dresser - couldn't do that with the air filter box.
@sunspot42
3 жыл бұрын
@@GanderFlight It does take up more space. You could get creative and possibly use narrower filters for the ‘sides’ of the box - not sure what dimensions HEPA furnace filters come in. Would still allow you to more than double the surface area of the filters.
@go86go
3 жыл бұрын
This old house has a video for this
@rahmanr112
4 жыл бұрын
appreciate your dedication and commitment to this experiment! Thanks!
@GanderFlight
4 жыл бұрын
My pleasure!
@ronyerke9250
3 жыл бұрын
1 advantage to having the filter on the inlet (back) side is the same reason furnaces are built that way: it keeps the motor windings cleaner which reduces fire/smolder hazards from dust build-up.
@GanderFlight
3 жыл бұрын
Agreed.
@siulunglee
4 жыл бұрын
Thanks for the experiment. I have put a wifi switch with cloud timer in it. It is a little bit fancier. So, every two hours and stop for an hour (whatever you like for cool down the fan) around $10 to $15. But when your son's nasal allergy get improve much better, that makes me starts to make one for every room.
@GanderFlight
4 жыл бұрын
I like the additional customization! You could also do that with a standard outlet timer as well!
@awesomedave8484
3 жыл бұрын
What’s a cloud timer? I have WiFi switches and receptacles but it’s all managed in the app nothing on the cloud.
@siulunglee
3 жыл бұрын
Cloud just mean that the app store your timer setting in a server somewhere we don't know. Actually not quite knowing that my wifi switch timer info on the cloud or in the app or in the switch itself.
@siulunglee
3 жыл бұрын
Run it for 4 months now, and I put have put a UV light and hide behind the filter against the wall for extra sanitizing and no direct UV light exposure to me. But that is really good for cleaning the mold (even covid) in the air.
@infinit3isha
Жыл бұрын
@@siulungleecan you make a video on the setup?
@ejmakela7525
15 күн бұрын
Great scientific approach on these questions! I was surprised, though, that you didn’t use a device to measure particulate matter, e.g., an AQI monitor. This would have allowed for you to record the actual amount of smoke particles and specifically how long it takes for the filter-fans to clean the air to a given level.
@bobfenz3184
3 жыл бұрын
Nice experiment. I have been using this system to remove dust from my garage work area when I have been doing wood work. I only run the fan with the filter for maybe several hours during and after I generate dust. I have always put the filter on the back (intake side) and it certainly clears the dust from the air. Also tried it in the house during pollen season and it also seems to work. The problem is that the fan makes noise and my wife doesn’t like it. Been using Honeywell or 3M brands both rated for dust and dander I get at Home Depot. No MERV rating provided on the packaging.
@GanderFlight
3 жыл бұрын
Yeah Home Depot made up their own rating system. Merv 13 is equivalent to FPR 10
@TimTurner115
4 жыл бұрын
Great tip. I have a box fan with a filter on the back 7 micron filter in my woodshop . I turn it on at the end of the day to help clean the air of wood dust. I have it on a timer. It runs for 3 hours.
@GanderFlight
4 жыл бұрын
The timer is a great addition for an application like yours!
@jenbiensur
3 жыл бұрын
Thank you for the comparisons! I live over a highway, so I always tape a filter (rated for "smog" as well as the other categories) against my window fans, with the idea that something is better than nothing! I notice a difference, and especially think about all of the dark dirt accumulating on the filter, which is probably mostly smog and at least that portion of it didn't make it to my lungs! Your experiments made me wonder if there is a way to enhance the filtration in a window air conditioner. Do you have any ideas, or do you think taping a good filter (that has proven to allow good airflow with a fan) to the outside of the front intake of the a/c would do some extra filtering and be worth it? (I might try it and report back to you if I see any pattern of dust/dirt accumulation on the filter, and if the normal filter a quarter inch away from it inside the machine ends up needing fewer cleanings.) (I'll also let you know if it seems to make the unit labor or get too hot or anything.)
@GanderFlight
3 жыл бұрын
Experiment and let me know - I'm not sure how that will affect the air conditioner unit.
@roblovegreen
3 жыл бұрын
If you want to greatly improve the efficiency and performance of the box fan, cut out most of the front and back screen as it hinders air flow. You can use a pair of tin snips or wire cutters. You could also just remove the front screen but then there is no protection for fingers etc and this is important especially if there are children or pets in the house. You will likely be impressed at the improved airflow when the screen is no longer impeding air flow. 🤓
@GanderFlight
3 жыл бұрын
Not worth the safety risk as sometime down the line you may want to run the fan without the filter.
@mcrich1978
3 жыл бұрын
I'm doing this for my shop and I plan on mounting from the ceiling with chain and will run off the lighting circuit for switching. I may consider removing the vents for this application.
@FulcrumsEdge
Жыл бұрын
the improvement in cfm is negligible, regardless of concern for safety, the improvement isn't perceivable outside of a controlled experiment. Safety issues make the idea anything but a good idea. it is a non starter. it also creates additional dangers on top of the fan blades being exposed. structural integrity of the fan becomes greatly reduced and becomes essentially a projectile waiting to fail and fly off its shaft. if it fails within the filtration system, it will then becomes a ticking shrapnel time bomb.
@muhsyakir
2 ай бұрын
Putting filter before depressurizes air, putting filter in front pressurizes air between the filter and the fan...Hence putting filter in front causes higher temp as air was pressurized...however, it is also important to consider the velocity of air that passes through the filter, which determine how tight or loose the particle trapped in the filter. This is even more important when using a box (CR BOX), which further reduces the velocity of air passing thru, on top of the dirty side of the filter are actually facing outside. box fan has a very low static pressure tolerance, which need to be compensated by adding larger area, that will done very little in circulating air throughout a room...
@brl5755
3 жыл бұрын
A good test would be to test wattage draw on the fan with and without the fan and compare it to the rated power.
@GanderFlight
3 жыл бұрын
That would be a good test to measure.
@marielynn6311
2 ай бұрын
Hi, great videos. I was wondering if you had any DIY ideas to stop second-hand smoke from coming into an apartment? I already have the filter fan.
@alexistaylor969
4 ай бұрын
"I am gonna make a video and fill a room in our house with smoke to test air filters" - husband "I will fucking kill you"- wife "Welcome to Gander Flight, I am making a tent outside to simulate a smoke filled room" - husband.
@joephu
4 ай бұрын
They are not very efficient (energy, air volume, and leaks). I prefer a quality wall fan modified to fit an air filter box that supports multiple filters.
@davidmlong63
3 ай бұрын
IDK if anyone else is suggested this but I would get a air quality monitor I have an airthings and I've done tests with my air purifier and I can see independent measurements of the effectiveness of my air purifier.
@CinnamonWilson
4 жыл бұрын
Lots of effort went into this video. Good job.
@GanderFlight
4 жыл бұрын
Thanks for watching!
@levijessegonzalez3629
3 жыл бұрын
Great video. I am looking for a CHARCOAL air filter because my main concern is VOCs (super small particles like fire retardants in rugs. formaldehyde in mattresses. inorganic clothing ink dyes off gassing etc) Will these filters work? Or is the a 2in1 hepa / charcoal filter? thanks
@GanderFlight
3 жыл бұрын
I do not know the answer to your question, you'll need to do some further research yourself.
@OddWoz
3 ай бұрын
They’re far more efficient as well as safer if you build the box put some distance between the back of the fan and the actual filter.
@armastat
3 ай бұрын
The reason you put filters before the motor so the dust gets stopped BEFORE it gets to the motor.
@scottmorris4914
3 жыл бұрын
If there are concerns about constraining the air flow and burning out the motor, create a surface area with more surface area, such as a Cube of filters, using 5 filters.
@GanderFlight
3 жыл бұрын
👍
@andrewstrom3785
3 жыл бұрын
You would experience a difference! Its based on how the fan is designed to flow. Air intake is passive, so low power consumption. Airflow, from the front, is what is powered by the engine, and by immediately impeding it you loose many cfm (amount of actual air movement throughout the entire room). Sorry if not explained well, but trust me, it makes a huge difference when turning over air throughout the whole room!
@GanderFlight
3 жыл бұрын
Clarify for me - are you then advocating for the filter on the back or front based on that?
@andrewstrom3785
3 жыл бұрын
@@GanderFlight YES! 100% on the back.
@tommeyers974
4 ай бұрын
I use a Merv 5 on the back as a pre-filter and a merv 11 on the front as a final stage.
@labaker3477
3 жыл бұрын
Thank you for that video. I just found out I could build this purifier and was wondering of the safety. Very useful 💖
@GanderFlight
3 жыл бұрын
You are welcome!
@nathandingman6846
3 жыл бұрын
I got a filtrete 1900 air filter on my box fan and it helped tremendously with my allergies!
@GanderFlight
3 жыл бұрын
Glad to hear it!
@SchysCraftCo.
4 жыл бұрын
Awesome and very helpful video today keep it up my friend
@GanderFlight
4 жыл бұрын
Thanks, will do!
@fanguy247b9
Жыл бұрын
I remember in our high school wood working/ construction class my teacher had several of these spread around his classroom to help keep the wood dust down. It actually helped tremendously. He did have a homemade dust collector system he rigged up with pvc pipe and an old car wash vacuum cleaner he put outside he had attached to the various saws that would automatically kick on whenever the equipment was turned on. Our school district was too cheap for a true dust collector system and air filtration. Luckily the new clean air regulations in my state got him a much needed remodel for his classroom. He said that in 1996 the high school finally got modern hvac systems in the classrooms so most of the teachers were throwing their old box fans out he said that he , the metals teacher and the automotive teacher collected them and attached brackets to them to make filtered air machines for their classrooms. I always admired him for collecting things other people were throwing out. His philosophy was to reuse, renew, and recycle as much stuff as possible.
@GanderFlight
Жыл бұрын
Sounds like a resourceful guy!
@imqqmi
5 ай бұрын
I did some testing with my DIY air purifier. I used a 200W wall fan of 400mm (uzman ksa-400 15.7") and a stack of 405x405mm filters: prefilter (thin foam + MERV11 filter 2" thick) - carbon filter (1") and 2" HEPA filter (MERV17). Built a simple wooden box to fit everything in. At full speed with ambient temperature of about 18 degrees C it only warmed up to 23-24 degrees C after 30min running as per the thermal imaging camera. I used the fan to pull air through the filters to keep the motor clean. The airflow was enough to cool the motor, even though it was quite a load. The advantage of a prefilter is you keep the more expensive ones (carbon and hepa) cleaner so you don't have to replace them as often. The foam layer can be vacuumed off for larger dust particles (also a shop vac with HEPA filter). Pollen are about 2.5-200 micron in size, average about 25 micron. The MERV11 will filter 70% of 2.5 micron and most of the >10 micron size. A box fan may not have enough static pressure to pull air through a filter stack though, you'll have to increase surface area to compensate. ie either thicker filters/larger pleats or more square meters/ft.
@GanderFlight
4 ай бұрын
all great points - sounds like you had some fun experimenting too!
@BeckyWilliams-uj3rf
3 ай бұрын
Where did you get the side slots/ brackets to hold the filter
@OcRefrig
3 жыл бұрын
Great Video ! if u Want to Add a Measure of Safety and don't want a Paper filter Slammed up tight against a hot motor. Space it away from the Rear of the Fan unit by a Few inches using Sheet metal and a Hvac Filter Rack.
@GanderFlight
3 жыл бұрын
Thanks for sharing the option :)
@Schrimpieman
Жыл бұрын
Very nicely done review. Simple, straight-forward and informative. I think you put a nice balance between "scientific" results and real-world application. Important also, which many other experimenters tend to neglect, was the ambient temperature. ....you measured it (thanks). . Thanks for your efforts, thanks for sharing.
@GanderFlight
Жыл бұрын
You are most welcome! Thank you for watching and taking the time to share your kind comments - hope you found some value in the information.
@jcsoriano3766
3 жыл бұрын
Hey Josh, great video! Thank you for taking your time to do this video. Thank you also for putting link for the J channel, really appreciate you. Take care!
@GanderFlight
3 жыл бұрын
No problem!
@Axern89
Жыл бұрын
I wouldn't worry about it, given your measured temperatures. Assuming the motor windings are class F, they would be rated for up to 155°C (311°F) before insulation breakdown starts to occur. Even if the motor windings were the worst case of class A, they would still be rated up to 105°C (221°F). These ratings come from IEC 60085. Insulation breakdown is the primary concern with motor and transformer windings. If the insulation breaks down the motor winding turns will short circuit and could possibly cause a fire. The internal over current protection or branch circuit breaker panel should kick in if that were to happen.
@GanderFlight
Жыл бұрын
👍 Lasko now makes this DIY fan as an option straight out of the box so they don't think its an issue either.
@elo0o207
2 жыл бұрын
I just balled up some aluminum foil and used that as a lil stand under the fan in the front so the fan sat more up than facing the floor because of those plastic stands in the back
@GanderFlight
2 жыл бұрын
👍🏻
@grovecitysirens_GCS
6 ай бұрын
I like your test. But regardless, ran motors will become hot no matter, it is only after you turn off the fan that the motor will quickly heat up since there is no airflow around it. I've seen them get up to 140°F after running. (May depend on motor and fan and other factors) Also with the air filters, furnace blowers are very high velocity and are centrifugal blowers, box fans are axial fans, they can have a high air flow but the shallow blade pitch (found on most fans) doesn't allow for much high pressure like a centrifugal blower (not a good explanation but its close). Most of the air will be pushed out from the side of the blades and out the back of the fan or sucked from around the side, depending on filter placement. Air will still come and go through the filters, but not all. Ambient temp can play in the motor temp, but it's nearly negligible.
@GanderFlight
4 ай бұрын
Thanks for the thoughts and points, I appreciate you taking the time to comment!
@branden8915
Жыл бұрын
So should the arrow go in the DIRECTION of the airflow? Or opposite? If I put the filter on the back should the arrow be pointing towards the front of the fan where the air is coming out of ? How come they don’t work backwards?
@GanderFlight
Жыл бұрын
In the direction of airflow - so always pointing forward from the fan.
@cryptocolorado631
7 ай бұрын
Make a box behind the fan using multiple filters. It will improve airflow and reduce strain on the fan.
@GanderFlight
4 ай бұрын
Corsi rosenthal box :)
@calmjones6399
8 ай бұрын
What do you do fur a living you remind me of my Dad he was a great Dad I miss him 💗I like my filter on the back, but I cut a circle on the filter where the fan motor is, 🐾💗
@GanderFlight
7 ай бұрын
👍 Dad sounds like he meant a lot to you
@John-mh6mi
6 ай бұрын
Big issue I think of is, with filter on front all the dust and other particles get into the fan motor parts and over time will lead to shorting life of fan. Always filter on back as been golden diy rule.
@GanderFlight
4 ай бұрын
👍
@eyestoenvy
Жыл бұрын
"LASKO" (fan maker) has FINALLY caught on and began manufacturing a box fan with a similar HEPA filter compartment in the back. The Compartment opens and you simply slide in a cleaned or replacement filter right in and you're good to go. Far far cheaper than a standard air purifier and much better suited for a garage, shop, or even a home but in a hidden area. Fun fact, "LASKO" products bought out "GERM GUARDIAN" (air purifier maker), thus giving them a nice chunk of the air purifier market.
@GanderFlight
Жыл бұрын
You are correct - and its a great product! kzitem.info/news/bejne/r5V4moCJmmJ_d3o
@pufferellathuperthtar251
10 ай бұрын
You can tell they do something obviously because of the circle they obviously pull something through.
@GanderFlight
10 ай бұрын
👍
@neptronix
Жыл бұрын
No problems here, i have been running a MERV 13 filter on the same box fan for about a decade.
@GanderFlight
Жыл бұрын
Nice!
@leonachilton9331
Жыл бұрын
Forest fire smoke is irritating tonight. I just put my kit together. I already feel a difference. 👍🏼👍🏼
@GanderFlight
Жыл бұрын
Glad to hear it!
@mwj5368
8 ай бұрын
I bought about a $50 Lasko fan where you clip a 1 inch thick filter on the back, so I suppose since a fan company does it that way they must have tested it in their development phases. Thanks for a great video!
@GanderFlight
7 ай бұрын
I've since gotten one of those Air Flex versions too and really like them.
@DAVE_WHITE
Жыл бұрын
been running 2 of these in my homes since 2004 no issues at all they are safe and effective change the filter as needed and tape a new one on 45 seconds and go..
@GanderFlight
Жыл бұрын
Love it!
@joshK-z1b
Жыл бұрын
I'm a firefighter- yes these can be dangerous and they are a fire risk. It's not uncommon for boxes fans to cause fires under normal operation. Loading up a motor that is not designed to run under load greatly increases the risk. Having it surrounded by filters aka kindling makes it worse. Testing one fan means nothing, testing several fans means nothing- this is a stupid idea and while the risk is relatively low its still not worth it.
@GanderFlight
Жыл бұрын
Appreciate the comments. Its actually being sold commercially with the filter now: kzitem.info/news/bejne/r5V4moCJmmJ_d3o
@vincentrobinette1507
3 жыл бұрын
Most of these motors have a thermal stop fuse, that will merely stop the motor if it gets too hot. Most often, they don NOT self reset. The thermal cutoff needs to be replaced, if it's even accessible. More often than not, you end up just replacing the whole fan. I wouldn't worry too much, because the motor needs to exceed 180 degrees Fahrenheit to trip that, and you're not getting anywhere near that hot. If I was going to recommend anything, I would say get 4 or 5 filters, and make a box. That gives you that many times more surface area, the fan will flow more freely, and, the filters can get dirtier before they need replacement. Each filter only needs to allow 1/4 the airflow, before the fan loses effectiveness. While it's more expensive up front to buy that many filters, it will save you money in the long run. While more effective, it does end up looking pretty DYI. Ugly, but tremendously effective! (I, like you, recommend putting the filters behind the fan for the same reasons you stated)
@GanderFlight
3 жыл бұрын
Good to know about the thermal fuses! Yeah everything is a game of compromises right? Aesthetics, function, low cost - pick two 🤣
@vincentrobinette1507
Жыл бұрын
@@GanderFlight Have you had a chance, to see if it prolongs the life of your furnace filter? The reason I ask, is because I have a base-board heating system, that uses hot water circulation. My heating system has no filter, and the house is much more dusty, than my other house, that used a forced-air heating system, with a filter. I had to replace that filter regularly. The biggest difference, is that the furnace cycled on and off, where as my filter box/ fan, with a motor that requires only ~1/10 the power, runs 24/7. I think this is more effective, than the forced-air furnace. There are actually NAMES for these things! If you use 5 filters, and prop it up so air can get through all five filters, it's called a "Corsi-Rosenthal box". If you use four filters, and just use a cardboard square on the back, with the intention of placing it on the floor, with the fan blowing toward the ceiling, it's called a "Comparetto cube".
@GanderFlight
Жыл бұрын
@@vincentrobinette1507 I have not had a chance to test and document that concern. I can only assume it would - you're taking the same amount of air in the system (house) and adding another filter.
@bluesky-ud9wg
2 жыл бұрын
I have 4 box fans in my house with a 20x20 filter in the back, Not the Front. The motors will be fine, actually Better with the filter then without Because dust doesn't coat the motors. I have Never had a problem. I replace the filters every month and it does keep the house less dusty.
@GanderFlight
2 жыл бұрын
👍
@bgat911
2 жыл бұрын
These are good videos but “changing filters regularly” is such an ambiguous statement. Pretty much all of these videos say this. I would say based on a “standard” DIY shop maybe every month but keep in mind variables such as if you do a lot of sanding and if you have any other type of air cleaner.. maybe 2 times a month if you are a heavy user or do lots of sanding.
@GanderFlight
2 жыл бұрын
Its intentionally ambiguous- it all depends on use and the air quality being filtered.
@beebob1279
3 жыл бұрын
I think a concern is the restriction of air movement that heats up the fan motor. I've seen solutions to this where a box of air filters are used so that there are four areas for air to travel instead of your one filter. I'll be building one for my shop to reduce the dust. It's brutal in a wood shop. The air filters sold at the store for shops is just too expensive. Then buying the filters becomes another issue.
@GanderFlight
3 жыл бұрын
If you have the space, then yes the "box" of air filters will be a more efficient solution - I use them in our bedrooms on top of dressers so I was looking for something compact.
@LaydeeLia
3 жыл бұрын
What about using a cube of 4 filters, taped, + a box fan (as per "Ask This Old House")? kzitem.info/news/bejne/wq1tzImDoYCgqW0
@GanderFlight
3 жыл бұрын
That would work great! Just 4x as large and 4x as expensive - all depends on what you're using it for.
@registromalplena2514
11 ай бұрын
Every time I've tried doing this with a setup like you're showing at the beginning of the video the fan motor Burns out doesn't last very long I tried different fans too.
@GanderFlight
11 ай бұрын
Sorry to hear that - we've used the same two fans for over 5 years this way. Maybe try Lasko's commercial version that comes as a package: kzitem.info/news/bejne/mW6Qv6KJopZkmmksi=WyVlmXavsS-6Tyt0
@michaellandreth1392
2 жыл бұрын
The reason you put the filter on the Intake side. Is you want to filter the dust out before the fan. Just like your Heating and A/C unit. A filter doesn't block air flow that much.
@GanderFlight
2 жыл бұрын
👍
@bruinv3738
Жыл бұрын
An inexpensive air quality meter measuring small particles and voc would have provided quantifiable results. I have a similar setup but added a carbon activated filter
@GanderFlight
Жыл бұрын
👍🏻 thanks for the suggestion
@Netflexstory
2 жыл бұрын
Hi, The DIY box air filter is fine with me. Could you help me get 1 unit and a few extra filters? I am gonna pay for the costs and shipping. Can't shop online at the moment. Thanks for your help
@GanderFlight
2 жыл бұрын
No I will not, have a good day!
@tclift1670
Жыл бұрын
The biggest downside is the amount of airflow coming out of the fan. With a filter on the back, I have to run my fan on high to get the flow I would get with the fan on low without the filter....big disappointment.
@GanderFlight
Жыл бұрын
If you want more airflow you can try a wider filter - 2 or 4 inch filter of the same rating will get you better airflow
@JustMe-gw4xj
3 жыл бұрын
umm, nobody gonna point out the fact that he did this shit outside why....??? There could be way more of a difference in performance and temperature between filtered front or back and unfiltered in a 70 degree room than outside in 80-90 degree whether and also you should measure the electricity used also.
@GanderFlight
2 жыл бұрын
...because I didn't want the smoke inside my home...
@mrkoolio4475
3 жыл бұрын
You want the filter on the back....because otherwise the dust (for woodworkers) clogs the fan motor. The end
@GanderFlight
3 жыл бұрын
I agree - back is best.
@evletagruber3694
9 ай бұрын
@GanderFlight Thank you, you answered my questions.
@GanderFlight
7 ай бұрын
👍
@jeremiahjohnson5205
2 жыл бұрын
Lasko makes a fan now with air filter holder built on, seen them in Menards. Not sure if it comes with a filter or what their directions are for MERV acceptabiltiy.
@GanderFlight
2 жыл бұрын
I've seen them too - they weren't out when I did the original build on these but it gives some validation on the DIY project.
@bonirabit4302
3 жыл бұрын
I think I just saw your other video? And now I can't find it it keeps going back to the one somebody sent me which showed it on the front! So the one I want to see is the one where you were showing how you added that attachment with the zip ties I love my box fan for white noise and I definitely need more you know cuz the smoke fires my indoor allergies I would like this because I love my white noise of my box fan I run you around but the first one showed it in the front? But I'm trying to find your other video if you're the same guy? How you had that attachment on the back so it'd be easy to put the filters in and out
@GanderFlight
3 жыл бұрын
This one? kzitem.info/news/bejne/mqyA0Wl4hmqpiKQ
@elo0o207
2 жыл бұрын
Why didnt you just let the smoke from the incense fill the space instead of blowing it out?. Mightve been thicker smoke that showed up on video better that way
@GanderFlight
2 жыл бұрын
Maybe - maybe not
@roysnider3456
3 жыл бұрын
With the filter on the back the fan sucks the filter into the grid, in front the fan blows the filter away from the grid.
@GanderFlight
3 жыл бұрын
Accurate.
@pattip1413
Жыл бұрын
Two words-Corsi-Rosenthal Box.the cube is fantastic and easy to build.
@GanderFlight
Жыл бұрын
True - but its also SIGNIFICANTLY larger and takes up a ton of floor space and 3 additional filters. Lots of options.
@KL00100
6 ай бұрын
Basically a imperfect homemade filter is way better than no filter.
@GanderFlight
4 ай бұрын
👍
@stans5270
3 жыл бұрын
Thanks for the idea. Knowledge is power. You've made us powerful. I am going to try this with two modifications.
@GanderFlight
3 жыл бұрын
What are those two modifications?
@jamesriley5057
8 ай бұрын
I burned out that very same box fan by placing a space heater behind the motor rather than behind the blades. shame on me
@GanderFlight
7 ай бұрын
Ouch
@metalhead00xx
Жыл бұрын
Have you done a test with air flow using filter vs. without filter? How significantly is the power of the fan lowered with a filter?
@GanderFlight
Жыл бұрын
I have not. However, it does depend on how often you replace the filter - there is a significant air flow difference after the filter has been used constantly for weeks on end - which is good, it means its doing its job.
@kluth7754
3 жыл бұрын
Was about to cry again, you look like Steve from blues clues . Either way, im still learning something new.
@GanderFlight
3 жыл бұрын
👍
@ronberg8141
3 жыл бұрын
Great video thanks. Actually I just put my filter up against the rear of the fan and it gets drawn tight against the fan without using tape etc. Not perfect air tight fit but seems to work.
@GanderFlight
3 жыл бұрын
Yes that definitely works! Just causes issues when you turn the fan on and off everyday.
@TerryRGraham
3 жыл бұрын
Motor temp is not how you check the fan motor. You need to check that the amp draw is not greater than the max amp rating of the motor. If it is then you'll burn up the motor or shorten its life. Some fans will over amp if they dont have enough restrictions on them but not these box fans. Anyway, motor amps are the key.
@GanderFlight
2 жыл бұрын
Thanks Terry!
@zenos.5315
Жыл бұрын
Thanks for all of your effort….much appreciated!
@GanderFlight
Жыл бұрын
My pleasure! Thank you for watching!
@jetcitysinatra7300
3 жыл бұрын
I have an induction hot plate and want to cook a steak. It smokes really badly and my vent above my stove never worked right. I want to figure out something I can make that will suck the smoke away from my skillet and not get into the air and set off the alarm and make my apartment all smoky. Any ideas for this. . .
@GanderFlight
2 жыл бұрын
Best idea is to get the vent above your stove fixed. Otherwise try putting a fan in the window pointing out?
@linda1541
Жыл бұрын
Is there any particular bran I’d box fan that you would recommend?
@GanderFlight
Жыл бұрын
Nope - just something that has the controls on the top or front and the power cord coming out of the bottom so that the filter doesn't interfere with either function.
@aross61175
Жыл бұрын
Having the filter on the back keeps the cat hair and dust out of the motor so less cleaning
@GanderFlight
Жыл бұрын
agreed!
@Predator000099
Жыл бұрын
you should make a corsi rosenthal box. That way you can reduce air resistance because you have 4 filters that allow air to pass instead of 1
@GanderFlight
Жыл бұрын
But then it wouldn’t fit on top of my dresser and would defeat my purpose◡̈
@Lacking_something
3 жыл бұрын
That thermometer looks like one of those generic chinese ones that amazon is full of ... not sure they're very accurate!
@GanderFlight
3 жыл бұрын
Take it for what you will :P
@debbiesue1970
2 жыл бұрын
you but the filter on back of fan than do you sit the fan in the window like normal or do you put it in backwards so it is sucking air out of the house?
@GanderFlight
2 жыл бұрын
neither - we run this in the room with the windows closed - cleans the air within the room.
@GEORGE-jf2vz
3 жыл бұрын
Only makes sense to put it on the back of the fan and use it as the inlet for the polluted air. It keeps the fan clean. DUH.
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