BOX FAN AIR FILTER For About $40! (How To Build a DIY Box Fan Air Purifier With HVAC Filters!)

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    BOX FAN AIR FILTER For About $40! (How To Build a DIY Box Fan Air Purifier With HVAC Filters!)
    Fine sawdust floats around in every workshop, potentially causing lung-related health problems. Most dust collectors and shop vacs fail to collect it all. This short video from The Honest Carpenter will show you a great way to turn an average box fan into a homemade air filter/purifier!
    Large, single-stage dust collectors are great for picking up wood chips and sawdust--but they're actually prone to pumping fine dust back out into the air.
    Also, they're not great for tools smaller than shop planers, joiners and cabinet saws.
    Shop vacs, on the other hand, work really well with those tools, because they draw a lower volume of material at a much higher pressure.
    However, it can be hard to bring the suction close to the source of the dust--the blade or cutter head. Therefore, a lot of dust both coarse and fine gets blasted out into the room.
    This dust can cause lung problems both immediate and chronic!
    The best, most affordable way to trap this fine dust is with a homemade box fan air purifier/filter.
    You can make these units with just an average 20"X20" box fan, and a couple home HVAC air filters.
    I used two 16X20 filters for my box fan air filter. I just built a 1/2" plywood frame with cradles and slides for the filters, and lower lip at the front for the box fan to sit on.
    Then, I duct-taped the air filters to the plywood frame to create better draw and suction.
    In just twenty minutes, a box fan air filter/purifier can complete multiple full cycles of a small workshop, drastically cutting down on the airborne particulates!
    Thanks for watching!
    The Honest Carpenter

ความคิดเห็น • 587

  • @SteamRollahh
    @SteamRollahh 3 ปีที่แล้ว +124

    Great video to highlight the dangers of fine wood dust particles! Just a couple pointers as I've done many experiments with my own box fan filter:
    1. Charles Cox has pointed out to not overwork the fan. To add to that, clogged filters will actually force the box fan to pull air from the FRONT corners of the fan, just to blow it out the middle, effectively bypassing the filter media behind it. When this is the case, the box fan is actually counterproductive as all it's doing is blowing dust around the shop.
    2. To avoid frequently clogged filters, use thicker filters than the standard 1", if possible. (I use 4" filters) Thicker pleated filters have more surface area of the filter medium and therefore can "collect more" dust. In practical terms, you won't need to change the filters out as often.
    3. Try going to a local HVAC supply store (typically for professionals) and start a cash account with them to buy filters. I get mine for a fraction of the cost at big box stores.

    • @TheHonestCarpenter
      @TheHonestCarpenter  3 ปีที่แล้ว +9

      Thanks, Woodworks! All good tips 🙂

    • @roberturrutia4387
      @roberturrutia4387 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Very nice advice, thanks you're a great help!

    • @raptango_na6199
      @raptango_na6199 3 ปีที่แล้ว +9

      I built two of these for my house. Never had dust in the house, but the wife hated them.

    • @Zie_carpentry
      @Zie_carpentry 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      👏👏

    • @AKADriver
      @AKADriver 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Regarding (1) it also helps to shroud the front of the fan so the corners can't act as intakes - use duct tape and cardboard to leave just an 18" circle. You get more efficient airflow that way. Obviously as long as the filters aren't clogged.

  • @gabeslifestuff9691
    @gabeslifestuff9691 3 ปีที่แล้ว +214

    As a double lung transplant recipient this is a great way to stay safe and healthy. Don’t underestimate the dangers of dust mold ect your lungs are not easy to replace. I’m blessed to be alive. Thanks for the great safety idea.!

    • @Zie_carpentry
      @Zie_carpentry 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      👍👏

    • @nickbeats47
      @nickbeats47 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      When you original lungs went were there gradual tell tale signs beforehand or was it all of a sudden?

    • @ZeranZeran
      @ZeranZeran 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      I'm glad your still here, and taking your advice to heart. Ready to get this dust, smog, and possibly worse through a filter. Thank you ♥ Hope you're doing well!

    • @ZeranZeran
      @ZeranZeran 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@nickbeats47 I am not the person you asked but I've heard that any sense of "not getting enough" of a breathe, or feeling like deep breathes aren't working is a big red flag.

    • @Gickygacker
      @Gickygacker 9 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Lol that’s hilarious

  • @grampsinsl5232
    @grampsinsl5232 2 ปีที่แล้ว +15

    Thanks for putting this out there. A good friend and mentor at work retired and started living his dream, making wood things in a shop he'd built on 40 acres. Within 5 years he developed severe lung disease from fine particulate wood dust, and the last time I saw him was in his coffin. I didn't even know this was a "thing" until then. So this video may actually save lives, and thank you again for making it.

    • @TheHonestCarpenter
      @TheHonestCarpenter  2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      I’m sorry to hear that, Gramps 😔

    • @willsheehan2975
      @willsheehan2975 ปีที่แล้ว

      My dad died from COPD and they said it was from smoking but he swore it was from hardwood dust, it started right after a big project he did

  • @HBSuccess
    @HBSuccess 3 ปีที่แล้ว +116

    Use self- adhesive foam weatherstripping on the frame to seal up the cracks instead of duct tape. Makes it much less hassle to change filters

    • @TheHonestCarpenter
      @TheHonestCarpenter  3 ปีที่แล้ว +20

      Thanks Tioga! I’ll grab some for the next change out.

    • @tonyh7734
      @tonyh7734 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      the gap isn't an issue, you can just leave it for additional air circulation

    • @frenchyroastify
      @frenchyroastify 3 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      Or use painters tape. Peels off easier.

    • @williammurphy2711
      @williammurphy2711 2 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      The fan should suck the air filters against the frame. I don't think the tape is doing you any good.

    • @france976
      @france976 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@williammurphy2711 What?

  • @jerrys5946
    @jerrys5946 3 ปีที่แล้ว +35

    The "This old House" channel had a similar arrangement. They used 4 filters in a box shape with the fan on top, blowing up and drawing air through the 4 sides. They were showing it as a indoor air cleaner. Great ideas, thanks.

    • @scottyellis3442
      @scottyellis3442 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      I seen that video & made two, one for the house and one for the shop & really impressed with how well they work.

  • @andyjame2583
    @andyjame2583 ปีที่แล้ว +28

    It's not as powerful as I thought it would be, but it works very well. th-cam.com/users/postUgkxGjG43--gYqIoT4Xkur2PqCrtbKwTv2h6 There are three options to circulate air, and best of all a remote control for us lazy people. Installation was a breeze (no pun intended). It actually took longer to open the box then it did putting the side extenders on and sitting it in the window opening. It's a perfect alternative when you want airflow, but not the AC. Just might order another one for a different room. UPDATE: Bought another one like I said. They work great. Why not have two...

  • @alanwhitsitt5196
    @alanwhitsitt5196 3 ปีที่แล้ว +9

    This is genius and not just for the shop! I like the idea for allergens in the home! Never would have thought to simply mount a filter to the back of the fan to help with simple allergens. Totally going to use it.

  • @dagneytaggart7707
    @dagneytaggart7707 3 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    Love DIY protects that are useful and can really be done by normal people.

    • @TheHonestCarpenter
      @TheHonestCarpenter  3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Thanks Dagney! I really think everybody can tackle this one, and build any design they feel comfortable with. It’s a very flexible project :)

  • @allenharoldsen9040
    @allenharoldsen9040 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I am very grateful to have found this video. I’m a stone sculptor and have hunted for years for a solution to my stone dust problem. It goes everywhere and stays in the air, seemingly, forever. I used your design except with a high volume squirrel cage fan. It’s wonderful. Not quite perfect but as close to it as I can imagine. Thanks

  • @georgebrandt550
    @georgebrandt550 3 ปีที่แล้ว +19

    Appreciate this on several levels. Decided 20 years ago that a huge complicated dust collector and ducting was expensive and cumbersome . Hooked shop vacs up to table saw, miter saw and have a single stage for the planner and joiner. Got a ceiling mounted jet air cleaner.. will make one of these to suck up some more dust because there is always more dust. Thanks

  • @TheExcellentLaborer
    @TheExcellentLaborer 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Haven’t had a chance to watch the whole video yet. But I will here in a bit. What I seen looks good. I got to go back to laboring. Thanks for the video!

    • @TheHonestCarpenter
      @TheHonestCarpenter  3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Thanks, Laborer! It’s a good shop project 😁

    • @TheExcellentLaborer
      @TheExcellentLaborer 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@TheHonestCarpenter just finished the rest of the video. That is a brilliant design! I love how you use that filter. I might have to make me one of those for the shop. Thanks for the video!

  • @malavoy1
    @malavoy1 3 ปีที่แล้ว +20

    If you make it a cube, with one of the faces being the fan, one the 'floor' and the other 4 level 13+ filters, you'll get more dust, and won't overtax the fan. Also, add another slot on each face for a lower grade filter to get the larger dust coming in, saves replacing the higher grade filters frequently.

  • @justinddunlap
    @justinddunlap 3 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    I built this years ago with cardboard triangles top and bottom, to get me through fire seasons. It has multiple layers of tape on it from me cutting off the filters and putting new ones on, but the 8 year old box fan is still going strong.

  • @jameslippert3523
    @jameslippert3523 3 ปีที่แล้ว +99

    I went even cheaper. I taped 2 20x20” filters to the back side of a box fan in a similar triangular arrangement and cut out triangular prices of cardboard from the box the fan came it. Taped it up with masking tape.

    • @TheHonestCarpenter
      @TheHonestCarpenter  3 ปีที่แล้ว +19

      Whatever works, James! 😄

    • @r0bst4rl1ng
      @r0bst4rl1ng 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      Samesies.

    • @r0bst4rl1ng
      @r0bst4rl1ng 3 ปีที่แล้ว +16

      Good for Western wildfire smoke. Improves my indoor air quality significantly according to my purpleair sensor.

    • @Gbhmagic
      @Gbhmagic 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Lol thats what i did

    • @someonespadre
      @someonespadre 3 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      I bought 2 purple furnace filters from the hardware store, about $25 each. Taped one to a box fan for living room, the other for the bedroom. This is for wildfire smoke. It seems to work. It does cut down on the air flow through the fan quite a bit, and the fan vibrates a lot more. The fans are cheap thankfully.
      I also bought 20x20 which is the perfect size for the typical box fan.

  • @sylviagarces477
    @sylviagarces477 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I love it, I’m 76 and this old lady will build one. Now to keep the lines straight…

  • @Motomom658
    @Motomom658 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I actually had a old squirrel fan laying around and came across Jay Bates dust filter box build and made one of those. Wonderfully affective.

  • @franciscocruzjr5721
    @franciscocruzjr5721 3 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    I used the same concept for a section off spot in my workshop. It works well for finishing furniture.

  • @ScottDabson
    @ScottDabson 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    I'm just a homeowner and a carpentry enthusiast . I built one for my basement workshop liked it so much built one for the bedroom. Works great! Improves our sleep with breathing easier and the white noise the fan gives off.

  • @scottyellis3442
    @scottyellis3442 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I made one of these a few years back & they really work alot better than I ever thought they would. Mine is a 20×20×2, I used four 20×20 filters 2 inches thick, basically made a 20×20 square box with the filters and put the fan on top blowing straight up & can't believe how well it works. Made another one for inside my house, works great with catching everyday household dust also.👍🏻👍🏻

  • @WoodInn
    @WoodInn 3 ปีที่แล้ว +10

    Great design. You'll want a filter in front of the fan. When the fan is stressed pulling air though back filters, it will actually draw air in from the sides on the front side of the fan. (Mathias Wandal has nice video on this.) After yours runs for a while you will start to see a buildup of dust on grill around the periphery of the fan blades. That is from dirty air getting sucked in the front and pushed back out.

    • @Zie_carpentry
      @Zie_carpentry 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Yessss sir

    • @gracefool
      @gracefool 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Wouldn't this stress the fan more by blocking the outflow?

    • @sylviagarces477
      @sylviagarces477 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@gracefool good question, very good…

  • @user-em6ie2be7x
    @user-em6ie2be7x 3 ปีที่แล้ว +13

    Yeah that's how it works for me too, you start out wanting to build something Basic but Functional, But then you think I can give it a little style as well.😉

    • @TheHonestCarpenter
      @TheHonestCarpenter  3 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      Always, W! 😁

    • @clarkg9805
      @clarkg9805 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      So true, I fight the , Lets make it better monster, spending twice as long as I had planned on.

  • @nw24153ns
    @nw24153ns 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Actually this will make better use of my box fan; I turn it on anytime I'm working in the shop anyways as I love the breeze. I'll have to work on it tomorrow. Thanks!

  • @G.I.JeffsWorkbench
    @G.I.JeffsWorkbench 9 หลายเดือนก่อน

    I like it. Simple & effective. Simplicity & low cost increases the odds that you’ll make & use one.

  • @wompstopm123
    @wompstopm123 ปีที่แล้ว

    very nice, using 2 filters in a triangle formation. genius

  • @Hawke301
    @Hawke301 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I have 4 20x20 filters taped together to make a box, and taped them to part of the box that my fan came in for the base. I put the fan on top and taped up the corners. It works pretty well.

  • @khunsainam
    @khunsainam ปีที่แล้ว

    simple idea, great explanation, informative useful video thanks a bunch

  • @matthewcitino2869
    @matthewcitino2869 9 หลายเดือนก่อน

    I built a box fan air filter works, a while ago its works great! I have a shop vac but don't use it to collect saw dust off my saws. I have my saws just hooked up to used regular household vacuums I picked up at garage sales and thrift stores. I just do wood working as a hobby. Just my way of saving money. It works out well.

  • @chefspenser1480
    @chefspenser1480 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Holy Crap!!! Who Knew!?!?! Thank you!!! Another quick, sharp clear presentation. Cheers!

  • @avifleischer
    @avifleischer 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Lasko actually manufactures a box fan with removable filter. It's called the Air Flex™ Air Purifier and Room Fan
    Model FF305. It sells for about $49 at Home Depot or Walmart. It comes with 1 filter included and then you can replace with any 20x20x1 filter.

    • @profdleeucc
      @profdleeucc 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      I have seen J shaped aluminum siding holder carriers that are one inch in width that can easily hold one's one inch 20 inch by 20 inch MERV 13 air filter; its simple and inexpensive way to be able to swap out one's old clogged air filter for a brand new fresh one which would only take only five seconds along with not having to mess with any potential duct retaping

  • @joanies6778
    @joanies6778 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I could use this in my basement. Love it!

  • @MikesViews
    @MikesViews 3 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    I've seen this idea presented a few times and tried it out myself (taping a filter directly to a box fan).
    The problem that you'll run into is that most box fans are designed for high airflow, but not good static pressure. The airflow of a fan is just that: how much air it can move. The static pressure is how much resistance to that airflow it can overcome. By adding filters you add resistance and since most box fans aren't designed for overcoming resistance you'll either overwork the fan (potentially dangerously stressing the motor) or just find that you get virtually zero airflow from it.
    For this setup to work effectively you need to either find a fan that is designed for good static pressure (rare in box fans) or spring for a tougher, more expensive fan that will overcome the resistance.

    • @TheHonestCarpenter
      @TheHonestCarpenter  3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      I see your point, Mike. I appreciate the explanation of the science. This ones running pretty good though! And on the rolling cart, I can just bring it closer to my work space. But I think a stronger fan could be incorporated in much the same way!

    • @HAL-dm1eh
      @HAL-dm1eh 3 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      By putting two air filters on there he reduces the resistance.

    • @MikesViews
      @MikesViews 3 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      @@TheHonestCarpenter with two filters you probably have cut the resistance enough for it to work. I'd suggest just checking the fan for signs of overheating if you use it for extended periods.
      But if someone were to only use one filter they should definitely look for a strong fan.
      You could also skip most of the plywood by making a cube out of 4 filters, the fan, and one piece of wood for the base.

    • @TrogdorBurnin8or
      @TrogdorBurnin8or 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      The issue is that the "right number" here depending on how you optimize fan and filter might be 50 air filters, or it might be half an air filter. There's no reason to think going from 1->2 is sufficient, only that it will offer an improvement.
      Air filtration is an area where you get to trade off space against efficiency / efficacy. You can easily imagine, say, a refrigerator-sized box, with a fan on the top, and three banks of four 20x20 air filters underneath, with a trash can at the bottom for particles which will settle as dust.
      I think an air settling closet, an enclosed room subbing in for a "cyclone" scrubber, would be useful for larger particles, and then have an intake running from that to the HEPA filter bank. Every so often, just walk into the closet wearing a respirator, and sweep the floors.
      Or, better than any of these ideas, but only sometimes practical: Run an unconditioned shop, and exhaust it to the outdoors.

    • @demammoet
      @demammoet 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Aren't computer fans built for exactly such tasks? Made for pulling and pushing air through various forms of resistance.
      Hardware and dust filters.

  • @FormerlyKnownAsAndrew
    @FormerlyKnownAsAndrew 6 หลายเดือนก่อน

    I like your design Ethan. Specifically, the taper and the channels for the filter.

  • @joey_makes_stuff
    @joey_makes_stuff 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    I actually just built mine a few weeks ago with an old bounce house blower that has 900 CFM. I got inspiration from Jay Bates video from about 5 years back.

  • @LisaKnobel
    @LisaKnobel 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    It also works great for smoke. We had a lot of smoke last summer, so I got a 20x20 filter and just laid it on the suction side of the fan. I really helped lower the particulate in the air. Spend the money for the more effective filter and keep your house cool and smoke free.
    I think next summer I may experiment with the more expensive deep box furnace filters.

  • @TYoung-ml7jp
    @TYoung-ml7jp 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    We appreciate your knowledge. Great video!
    My dad showed me how to do that when I was very young. Works great. I run one in my house to help with dog and cat dander. Of course I just tape the filter to the fan. 😉

  • @danalaniz7314
    @danalaniz7314 ปีที่แล้ว

    Really great! I saw a video just yesterday about how to build the four filter Corsi-Rosenthal box. I immediately started thinking about how much more practical they would be if they were in slots in a frame for easy mounting and changing. This video is just what I wanted to look for, so thanks a million for showing your version.

  • @adrianabshire
    @adrianabshire 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I’ve read that the dust collector/fan like you show should go on the floor since dust ‘falls’ otherwise you are pulling the dust up into your face… great build! I need one of these…

    • @anyfoolknowthat
      @anyfoolknowthat 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Yup, I was thinking the same thing

  • @martinsvensson6884
    @martinsvensson6884 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    I actually use a regular vacuum cleaner nowadays with a dust cyclone coupled to it instead of a shop vac. Its much quieter and has a HEPA filter. Has worked perfectly so far.
    But I probably need to build a fan + filter also.

  • @tracybrislin
    @tracybrislin 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Game changer for me. Thank you! Spray booth applications are obvious too.

  • @mattorwin6560
    @mattorwin6560 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thanks for the cool idea to supplement my dust extraction. Cheers from Perth, Western Australia.

  • @christopherdekonstrukt444
    @christopherdekonstrukt444 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Yes it is very helpful. Use a garage and a back room as my workshop and tired of dust all over everything.

  • @thomaswarnecke3991
    @thomaswarnecke3991 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Great idea!

  • @mromutt
    @mromutt 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    I made a dust collector out of a few 5 gallon buckets, lining up the perfect spinning airflow for the intake well also being two buckets tall made it so no dust making it out of the bucket system into the shopvac (actually never have to empty or clean the vac itself but I keep checking it anyway even though nothing ever is in there lol).
    But I do have a box fan hanging from the ceiling sucking up with a filter taped (and sealed with vinyl tape) so it sucks up into the filter then blows against the ceiling and then back down circulating. I regularly vacuum the dust out of it though just to make sure im never taxing the fan. I find it very useful on just about any project sanding, staining, painting or even just using windex lol its good about fumes and smells, I avoid anything toxic as much as I can since I can only wear masks for extremely short periods of time but even non toxic/non fine things are still bad to be constantly breathing in so a box fan filter is a must in my opinion!

  • @geelleguure8808
    @geelleguure8808 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Good carpenter. Some greedy people take advantage of others, but you are honest Ans explained a big problem and it’s solution. Thank you for your advice. Many people are not aware of these tiny dust that can cause lung problem.

  • @mikel4510
    @mikel4510 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    They really do work, but one must keep in mind that a filter actually decreases air flow through the fan and shorten fan motor life. As an electrician for 45 years, I've changed many fan motors in industrial settings. If you go this route, best to use one of the 4-filter designs or buy a vane axial fan.

    • @lucrebrazzi4069
      @lucrebrazzi4069 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      You sound smart. I want to try this,but I don't want the fan blowing out crazy air into my workspace. Is there a way to do this where the fan is blowing into the filters resulting in a diffuse air flow out of maybe a long box or tube? Like a trash can with the bottom cut out?

    • @mikel4510
      @mikel4510 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@lucrebrazzi4069 I don't know about smart, but I am experienced. Simple answer is, yes, there is a way to diffuse or redirect air flow , but several factors should be considered, so please read on.
      First, air flow from a box fan is not very strong, so what you feel will drop rapidly the further from the fan you move. The air flow it produces throughout the room will push/pull more dust the inlet can filter can capture, which means the amount of time it takes to scrub the air becomes shorter.
      Keep in mind that we are discussing a fan that costs less than $30 (most under $20), an excellent price for an air mover. Lumber for the frame will be another $15-$20 (not everyone has adequate scrap lumber just laying around), fasteners, adhesive and other hardware maybe $5.00. MERV 13 filters: anywhere from $10 to over $40 each depending on where they are purchased, brand and how many in the package.
      Filters on the inlet keep dirt off the motor, fan blades and both grills. Putting them on the outlet will be just as bad, perhaps worse, as blocking air flow into the unit.
      Yes, duct work can be built but it must be at least 20" X 20" square or almost 30" round. The longer the duct run, the number of bends, and the roughness of the inside of the ducting will reduce air flow and could easily overload the tiny motor just as blocking the inlet can do.
      Ducting the air outside the room will also draw new, probably dirt/dust laden, air in which will negate any filtering effects of the design.
      Crazy air isn't always a bad thing, so maybe just pointing the fan discharge towards a wall or corner would diffuse the air flow enough to make it sane enough for you.

    • @rawbacon
      @rawbacon 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      So your concern is shortening the lifespan of a 15 dollar fan? And your solution is to replace it with a fan that cost hundreds of dollars? Let me work out the economics of this, so since I don't want to waste 30 bucks buying 2 extra fans in my lifetime I should spend hundreds of dollars to save the pain of spending 30 dollars?

    • @mikel4510
      @mikel4510 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@rawbacon Harbor Freight and other retailers sell vane axial fans for $20. They're expensive one is $60. Amazon also sells a number of vane axial fans in the $20 range. I bought the HF expensive one 30 years ago for $25 and it's still working just fine.
      The issue is air filtration and the least expensive way to do it. If you want to spend $30 and help overflow another landfill instead of spending $20 and having a tool you can pass on to your progeny, go for it. But, based on your attitude and lack of math skills, one must wonder about your progeny.
      Stop being ridiculous.

  • @patklemmensen1694
    @patklemmensen1694 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    neat idea - affordable, the filters are commonly available, and if you stacked a coarse filter outside of a finer one, you might get more service life from your filters...

  • @brentduplessis5033
    @brentduplessis5033 4 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Enjoyed video - learned a lot of the why and what for. thanks

  • @gordroberts53
    @gordroberts53 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Great idea, now I’m sorry I ditched my box fan. Will have to find a replacement. Thanks for sharing.

  • @rhinomite5203
    @rhinomite5203 8 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Great idea not just for wood shop but construction sites etc. nice build 💪🏽💪🏽

  • @askor2000
    @askor2000 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    This is nice. I just use the box fan, used filter, and a 6-inch clamp for my sanding days

    • @Dave--FkTheDeepstate
      @Dave--FkTheDeepstate 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      The clamp isn't necessary. Air suction from the fan holds the filter in place.

    • @georgequalls5043
      @georgequalls5043 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      I’ve seen bungee cords used.

  • @timothycreasy2161
    @timothycreasy2161 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I simple solution for a serious problem. Very good idea !!

  • @ls-33wraith33
    @ls-33wraith33 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    I love this idea! 💡

  • @mathiastb32
    @mathiastb32 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Good idea matt

  • @thomascarhart928
    @thomascarhart928 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Yes use one now just the basic but I love the design simple and functional 👍👍

  • @RobbsHomemadeLife
    @RobbsHomemadeLife 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    This is a great idea. I use a single filter, never thought of adding double filters. By the way, I have run a cheap $20 box fan with a filter non stop for over 2 years in my bedroom as my dog likes to sleep in front of it. I only stopped it to clean it and it still runs fine.

  • @elmerkilred159
    @elmerkilred159 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    A dedicated shop should spend the extra money on ventilation. A good tube axial fan that keeps the motor on the outside of the fan, and outside of the shop is a bonus because wood particles are flammable. Another benefit is that you can stain, paint, or strip with the proper pro-ventilation. They are like squirrel cage fans with the benefits of a box fan. Most paint and body shops use them. The box fan is great for a temporary fix, but you should really look at a good 12" tube axial fan for a small shop. IMO.

  • @chrisharper2658
    @chrisharper2658 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I use the Honeywell 4" thick MERV 12 filter fitted with a cheap 1" thick fiberglass pre-filter taped in front the Honeywell filter. I find that the 4" filter lasts longer then the 1" filters and still does a good job filtering the air. Also, you don't mention measuring the fine particulate in your shop air. I suggest using a Dylos Fine Particulate monitor. What I like about this basic PM monitor is that it can be easily cleaned in the event that the unit gets a buildup of dust around the unit's sensor. You can always go for cheaper Chinese made PM monitors but the dust sensor won't be as serviceable but some of those are still pretty good.

  • @Rusty_ok
    @Rusty_ok 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    I just use a 20” filter bungee strapped on the front of a box fan from Walmart. Works great and it is astonishing how much dust this will collect in just a few minutes. In my micro shop it probably circulates/filters most of the air in a couple minutes. I will set it on the bench right next to a sanding project and it almost eliminates dust it the shop. I did make a quick and easy cardboard shroud inside the grating that blocks the corners on the outlet side to force all air through the filter.

  • @jeffsmith2283
    @jeffsmith2283 3 ปีที่แล้ว +14

    If you add a nylon mesh to the outside of the pleated filters it will catch larger particles and lengthen the life of your pleated filters.

    • @mikolajrazny
      @mikolajrazny 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Can't i just vacuum the filters from the outside from time to time with regular vacuum cleaner?
      It'd be great to see performance comparition of this system using diffrent styles of the box (1 filter, 2, 3?, various shapes?) and what's the best way to maintain it's function (budget wise).

    • @jeffsmith2283
      @jeffsmith2283 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@mikolajrazny I find it difficult to get the particles out of the paper folds. It's much easier to run the vacuum over the flat nylon mesh. The nylon mesh could be permanently mounted on the box frame and the paper filters slid in behind the nylon mesh.

    • @chuckredd9131
      @chuckredd9131 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      For my shop vac I'll pick up some home style vacuum paper filters from "Good Will" (or steal one from the wife or an old panty hose) Zip tie one over the shop vac filter. Cheaper than new shop vac filters & you can blow them off with air hose.

  • @edmiller4149
    @edmiller4149 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    I have been using box fans with a 20 x 20 filter taped to inlet side for many years but I like your design very much!!!

  • @Eric7A
    @Eric7A 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I simply place one filter on the back of the fan.. Once it's on, the suction keeps in it place. I like the double filter idea.

  • @matthewhegstrom8478
    @matthewhegstrom8478 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Out of all of the vids I’ve watched for these I like this design the best, thanks!

  • @angryzombie8088
    @angryzombie8088 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    2 in 1 air filter fan absolutely love it.

  • @georgequalls5043
    @georgequalls5043 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I like the design having two filters so the fan won’t get over taxed and more air is moved.

  • @rudipf.7194
    @rudipf.7194 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Yes, it makes totally sense.

  • @f1rehawk99
    @f1rehawk99 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    I'm going to need this setup when I get my mushroom lab built

  • @KylesGuide
    @KylesGuide 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    I built a ceiling mount shop fan filter system. Moves roughly 6000-7000 CFM. I also put multi-stage filters on it that can be washed down. The body is plywood with a chicken wire mesh on the main intake to keep the filters from collapsing from air draw. Total project material cost was roughly $200. I needed that kind of air movement to handle both woodshop tools and a CNC router that cuts carbon fiber.

  • @tcbridges
    @tcbridges 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    I get the idea on how you made it but sure wish I could buy plan from you. This makes my 74 old brain work to hard. TY

  • @RS8XB
    @RS8XB ปีที่แล้ว

    LOVE this. gonna build this asap

  • @erindover6617
    @erindover6617 5 หลายเดือนก่อน

    If I get this built well, it might just turn out to be my hubs’ most prized anniversary gift ever. 🎉

  • @linwoodnymph6113
    @linwoodnymph6113 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    !!! Brilliant!!! I'm going to tape filters to the back of my box fans at home!!!

  • @northwoodsdad7506
    @northwoodsdad7506 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    I have s.apped a filter on a box fan for years..... maybe some day I will get around d to building one of these cabinets.

  • @guerradan1958
    @guerradan1958 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Your version looks much nicer but more durable. Thx

  • @Bhrazz
    @Bhrazz 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    I'm gonna build one, this is great!

  • @amsivertson
    @amsivertson 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I'm imagining a way to create something like this, with a little less depth to it, and actually hang this from either the ceiling or the wall in the shop!

    • @ItsAsparageese
      @ItsAsparageese 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Ooh interesting idea. I like keeping things off the ground and using wall space, but I wonder what that would do in terms of exchanging cool and hot air. I guess I'd have to aim it thoughtfully and make sure it has room to pull up cool air and blow downward ... Hmmm. Thanks for the brainstorming fodder!

  • @pemtax557
    @pemtax557 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Great idea ... nicely done!!

  • @markbryan9989
    @markbryan9989 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    I use a similar system but with just one filter. It collects a lot of dust! However, I also vent my shop vac to the exterior of my shop. Even if particles get through its filter, they are vented outside and I am not stirring up the air in the shop with the exhaust. For those times when it is needed, (cutting mdf for example) I also have window fan built into the exterior wall of my shop. It is covered until I need to use it and it clears the air very quickly as indicated by my air quality monitor.

  • @Print-Productivity
    @Print-Productivity 3 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    Love your videos, keep up the awesome work 😀😃😃😃😃😃😃😃😃😃😃. Love your shop and your set up!
    Really, your videos have an awesome impact on me! You are amazing!
    Have a wonderful and awesome day!!! 😀😃😃😃

  • @brianvannorman1465
    @brianvannorman1465 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thanks for the idea.

  • @jimcooney9019
    @jimcooney9019 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    great design thanks........... thanks for sharing the video

  • @catblue6393
    @catblue6393 3 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    You're smart to take care of your lungs. 👍🏻

    • @TheHonestCarpenter
      @TheHonestCarpenter  3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Thanks, Cat! It’s crazy how much fine dust you’ll accumulate after even just one project 😵

    • @scottslotterbeck3796
      @scottslotterbeck3796 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      I always use an N95 mask. If I don't, I'll be coughing for a day or two. Wood dust is a carcinogen.

  • @SoulOfVr
    @SoulOfVr 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    helped a lot with never ending sneezing I was having thanks!

  • @Albert_Riseal
    @Albert_Riseal 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Actually pretty nice, cheap but it does the job, for some indoor woodworking projects.

  • @stehir9260
    @stehir9260 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    The 3m hammock filter is fairly flexible and offers good small particle filtering in odd shaped situations such as replacing old hepa filters at a reasonable price.

  • @noel737
    @noel737 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Not sure if you’ll see this, but wanted to let you know about the “C-R” or Corsi filter. An earlier comment here mentioned a filter system on “this old house” that used 4 filters in a box formation-it’s that. Two university engineers came up with it and it’s been shown to work as well (if differently) as commercial systems.
    Basically: if you needed more affirmation that this is a good idea and of your own clever resourcefulness-engineers say you’re right.
    Though I’d also be curious how you’d improve your own design from some of the reasoning behind theirs. For example, commercial systems are more efficient-cleaning 80-90% of particles-but your approach is just so much faster that it can compete with them at a fraction of the cost.

  • @ivanlarin86
    @ivanlarin86 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    So easy, so effective. Thank you for sharing, James! Best regards from Poland!

  • @ZeranZeran
    @ZeranZeran 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Awesome video. This is a legitimate solution for most "HEPA" filters.
    (It's the same material, sold under a brand name)

  • @snowgorilla9789
    @snowgorilla9789 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    A great cheap solution to a common problem Think wild fire !

  • @jayrpyne7067
    @jayrpyne7067 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Short ... sweet ... functional. Thanks.

  • @RRA556
    @RRA556 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Wow. Your shop looks great!

  • @PaulC001
    @PaulC001 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    i just did the same thing! but with 20x20 filters like an "A" behind the fan with scrap triangle cardboard pieces for the top and bottom, and of course the duct tape to hold things together.
    thought about using four 20x20 filters and a 20x20 piece of cardboard on the bottom making a kind of 'filter cube'. still might do that one as long as i can keep coming up with large enough pieces of cardboard.
    these are the cheapest way i've found to control dust. but you have to keep in mind that you'll need a way to keep the dust suspended in the air (oscillating fan works for me) so it can find it's way to the filter box thing.
    [edit]
    i use this for a basement workshop.

  • @alanr745
    @alanr745 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Between this design and Jay Bates’ air cleaner cart, I think I have two designs for very functional air filtration, on top of my hopeful purchase of a Clear Vue unit.

  • @zlancenyc
    @zlancenyc 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    I used to just tape them to the box fans and I run 2 of them in my shop. I started using one back before I got into any woodworking because I have asthma. But it would be great to improve my design

  • @danielr.schafer9504
    @danielr.schafer9504 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Mine had four filters works great!

  • @sailme2day
    @sailme2day 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    great fan / air cleaner video. Myself, on my shop vac exhaust port. I have used a $.50 pillow case and pipe clamp for 30 plus years, with great success for the finest of dust particles. Just cut the pillow case 1 inch or so off the floor. Consider plexiglass and epoxy to make your own vac hoods. Likely one design , would work for several of your shop applications while cutting wood. Using a larger vac pipe will increase the volume of uptake. Which is more important than pressure for capturing dust. Smooth wall dryer pipe or larger gutter down spouts or pvc , are superior to flex, if creating a short run or central system . You might create a squirrel cage unit ( new or used) as an alternative fan method. The cubic volume to watts used is the advantage, and lower noise on a variable dial switch. keep up the great work .

  • @bobtaylor7361
    @bobtaylor7361 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Yea. I'm the one who taped filter to fan. 2 fans sitting around shop with filters. Running when I turn on outlets.

  • @maryroy2198
    @maryroy2198 ปีที่แล้ว

    Great idea, think I could use a small one in my home...always so much dust flying around.

  • @pointblankokc
    @pointblankokc ปีที่แล้ว

    great video and great design.

  • @JackKirbyFan
    @JackKirbyFan 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Genius. I am so glad you cover dust in a shop. It's incredibly dangerous and I always wear a full face respirator as much I can tolerate when in the shop in addition to a dust filter, shop vac and dust collector (for the bigger tools).

    • @jobacuda4472
      @jobacuda4472 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      You're right about the danger, Dave. Be especially careful if you are working with kiln-dried Western red cedar or redwood. I once got what they call "red cedar asthma" while building an arbor. It gave me an appreciation for what asthma sufferers go through.

  • @davebuchanan9761
    @davebuchanan9761 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    i have a similar idea in my shop, a big box with a old furnace blower and filters on the sides,works really well