DIY Box Fan Filter

Table of Contents

Material List

Filter

Category

90%

completion

★☆☆☆☆

Difficulty

< $50

Est. Cost

Adding a filter to a box fan is a relatively simple DIY project that can improve the air quality in your workshop area.

You can build a basic version on a wooden frame with wheels if you want a portable air filtration system. Here are the basic steps to build a mobile box fan filter setup:

Instructions:

  1. Begin by measuring the dimensions of your box fan and filter. Cut the wooden boards to create a frame that will fit both the box fan and the filter.
  2. Connect the wooden boards together with screws, forming a rectangular frame.
  3. Place the box fan and filter inside the frame. Make sure the filter covers the back of the fan.
  4. Attach the wheels to the bottom of the frame with screws.
  5. Test the unit to ensure it rolls smoothly, and your wooden box fan with a filter on wheels is ready to use!

This type of portable air filtration system can be useful if you want to move it from room to room or if you have limited space.

diy box fan filter back

How well will it work?

It entirely depends on the strength of the box fan and the quality of the air filter.

Choosing an air filter

The effectiveness of the air filter on a box fan will depend on the quality of the filter and the size of the particles it can capture. 

For best air filtration performance, it’s recommended to use a filter with a high Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) rating, which measures the ability of a filter to capture particles of different sizes. A MERV rating of 11 or higher is recommended for the best air filtration performance.

 

Choosing a Box Fan 

The quality of the box fan is an important factor to consider. Higher quality box fans are generally more durable, efficient, and effective in moving air and creating a comfortable indoor environment.

It’s really important to pick know what size of filter your using before you start building! You need to leave enough room to fit the filter on the frame.

Should the filter go on the front or back of box fan?

 

When attaching a filter to a box fan, it should be placed on the back of the fan. This allows the fan to pull the air through the filter and push it out the front, creating a filtered airflow.

By placing the filter on the back of the fan, you can also protect the fan blades from dust and debris that may accumulate on the filter. 

When attaching the filter to the back of the fan, it’s important to ensure a secure fit and seal to prevent unfiltered air from bypassing the filter.

Can you put a filter in front of a fan?

For best results, place the filter on the back of the fan, as this allows the fan to pull air through the filter and push out clean air into the room. It is possible to put a filter in front of a fan, but it may not be the most effective way to use the filter. 

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