Buzz
A top-tier HEPA air purifier can effectively remove nearly all pollutants like smoke, dust, and allergens from the air in a room. However, a more affordable $30 model can still eliminate around 90% of contaminants. If you're looking for an economical solution to improve indoor air quality, this is worth considering.
Here’s what you’ll need to make your own air purifier:
A 20-inch box fan (typically priced $15-20, or you might already have one at home)
A 20x20 inch furnace filter with a MERV-13, FPR 10, or MPR 1500-1900 rating (also priced around $15-20)
In a demonstration video, Jeffrey Terrell, Director of the Michigan Sinus Center at the University of Michigan Health System, shows how this homemade air purifier performs in comparison to an $800 commercial model. While it may not be as efficient, it certainly offers a significant improvement over not using one at all.
After assembling a system like this, you can place it in a bedroom or any area where you need the air to be as clean as possible. This filter can capture particles as tiny as one-third of a micron, which is effective for many allergens and most of the particles from wildfire smoke. However, keep in mind that no filter can guard against carbon monoxide or other irritating gases, so make sure you're taking every precaution to protect yourself.
