DIY Air Cleaner

Constructing an Air Cleaner

• Constructing an air cleaner does not require a lot of skill or expensive materials. Purchase a box fan, then purchase an air filter that matches the size of the fan. The filter can be cut if needed. Four pieces of wood should be cut to fit the size of the fan. Glue them together, then cut and glue a wood plank to brace the filter and keep it from falling out of the box. Do not attach the housing to the fan until making sure the filter fits. It needs to be a tight fit in order to prevent movement of the filter once the fan is turned on. Drill a hole through the top and the bottom of the frame and run a plastic tie into each hole. Use the tie to connect the housing frame to the grid of the fan. Once the filter feels snug, turn the fan on. If the filter bangs against the fan, tighten the plastic tie. Watch to ensure the filter does not rip or tear while the fan is operational. Periodically check to make sure the fan is not overheating, and replace the filter when it is no longer clean.

Growing Your Own Clean Air

• Cleaner air can actually result from certain household plants. They work together to form a natural air filtration system and remove toxins from the air. A study done in 2006 by Paharpur Business Centre showed a reduction in eye irritations and respiratory symptoms in an average office environment that incorporated household plants into the office scheme. Headaches and incidents of asthma also declined as the carbon dioxide was removed from the air. In a single-person home, place a combination of about 11 areca palms, mother-in-law's tongues and money plants. Their natural processes remove carbon dioxide and other toxins from the air.