DIY Carbon Filter

Description

Carbon filters traps unwanted smells, toxic fumes and other volatile organic compounds (VOCs). When polluted air passes through the filter, the high surface area of the activated charcoal traps the unwanted gases.

Do I still need a HEPA and a Carbon?

Yes, activated carbon is not very effective at filtering particulate pollution such as PM2.5. It is better to include a HEPA filter for a complete filtration of your indoor air.

It is also recommended to refrain from using a carbon filter along with a HEPA on the Original as the air flow rate is not sufficient. Instead, if you think you have a serious VOC problem, it is possible to exclude the HEPA filter.

Filter stacking order:

Does everyone need a carbon filter?

Not necessarily, as not all homes have dangerous levels of harmful gases or VOCs that would call for a carbon filter. VOCs are more common in homes:

• with recent home renovation or repainting
• with smoke or other offensive odors
• near a source of gas pollution like a factory

If you have inflammation or asthma symptoms, you may also consider using a carbon filter.

Not sure if you have a VOC problem?

You can run a “poor man’s VOC test” by sniffing the air where you air. If you can smell any plastics smells, or the kind of smells you get in a new car, off paint, or from new furniture, you may well have a VOC issue.

We also run air quality audits in Beijing, and so can visit you to test your air quality. Learn more here.