What is a DIY air cleaner, and can it help protect homes from COVID-19?

Do-it-yourself (DIY) air cleaners are indoor air cleaners that can be assembled from box fans and square HVAC (or furnace) filters. A variety of designs exist, using a single fan and one to five air filters. In its simplest form, a single filter is attached to the front or back of a box fan. Air cleaning takes place by filtration, as air is moved by the fan from the room through the HVAC filter, and then released into the room. DIY air cleaners may be effective in reducing concentrations of viruses and other indoor air pollutants, but there are several important design and assembly considerations to think about. For additional information see Air Cleaners, HVAC Filters, and Coronavirus (COVID-19)

Return to Frequent Questions about Indoor Air and Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19).