How Many Air Scrubbers Do I Need?

How to Calculate Required CFM & Equipment Quantity
To achieve proper air clearance, a commonly used target for construction dust control and air clearance is 6 air changes per hour (ACH), although the appropriate target depends on the project, containment, and applicable requirements.

Practical Sizing Example: For a 2,500 sq. ft. home or job site with 10-foot ceilings:

1. Total Volume: 2,500 sq. ft. x 10 ft. = 25,000 cubic feet.
2. Required Airflow: (25,000 x 6 ACH) / 60 minutes = 2,500 CFM.
3. Recommendation: A single 2,000 CFM unit will deliver roughly 4.8 air changes per hour. To meet the 6 ACH industry standard, you would deploy two units.

FAQ About Air Scrubbers

Where should I place the air scrubber? Position the air scrubber near the center of the room or active work area, keeping the surrounding space clear. Ensure that loose materials—such as plastic sheeting, drop cloths, or curtains—are securely taped down or moved away so they cannot be drawn into the intake grill and block airflow.

What defines a True HEPA filter? A certified True HEPA filter is tested and rated to capture at least 99.97% of airborne particles down to 0.3 microns in size. For perspective, a 0.3-micron particle is roughly 300 times smaller than a human hair.

How often should filters be replaced during a project?

• 1st-Stage Pre-Filters: Replace daily under heavy dust conditions, or every 1–2 days.
• 2nd-Stage Secondary Filters: Replace every 3 to 7 days depending on dust loading.
• Main HEPA Filter: Rated for up to 800 hours of continuous operation under normal conditions.

Can air scrubbers eliminate smoke, paint, and chemical odors? Yes. When fitted with an optional Activated Carbon Filter attachment, the unit adsorbs volatile organic compounds (VOCs), paint fumes, and smoke that standard particulate filters cannot capture.