Air Pollution is at its peak all over India. But if you are living in Delhi NCR region like me, you are getting some extra toxins with an average AQI above 400, which is not just unhealthy but hazardous. The only solution left is getting an Air Purifier.
And if you live with your parents or elders, it’s a MUST! But not everyone can spend 10k on an Air Purifier. Not to worry, I’ll show you how to make a DIY Air Purifier at home, and that too under ₹2,000. So let’s begin and learn how to breathe fresh air.
What You Need to Make a DIY Air Purifier
- HEPA H13/H14 filter
- Exhaust fan, depending on filter size
- Double-sided tape
- ….that’s it!
Also read: HEPA Vs Activated Carbon Filters in Air Purifiers: Which Is Better?
Do DIY Air Purifiers Actually Work?
A big yes! They do. Why so?
1. HEPA is HEPA – Whether DIY or Branded
Most branded purifiers use HEPA H13 or H14 filters, which trap 99.97% of particles up to 0.3 microns. The same filters are sold separately online on platforms like Amazon/Flipkart, and your DIY purifier uses the exact same filter.
You can buy one for around 1500-2000. The performance of the filter would be the same as long as the filter is genuine and sealed properly.
2. Exhaust Fan for Airflow
An air purifier works by pushing air through a HEPA filter, which purifies the air and then pushes fresh air outside. A normal exhaust fan generates enough airflow, which helps circulate more air quickly.
Again, you can buy it online directly from Amazon/Flipkart or from the local market for under 400. One thing to note is that the faster the exhaust fan is, the faster your air will be cleaned, as more airflow = faster air cleaning.
3. It’s All About Filter + Airflow
An Air Purifier is all about a filter and airflow to pass the air through the filter. That’s it….no more science or technology. And our DIY Air Purifier has both!
Well, it will miss out on extra features when compared to a branded air purifier, but that won’t impact the performance of our air purifier.
You won’t be able to see the AQI status, turn on/off the purifier with your phone, but it’ll do the core job exceptionally well, which is to clean the air.
4. Let’s Talk About Numbers
I won’t just brag about making a DIY Air Purifier without testing it out. Here are the PM2.5 readings:
| Area | PM 2.5 Readings |
| Closed room | 51 |
| Room with window open | 108 |
| Room with smoke | 356 |
The closed room had a PM 2.5 reading of 51, and after opening the window, it came to around 108. To push it even further, I burned a tissue paper in the room, and the PM 2.5 reading jumped to 356.
Now the real magic happens.
I turned on my DIY Air Purifier for about 40-45 minutes, and the PM 2.5 levels dropped to just 13-15! I could feel the fresh air in my room.
Also read: Best Budget Air Purifiers Under Rs. 5,000 in India
How to Build Your DIY Air Purifier (5-Minute Method)
Step 1: Place the Exhaust fan above the HEPA filter
- Make sure the airflow direction is correct.
- The fan should pull air through the filter, not push it from behind.
Step 2: Tape the filter securely
- Use double-sided tape to seal all gaps
- No leakage means maximum filtration.
Step 3: Plug in and switch on the fan
- Medium speed exhaust fan will create low noise but might take longer to clean the room.
- High speed exhaust fan works faster and more efficient, but may be noisy.
Step 4: Run it for 30–60 minutes
Now just let it run for 30-60 minutes, and you’ll notice:
- Less dust in the room
- Clearer air
- Lower PM2.5 (if you have a meter)
Also read: Top Air Purifiers for Small Rooms and Apartments in India!
DIY vs Commercial Air Purifier: Comparison Table
| Feature | DIY Air Purifier (Under ₹2,000) | Branded Air Purifier (₹10,000–₹25,000) |
| Cost | Extremely low | High |
| Filtration Technology | HEPA H13/H14 filters | HEPA H13/H14 filters |
| CADR (Clean Air Delivery Rate) | Medium to High (depends on fan power) | High and optimized |
| Air Quality Sensors | Not available | PM2.5/PM10 sensors, auto mode |
| Smart Features | None | WiFi, app control, timers |
| Maintenance Cost | Medium (₹1500–₹2000 per filter) | Medium–High (₹1,500–₹4,000 filters) |
| Effectiveness | Good but slower | Excellent |
Final Thoughts: Is DIY Air Purifier Worth It?
Yes! I think a DIY Air purifier is the best solution right now who are looking to combat the current hazardous air pollution on a budget. And there is no doubt that it works, as show above.
It has the same HEPA filter and airflow compared to that of a branded air purifier. So be smart and make your own AIR Purifier in just under Rs 2000.
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