[b2rtch]

As I continue to build my new shop I have many questions.
Today the question is: is it easier for a fan to push or to suck air trough a filter?
Or does it make no difference?
The reason for my question is that ,as some of you already know, I want to install my dust collector and my air compressor in a small building adjacent but outside the shop but to have the air returning to the shop as to not waste conditioned air (warm or cool). As to not carry dust back in the shop with the air I want to returned air to be filtered (possibility through an HEPA filter) and to do so I want to assist the air flow with a fan.
My question is: should the fan be installed upstream or downstream of the filter or does it make no difference? (Downstream would keep the fan clean).
Thank you for your time.
Bert

 

[lew]

Fans work best when the pull (suck) air thru a filter

 

[PurpLev]

a fan will have an easier time pulling the air from a filter than to push it through one.

so the fan should be downstream from the filter (workshop->DC->filter->fan->workshop)

 

[b2rtch]

Ok and thanks

 

[HokieMojo]

you've already got two answers from people that probably know more about this than me, but one point to keep in mind is that if it pulls air through the filter, it is filtered air traveling over the fins and motor. It might keep the unit cleaner and allow it to run longer.