Growing indoors often means having to manage intense odors, especially during the flowering stage of the plants. To keep the growing environment discreet and free from unwanted smells, the use of an activated carbon filter is essential: an indispensable ally for every grower.
The Role of the Carbon Filter
The activated carbon filter has a precise function: to neutralize the odors produced by the plants. When air is drawn through the extraction system, the filter traps the odor molecules thanks to its porous structure, blocking them and preventing them from spreading into the environment.
But carbon filters are not just for purifying outgoing air: they can also be installed on incoming air to eliminate:
- pollen,
- spores,
- mold,
- and other harmful particles.
This helps to create a healthier and safer growing environment.
Activated Carbon: The Heart of the Filter
The filtering capacity of activated carbon depends on its porosity and the technical value known as CTC (Carbon Tetrachloride Activity), which indicates how effective the carbon is at trapping molecules. The higher the value, the greater the adsorption capacity:
- A CTC value of 70% ensures professional-grade performance.
- A CTC value above 55% is still suitable for indoor growing.
Avoid filters that do not indicate the CTC value: they may not provide effective air purification.
Max Airflow and Optimal Airflow: What Do They Indicate?
Two important parameters to consider when choosing a filter:
- Max Airflow: the maximum air flow rate (in m³/h) that the filter can handle without losing efficiency.
- Optimal Airflow: the ideal flow rate to achieve the best performance and extend the filter’s lifespan.
Choosing a filter with an airflow rating compatible with your extractor fan is crucial to avoid performance issues.
How to Calculate the Right Filter for Your Growbox
The correct sizing of the filter depends on the dimensions of the growbox and the power of the extractor fan. Here is a simple method to calculate it:
- Calculate the growbox volume in cubic meters:
width × depth × height = volume in m³. - Multiply by 60 to get the ideal airflow in m³/h, considering a complete air exchange every minute.
Example:
Growbox 1.2 × 1.2 × 2 m = 2.88 m³
2.88 × 60 = 173 m³/h.
In this case, you will need an extractor fan with at least 173 m³/h and a filter with equal or higher airflow.
Recommended Products on Idrogrow for an Ideal Setup
Dobermann Tent 120x120x200 cm
The ideal growbox for this type of setup.
Vents TT125 Extractor Fan
Airflow 220-280 m³/h, perfect for the calculated growbox.
Airontek Odor Filter 125-250mm 300 m³/h
The perfect filter for this setup.
Practical Tips
- Always choose filters with a CTC value ≥ 55% for good filtering efficiency.
- Check the compatibility between the filter’s airflow and the extractor fan.
- Replace the carbon filter every 12–18 months, depending on usage intensity.
Airontek Filters: Trust the Official Distributor Idrogrow
Idrogrow is the official distributor of Airontek products in Italy.
For more information and to purchase Airontek products, visit the official Idrogrow website: www.idrogrow.com.