dust filters for fans

[BriGy86]

i have an enermax case with 7 80mm case fans (2 front, 2 side, 2 rear, and 1 top)

all pushing about 32 CFM

the front and side i have blowing in (2 rear and 1 top blowing out) and those 4 fans have filters on them

would i be better to keep them on or leave them off for better air flow?

they get pretty full easily

 

[zagood]

You only need filters on the intake fans.

If your filters get full, you need them. It's easier to clean filters often than cleaning out the inside of your case often.

EDIT: also for improved airflow, it's a good idea to cut out the mesh grill that covers the fans. For exposed fans (like exhaust on the back or top) cover with fan guards like these



-z

 

[suszterpatt]

I'd try removing the dust filters, and taking out the top exhaust fan. That way you'll probably have enough extra pressure in your case that will force dust out.

 

[BriGy86]

Originally posted by: suszterpatt
I'd try removing the dust filters, and taking out the top exhaust fan. That way you'll probably have enough extra pressure in your case that will force dust out.

but wouldn't the top fan be a good thing, more air movement?

and i figured it would be really good with heat since it rises

 

[suszterpatt]

Originally posted by: BriGy86

Originally posted by: suszterpatt
I'd try removing the dust filters, and taking out the top exhaust fan. That way you'll probably have enough extra pressure in your case that will force dust out.

but wouldn't the top fan be a good thing, more air movement?

and i figured it would be really good with heat since it rises

Top exhaust fans have been shown to be rather inefficient at decreasing case temps. Hot air can still leave through the fan slot without it.

 

[anandtechrocks]

I installed fan filters in my PC because to me a litte reduced air flow is better than having to clean my computer every week (I keep it on the ground and it's on 24/7).

 

[imported_rod]

I have filters on my intake fans, and they dont seem to adversely affect performance. I think the steel mesh ones are meant to be better than the cloth or foam types...

RoD

 

[Ping to the Pong]

just use filters on the intakes. If you have to clean them often then it means they are doing their job and you should leave them in your system. Any type of filter will decrease airflow however, if you dont have any heating issues right now then no need to mess with it.

 

[0roo0roo]

depends on how often you clean. best are those that come with the case..like antecs. those catch big particles which is really good enough since the powerder dust takes much longer to do any real clogging of heatsinks.. more effective filters reduce airflow..or increase noise if you complensate..not worth the bother. just use a vacumn+can o air every month or so.

 

[unprecedented]

Originally posted by: BriGy86
i have an enermax case with 7 80mm case fans (2 front, 2 side, 2 rear, and 1 top)

all pushing about 32 CFM

the front and side i have blowing in (2 rear and 1 top blowing out) and those 4 fans have filters on them

would i be better to keep them on or leave them off for better air flow?

they get pretty full easily

You HAVE to have fliters on intake, if you don't than your case will fill up with dust! But if you vacuum you case everyday than it shouldn't be a problem