JET AFS-850 Mobile Air Filter

JET AFS-850 Mobile Air Filter Review

Maintaining a clean and safe jobsite is essential for both productivity and health. ACME Tools recently tasked us with evaluating the JET AFS-850 Mobile Air Filter to determine its effectiveness and value as a dust control solution for construction sites. Priced at $699, the AFS-850 isn’t cheap, but what good tool is? Let’s explore what this tool offers and whether it justifies its price tag.

Why Choose the JET AFS-850?

In the realm of remodeling and construction, the term “livable remodeling” has gained prominence. This approach focuses on delivering building and remodeling services that:

• Reduce Stress: Streamlined processes make the remodeling experience less overwhelming for clients.
• Minimize Health Risks: Effective dust control mitigates airborne dust hazards.
• Ensure Livability: Homes remain comfortable and functional throughout the remodeling process
• Promote Communication and Professionalism: Clear interactions build trust and satisfaction.

Using outdated methods, like a box fan in the window, not only fails to meet modern standards but also violates EPA regulations, which now require certified HEPA equipment to capture and contain dust effectively. A combination of collecting dust at its source, air filtration and dust barriers are the better practices. The JET AFS-850 aligns with these best practices, helping to keep dust from spreading to non-work areas and safeguarding the health of both workers and homeowners.

Summary of Dust Control | Best Practices

1. Set Expectations:
2. Communicate clearly with homeowners about dust control measures.
3. Isolate the Work Area:
4. Use barriers like ZipWall and ZipDoor to seal off the space.
5. Establish Negative Air Pressure:
6. Use air scrubbers to direct dust out of the area or air filters like the JET Filter.
7. Seal Ductwork: Prevent dust from spreading through HVAC systems.
8. Daily Cleanup: Regularly remove dust to maintain a clean environment.

These steps help keep dust contained, protecting other areas of the home and reducing cleanup efforts.

Health Implications of Dust

Dust isn’t merely a nuisance—it poses significant health risks, including:

• Asthma Triggers: Can exacerbate asthma in both children and adults.
• Allergic Reactions: Increases the likelihood of allergic responses.
• Chronic Respiratory Issues: Aggravates conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
• Effective dust control systems like the JET AFS-850 are crucial in mitigating these health hazards, making it a valuable addition to any job site.

JET AFS-850 Mobile Air Filter | Specifications and Features

• Airflow 850 CFM
• MERV 15 Filter: Efficiently removes dust particles ranging from 0.3 to 10 microns, capturing 98% of particles at 1 micron.
• HEPA Certification: Meets EPA requirements for dust containment.
• Whisper-Quiet: Operates at just 50-68dB, ensuring a peaceful workspace.
• Brushless DC Motor: Offers durability, quieter operation, and higher energy efficiency.
• Auto Mode: Utilizes an integrated PM2.5 sensor to monitor air quality in real-time and adjust motor speed,accordingly, optimizing energy usage and extending filter life.
• Bright LED Display: Clear digital readout for easy monitoring of filter status, fan speed, and timer settings.
• User-Friendly Interface: Simple controls for adjusting settings and viewing operational status.
• Lightweight and Portable: Easy to move around the jobsite with a full-ring handle.
• 15-Foot Power Cable: Provides flexible placement near dust generation areas.
• Filter Status Indicators: Visual alerts for filter condition— “GOOD,” “REPLACE SOON,” or “REPLACE.”
• Blower Speeds: 6 Speeds (190-850 CF
• Timer Settings: 1-16 Hours
• Sound Rating: 50-68 dB @ 3.28 Feet
• Filter Type: MERV 15, Pre-filter (washable), Canister Filter, Optional Charcoal Filter
• Motor Brushless: DC, 1/5 HP, 115V
• Power Cable: 15 Feet
• Weight: 31.9 lbs. (14.5 kg)
• Dimensions: 19.134″ x 19.134″ x 36.575″ (LxWxH)
• Filter Options Charcoal (optional)

Operating the JET AFS-850 Mobile Air Filter

1. Switch the Power ON/OFF to the ON position.
2. Press the on/Off button to start the unit. [not sure why it has a double start button]
3. Choose between manual fan speeds or enable Auto Mode for intelligent air quality management.
4. Use the LED display to keep track of filter status and adjust settings as needed.
5. Set the timer to automatically shut off the unit after a specified period (1-16 hours) This can be useful to continue to filter the air after you leave an area.
6. The intuitive control panel makes it easy to customize settings based on the jobsite’s needs, ensuring optimal dust control with minimal effort.

Our User Experience and Operation

We are firm believers in connecting dust making tools to vacuums. That said to see if the the JET AFS-850 Mobile Air Filter worked well we needed to make some dust.

We set the JET filter up in different situations to test it:

• In a room cutting and routing drywall
• Next to a table saw cutting everything from pine, plywood and MDF.
• In a demo area
• Next to sanding and cutting MDF

In the end the best way to show the filter in action was to place it near us when cutting and sanding MDF cabinet panels. We set the JET Filter to AUTO mode and left it alone. Shortly after cutting or sanding the MDF we could hear the filter motor ramp up and stay high for a period until the proverbial saying “when the dust settled,” or in this case was filtered!

Again, I’m not advocating that you sand or cut MDF without dust collection, my point is that this JET filter is part of the overall solution to cleaner air.

Maintenance and Filter Replacement

Proper maintenance is crucial for the longevity and efficiency of the AFS-850 and we noted that after 3 weeks of using the filter we were able to easily clean it with a vacuum.Removing, cleaning or changing out the pre-filter and pleated filter is easy.

Removing or Changing Filter

1. Power Off and unplug the unit.
2. Unlock Fan Head: Place a foot on the base, grasp the ring handle, and turn the fan head counterclockwise.
3. Remove Filters: Lift the fan head and remove the pre-filter and canister filter.
4. Clean or Replace: Wash or vacuum the pre-filter or replace it.
5. Vacuum the canister filter with a brush attachment or replace it if necessary.
6. Reassemble

Its also recommended that you wipe down the integrated PM2.5 sensor clean with a dry cloth or compressed air to maintain accurate auto mode functionality. This sensor is located on the underside of the blower hool.

JET AFS-850 | Pros and Cons

Pros

1. High Filtration Efficiency: MERV 15 filter captures a wide range of dust particles.
2. Quiet Operation: Minimal noise disruption on the jobsite.
3. Smart Controls: Auto mode and intuitive LED display enhance usability.
4. Portable Design: Lightweight and easy to move with a long power cable.
5. Compliance: Meets EPA regulations for dust control.

Cons

1. Price: At $699, it may be a significant investment for smaller operations.
2. Maintenance: Requires regular cleaning and filter changes to maintain performance.
3. Weight: Weighing nearly 32 lbs., it may be cumbersome for some users to move frequently.

Price

The JET AFS-850 Mobile Air Filter can be purchased at ACME Tools

• Jet JT1-229 AFS-850 120V 1 PH 850 CFM Air Filtration System $699.00
• Jet JT1-336 AFS850-016 Inner Filter for AFS-850 – Paper Filter $69.99
• Jet JT1-337 AFS850-CF Activated Charcoal Filter for AFS-850
• $45.99
• Jet JT1-335 AFS850-008 Washable/Re-Useable Pre-Filter for AFS-850 $ 15.99

Conclusion

We liked using the JET AFS-850 Mobile Air Filter and found it to be a robust and efficient solution for job site dust control, aligning perfectly with the principles of livable remodeling.

Its high filtration capacity, quiet operation, and smart controls make it a valuable tool for contractors who prioritize health, safety, and professionalism. While the initial investment is considerable, the benefits of improved air quality, reduced health risks, and enhanced client satisfaction make the AFS-850 a worthwhile addition to any construction or remodeling toolkit.

By effectively managing dust, the AFS-850 not only ensures a cleaner and healthier work environment but also enhances your reputation as a detail-oriented and professional contractor. This can lead to increased homeowner satisfaction and more referrals, ultimately boosting the quality and quantity of your business.