How to Make an LEV From Scratch 
This article describes how to make an LEV from scratch by starting with an old single-intake/single-exhaust squirrel cage fan. There are some key things to keep in mind before beginning. While the motor shaft should be slightly undersized, the actual fan wheel should be sized appropriately. Duct should run from the fan outdoors to the exterior. Then, measure the size of the actual fan wheel to determine the overall size.
Build an LEV from scratch using a single intake/single exhaust squirrel cage fan
If you’re new to the LEV hobby, or you just want to save money, building your own LEV system from scratch is an easy and affordable way to go. All you need is a single intake/single exhaust squirrel cage fan, and some ducting. Forced modifications may be necessary, and can be expensive. A free or low-cost used furnace blower might work, but that doesn’t guarantee proper operation.
Motor shaft is slightly undersized
Make sure the motor shaft is undersized when you make exhaust fan from old squirrel cage fan. A slight undersize will not cause you any trouble, but a larger undersize will force the set screw to move out of center. The motor will not spin correctly. This is because of the motor shaft. The old fan is likely undersized because it is undersized. The old motor may be pressed on without the retainer. To fix this problem, simply remove the fan and secure the motor to the hub.
Duct run between fan and outdoors
The fan needed a lot of speed to get up to velocity. The squirrels got a little bent when the speed reached the top. The old fan had an 18″ di radial vane rotor that fit inside the old housing. The fan worked with three horsepower at 3550 RPM. It also has terminal vent flaps to prevent cold air from entering the duct. A duct run between old squirrel cage fan and outdoors needs to be short and straight.
Size of actual fan wheel
One way to save money on an exhaust fan is by reusing an old squirrel cage fan. Many people have one lying around, or they may have lost it for whatever reason. If this is the case, there are several ways to repair it and save money on the project. For starters, you can use a spare motor and wheel assembly from a broken exhaust fan. Another method is to repair the actual fan. A good way to do this is to measure the actual fan wheel size, and replace the damaged one.
What is a squirrel cage fan?
Answer: A squirrel cage fan is a type of blower that is used to move air or gases.
The squirrel cage fan gets its name from the way the blades look which resembles a cage that squirrels would live in.
What are the benefits of using a squirrel cage fan?
Answer: Some benefits of using a squirrel cage fan include that they are cost effective have a high air flow rate and are durable.
What are some applications of squirrel cage fans?
Answer: Some common applications of squirrel cage fans include using them as exhaust fans in bathrooms or kitchens or using them to cool down electronics.
How do squirrel cage fans work?
Answer: Squirrel cage fans work by using a set of blades that are connected to a shaft.
The shaft is connected to a motor that spins the blades.
As the blades spin they create a centrifugal force that pulls air into the fan and then pushes it out.
What are the different parts of a squirrel cage fan?
Answer: The different parts of a squirrel cage fan include the blades the shaft the motor the housing and the bearings.
How do you properly maintain a squirrel cage fan?
Answer: You should regularly clean the blades and the housing of the fan to remove any dirt or debris.
You should also lubricate the bearings on the fan to ensure smooth operation.
What are some common problems with squirrel cage fans?
Answer: Some common problems with squirrel cage fans include the fan blades getting bent or warped the motor burning out or the bearings going bad.
How do you troubleshoot a squirrel cage fan?
Answer: If the fan is not working you should first check to see if the motor is plugged in and receiving power.
If the motor is receiving power then you should check to see if the blades are bent or the housing is dirty.
If the blades and housing are clean then you should check the bearings to see if they need to be replaced.
How do you replace the bearings in a squirrel cage fan?
Answer: You should first disconnect the power to the fan.
Then you should remove the housing of the fan to access the bearings.
Once you have access to the bearings you should remove the old bearings and replace them with new ones.
Can you use a squirrel cage fan for other purposes?
Answer: Yes you can use a squirrel cage fan for other purposes such as circulating air in a room or moving air through a duct system.
What are some safety precautions you should take when using a squirrel cage fan?
Answer: Some safety precautions you should take when using a squirrel cage fan include wearing gloves and eye protection and making sure that the area around the fan is clear of debris.
How do you install a squirrel cage fan?
Answer: First you should determine where you want to install the fan.
Then you should mark the spot and drill holes for the fan.
Next you should insert the fan into the holes and screw it into place.
Finally you should connect the power to the fan.
What are the dimensions of a typical squirrel cage fan?
Answer: The dimensions of a typical squirrel cage fan vary depending on the size of the fan.
However most squirrel cage fans are around 10 inches in diameter.
How much does a squirrel cage fan weigh?
Answer: The weight of a squirrel cage fan varies depending on the size of the fan.
However most squirrel cage fans weigh around 10 pounds.
Where can I purchase a squirrel cage fan?
Answer: You can purchase a squirrel cage fan at most hardware stores or home improvement stores.
You can also purchase a squirrel cage fan online.
Jessica Watson is a PHD holder from the University of Washington. She studied behavior and interaction between squirrels and has presented her research in several wildlife conferences including TWS Annual Conference in Winnipeg.
