Project Blueprint

Build Your Own
Algae Air Purifier

Commercial bio-purifiers (like the Aerium) can cost upwards of $200-$300. By sourcing components from Amazon.ca and cultivating your own Spirulina algae, you can build a highly effective, aesthetically pleasing CO2 scrubber for a fraction of the cost.

⏱️ ~2 Hours Setup
💰 ~$100 CAD
🌿 100% Natural

How It Works

  • 💨
    1. Air Intake An air pump pulls CO2-rich indoor air and bubbles it through the water.
  • 🩻
    2. Photosynthesis Spirulina microalgae consumes the CO2 and uses LED light to grow.
  • 🌬
    3. Oxygen Release Fresh, oxygenated air is released back into your room through the top vents.

Budget Breakdown

Analyze the estimated costs in CAD based on current Amazon.ca averages. Understanding where your money goes helps you prioritize quality where it matters (like the light and culture).

Estimated Total

$110.00 CAD

↓ 65% cheaper than commercial

■ Biological (Algae/Food) $45.00
■ Hardware (Pump/Light) $40.00
■ Vessel (Glass Jar) $25.00

Amazon.ca Shopping List

Use these search terms on Amazon Canada. Prices are estimates. Filter the list below to manage your purchases.

Step-by-Step Assembly

Follow these instructions to assemble your bioreactor safely and ensure the algae thrives.

Thoroughly clean your glass jar using hot water and a small amount of white vinegar (avoid harsh dish soaps as residue can harm the algae). Rinse completely and let it air dry.

Tip: If your jar has a metal lid, you will need to drill two small holes in it: one for the airline tubing to go in, and one to act as an exhaust vent for the fresh oxygen.

  1. Cut a length of airline tubing long enough to reach from your pump to the bottom of the jar.
  2. Crucial: Cut the tubing halfway and insert the Check Valve. Ensure the flow arrow points TOWARDS the jar. This prevents water from siphoning back into the pump and ruining it.
  3. Attach an air stone to the end of the tubing going into the jar to create micro-bubbles (better CO2 absorption).

Fill the jar about 80% full with dechlorinated water (bottled spring water or tap water left out for 24 hours). Add your Spirulina nutrient mix according to the package directions and stir until dissolved.

Once the water is at room temperature, gently pour in your live Spirulina culture. The water will take on a light green tint.

Position your LED grow light so it shines into the jar. Wrap-around LED strips work great for uniform light. Plug the light and the air pump into a smart plug or timer.

  • Light cycle: 16 hours ON, 8 hours OFF (algae needs to rest).
  • Harvesting: Every 2-4 weeks, as the liquid gets dark green, pour out 30% of the liquid (you can use it as plant fertilizer!) and replace it with fresh water and a small pinch of nutrients.