Smoke Eater Project Cost Estimator
Helping our customers plan their clean air projects is very important. This page will help you get a better grasp on how many smoke eaters and much money you should budget for your Clean Air Project. If you don’t understand how the cost estimator works give us a call or ask for help in the website chat.
This tool will work for everything from homes to factories. We can service a 10’x 10′ smoking room to a 25,000 sq foot industrial space. We help keep the air clean in the smallest man cave to some of the largest casinos.
When you are ready to order or need help making it work in your head, please call us to Help with your Clean Air Project (800-558-9436). We can help you with unit selection, extra options, special discounts and a host of other topics.
How the Calculator Works
As you enter information the results fill in automatically:
- Enter the room dimensions (All 3) and a smoking activity. The smoking activity choices are linked to a number of ACH (air changes per hour). Being this page is about Smoke Eaters, smoking activities and the suggested and the corresponding ACH are listed. When these 4 items are entered the number of CFM required is displayed. Change room size or activities and you will see the the display change automatically.
- To help figure your estimated costs, choose a LakeAir Smoke Eater model. The model MSRP is included in the choice. There is a lot to consider when planning your project. Our goal is to put you in control. Look at the models and see what fits your budget and needs. Remember, we are here to help, you can ask for help in chat, via email or on the phone. Make your clean air project your own. There are other models available, this tool includes our most popular models.
Additional Information
- Shipping is included on most Unit Purchases
- All Filters are Included
- Prices do not include discounts or special pricing.
- LAAS Units Require Additional Ductwork
- Units that you want hard-wired may require an electrician at an extra cost
- Sales Tax is due on Units sold inside the State of Wisconsin
Choosing the Right Smoke Eater for Your Project
Every smoking space is different. Some projects have access above the ceiling, some have available wall space, and others need a solution that can be installed with minimal construction. The goal of this estimator is not to design the room for you. The goal is to help you understand which LakeAir smoke eater systems are most likely to fit your project and budget.
The examples below show four common approaches to smoke removal. Each uses the same core LakeAir filtration technology, but the installation methods are very different. Some systems are hidden entirely from view, while others prioritize ease of installation and lower construction costs.
Four Installation Styles
LAAS-3200 / LAAS-4800
Installed outside the room and connected with ductwork. Ideal when the goal is maximum concealment and a clean architectural appearance.
WM-RC2
Built directly into a wall cavity. A popular choice when ceiling access is limited or when a flush appearance is desired.
LAFC-RC2
Mounted above the ceiling with only the face visible below. Often selected for dedicated cigar rooms, lounges, and finished basements.
LA2-RC2
Suspended from the ceiling or mounted to a wall. Frequently chosen when minimizing construction costs and installation time is the primary objective.
No Visible Smoke Eaters? No Problem
Not every smoking room needs visible air purification equipment. In many projects, the preferred solution is to place the smoke eaters outside the room and connect them with ductwork. This approach keeps the room focused on the furniture, finishes, and atmosphere rather than the equipment doing the work.
The LAAS-3200 and LAAS-4800 systems are popular choices for homeowners, cigar lounges, and private clubs that want a clean architectural appearance. Because the units are installed in a nearby utility space, basement, mechanical room, or adjacent area, the only visible components inside the smoking room are the supply and return grilles.
This installation style offers tremendous flexibility during the design process. Clean air can be delivered where it is needed most, while smoky air is collected and filtered before being returned to the room. The result is a space that feels comfortable and inviting without large air purification equipment occupying valuable wall or ceiling space.
Ducted smoke eater systems generally require more planning than ceiling-mounted or wall-mounted units, but they provide one of the most discreet solutions available. For customers who want the benefits of commercial-grade smoke removal without seeing the equipment itself, a ducted LAAS system is often the preferred choice.
If your project calls for a hidden air purification solution, the LAAS-3200 and LAAS-4800 are excellent starting points.
Key Takeaway: If you want to hide your smoke eaters, you need a ducted smoke eater (DSE) The LAA2 3200 is you best choice.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| HEPA Capacity | 1,000 CFM |
| Electrostatic Capacity | 1,500 CFM |
| Unit Size | 21.5″ × 29″ × 19″ |
| Sound Level | 43–74 dB(A) |
| Electrical | 120V, 7.5 Amps |
The Best Ducted Design
One of the advantages of a ducted smoke eater system is the ability to control where clean air enters the room and where smoky air is collected. Many successful designs introduce filtered air near the occupied portion of the room while locating return grilles higher in the space where smoke naturally accumulates. This creates a gentle circulation pattern that continuously moves smoke away from seating areas and back toward the filtration system.
The goal is not simply to move air. The goal is to keep the air people are breathing cleaner and more comfortable throughout the smoking session. When properly planned, a ducted system can provide excellent smoke control while keeping the air purification equipment completely out of sight.
Can't Use the Ceiling? Consider a Wall-Mounted Solution.
Not every smoking room has accessible ceiling space. Exposed beams, decorative ceilings, concrete construction, or architectural details can make ceiling-mounted air purification difficult or undesirable. In these situations, the WM-RC2 offers a clean alternative.
Unlike surface-mounted equipment, the WM-RC2 is recessed directly into the wall. Once installed, it presents a flush, finished appearance that blends naturally into the room. Many customers compare the finished look to a custom HVAC return grille rather than a traditional smoke eater.
The WM-RC2 uses the same commercial-grade filtration technology found throughout the LakeAir product line while preserving valuable floor and ceiling space. Because the unit is built into the wall cavity, it remains out of the way while continuing to provide the airflow needed for effective smoke and odor control.
Installation does require framing and planning, making it more involved than a suspended unit. However, for projects where appearance is a priority and ceiling access is limited, the WM-RC2 is often the preferred solution.
Key Takeaway: The WM-RC2 delivers commercial-grade smoke removal in a built-in, flush-mounted design that preserves both ceiling space and room aesthetics.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Airflow Capacity | 1000 CFM |
| Unit Size | 33″ × 24″ × 11″ |
| Sound Level | 40–69 dB(A) |
| Electrical Requirements | 120V AC, 2.6 Amps |
| Unit Weight | 70 lbs. |
Want a Built-In Look Without Ductwork?
The LAFC-RC2 is one of the most popular smoke eater systems for dedicated cigar rooms, lounges, and smoking spaces. Unlike a ducted system, the LAFC installs directly into the ceiling and requires no separate mechanical room or extensive ductwork. Once installed, only the face of the unit remains visible, allowing it to blend naturally into the room’s design.
Many customers choose the LAFC-RC2 because it offers a balance between appearance, performance, and installation simplicity. The unit provides commercial-grade smoke and odor control while avoiding much of the planning and construction associated with larger ducted systems.
With only 11 inches of required ceiling space, the LAFC-RC2 can fit into many locations where traditional ducted equipment would be difficult or impractical to install. Access to filters and maintenance components is handled through the hinged service door, making routine maintenance straightforward.
For many smoking rooms, the LAFC-RC2 represents the sweet spot between a completely hidden ducted system and a surface-mounted smoke eater.
Key Takeaway: The LAFC-RC2 delivers a clean built-in appearance and commercial-grade smoke removal without requiring ductwork or a separate mechanical room.
LA2-RC2 Ceiling Hung Smoke Eater
Need Easy Installation Without Sacrificing Performance?
Sometimes the best solution is also the simplest. The LA2-EXT was developed for customers who want commercial-grade smoke and odor control without opening walls, building soffits, or installing ductwork. It mounts directly to the wall or suspends from the ceiling, making it one of the fastest ways to add serious air purification to a smoking space.
Building on the proven LA2 platform, the LA2-EXT was redesigned to deliver improved airflow performance while operating at lower sound levels. The result is a smoke eater that is well suited for cigar rooms, garages, lounges, private clubs, and retrofit projects where construction is limited or simply not desired.
Many customers choose the LA2-EXT because it allows them to focus their budget on air purification rather than construction costs. Installation is straightforward, maintenance is simple, and the system can often be installed in locations where built-in alternatives would be impractical.
For projects where speed, flexibility, and value are important, the LA2-EXT is often the easiest path to a cleaner smoking environment.
Key Takeaway: The LA2-EXT combines easy installation, improved performance, and lower sound levels, making it an excellent choice for retrofit projects and smoking rooms where major construction is not desired.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Airflow Capacity | 400–1,000 CFM |
| Unit Size | 21.5″ × 29″ × 21.5″ |
| Sound Level | 43–69 dB(A) |
| Electrical Requirements | 120V AC, 3 Amps |
| Unit Weight | 105–115 lbs. |
Why Do Many Projects Use 750 CFM Instead of 1,000 CFM?
A smoke eater’s maximum airflow rating is similar to the top speed of a vehicle. While it is useful to know what the equipment is capable of, most projects are not designed to operate at maximum output all the time.
Many smoking rooms perform exceptionally well when designed around approximately 750 CFM per unit. At this operating level, the smoke eater typically runs quieter, uses less energy, and maintains reserve airflow capacity for periods of heavier smoking activity. The room remains comfortable while the system retains additional performance when it is needed.
Designing around 1,000 CFM per unit remains an excellent option when maximum smoke removal is the primary objective. Larger rooms, higher occupancy levels, and heavier smoking loads may justify designing closer to the unit’s maximum capacity.
The goal is not simply to move the greatest amount of air possible. The goal is to create a comfortable smoking environment while maintaining enough reserve performance to handle changing conditions throughout the day.
Key Takeaway: Many projects are designed around approximately 750 CFM per unit because it provides a balance of smoke removal performance, lower sound levels, reduced energy consumption, and reserve airflow capacity when demand increases.
Equipment List and Cost in a Simple Table
The recommendations below are intended to provide a quick planning estimate based on the room dimensions, performance level, and mounting preferences selected in the calculator. The equipment quantities shown represent a typical starting point for achieving the desired smoke and odor control objectives.
Actual project requirements may vary based on room layout, smoking volume, occupancy, ceiling height, and other site-specific factors. Installation costs, electrical work, ductwork, shipping charges, and optional accessories are not included unless specifically noted.
The pricing shown represents estimated MSRP equipment pricing and is intended for budgeting purposes only. Prices do not reflect promotional discounts, quantity discounts, contractor pricing, package pricing, CAPP discounts, special offers, or other sales incentives that may be available at the time of purchase.
Use this table as a planning and budgeting tool. If you would like assistance refining the recommendation, the LakeAir team can review your project and help determine the most appropriate equipment configuration.
Key Takeaway: The table below provides a practical starting point for equipment selection and project budgeting based on the information entered into the estimator.
Resdential Equipment Table
This table is the output from the calculator above. You can quickly scan this table to find the air purification equipment needed for your project. There are many nuances in cigar lounge design. The table outputs had numbers. We invite you to call our customer service number to verify your individual needs.
These numbers do not include ventilation equipment. This can affect the exact number of air purifications you will need.
| Room Size | Expectation & Sound Profile | Ceiling Mounted (Flush / T-Bar) | Suspended (Exposed Hang) | Wall Mounted (Recessed Flush) | Ducted (Remote Inline) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Under 200 sq ft | Standard: Good Smoke & Odor Control (20 ACH) 📢 Sound: Crowded Restaurant (68-72 dB) | 1 LAFC-RC2-HOC $2,700 | 1 LA-EXT-HOC $2,700 | 1 WM-RC2-HOC $2,700 | 1 LAAS-3200-HOC $3,000 |
| Solid: Good Smoke & Odor Control (20 ACH) 🗣️ Sound: Normal Conversation (60-66 dB) | 1 LAFC-RC2-HOC $2,700 | 1 LA-EXT-HOC $2,700 | 1 WM-RC2-HOC $2,700 | 1 LAAS-3200-HOC $3,000 | |
| Premium: Very Good Smoke & Odor Control (25 ACH) 🗣️ Sound: Normal Conversation (55-59 dB) | 1 LAFC-RC2-HOC $2,700 | 1 LA-EXT-HOC $2,700 | 1 WM-RC2-HOC $2,700 | 1 LAAS-3200-HOC $3,000 | |
| Elite: Very Good Smoke & Odor Removal (25 ACH) 🌧️ Sound: Rain Falling (52-55 dB) | 1 LAFC-RC2-HOC $2,700 | 1 LA-EXT-HOC $2,700 | 1 WM-RC2-HOC $2,700 | 1 LAAS-3200-HOC $3,000 | |
| Iconic: Very Good Smoke & Odor Removal 🤫 Sound: Quiet Conversation (<50 dB) | 2 LAFC-RC2-HOC $5,400 | 2 LA-EXT-HOC $5,400 | 2 WM-RC2-HOC $5,400 | 2 LAAS-3200-HOC $6,000 | |
| 200 – 300 sq ft | Standard: Good Smoke & Odor Control (20 ACH) 📢 Sound: Crowded Restaurant (68-72 dB) | 1 LAFC-RC2-HOC $2,700 | 1 LA-EXT-HOC $2,700 | 1 WM-RC2-HOC $2,700 | 1 LAAS-3200-HOC $3,000 |
| Solid: Good Smoke & Odor Control (20 ACH) 🗣️ Sound: Normal Conversation (60-66 dB) | 1 LAFC-RC2-HOC $2,700 | 1 LA-EXT-HOC $2,700 | 1 WM-RC2-HOC $2,700 | 1 LAAS-3200-HOC $3,000 | |
| Premium: Very Good Smoke & Odor Control (25 ACH) 🗣️ Sound: Normal Conversation (55-59 dB) | 1 LAFC-RC2-HOC $2,700 | 1 LA-EXT-HOC $2,700 | 1 WM-RC2-HOC $2,700 | 1 LAAS-3200-HOC $3,000 | |
| Elite: Very Good Smoke & Odor Removal (25 ACH) 🌧️ Sound: Rain Falling (52-55 dB) | 2 LAFC-RC2-HOC $5,400 | 2 LA-EXT-HOC $5,400 | 2 WM-RC2-HOC $5,400 | 2 LAAS-3200-HOC $6,000 | |
| Iconic: Very Good Smoke & Odor Removal 🤫 Sound: Quiet Conversation (<50 dB) | 2 LAFC-RC2-HOC $5,400 | 2 LA-EXT-HOC $5,400 | 2 WM-RC2-HOC $5,400 | 2 LAAS-3200-HOC $6,000 | |
| 300 – 400 sq ft | Standard: Good Smoke & Odor Control (20 ACH) 📢 Sound: Crowded Restaurant (68-72 dB) | 1 LAFC-RC2-HOC $2,700 | 1 LA-EXT-HOC $2,700 | 1 WM-RC2-HOC $2,700 | 1 LAAS-3200-HOC $3,000 |
| Solid: Good Smoke & Odor Control (20 ACH) 🗣️ Sound: Normal Conversation (60-66 dB) | 1 LAFC-RC2-HOC $2,700 | 1 LA-EXT-HOC $2,700 | 1 WM-RC2-HOC $2,700 | 1 LAAS-3200-HOC $3,000 | |
| Premium: Very Good Smoke & Odor Control (25 ACH) 🗣️ Sound: Normal Conversation (55-59 dB) | 2 LAFC-RC2-HOC $5,400 | 2 LA-EXT-HOC $5,400 | 2 WM-RC2-HOC $5,400 | 2 LAAS-3200-HOC $6,000 | |
| Elite: Very Good Smoke & Odor Removal (25 ACH) 🌧️ Sound: Rain Falling (52-55 dB) | 2 LAFC-RC2-HOC $5,400 | 2 LA-EXT-HOC $5,400 | 2 WM-RC2-HOC $5,400 | 2 LAAS-3200-HOC $6,000 | |
| Iconic: Very Good Smoke & Odor Removal 🤫 Sound: Quiet Conversation (<50 dB) | 3 LAFC-RC2-HOC $8,100 | 3 LA-EXT-HOC $8,100 | 3 WM-RC2-HOC $8,100 | 3 LAAS-3200-HOC $9,000 |
Commercial Equipment Table 500 - 2000 Sq Feet
| Size | Expectation | In Ceiling | Hanging | In Wall | In another room |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Less than 500 sq ft | Basic | (1) LAFC-RC2-HOC $2,700.00 | (1) LA-EXT-HOC $2,700.00 | (1) WM-RC2-HOC $2,700.00 | (1) LAAS-3200-HOC $3,000.00 |
| Solid | (2) LAFC-RC2-HOC $5,400.00 | (2) LA-EXT-HOC $5,400.00 | (2) WM-RC2-HOC $5,400.00 | (2) LAAS-3200-HOC $6,000.00 | |
| Premium | (2) LAFC-RC2-HOC $5,400.00 | (2) LA-EXT-HOC $5,400.00 | (2) WM-RC2-HOC $5,400.00 | (2) LAAS-3200-HOC $6,000.00 | |
| Elite | (3) LAFC-RC2-HOC $8,100.00 | (3) LA-EXT-HOC $8,100.00 | (3) WM-RC2-HOC $8,100.00 | (3) LAAS-3200-HOC $9,000.00 | |
| Iconic | (4) LAFC-RC2-HOC $10,800.00 | (4) LA-EXT-HOC $10,800.00 | (4) WM-RC2-HOC $10,800.00 | (4) LAAS-3200-HOC $12,000.00 | |
| 500 – 750 sq ft | Basic | (2) LAFC-RC2-HOC $5,400.00 | (2) LA-EXT-HOC $5,400.00 | (2) WM-RC2-HOC $5,400.00 | (2) LAAS-3200-HOC $6,000.00 |
| Solid | (3) LAFC-RC2-HOC $8,100.00 | (3) LA-EXT-HOC $8,100.00 | (3) WM-RC2-HOC $8,100.00 | (3) LAAS-3200-HOC $9,000.00 | |
| Premium | (4) LAFC-RC2-HOC $10,800.00 | (4) LA-EXT-HOC $10,800.00 | (4) WM-RC2-HOC $10,800.00 | (4) LAAS-3200-HOC $12,000.00 | |
| Elite | (4) LAFC-RC2-HOC $10,800.00 | (4) LA-EXT-HOC $10,800.00 | (4) WM-RC2-HOC $10,800.00 | (4) LAAS-3200-HOC $12,000.00 | |
| Iconic | (6) LAFC-RC2-HOC $16,200.00 | (6) LA-EXT-HOC $16,200.00 | (6) WM-RC2-HOC $16,200.00 | (6) LAAS-3200-HOC $18,000.00 | |
| 750 – 1,000 sq ft | Basic | (3) LAFC-RC2-HOC $8,100.00 | (3) LA-EXT-HOC $8,100.00 | (3) WM-RC2-HOC $8,100.00 | (3) LAAS-3200-HOC $9,000.00 |
| Solid | (4) LAFC-RC2-HOC $10,800.00 | (4) LA-EXT-HOC $10,800.00 | (4) WM-RC2-HOC $10,800.00 | (4) LAAS-3200-HOC $12,000.00 | |
| Premium | (5) LAFC-RC2-HOC $13,500.00 | (5) LA-EXT-HOC $13,500.00 | (5) WM-RC2-HOC $13,500.00 | (5) LAAS-3200-HOC $15,000.00 | |
| Elite | (6) LAFC-RC2-HOC $16,200.00 | (6) LA-EXT-HOC $16,200.00 | (6) WM-RC2-HOC $16,200.00 | (6) LAAS-3200-HOC $18,000.00 | |
| Iconic | (8) LAFC-RC2-HOC $21,600.00 | (8) LA-EXT-HOC $21,600.00 | (8) WM-RC2-HOC $21,600.00 | (8) LAAS-3200-HOC $24,000.00 | |
| 1,000 – 1,250 sq ft | Basic | (4) LAFC-RC2-HOC $10,800.00 | (4) LA-EXT-HOC $10,800.00 | (4) WM-RC2-HOC $10,800.00 | (4) LAAS-3200-HOC $12,000.00 |
| Solid | (5) LAFC-RC2-HOC $13,500.00 | (5) LA-EXT-HOC $13,500.00 | (5) WM-RC2-HOC $13,500.00 | (5) LAAS-3200-HOC $15,000.00 | |
| Premium | (6) LAFC-RC2-HOC $16,200.00 | (6) LA-EXT-HOC $16,200.00 | (6) WM-RC2-HOC $16,200.00 | (6) LAAS-3200-HOC $18,000.00 | |
| Elite | (7) LAFC-RC2-HOC $18,900.00 | (7) LA-EXT-HOC $18,900.00 | (7) WM-RC2-HOC $18,900.00 | (7) LAAS-3200-HOC $21,000.00 | |
| Iconic | (10) LAFC-RC2-HOC $27,000.00 | (10) LA-EXT-HOC $27,000.00 | (10) WM-RC2-HOC $27,000.00 | (10) LAAS-3200-HOC $30,000.00 | |
| 1,250 – 1,500 sq ft | Basic | (4) LAFC-RC2-HOC $10,800.00 | (4) LA-EXT-HOC $10,800.00 | (4) WM-RC2-HOC $10,800.00 | (4) LAAS-3200-HOC $12,000.00 |
| Solid | (6) LAFC-RC2-HOC $16,200.00 | (6) LA-EXT-HOC $16,200.00 | (6) WM-RC2-HOC $16,200.00 | (6) LAAS-3200-HOC $18,000.00 | |
| Premium | (7) LAFC-RC2-HOC $18,900.00 | (7) LA-EXT-HOC $18,900.00 | (7) WM-RC2-HOC $18,900.00 | (7) LAAS-3200-HOC $21,000.00 | |
| Elite | (9) LAFC-RC2-HOC $24,300.00 | (9) LA-EXT-HOC $24,300.00 | (9) WM-RC2-HOC $24,300.00 | (9) LAAS-3200-HOC $27,000.00 | |
| Iconic | (12) LAFC-RC2-HOC $32,400.00 | (12) LA-EXT-HOC $32,400.00 | (12) WM-RC2-HOC $32,400.00 | (12) LAAS-3200-HOC $36,000.00 | |
| 1,500 – 1,750 sq ft | Basic | (5) LAFC-RC2-HOC $13,500.00 | (5) LA-EXT-HOC $13,500.00 | (5) WM-RC2-HOC $13,500.00 | (5) LAAS-3200-HOC $15,000.00 |
| Solid | (7) LAFC-RC2-HOC $18,900.00 | (7) LA-EXT-HOC $18,900.00 | (7) WM-RC2-HOC $18,900.00 | (7) LAAS-3200-HOC $21,000.00 | |
| Premium | (8) LAFC-RC2-HOC $21,600.00 | (8) LA-EXT-HOC $21,600.00 | (8) WM-RC2-HOC $21,600.00 | (8) LAAS-3200-HOC $24,000.00 | |
| Elite | (10) LAFC-RC2-HOC $27,000.00 | (10) LA-EXT-HOC $27,000.00 | (10) WM-RC2-HOC $27,000.00 | (10) LAAS-3200-HOC $30,000.00 | |
| Iconic | (14) LAFC-RC2-HOC $37,800.00 | (14) LA-EXT-HOC $37,800.00 | (14) WM-RC2-HOC $37,800.00 | (14) LAAS-3200-HOC $42,000.00 | |
| 1,750 – 2,000 sq ft | Basic | (6) LAFC-RC2-HOC $16,200.00 | (6) LA-EXT-HOC $16,200.00 | (6) WM-RC2-HOC $16,200.00 | (6) LAAS-3200-HOC $18,000.00 |
| Solid | (8) LAFC-RC2-HOC $21,600.00 | (8) LA-EXT-HOC $21,600.00 | (8) WM-RC2-HOC $21,600.00 | (8) LAAS-3200-HOC $24,000.00 | |
| Premium | (10) LAFC-RC2-HOC $27,000.00 | (10) LA-EXT-HOC $27,000.00 | (10) WM-RC2-HOC $27,000.00 | (10) LAAS-3200-HOC $30,000.00 | |
| Elite | (11) LAFC-RC2-HOC $29,700.00 | (11) LA-EXT-HOC $29,700.00 | (11) WM-RC2-HOC $29,700.00 | (11) LAAS-3200-HOC $33,000.00 | |
| Iconic | (16) LAFC-RC2-HOC $43,200.00 | (16) LA-EXT-HOC $43,200.00 | (16) WM-RC2-HOC $43,200.00 | (16) LAAS-3200-HOC $48,000.00 |