Easy Exhaust/ Filter Question

I need a clue, or some opinions.

Lights-> ducting -> fan-> filter

or

filter -> lights -> ducting -> fan

Should the filter be placed at the start of the system or the end?

I would prefer the first setup because it would seem to filter all of the air that leaves the tent. The second is what I'm reading is most often done due to the fact that fans pull better than they push. But accepting a tradeoff of a small drop in CFM for a more complete smell filtration system would seem to me to be a good idea. Opinions please

Even in the second situation all of the air leaving the tent would be filtered. I have a better option if you can do it. Two different sets of intakes and exhaust. So basically...

Intake, light, fan, exhaust

Passive intake, exhaust with filter

That way the lights are being cooled seperately and you can better regulate the temps in the tent since the fan wont be running the entire time the lights are on.

Thanks for the reply,

I like your option and would take it, except I'm still partial to trying to cheapskate my way out of this by using just 1 fan. The reflector I'm using on a 400w HID has an open bottom which draws air up thru the bulb. Didn't want to use a closed tube because it might take efficiency away from the 400w (Light is diffused thru the glass ? ). If it were a 600w and esp 1000w that would be the ideal option, yes. I think for now, I will attempt the first 'diagram'. Failing that, I'll have to obtain a closed tube type reflector.

Is there anything known to be 'wrong' about putting the filter on the end such that it won't work as intended?

your second option is better. You want your fan pulling air through your filter. Thats the way to go. Respect!

Alright. I read a thread on another forum regarding this and I'd say I'm very well sorted. If anyone reads this because they're asking about the same question I was, check this link: http://forum.grasscity.com/indoor-marijuana-growing/546921-carbon-filters-better-push-air-through-draw.html

No further discussion necessary. Reps to those who replied. Thanks again.

Only problem is if you are running a light that isnt sealed then there wouldnt really be a way to do filter - light - fan - exhaust It would have to be more like a light - filter - fan - exhaust.

There is also one other option for you which would be to not pull light through the tent and just set up an exhaust at the top if its a tent. so then it would be like filter on the inside of the tent and a centrifugal fan on the outside of the tent.

the first option is fine! ive always done it this way with no smell problems, just make sure theres no holes anywhere in the ducting!