Anyone that is working with larger power tools, or completing woodwork jobs, is going to need a dust extractor. They are essential for keeping you healthy, keeping your tools working correctly and just for making your life easier. A dust extraction unit is there to do exactly what the name suggests – extract any dust that is created when you are using your tools!
There are lots of different types of dust extraction units depending on the level of dust that you are creating with the jobs that you do – this buyers guide aims to explain all of that!
Best Pick – Dust Extractors
- Persistent, uninterrupted suction power: Rotational airflow technology prevents the filters from clogging
- Versatile: Its bagless design and numerous accessories make the GAS 18V-10 L ideal for a variety of both dry and wet applications
- Easy transportation: Thanks to the low weight and compact design
- AMPShare: Batteries and chargers are fully compatible with the Bosch Professional 18V System and with many other tools of the multi-brand AMPShare battery alliance.
- Professional 18V System. Ultimate performance. Maximum freedom. All our rechargeable batteries are compatible with new and existing Bosch Professional tools in the same voltage class
Last update on 2024-04-28 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases
Why Do I Need A Dust Extractor?
Many people may think that a dust extractor is an unnecessary, costly purchase…but they couldn’t be more wrong! A dust extractor will be able to work to remove most of the dust and debris from the area that you are working in whilst you are working, this means that you are not going to have to pause while completing your jobs to remove the dust build up. Not only this, but because the dust is removed while you are working, you will not have to spend ages after you have finished clearing up! On average people spend between one and two hours clearing up after a DIY job – why waste this time after every job when there is a tool that can do the work for you?!
Another benefit of a dust extractor is that it will help to reduce any damage that might occur to your tools from them sucking in the dust or becoming blocked with dust. If you are working in an area that is full of dust or debris, there is a much higher chance of this getting into the mechanisms or gaps in the tools, which could cause them to overheat and become damaged.
Now you know a couple of the main reasons why you need a dust extractor, keep reading for those all important factors that you need to consider…
Only Got 5 Minutes?
If you have a job in mind, or are wanting to get started on your own woodwork projects, or maybe you are just sick of the massive amount of mess left behind after working – this part of the article is for you. We have compiled all of the main information that you need to consider before making that all important purchase of a dust extractor.
Features to Consider
Here are some of the main features that you need to look out for when purchasing a dust extractor.
Suction power
This is basically the amount of airflow being produced for suction. The higher the CFM (or occasionally PSI) the more dust that can be sucked up in a shorter space of time. We would recommend looking for models around 150CFM for general, light use (if you are completing small home projects or DIY) but if you are regularly completing bigger jobs then look for models going up to 300CFM (some will actually go even higher than this!).
Some makes of dust extractor will also have settings that allow you to change the suction depending on what tool and job you are completing. This is well worth looking out for as it will avoid any of the materials that you actually want being sucked into the dust extractor!
Power consumption
The power consumption will support the suction power in determining how much dust your dust extractor will be able to remove and also the type of dust and debris that it will be able to cope with. If you are looking to complete light to medium work then you will need to look for power levels between 700W and 1200W. There are models that are much more powerful coming in at over 1800W but these will be used for more industrial settings.
More power will mean that they are able to cope with wet spills when vacuuming too. It is important to check whether your dust extractor will be able to cope with wet as well as dry messes that need clearing, as this will mean that it will be able to cope with all jobs that come their way and won’t become damaged by clearing up wet mess that may have been created either on purpose or by accident!
Bagless or Bagged
This directly determines where the dust is stored when it has been removed from the work area. Some dust extractors will have bags which means that the dust will be collected and then easily disposed – simply remove the bag, put it in the bin and replace the bag. However, this does mean that you have the added expense of having to replace the bags and they often don’t store as much! Bagless models will store more and will save you having to purchase and fit bags, but you do then risk making more of a mess when disposing of the dust.
Best Budget – Dust Extractors
- Approved for dust class L in accordance with the EU standard
- For wet and dry vacuum cleaning
- With power Take off
- Motor head design with a flat top and tool deposit
- Hose storage with flexible rubber strap
Last update on 2024-04-28 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases
Vacuum Attachments
Make sure to look for a model with different vacuum attachments, this means that you will be able to use your dust extractor for different surfaces and in different areas. Some available attachments include flat nozzles, extension wands and ones with brush heads.
Also make sure to check the length of the hose that comes with your dust extractor as this will obviously affect where you can reach. Make sure the hose and attachments are made from sturdy materials that will be able to cope with the force of the suction and the constant use and movement.
Tank capacity
The tank capacity determines the amount your dust extractor will be able to hold before you need to empty it. This is crucial because too small tank capacity will leave you having to empty your dust extractor a lot more regularly, which will then increase the amount of time the job actually takes. We would recommend looking for at least 15 to 20 litres of tank capacity if you are completing small to medium sized jobs relatively regularly. However, if you are planning on completing a number of large jobs then opt for one with a much bigger tank capacity – some will have upwards of 45 litres.
TOP TIP: Remember the bigger the tank capacity the heavier it will then be when it is full, which will impact on you then emptying the tank. If you struggle with heavy lifting then it may be worth opting for a smaller tank capacity, simply to make it easier when being emptied.
Build Materials
The build material of your dust extractor will determine how durable it is and how likely it is to last. Stainless steel will be more durable but also more expensive and heavier. Whereas, plastic will be lighter so easier to move around between jobs but less likely to last as long!
Size
The size of dust extractors varies massively, so you need to take into account where you are planning on storing this device, and if you have space for a larger model in the first place, as some of them will take up considerable space in your workshop!
As a general rule, the larger the tank and the greater the power, the larger the dust extractor will be (although there are some clever models that manage to compact more into a smaller unit – but these usually come at a price!). Try to remember that the larger the model will also usually make it heavier, so if you are planning on moving your dust extractor from one place to another between jobs then you need to consider how you are going to do this! Some models come with wheels, whereas others will have a handle allowing you to lift and maneuver the machine.
Additional Features of Dust Extractors
There are some additional features that are worth considering when purchasing a dust extractor if you want one that is both going to last but also going to make your life easier when completing DIY jobs.
- Noise level – This is important for not just your own ear protection but also for the sake of any neighbours or other people that you may have around while working. Dust extractors can be loud tools, and if they are going to be on continuously for a few hours then this noise is going to get a bit wearing! We would recommend looking for a model with less than 85dB.
- Ability to plug directly into power tools – some models will allow you to plug directly into the power tools that you are working with (providing the tools are also compatible with this). The benefit of this is that they will be able to remove dust and debris right from the source of where you are working. Some dust extractors that can be connected straight into the power tools will also have “delayed shut off” meaning that they will carry on working after the powertool has been switched off to make sure any last bits of dust have been removed.
- Noise alerts – Some dust extractors will alert you to any issues with a beeping sound, allowing you to resolve the issue and get back to work. These could include blockages, low suction or if the device becomes full.
- Automatic cleaning filters – This is a rarer feature to find in dust extractors but some models will have automatic cleaning filters which will reduce the amount of time and effort that you need to put into doing this important maintenance work.
- Onboard storage – This may only sound like a small thing, but opting for a dust extractor that has onboard storage for all of your accessories and adaptors will mean that they are right there for when you need them and should be less likely to go missing!
- Automatic shut off when at full capacity – This is a great feature to avoid putting your dust extractor under any unnecessary strain. As soon as your dust extractor reaches full capacity it will switch off, signalling for you to empty it before you start work again. This avoids overheating and damage to the machine.
- Cordless or corded – There are some smaller power dust extractors that you will find in cordless models. These are perfect for if you are wanting to move your dust extractor to different locations as they are completely portable. But, it is important to remember they probably won’t have the longest battery lives, they are perfect for small jobs as they are easy to use and to move around.
- Safety Categories – Dust extractors come in three categories (Low, Medium and High). Obviously the higher the safety scoring the better you will be protected from the dust and debris that is in the air when you are working. We would suggest going for at least Medium Level protection.
Best of the Rest
- Semi-rigid 1ml / 33 fl oz capacity
- High filtering capacity non-woven material
- Clear fill indication
- For use with the Triton Plunge Track Saw TTS14
Last update on 2024-04-28 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases
- The GAS 18V-1 cordless handheld vacuum cleaner by Bosch Professional – handy and powerful
- Two rotational air flows, which prevents the filters from clogging, guarantee a long-lasting suction power
- High comfort thanks to ergonomic handle and easy removal of filter and collecting container
- An optimised motor ensures a long runtime for the vacuum cleaner
- Professional 18V System. Ultimate performance. Maximum freedom. All of our rechargeable batteries are compatible with new and existing Bosch Professional tools in the same voltage class.
Last update on 2024-04-28 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases
- Makita Dx01 Dust Extraction System
- Bags
- Quality Makita accessories for power tools and garden tools
- Suction: 350 l/m
- Capacity: 300ml
Last update on 2024-04-28 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases
Frequently Asked Questions
What is kPa?
The abbreviation kPa stands for Kilopascal and is the pressure measurement unit that tends to be used in models that are produced outside the UK (mostly in America). It is essentially their version of PSI or CFM, but you will need to use an online calculator to convert the measurements if you are wanting to compare between brands that use different units in this way.
What safety specification should I look for from my dust extractor?
The main safety spec to watch out for is the European Union class M standards, which means that the tool has been tested for its safe use and will be able to remove medium hazardous dust, such as wood dust, paint particles and metal dust. Any lower than this and your dust extractor may not be up to the task!
Do I need a certain filter for my dust extractor?
We would definitely recommend looking out for a dust extractor that has a HEPA filter or a Micro filter as these will be able to trap dust and debris and remove most microbes and allergens – making the air healthier for you to then breath in. It is worth, if possible, opting for a model with filters that can be washed as this will mean that they will last longer and be better value for money.
How do dust extractors connect to tools?
Most power tools that are compatible with dust extractors will come with a connector valve that allows you to add the hose of the dust extractor. It is worth mentioning though that some tools won’t be compatible and others may need some adjustments for you to be able to connect them correctly so this is worth checking for!
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