Dust Collectors

How to Choose a Dust Collector

Dust collectors fall into two groups. Source capture collectors connect by hose or ducting to a saw or sander and catch chips at the tool. Ambient air filtration systems hang from the ceiling or sit on a bench and clean the fine dust that escapes into the room air. Most shops need both.

Sizing by Air Changes

Size an ambient unit by room volume. Multiply length by width by ceiling height, multiply by the air changes per hour you want, then divide by 60 to get the CFM needed. A 20 by 20 foot shop with a 10 foot ceiling holds 4000 cubic feet, so 6 air changes per hour takes about 400 CFM.

Filtration

• MERV 11 filters. Capture most particles from 1 to 10 microns, the fine sanding and sawing dust that stays airborne longest.
• MERV 13 filters. A finer grade for smaller particles, smoke and odors.
• Pre filters. An outer layer that catches larger chips and extends the life of the main filter.

Placement

Hang the unit near the middle of the shop, or close to where most dust is made, with the intake and outlet clear of walls. Keep at least 6 inches of clearance around the air paths, run the unit during work and leave it on a timer afterward to clear the air.

For restoration and abatement work that needs true HEPA filtration, see air scrubbers, and for dust at the tool see dust extractors.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a dust collector and an air scrubber?

A shop dust collector recirculates room air through MERV rated filters to control fine woodworking dust. An air scrubber uses a true HEPA filter and can run as a negative air machine, which suits mold, asbestos and restoration work.

Can a ceiling mounted air filtration system replace a dust extractor?

No. An ambient unit cleans the dust that is already in the air. A dust extractor or collector connected to the tool captures chips and dust at the source before most of it spreads. Use the two together.

How often should I change the filters?

Check the filters every few weeks in a busy shop. Clean or replace them when they look loaded or the airflow drops. A clogged filter cuts CFM and leaves more dust in the air.

Should I run it after I finish work?

Yes. Fine dust stays airborne long after the saw stops. Most units include a timer, so you can leave the unit running for an hour or more after work and come back to cleaner air.