Choosing a Dust Collector For Home

If you have a woodshop, you probably know that dust can be a nuisance. Not only can it make the place dirty, but it can also be hazardous to the workers.

The best way to deal with this problem is by installing a dust collector. But which type of dust collector is right for you?

1. Size

If you’re looking for a dust collector that can work for you, the size is one of the most important factors to consider. Whether you’re planning on building your own shop, or simply need a system for your own garage workshop, knowing the right size is crucial to keeping you safe from health hazards.

For a small home shop, a 1 to 2 HP conventional bag (canister) dust collector will likely be a good option. These machines typically produce enough air velocity and volume to handle chip removal for most tools, even if they are operated one at a time.

2. Noise

If you are considering purchasing a dust collector for your home, make sure to look at the noise it produces. This will determine whether it is a good option for your needs.

If your needs are more modest, you can go with a unit that has a low noise rating. You can also build a sound enclosure to reduce noise.

The easiest way to do this is to create a two-sided enclosure using drywall panels and lumber for the frame. Line the inside of the enclosure with mass loaded vinyl (MLV) and acoustic foam.

These materials will reduce the amount of noise that your dust collector produces. They will also help prevent vibrations from the collector casing.

3. Noise Reduction

The use of a dust collector is an essential part of any workshop, so it’s important to pick a unit that’s appropriate for your space. If you’re working in a small shop, for instance, a portable unit might be a good option.

Alternatively, you could get a centralized system that consists of pipes and hoses connected to machines in your shop. These units are often a bit more expensive, but they’re better at capturing and filtering out fine dust particles that can cause respiratory issues.

The noise that a dust collector creates is the result of pressure waves that run through the air. This can be an annoying distraction and can even reduce the quality of audio in your home or office.

4. Filtration

Breathing dust, dirt, and chemical compositions can pose a health risk to people. To prevent this, you should invest in dust collectors that effectively remove these harmful substances from the air.

Systems for fine removal may contain a single filtration system (such as a filter bag or cartridge), but most units utilize a primary and secondary separation/filtration system, as well as cyclone separators or dryers to reduce the heat or moisture content of dust before it reaches the filters.

These filtration methods work best when the dust particles are of a low specific gravity. This is achieved through a series of filters that are airtight and capable of capturing dust at the smallest micron size.

5. Portability

If you need to collect dust from isolated jobs that are not in the same area as your larger collection system, a portable dust collector may be the right option for you. These smaller units are easy to maneuver and usually include casters to allow you to cart them around your shop and move them from one area to another.

If you have a large workshop that contains multiple machines, a larger bag (canister) dust collector might be more suitable for your needs. These collectors have higher air flow capacities and can handle more than one machine at a time.