While it is possible to have a system to help with dust extraction within a workshop, these units are not always easily within the price range of the average woodworker, although free-standing extractors which do not depend upon ductwork are a real possibility to avoid too much dust within the workshop area. These are used for localized dust extraction and can be used in conjunction with traditional woodwork vacuums to help keep the level of dust acceptable within the woodworking environment. The types of vacuums which can be considered for the workshop vary in price and also in function, and to choose the best kind for your needs, the specifications listed below need to be check-listed in order of priority:

*Wet/Dry

*Power

*Vacuum and blow options.

*Portability.

*Available tools.

*Canister capacity.

*Filtering and sound.

*Price limitations.

Wet/Dry.

Ideally in a workshop and wet and dry vacuum is the best option. You never know when you will need the wet option and this gives you more flexibility. Wet and dry vacuums usually have a large capacity and can be used in emergency situations to clean up water. In an environment where the integrity of machinery depends upon dryness, this is essential to consider if there is any risk of flooding, or spillage. Shop vacuums with the wet and dry facility help you to keep the floor area of the workshop clean.

Power.

The different power settings should also be considered as the higher the power, the more useful the tool will be in efficient cleaning. Typically, a 1300 watt appliance offers sufficient cleaning power, though do not dismiss those workshop hand held vacuums for worktop cleaning, as these can be great for localized vacuuming after work is performed. The power cord should be sufficiently long to fit your workshop. This is vital as many cheaper brands pay little attention to lead length. Some workshop vacuums have their power measured in HP, and this gives a great indication of whether the vacuum can handle the high volume work required of it in a workshop situation.

Vacuum and blow options.

Those tools with vacuum and blow options are super for working with power machinery. What these give you is the availability of a dual purpose tool, since all dust and dirt can be blown from all the small places on a machine to the floor area, to be cleaned up thoroughly. This beats having to vacuum machinery where the nozzles have difficulty reaching areas which are obscured.

Portability.

• 1
• 2
• next page >>

---

Add your voice

Know something about The best wood shop vacuums?
We want to hear your view. Write now!