Keeping dust under control is one of the biggest challenges in any woodworking space. A clean workshop isn’t just about appearances, it’s about protecting your health, improving your finishes, and keeping your machines running smoothly.
At Hammer Roo, we often get asked: “What’s the difference between a dust extractor and a workshop vacuum?” And just as important: “Do I also need an air filter?”
This guide breaks it down so you can decide which system (or combination) will give you the cleanest, safest air for your workshop.
Why Dust Extraction Matters
Wood dust comes in many forms, from chunky planer shavings to invisible particles that hang in the air long after you’ve packed up for the day. Here’s why extraction is so important:
Health: Fine dust (especially from MDF and sanding) can cause respiratory issues and long-term health problems.
Safety: Dust build-up increases fire risk and creates slippery floors.
Machine life: Extraction prevents clogging and motor strain.
Work quality: Dust-free surfaces mean better finishes.
A good extractor protects you, your tools, and your projects.
The Two Main Types of Dust Extraction
When it comes to collecting dust and shavings, there are two main systems:
High Volume, Low Pressure (HVLP) Dust Extractors
Low Volume, High Pressure (LVHP) Workshop Vacuums
Each has its strengths, and most workshops will end up using a mix of both. Let’s look at how they work.
HVLP Dust Extractors (High Volume, Low Pressure)
These are what most people think of as “dust extractors” or “chip collectors.”
How they work: HVLP extractors move a large volume of air at relatively low pressure. This makes them perfect for pulling sawdust, shavings, and chips away from larger machines.
Where they shine: Machines like table saws, planers, thicknessers, jointers, and bandsaws. Anywhere lots of material is being removed at once.
Hose size: Typically use larger hoses (100mm and above) to keep up with the airflow needed.
Pros:
Excellent for big chips and coarse dust.
Moves large volumes of material quickly.
Can be connected to multiple machines with ducting.
Cons:
Not as effective for fine dust from sanding.
Larger footprint than a vacuum.
At Hammer Roo, HVLP dust extractors are the go-to choice for anyone running machinery that produces bulk waste. Pair them with a cartridge filter if you also want to improve fine dust capture.
LVHP Workshop Vacuums (Low Volume, High Pressure)
Workshop vacuums, including portable extractors like Festool or Mirka units, work on the opposite principle.
- How they work: LVHP systems create high suction pressure but move less air overall. That makes them great at pulling fine dust through small hoses.
- Where they shine: Hand-held power tools like sanders, routers, circular saws, and general workshop clean-up.
- Hose size: Usually 27-36mm, though many can adapt to a range of tools.
Pros:
Perfect for fine dust, especially from sanding.
Compact, portable, and easy to store.
Can double as a general-purpose workshop vacuum.
Often come with HEPA filters, which capture even the smallest, most harmful particles.
Cons:
Not designed for large chips or heavy shavings.
Not suitable as the main extractor for ducted systems.
If your workshop involves a lot of sanding, or if space is tight, an LVHP vacuum extractor is a must-have. Festool and Mirka models are customer favourites for their filtration performance and tool integration.
Why You Might Need Both
Most workshops don’t just produce one type of waste. A planer produces big curls, while a random orbital sander produces clouds of fine dust. One extractor type can’t handle both effectively.
That’s why many makers run:
An HVLP dust extractor for large machines.
An LVHP vacuum extractor for power tools and clean-up.
This combo covers all your bases and ensures you’re not breathing in what your main extractor misses.
Don’t Forget the Room Air Filters
Even with good extraction, some dust always escapes into the air. You’ve probably noticed it when sunlight streams into the workshop, the tiny particles floating long after the machines stop. That’s where room air filtration systems come in.
How they work: Mounted to the ceiling or wall, air filters continuously cycle the workshop air, capturing floating particles you can’t see.
When to use: Run during work and leave them on for an hour afterward to clear the air.
Benefits: Creates a safer, healthier environment and reduces the fine layer of dust settling on surfaces.
Think of air filters as the final piece of your dust control system, they handle what your extractors miss.
Which System Do You Need?
Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:
Mostly working with big machines (saws, planers, bandsaws):
Start with a HVLP dust extractor.Doing lots of sanding, routing, or hand-tool power work:
Get a LVHP workshop vacuum.Want the cleanest possible air and less clean-up:
Add a room air filter to catch lingering fine particles.Setting up a serious workshop:
Use a combination, HVLP for big machines, LVHP for power tools, plus an air filter for all-around safety.
Dust extraction isn’t an afterthought, it’s the backbone of a safe, efficient workshop. By choosing the right type of system (or combining them), you’ll breathe easier, extend the life of your machines, and enjoy a cleaner workspace.
At Hammer Roo, we stock a full range of HVLP dust extractors, LVHP portable vacuums, and air filters to suit every setup. Whether you’re starting a small garage workshop or running a professional space, we can help you find the right solution.
The Hammer Roo Team
