Which extractor for small workshop?

[grbmds]

Ok, so I decided on the CTL26 AC. I need something with some portability and might get a static more powerful unit down the line.

I've been looking at reviews and am wondering if I made a mistake in buying the autoclean version. Does it have a HEPA filter in it as standard like the non-autoclean version? And can I use autoclean with the fabric self clean bags? It will be mostly for wood dust but I do occasionaly clean up plaster and paint dust.

Do you think I should have bought the standard one?

Did they sell you that because you needed it?
Or because they did not ask?

This quote indicates that the AC was not required:

...- it will be used with power tools - router table, TS55, mitre saw, sander etc and general shop tidying. I'll be needing to move it around from tool to tool. I was looking at the CTL 26 ...

Guess you'd have to ask Festool whether the occasional paint and plaster dust would justify the AC unit instead of the regular HEPA filter. I'm not sure how the HEPA filter would perform when cleaning up the non-wood dust. However, I would seek Festool's advice on whether the standard CT36 would serve your needs.

 

[jamanjeval]

The AC can be used for wood dust using the filter bag. However, the filter is a bit more corse and will not filter out particles as fine as the HEPA ones do.

For plaster dist, the AC uses plastic liners in the tub and not filter bags. The AC function removes the plater dust that collects on the filter and knocks it down into the tub. I guess the filter is not as fine as the HEPA to keep from permanently clogging.

Unless something has changed, Festool doesn't offer HEPA filters that fit the 36AC.

 

[Stevenscustomguitars]

It was my mistake getting the AC, definitely not the dealer pushing it. Anyway, I phoned them Monday morning and they were happy for me to swap it over. The finer HEPA filter is the important factor and I don't need the AC. I've only used it as a shop vac so far whilst setting up the workshop but so far I'm happy that I, eventually, made the right choice.  [big grin]

Thanks everyone.

 

[grbmds]

I think you will be much happier for woodworking. I know that I am always amazed how well the CT collects dust with the HEPA filter for sanding, routing, using the Domino, and the TS55. It really is a great unit. Quiet, powerful, and efficient.

 

[jacko9]

I think you were smart returning the AC unit but for dust control on your miter saw and router station I would suggest that you get a short length of the 36mm or 50mm hose, it just works a lot better than the 27mm standard hose with that quantity of dust/chips.

Jack

 

[Holmz]

It was my mistake getting the AC, definitely not the dealer pushing it. Anyway, I phoned them Monday morning and they were happy for me to swap it over. The finer HEPA filter is the important factor and I don't need the AC. I've only used it as a shop vac so far whilst setting up the workshop but so far I'm happy that I, eventually, made the right choice.  [big grin]

Thanks everyone.

That restores my faith.

And the shop vac could still work fine for router. But the sanding is clearly HEPA territory.

 

[chewy]

If you have the ac version and it's only for fine dust you DON'T  need to use ANY bags !!!!! I've been speaking to Phil about this via pm as I also have the 36 ac version . It also means the extractors performing at its best because the filter cleans every 15 seconds and there isn't a bag to get clogged with fine dust. Festool really do need to explain this clearer. The cost saving of not having to use bags and the extra efficiency of the autoclean filter make the ac version a great choice. I don't understand why they only really sell it as drywall............ expensive those self clean bags

 

[Woodwork Wizard]

Festool CT 26 or CT 36 with a Dust Deputy cyclone is very good in a workshop. I use bin bags in my DD dust box and the bag that's in the CT stays clean. I also use this to vac up any mess in the workshop - something I probably wouldn't do if I was replacing Festool extractor bags at £6 a bag.
The additional CT handle (£59) is also well worth it as you can leave the brake on the vac and wheelie it around to wherever you need it.