Like a quiet shop vac, dust collectors are essential appliances for the garage, workshop, or job sites.
Workshops require regular upkeep to keep harmful particles and debris from ruining your health.
According to studies, small dust particles typically less than 10 micrometers in diameter can affect both your heart and lungs. (Source)
Additionally, this particulate matter can also lead to various health problems, including decreased lung function, nonfatal heart attacks, aggravated asthma, respiratory symptoms, and premature deaths for people with existing lung diseases.
For this reason, you need a dust collector.
Regular dust collectors are noisy.
If you spend most of your time in the garage, you will need a quiet dust collector to prevent noise-induced hearing loss.
What Is a Dust Collector?
A dust collector is a device that is used to collect dust from the air.
The main function of a dust collector is to help in keeping the environment clean and healthy for us all.
It extracts and captures potentially dangerous and harmful particles (dust, sawdust, etc.) from the air before they spread into the atmosphere.
This way you prevent these particles from getting into our respiratory system or into the environment.
Below are some of the quietest dust collectors and how they work.
What Is the Quietest Dust Collector?
The best silent dust collector is the WEN 3401 5.7-Amp 660 CFM Dust Collector.
It’s a top-notch pick moving over 600 cubic feet of dirt per minute using a 5.7-amp motor each minute.
It can handle a variety of dust options.
Connections to different dust emitting tools can easily be made through its 4-inch dust ports and a 6-inch impeller.
It has impressive safety standards having four swivel casters that lock in place, preventing unwanted movement.
With 120volts 684 watts energy requirements, it guarantees serviceability at a low energy cost.
Storing and moving this device is conveniently facilitated by a compact design and onboard carrying handle.
The collector is compatible as it can be detached from its legs and mounted on the wall.
At 18.6 pounds, you are guaranteed stability while in use preventing accidents around your workspace.
It is compatible with the (model 28221) WEN 20-Foot Dust Hose and the (model 28200) WEN 10-Foot Dust Hose.
A two-year warranty is given on this product as a surety of the best service.
Types of Dust Collectors
On the surface one might think that all dust collectors are pretty much the same; however, this is not true.
While all dust collectors use a blower motor to create airflow, each has different features and abilities that make them more suitable for specific applications.
Single Stage Dust Collector
Single stage dust collectors (also known as single speed or single phase) are the most basic type of dust collector.
These machines have one filter stage and operate at a fixed suction rate which does not change when you turn up the power.
They usually come with 1-4 filters in their cartridge/bag housings and an impeller that uses ten blades or less to move air through your shop’s dust collection system.
A single stage collector mainly removes the larger particles of contaminants from air.
This type of system uses bags, cartridges or filters to trap these larger particles and then cleanse them by simply changing out the disposable bag/cartridge/filter element.
The outside housing can typically be found below:
The term “single-stage” means the air stream does not pass-through additional collection devices before it reaches the outside atmosphere, which allows for less restrictive usage and easy maintenance.
Two Stage Dust Collectors
Two-stage woodworking vacuums use two filtration stages to separate larger airborne wood dust particles from the finer materials which are captured in micro-filtration bags or filters where they can be removed easily for disposal.
This system provides a longer tool run time by not having to constantly empty the vacuum bag and allows you to get rid of larger particles before they become small enough to escape through the micro-filter stage.
Two-stage dust collectors are also better for your health since they capture more harmful fine dust particles.
Two Stage Dust Collectors Advantages & Disadvantages
- Ability to handle longer, uninterrupted tool run times
- Higher quality filtration reduces clean up time
- Suitable for medium sized shops with heavy usage requirements
- More powerful blower motors create better airflow speeds
- Lower filter replacement costs
- Heavier units are more difficult to move across floors
- Higher purchase cost
How Does a Dust Collector Work?
There are multiple ways that a dust collector can remove dust and debris from the air. The first is by employing a filter system.
Air is pulled through the filter, which has small pore sizes so as to block particulate matter while allowing the passage of clean filtered air.
Dust accumulates on the filter surface and plugs it up.
A side stream carries this accumulated dust away to an external container or other facility process equipment for processing or disposal.
This option works best when there is enough space between the work piece and the ventilation hood, where gravity will naturally settle collected material to below work level without disturbing workers or interrupting production flow.
Another option would be using what is known as centrifugal collection.
In this method, fast-spinning impeller blades create centrifugal forces that bounce the dust off the impeller wall.
The collected particles are ejected along with the airflow, into exterior collection ducting or onto a downstream filter to be captured or processed by another means.
Using an electrostatic precipitator, which utilizes high speed spinning aluminum plates and static electricity, can remove nearly 100 percent of all dust from the air stream without requiring additional equipment downstream.
The high-voltage plates counteract normal atmospheric charge so that dust particles become charged as well.
A grounded pan collects any discharged particles for easy disposal while clean air continues on its way.
However, this method is energy intensive and not traditionally used in low pressure environments such as those found in most wood shops and shops where dust collection is most needed.
Vacuum Hoods
Vacuum hoods are the most common method used to remove dust and debris in wood shops, but they can also be messy and cumbersome for workers who spend hours on end standing just inches away from noisy equipment.
A vacuum’s separate filter bag or cartridge must be frequently changed or replaced as it becomes clogged with captured particulate matter.
Also, a vacuum only works when something is being cut.
It does not have the capacity to remove chips and shavings throughout a full workday unless connected directly to a specific machine such as a lathe, drill press or table saw.
In those cases, however, operators will need to work around the machine’s cord as well as its hose, which may be long and unwieldy.
To solve this dilemma and reduce production costs, some companies have invested in ultra-high-efficiency particle arresting (UHAPA) filters. (Source)
These filters are designed to remove up to 99 percent of dust from the air using a combination of particle filtration media that can include activated carbon or fiberglass, mechanical cloth or other electrostatically charged material all housed within an efficient airtight metal housing.
This type of filter is best for environments where sawdust does not need to be captured, but rather filtered out while allowing workers’ breathing room.
It also works well system wide when paired with vacuum systems or other collection equipment since it can handle high volumes without losing suction over time.
A-List of The Quietest Dust Collectors on The Market.
Even though the WEN 3401 5.7-Amp 660 tops the list of the best silent dust collectors, other alternatives are worth purchasing on the market.
These alternatives include the following.
1. SHOP FOX W1727 1 HP Dust Collector
This unit guarantees reliability and durability through ruggedly built parts, attention to details, and quality controls.
The dust collector is 30% quieter compared to the loudness of a Rigid shop vac.
It is a safe unit having been accredited by the Canadian standards association (CSA).
Further clarification on safety is seen through meeting underwriters’ laboratories (UL) 1017-4 standards.
As a prevention measure against unauthorized use strengthened by a safety switch.
The unit has an ease of operation as it utilizes a big paddle for on/off function.
It can either work stationary or while moving.
Having a noise reduction mechanism ensures that the dust collector works silently.
The compact design enables portability and makes it suitable for limited spaces.
It has low energy consumption at 110volts for 9 amps and 229volts for 4.5 amps.
The 1HP, 110volts/220volts motor supports a 2.1 cubic feet bag capacity.
2. POWERTEC DC5370 Wall Mounted Dust Collector
The POWERTEC DC5370 is a wall mount dust collector that comes with a 2.5 dust collector filter bag.
The reusable micro bag ensures fine dust particles, optimal air quality, and prevents the collection of harmful pollutants.
It’s designed with sound-deadening technology in mind hence eliminating distractions and discomfort.
Being compact makes it ideal for small pro and hobby spaces.
It has dual voltages of 120V/240V operating 7 amp for the 120volatage and the 3.5 amp for the 240V.
This unit works quickly, backed by a 3450RPM motor speed and an airflow capacity of 537CFM.
The unit can work effectively, whether on the wall or the floor, using a mounting bracket, bolt locking system, and inclusive clamp.
Mountain brackets enable organization and cleanliness for an optimum workspace.
It has a streamlined design that features easy portability.
3. BUCKTOOL 1HP 6.5AMP Wall-mount Dust Collector
It is a product backed by quality in its making and working to serve your dust collection needs.
This unit works through a 1 HP 120V single phase motor size with a suction capacity of 300 CFM.
The unit is fast and safe, thanks to the high-quality hose and a 4-inch intake hole diameter.
It uses a balanced steel impeller with low vibration for low noise.
These rubber feet combined with the steel frame also help in reducing vibration and thus noise.
The wall-mount design brings about space-saving making this unit perfect for small garage spaces.
Using 4 in. hoses, this collector fills up to 13-gallon capacity bags.
It has locking screws and a wall-mounted bracket for safety.
4. WEN 3410 Air Filtration System
It is tailored to work in a 400 square feet space, circulating air up to 7.5 times each hour.
Alongside this dust collector, the unit also includes one 5-micron pre-filter and a micron filter.
Automation helps to set timer, power this unit remotely, and change the speed from as far as 26 feet.
The programmable timer allows you to shut the unit off after the desired number of working minutes.
There are better handling and ease of storage through wood screws and chains, set for hanging.
It guarantees 99% dust elimination fighting airborne particles.
While the 5-micron outer filter eliminates the large dust particles, the 1-micron inner filter filters the rest.
It also allows selection between three speeds varying between 400,350,300CFM.
5. Delta Power Equipment 50-723T2 1
Using standard 2-micron filtration bags, this dust collector maintains your space safe and clean.
The powerful TEFC induction motor ensures durability, smooth performance, and protection from dust.
Featured in this unit is a system that shows when the bag of collected dust needs emptying for continued performance.
At 120 volts, 720 watts, and a 1.5 horsepower, the unit guarantees eco-friendly and energy conservative dust collection.
There is quick and extensive capacity dust collection through its 4 intake ports, 2 filtration bags, and 2 swivel caster assemblies.
It has a powerful but low energy consumer motor and blower.
The unit has incredible noise cancellation having two large 8inches wheels and a support frame.
Through reduced vibration and compact design, this product works almost silently.
6. Mini-Gorilla Portable Cyclone Dust Collector
This cyclone dust collector is available in 220 and 110 voltage models.
The unit can deliver up to 600 Actual CFM thanks to the 5″ inlet that allows for ample airflow for any sort of wood working activity.
This Cyclone Dust Collector is perfect for small workshops looking for a highly portable dust collector that never compromises on filtration and air performance.
The unit is lightweight, highly portable design and super silent producing only 80.5 dBA at 10 feet.
Additionally, this dust collector is HEPA certified with a 99.97% filtration efficiency at 0.3 microns.
The HEPA filter boasts a non-stick membrane and a vacuum hose port that allows for easier cleaning.
Best Quiet Dust Collector Buyer Guide
There are several factors to consider before buying a dust collector. Below are some of the most important factors to consider to ensure that you get a dust collector that meets your specific requirements.
Noise Levels
Eliminating the buzz from dust collectors is one factor that drives this purchase.
Check out those that feature in noise cancellation to make working comfortable.
Look out for elements like rubber wheels, support frames, and compact designs.
Such features keep the machine compact reducing noise to the lowest level hence bettering your comfort while in use.
Your Requirements
The key to a productive purchase is ensuring that you fully understand the needs at hand.
Check on the dust properties looking at its bulkiness, composition, and other characteristics.
Look at the generation’s points, which will enable you to understand its volume and frequency.
Critically look at the process of its generation, run time, volume, and frequency as they greatly influence this selection.
Technology
Having understood the requirements of your dust, attaching the most suitable technology is then possible.
Look for an easy to operate technology with minimal complications in the hardware.
There several trends in the market that have different levels of serviceability, giving you an extensive choice.
However, ensure that the one used is energy efficient.
Safety standards are also necessary when choosing the technology behind a given unit.
Suitability to Your Environment
Avoid making the mistake of purchasing a quality but non-compatible dust collector.
Compatibility implies that a dust collector should fit into your storage, understand how it works and whether it’s environmentally friendly.
Choose one that does not require extensive and tiresome storage needs.
Their styles and sizes greatly determine their appropriateness in a given premise or environment.
Final Thoughts on Quiet Dust Collector
Above are some of the best dust collectors on the market today.
They will collect even the smallest dust particle in your workshop or garage, protecting you from breathing that harmful tiny debris and particles.
If you’re still not sure which dust collector to choose, then I’d recommend, WEN 3401 5.7-Amp 660 CFM Dust Collector.
Meet Mike O’Connor, (a DIY enthusiast), living in Cincinnati, a city ranked as the noisiest in the USA.
As a work from home dad, I have a first hand experience of how noise can truly affect your well being.
Soundproofing isn’t something that should be taken as a hobby, it should be a skill that every homeowner should be equipped with.
Most of the work documented on this blog comes from purely first hand experience, and the products recommended work as indicated.
You may be right on the money with the Wen dust collector’s acoustic volume. I can’t really speak to that; not my area/field. I CAN speak to dust collection and static pressure/gas fluid dynamics, and it’s with this capability I feel very comfortable in asserting that you have not clue one what you are talking about.
Those little wall-mount “dust collection” systems with their 3-5 micron “filter bags” may as well be an attic fan pointed more or less out the door of the shop. They KICK UP as much dust as they collect. Fortunately they only do that to the 1.5 micron particulates and below. You know, the ones that KILL YOU?
But yes it may very well be 10db quieter.