Are you cleaning your dust collector filter wrong?

[@StumpyNubs]

Important links related to this video► Fan-style spray nozzle: amzn.to/3jpgZKY Trend diamond stones: amzn.to/2XomWMi Wynn canister filters: wynnenv.com/woodworking-filters/ Other dust collection videos (playlist): kzbin.info/aero/PL-gT7JMZFYjfLrrLQCuxPBkWo2kfxE2J- (We may get a small commission if you use one of the above affiliate links.) Subscribe (free) to Stumpy Nubs Woodworking Journal e-Magazine► www.stumpynubs.com/ Follow us on social media► Instagram: instagram.com/stumpynubs/ Twitter: twitter.com/StumpyNubs Facebook: facebook.com/Stumpy-Nubs-Woodworking-Journal-305639859477973/

[@johnroberts3500]

a

[@nathangold9775]

Can you provide a link to the air gun that you used? The fan-style nozzle has 1/4 NPT threads but all of the air guns I can find are too small to accept it.

[@davidwhite3338]

You are perfectly on target with this video. I am a dust collector expert who has dealt with industrial dust collector/air handler units. Having to meet EPA regulations as well as equipment cost control. Without going into boring details I recommend that your viewers pay close attention to each detail that you point out. If they follow them they will have great success in maintaining their collection media.

[@DaileyWoodworks]

😟😔 me in my shop “I bet I’d I remove the handle I could chuck my drill for get those paddles moving. Also me: my air compressor goes up to 150psi I bet that will get it clean.” Why you gotta call me out like that @stumpy?!

[@vstolpner]

Very happy to hear an expert weighing in on this! What are your thoughts on using semi truck engine air filters in place of the canisters or bags? I was able to find one for $20 that's 27" tall x 11" in diameter that I'm using on a 1.5HP dust collector. I know it's not HEPA but it's not a $200-$400 canister (plus fits better in my tiny shop)

[@davidwhite3338]

@@vstolpner Truck filters will work well as long as you design your system appropriately, ie. sealed with proper air flow. The point of this video is how to clean the collector media without damaging it. The same media used to protect your truck engine will most definitely remove the particulates you wish to remove with your dust collection system.

[@vstolpner]

@@davidwhite3338 glad to hear! Many thanks!

[@d.k.1394]

I am an expert tooo

[@garyhome7101]

I thought the same thing when I first noticed this cleaning method. It reminded me of when I was an apprentice in a heavy equipment repair shop. The instructors taught us to use compressed air to blow out the air filter cartridges on large equipment from the inside diameter to avoid embedding particles into the filter material. You can tap them to free up the loose material, then use the air nozzle to blow out the rest. I can't imagine how you could avoid reducing the life and wear of the filters with the method of "grinding" on the filter cartridge with a metal bar.

[@delgoldthorpe4005]

I started my working life as an HGV and heavy plant mechanic .....I was always taught to never beat the crap out of a filter ,gently tap the outside to loosen the worst of the dust, then blow the filter "out" from the inside as a couple of people have already commented below, to save imbedding the dust into the filter, but rather blow it away the way it came in. Great vid mate, as always, informative and thought invoking .

[@StumpyNubs]

During normal use, the dust is stopped on the inside surface of the filter. If you attempt to clean it by blowing air against the inside, you are pushing the dust deeper into the filter media, which is designed to resist letting that dust through. Blowing from the outside should not only dislodge the dust, but it is a much cleaner process since the dust goes into the sealed system and may be emptied out when you are finished.

[@stevehildreth1934]

I use a double stack of Wynn filters on my dust collector. To determine when to clean the filters (I use compressed air), I have a home made manometer of clear 3/8 inch poly tubing clipped to a board in a U shape, filled with 10 inches of water to measure the internal pressure of the filter. It's mounted along side the filter canisters where it can easily be seen. One end is attached to a tubing fitting drilled or tapped into the metal filter canister top, the other sits just up at the top of the filters open to atmosphere. I use Merriam fluid in mine but water with food coloring works great too. With the dust collector turned off the water column will be the same height in both legs of the U. With the filter running it will have the column side of the U attached to the filter depressed a little below the leg of the U that is open to atmosphere. When the difference in water height between the two legs of the U exceed an inch, or inch and a half when I'm lazy, I clean the filters.

[@johnh5008]

@@TheFalconJetDriver Me too! Homemade manometer, with some water and food coloring in it so it's more visible. But my clear tubing is attached to the cleanout cap at the bottom of my filter stack. I have a ClearVue collector.

[@stevehildreth1934]

I'm in the midst of a move to bare land and building a new shop (before my wife gets the new house!) Or I'd post a picture of my setup. The dust collector itself is a modified Harbor Freight dust collector

[@andrewbrown8148]

Hi Steve~! Do you see a big difference with the double stacked Wynns? I'm upgrading my HF DC to a 2-stage with a canister filter and was wondering if it's worth the expense of doubling up. I was looking to buy a filter with the removable cap, just in case. Thanks~!

[@Michael-Makes-Stuff]

This is awesome! I used to lament NOT having an agitator, but not anymore... 😃 Knowledge is power! 💪🏼

[@ConnorKennedy16]

Well, I finally took the advice, bit the bullet, and ordered a Wynn filter... Needless to say... I'm sad I didn't before now. You always have fantastic advice/sponsorships/recommendations, etc. The dang filter even arrived in ONE day... that's faster than even Amazon in most cases

[@fitzwilliamdarsey]

I have one of Rocklers portable dust collectors with the paddle cleaning mechanism. Today, I emptied and cleaned the unit. I did everything you suggested except the air (I confess I gave the paddle a turn). When I thought it was deducted, I took the filter off to give it a final vacuum and discovered the pleats completely filled with dust. The tops pleats impacted by the paddle were visible

[@zapa1pnt]

I have the HF 2hp (1.5), as you show here. I installed a 3/4 plywood doughnut, in the top, sealed under the edge with 3/4" foam roll and attached to the ring by screws through the plywood, into the metal of the funnel. The plywood has a 6" hole, in the center, in which I installed a 6" metal duct elbow and vented it through my basement window, with a dryer type cap, on the outside. No dust, nor reduction in vacuum.

[@steenteudt]

I love the fact that you have a disc golf basket in the workshop - it's important to keep your priorities straight :o)

[@davidmead6100]

Great video and details given! As a full time industrial filter cleaner, we call it a gentle reverse pulse (clean) when you start blowing lightly from the reverse side of the air flow. After that is complete, you can then clean the dirty side of the filter (and back and forth until no more dust is released). You will need to constantly move the air nozzle in a whipping motion, unless you are able to spin the filter quick enough. This will prevent punctures and tears. Luckily, my machine does this automatically for most filters I come across :) Once complete, double check for holes with a lamp in a dark room. Good luck out there! Keep up the great vids.

[@jamesbenenati1039]

Had to clean out my 55 gal dust collector bin yesterday and decided to try to clean my canister filter. Having never done much with the filter before I gave your leaf blower idea a try. I was amazed at the amount of material that came off the filter (flour like dust particles). I didn't do any pre testing on the vacuum so didn't try to check to the see the improvement after, maybe next time. I will add cleaning of my canister filter whenever I empty my bin from now on, thanks Stumpy. PS: Wear hearing protection when using a leaf blower in your shop, it is very loud!!

[@mbarton98]

I did the Wyn filter upgrade you recommended for my 1.5hp single stage Delta and combined with your 5 gal bucket hack for the lower bag makes this dust collector worth the space it takes in the shop. I get more fun shop time since I spend much less time sweeping up dust. Thanks for all the tips!

[@lacarpenter31]

You'll get more life time too when you DON'T get COPD or emphysema from breathing fine particulates in your shop. 🙂

[@IB2FAT4U]

I paused, Saved, liked and subbed at 0:35 sec in. Having repaired mine today. Our company's dust is money when they replaced my older one that pulsed air through the 2 filters automatically keeping all inside,. This thing just puts it right in my face. I cannot explain the stupid situation I am in. But know I will sleep better thank you.

[@joewrosenthal00]

Dear Mr. Nubs, I sent an email to Wynn for information about whether their canisters can be used with my JET system. I came away amazed at how poorly they described installing their canisters. Even more frustrating was the lack of pricing information. I’ll try again, but I’m also planning on looking for other options. Nonetheless, thanks for the suggestion: as usual, you are a great resource.

[@StumpyNubs]

I linked below this video directly to the woodworking section of their site. On that page is a selection tool that helps you figure out which filter you need for a single stage collector: wynnenv.com/single-stage-collector/ When you answer two simple questions it recommends the proper filter, WITH the pricing info. There is also a page in the woodworking section with installation info, including a downloadable guide: wynnenv.com/installation-operation-maintenance/ And they also have a video, which they commissioned me to create showing how to adapt the filters to pretty much any single stage system: wynnenv.com/stumpys-youtube-video/ There are also other resources, including a frequently asked questions page under the woodworking menu.

[@joewrosenthal00]

@@StumpyNubs THANKS!!!!!

[@robertgeiser1330]

I Have a Grizzly Model G0440 dust collector. The filter has a ring type brush that moves vertically down and up in the filter that I believe will cause less damage than a paddle beating on the filter paper. That and using compressed air around the outside does a good job of cleaning the filter.

[@joeyleerobbins]

Stumpy, awesome video! I just bought a Harbor Freight 2 hp bag dust collector and this is good info for me I will be saving up for a canister filter and now from the get-go I will know how to properly clean it without wearing it out prematurely thank you very much! I was wondering if you could do a video for newbies like me who don't know how to set up a hand plane properly and also how to properly use it...that would be awesome!

[@thomashills7217]

I have an old Delta 1 1/2 with canister. The canister frequently blows off so dust swamps my shop. I always assumed it simply needed to be cleaned. The rubber sealing strip is intact, the canister seats solidly and seems tight. I clean the canister with an air compressor but now also rap on the outside as you suggest. The canister then seems clean but still comes off. I’m now putting weight on top of it so it can’t move but I’m not sure that’s a great idea.

[@TheWoodFly]

This was EXTREMELY timely for my shop. I have a Clearvue that I purchased the day before Christmas 2018 while sitting in a 737 cockpit waiting for the passengers to load on a Hawaii run (the the sale was going to expire the next day and, well, priorities!) - different story. This was my second one: the first I had for 9 years and NEVER needed to clean the filter. It was so great I purchased the second after wildfire took my (and 6500 of my neighbors) house(s). It worked great from 2019 until about May 2021...then suction began to fall off. Another new item in my shop March 2021: The 25" wide belt sander. Hmmm, wonder if those two issues are related? Sure enough, a little patting on the sides released LOTS of very fine dust dislodged from the double high stack of filters. Once done, I turned on the machine and listened as larger pieces that had "stalled" in the bends in the ductwork cascaded towards their doom (the collection bin). Very satisfying.

[@oakfat5178]

Thanks for that. I'm planning a workshop, and good dust extraction is a priority feature for me.

[@Grape99909]

I wish I would have seen a video like this years ago. For those interested in a testimonial… I just upgraded my very old 650 CFM JET dust collector to a pleated filter from Wynn Environmental, and I was absolutely shocked how much more suction I had at all my tools. As a matter of fact the flow rate was so much better I started finding more debris in the bottom bag as the dust built up in the first collection bin even a little bit. I had to install a Super Dust Deputy as well to help keep the larger particles out of the filter and bag area, and now the dust from the tools actually goes into the bin and filter and not the air, and the air is filtered to near HEPA standards, not 30 micron like the bag. If you are watching this video, when Stumpy says the performance (filtration and flow rate) will increase over a bag style unit, he is indeed correct! Nice vid Stumpy, and thank you.

[@mariushegli]

I have nothing to say really, but I appreciate your content, and wish to help with the yt-algorithms.

[@Stridertrees]

As a content producer myself… I applaud people like you :)

[@mariushegli]

@@Stridertrees 😊

[@traillesstravelled7901]

As most of the work I do is at the job/outside, I'll duct tape and bubblegum the shop vac. But when I do set up my shop in a couple months, you'll have given enough tips, to make it a breath of fresh air.

[@jwar2163]

As years as a diesel mechanic in the military for construction equipment in the Seabees, I have cleaned many prefilters, and particulate filters , the dust collector filters for my dust collector is no different and requires care when cleaning.

[@micschemelin663]

This is really great information. I up graded my shop dust collection system recently and had concerns about proper filter care. THANK YOU!

[@samuelgardiner6504]

Thanks so much stumpy. I never had dust extraction 30 ish years ago when I was woodworking but now when I getting back into it, it was on the top of my list. It is very confusing for a first timer to setup. So thank you so much! I'm learning and remembering so much from your tips and I always look forward to your next cheers mate and thanks for keeping us safe.

[@michaelogden5958]

A while back, I saw a KZbinr review a Harvey GYRO dust collector. I thought it was a very clever (though pricey) design. One of the "features" was a paddle type filter agitator. I'd never seen such a thing and thought it might be handy. The actual design of the agitator was nor revealed in the first video I swa of the GYRO. I guess because I watch a fair number of woodturning videos, TouTube recommended a video where this guy was replacing the GYRO air filters. Jeez. What a process! Anyhow the design of the paddle mechanism was revealed in that video. I was thinking, just as in this video, "What a chintzy mechanism for such an expensive machine!" But ya gotta admit, those GYRO machines are some kind of cool if you're a fellow gearhead. 🙂

[@susantipsyhealy7655]

I laughed out loud when you first mentioned this cleaning design. . It is common sense, at least for those of us know anything about paper filters. For those who are not familiar, this will be a learning experience . Thank you for the videos and never ending learning experience

[@permeus2nd]

1:59 cynical me says thats kinda the point the more damage a filter gets to sooner you will need to replace it.

[@dblev2019]

Ever since I got a drum sander after about a year of use I’ve had problems with dust clumping in the lines. I’ve cleaned out the lines and turned the agitator more times then I can count, yet the suction still hasn’t returned to full strength. I’ll try using my blower to see if it will knock loose some of the built up dust in the filter. Hopefully it will help to improve performance.

[@leonardbutler9338]

These comments are directed to Jim (Stumpy Nubs) and David White. I recently switched to a Wynn cartridge filter. I just "cleaned" it for the first time and my experience was similar to Mike J. Because the unit sits against a wall, I had to release the clips and rotate the filter. I set the air compressor to about 60 psi and meticulously went up/down and around and around. I looked inside and found lots of dust still present on the pleats. I brought the filter down to the floor and banged on the side a bit and lots of dust fell to the floor. I lifted it, dropped it to the floor from 3-4 inches high and again, lots of dust fell off. I ended up using my shop vac to vacuum the dust from the inside. Jim, have you ever inspected your filter after hitting it with air? Is it possible you are not getting it as clean as you think?

[@StumpyNubs]

I don't just blow air on it. I explained how I bang on the sides in the video.

[@leonardbutler9338]

@@StumpyNubs Ah, I did forget that you did that in the video. I will try that next time to see the difference. Maybe it's a BAD thing that I have to undo the filter to get all sides. It's natural to want to peer inside to see how dust-free it is. [Note: I referred to you as Jim. I believe you go by James. Sorry!]

[@braddoesitall]

I wouldn't suggest tapping the sides of the filter. I used to do that and after a couple of years the tapping eventually abraded the filter media enough to create holes for dust to escape. If you tap it hard enough to knock out the dust, you are deflecting the metal mesh enough to damage the filter media.

[@StumpyNubs]

This technique was recommended to my by the manufacturer.

[@xXtheyeti1Xx]

The thing that drives me nuts (I’m a nooby in this woodworking as a hobbyist) is finding the right connectors to fit the different tools. Is there a sleeve that stretches over small and larger ports? This is a real problem for me. It’s really frustrating. I have wasted a lot of money on all kinds of dust collectors and connectors and they never match up. Any ideas? Thanks. Love all the videos.

[@Sawbladewoodworks]

Rockler has a product called flexiport I have it and it's great 👍

[@StumpyNubs]

You should not be using a blower-style dust collector with small tool ports (under 3-inches). Such a system needs more airflow to work. A shop vac is better for small ports because it builds up much more static pressure.

[@xXtheyeti1Xx]

@@StumpyNubs at this point I have all of them lol. Shop vac style to wall mount. The wall mount is dedicated to my table saw because it fits perfect. But the others are on two shop vacs. Router is one size, sander is another, band saw is different…so forth and so on. Wish I had a drop down that could just quickly attach to multiple tools as needed. Oh well. I will research the suggestions people are leaving. Thanks.

[@xXtheyeti1Xx]

@@Sawbladewoodworks thanks. Looking it up now.

[@xXtheyeti1Xx]

@Chris Lindholm hmmmm interesting. Thanks

[@frantiseksram9741]

I haven't touched my filter yet, good timing Stumpy... 👌

[@dennisg11348]

Thank you, I never thought about using my leaf blower. Will definitely do this.

[@AJBtheSuede]

The glass and synthetic fibres in the pleat material is most probably several times more durable than the plastic paddle (or round metal spring wire) that rattles over them, so using the agitator is not a problem unless you can see that it deforms the pleats. Whatever you do DON*T use your shop compressed air on it! It's almost certainly oil mist fed, which will clog up the filter way worse and faster than any fine dust ever can. If you have a "dry" air line, then it's not a problem.

[@StumpyNubs]

I actually consulted with an expert at a filter company before making this video. He agreed with my conclusions. Another filter expert has also weighed in and agreed. I totally disagree that filter media is tougher than hard plastic or metal. Not by a long shot. And using compressed air from a shop air compressor was of no concern to the filter company expert, likely because the amount of oil that may escape is so tiny that it would take many, many years of cleanings to notice.

[@kmcrafting4837]

FWIW: I was advised by a Laguna Tech to blow out the filters everyday. This was on their 10hp industrial collector in a cabinet shop using large drum sanders. Even the big machines have the beaters inside, but are automated on the Laguna and run every few on/off cycles.

[@StumpyNubs]

Do they physically beat the pleats or does it vibrate the filter. I think many automated systems merely shake.

[@kmcrafting4837]

@@StumpyNubs The Laguna is just a motorized version of the manual beater. It is a low RPM motor, not sure what speed it spun at. Has been a few years since I was there. My current grizzly has the beater (manual) but I never found it worked as well as a high volume air nozzle once a week.

[@dtork47]

Very helpful and I agree about the crank agitators!

[@tomwoods5729]

As a filter is used it fills with material and in fact filters smaller ad smaller particles. Eventually when it is completely filled very little is being taken out since the filter is full.

[@StumpyNubs]

Pleated canister filters for dust collection systems do not rely upon dust buildup to improve fine filtration. That is only the case with cloth bag filters.

[@olddawgdreaming5715]

Thanks James for the good explanation for cleaning your filters. 🙏🏻🙏🏻👍👍👏🏻👏🏻👋👋

[@AB-nu5we]

I crank on mine and an evil clown pops up. ;-) Actually, I use a cyclone system with a separate filter bag that doesn't have a crank clean-out. I didn't think about the bag tearing on one of those. I guess I would have thought the manufacturer would have thought that through. Nice tip James.

[@ankur313]

Compressed air is what i use. It works pretty well.

[@J.A.Smith2397]

Maybe just a MONTHLY old timey workshop plz 😆

[@spydirty2530]

I second that

[@NickConteSC]

What are you feelings on the cyclone tops that fit a 5 gallon bucket to help your shop vac stay effective for the small garage shop?

[@laurawerner]

I'm not James, but I'll reply anyway. I've used both the Dust Deputy cyclone and the "DustTopper" lid (basically a Thien baffle) on top of 5 gallon buckets. Both work pretty well at what they do - most of the dust (95%+) ends up in the bucket and not in the shop vac filter. The cyclone works better than the DustTopper, but I actually prefer the DustTopper because it's a lot shorter and lets me stuff the whole thing under my miter saw cart. I've seen videos saying that the mini cyclone from ClearVue works even better than the DustDeputy, but I don't remember whose video that was. Maybe Wood Whisperer? None of those are going to turn a shop vac into a real dust collector. Shop vacs are great for smaller tools like miter saws, but they just don't move enough air to collect all the dust from a big planer, jointer, or cabinet saw. But if a shop vac with a mini cyclone is all you can afford or all you have room for, it's better than nothing.

[@DarkTouch]

I've got a large DC I use for major machines and I use dust deputies for several other purposes where the large DC is just not practical. Example, router and sander ports are too small, and the big DC just can't suck on them hard enough so a shop vac is better than the big DC. So I use the dust deputy and it catches nearly all the chips and most of the fine dust. The dust deputy has a place in every shop, especially when combined with a shop vac or special purpose vac like a Festool, Bosch or Mirka dust vacuum. The main thing the cyclone will do for you is save you on emptying your vacuum bags often and wasting them by filling with large sized shavings and chips.

[@rowey1992]

Hi Nick, There is fine dust collection and then normal dust & chip collection. The fine dust is the stuff that floats in the air that you can't see. This is the stuff that you breathe in and damages your lungs over time. Cyclones work fine at collecting the stuff you can see. Not so great for the fine dust. Also, the small cyclones are usually attached to shop vacs, which are notorious for putting as much fine dust back into the air as they collect. The most effective system is a 3hp dust collector with 6" ducting where possible, externally vented - read BILL PENTZ, he is the guru. This is not practical for the weekend warrior or if space is limited. I would suggest that you need a good extraction fan that turns over the air in you shop 10 times per hour. I would also suggest that you wear a good quality, clean dust mask/respirator. Where possible, cut everything outside, and really try to sand everything outside as well. Good Luck.

[@DarkTouch]

Good grief! It gets WORSE! I was so incensed with this notion i went straight to my shop and disassembled the pleated filter assembly from my 2 stage Jet JDC-2 cyclone dust collector... and I peered inside.... Not only was there dust caked all over, but the beater things don't cover hardly any of the filter and there are years worth of fine dust CAKED on the upper third and the lower third. The filter is round about 3 feet long and the beater assembly is only about four inches wide sits in the middle of the filter, with 3 blades and little fingers at the end: it really only agitates the middle of the filter and does diddly squat to the rest of the filter. So little did I know, that my filter was clogging up and the beater thing does jack of nothing. I had the unit in an un-airconditioned shop for a couple years and i live in a humid climate. The dust is CAKED, I mean CAKED! and may take some effort to get off, may require physical brushing. So in the morning, when my mind is more civilized, i will remove the beater blades and the remove the handle from the top (that way I don't have to remove the entire assembly and deal with plugging holes and such). I will henceforth use gentle hand taps, compressed air and or a blower (many shop vac can blow BTW) to clean the thing out. Once cleaned, I can inspect the filter element for damage from the beater blades. Maybe then, my DC will work like it was new. I imagine until now maybe it was working at 10% of efficiency. I'm pretty hot headed at the moment... grrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr And a good thing would be to check it once in a while. Trouble is it is not easy to see up into the thing when it is fully assembled. This is some of the most surprising and best advice I've gotten in a long time.

[@StumpyNubs]

I don't think you should need to remove the agitator. You can clean it with the method described in this video even if the agitator is inside.

[@zapa1pnt]

"many shop vac can blow BTW" And, for right now, your dust collector sucks. 🤣🤣🤣

[@DarkTouch]

@@StumpyNubs it rattles while the machine is running. I have to use a bungee to hold the handle tight so it is quiet. I went ahead anyway, and removed the blades (soft plastic btw), and the handle on top. That didn't take long and doesn't compromise an function. the filter was so dirty it took an hour to clean up to an inch thick of compacted dust in places, and still not happy, I resorted to water to clean the creases of the pleat. beating on the sides failed to dislodge dust in the creases. Where the paddles impacted the filter, the dust was compacted into the filter and couldn't be removed, like a stain. The rest of the filter came perfectly clean. filter is siting with a fan blowing on it to dry before reassembly.

[@jameslester6785]

I have a Wynn filter on my collector and have tried blowing compressed air and it just didn't work for me. What does work, is taking the filter off and going over every pleat with a blunt stick. The fine dust gets so caked in the pleats this is the only method that works for me.

[@TommyArianoutsos]

I saw that disc golf basket in the background!

[@marshallmoneymaker8322]

The simple answer is because companies make money on consumables, the more the consumable cost the more money they make.

[@RichSobocinski]

What do you think of using an orbital sander or other vibrating-type tool to vibrate the dust free?

[@KathyAndrew]

My leaf blower puts out so much more volume of air than an air compressor. I use it to blow out radiators and AC condensers as well.

[@hassanal-mosawi4235]

Thanks for sharing those tips!

[@dalegosnell2511]

I would love your feedback on an idea that I have. I'm thinking about drilling a quarter inch hole or so in the top of my filter and attaching a multi tool to it. And then plugging it in, and turning it on what are your thoughts .

[@MCsCreations]

Awesome tips, James! Thanks a lot! 😃 Stay safe there with your family! 🖖😊

[@patrickd9551]

I have a Philips bagless vacuum with a small cartridge filter. Essentially the same thing on a smaller scale. I clean it once every 2-3 months by just banging out the dust and once every two years with a compressor (yes I'm lazy). Never replaced the filter since I got it. And what do you know? 10+ years later and it still sucks :)

[@davidjohnston4240]

I just got a laguna bflux - the manual says to turn the beater 4-5 times every time you use the machine and emphasizes that more it better than less. I guess I'll find out if that is good advice.

[@dougprentice1363]

No doubt the paddles wear the filter. Glad I have a Wynn filter. The metal screen on the outside diameter is very strong.

[@katherynlamarche7308]

Thanks again Stumpy Julien

[@thesquiresworkshop8560]

I clean the filter on my shop vac the same way. Thump it a bit on the inside to the vac barrel to knock off/out the majority of the dust /debris and then blow it out with compressed air. Do it outside and wear a dust mask!

[@zapa1pnt]

If you do it, as Stumpy has shown, there is no need to take anything apart or outside and all the dust stays inside the sealed system.

[@thesquiresworkshop8560]

@@zapa1pnt This is on my shop vac. Filter is inside. I got tired of paying $20 every few months to replace them and started cleaning them. The one in the vac now is about 2 years old and, with regular cleaning, works great!

[@zapa1pnt]

@@thesquiresworkshop8560: Oh, sorry. You said shop vac in your first sentence and it went right past me.🤪

[@thesquiresworkshop8560]

@@zapa1pnt No big. I've NEVER mis-read what someone has put in a comment...nope, never! ;-)

[@gnarthdarkanen7464]

SO... I'm guessing I'm the only one left who still crams a ladies' nylon (or silk works, too) stocking over the filter cage doo-dah in my shop vac... and another on the suction tube for the dust-barrel stage of the collector... It's cheap and quick for where it works... Might not be so good for the likes of sanders and grinding processes (the super-fine), but for saws and planers and the like, it beats the ever-loving hell out of nothing... or sweeping the stuff out the door like we used to do in the day... ;o)

[@swkarg]

Very Nice info.

[@sween187]

If you want a really good filter, you could make one based on old automotive ones that used to filter the air through oil, so make a system that filters through water, then you just need to filter the water once in a while to remove sawdust, never have to buy a filter again.

[@maxlee6676]

oh my god could you imagine water percolated dust filters

[@zapa1pnt]

@@maxlee6676 Can you say Growth?!?!? 🤢🤢🤢

[@maxlee6676]

@@zapa1pnt ewwwwwwwwwww

[@zapa1pnt]

@@maxlee6676 Microsoft needs to add bio and radiation hazard emojis.

[@wolfman75]

Great Info!!! Thank You!!! 👍😎

[@jcwebmaster3779]

I found that fan style spray nozzle, but unable to find a spray gun that it fits. Can you post which spray gun will fit that nozzle? Thanks

[@StumpyNubs]

You can buy brass fittings to adapt the threads in any hardware.

[@SamWanamaker1]

Any concerns with the leaf blower putting too much pressure on the filter?

[@desmondjones7540]

I'm a wood turner. I have a grizzly dust collector. Would it the better to vent the air on top through an hvac 18 duct to the outside of your shop instead of using the bag or pleated filter. Seams like that would increase the suction with less air restriction. Has any testing been done with this idea. Thx for your help.

[@StumpyNubs]

If you can get away with it, yes.

[@johnbertotti8815]

Marketing and a need to have residual income are what I believe drives the dust collector sales to include these stupid paddles. Sadly there are plenty of people who will believe it is the bee's knees regardless of the obvious. At least until they ruin a filter or two.

[@noahshroyer4609]

Could you please point us to a good air blow gun that works with the fan-style spray nozzle you recommended? I've found it hard to find an air blow gun with a G1/4 female thread to accept the G1/4 male thread on the nozzle. I find blow guns that have the 1/4 NPT style.

[@chip7646]

Why do you have a wye off your dust collector intake?

[@jackthompson8019]

Great information.

[@WeCanoe54]

I picked up the uxcell fan-style nozzle. I cannot seem to find an adaptor to a NPT 1/4 blow gun. I've tied to get a G1/4 female to a NPT 1/4 male, but no luck. Does anyone have advice on how to mate these two? Or perhaps a different style blow gun? Many thanks!!

[@dpmeyer4867]

thanks

[@DrGkill777]

Wouldn't it be a good idea to press a vibrating sender machine without paper against the filter to gently make the all thing vibrate ?

[@jimhatch5873]

The Amazon link for the fan spray adapter says out of stock & unknown when or if they'll get them back 😕

[@StumpyNubs]

Sold out. They will be back. That's just Amazon's default message.

[@laurawerner]

That seems to happen fairly often when James recommends a useful (and cheap) little product like this. 😁 If you really want one soon, Amazon still has the 2-pack in stock for $17.50. But I'm going to wait until the single one comes back in stock.

[@jimhatch5873]

@@laurawerner LOL - I think I was the 160th-ish viewer of the video. I think I need to invent something he loves enough to recommend. I'll be able to retire 😁

[@tdnate]

I bought the air nozzle but it doesn't fit my typical air guns because the threads are too small in the gun and G1/4 on the nozzle. Do you have a link to the gun you use?

[@StumpyNubs]

Brass thread adapters are available in most hardware stores.

[@clandry1607]

any idea where I can get the can that the filter sits on??

[@fubartotale3389]

Industrial filters vibrate the filter, it doesn't physically strike them, from my experience with them.

[@petermather8367]

The canister filter has to be removed and physically cleaned carefully with compressed air and a soft brush. If the woodworker is a professional, this process will have to be done more often simply because the dust collector is in constant use. Seems that the flappers just leave the dust more impacted in the pleats of the filter than if they just didn't exist. I think I will remove them next time I clean the canister

[@StumpyNubs]

It doesn't have to be removed. It can be cleaned as I demonstrated. I consulted with the filter manufacturer on this subject.

[@petermather8367]

@@StumpyNubs I greatly appreciate your reply, going to buy the air nozzle attachment immediately. I am flabbergasted at the amount of dust that does accumulate on the inside of the canister but better there than my lungs. Thank you from Mather Amp Cabinet

[@kevinbudke8438]

I have always taped the filters lightly & then blow with compressed air from the inside of the filter out, as to not embed the dust further inside the filter from the outside. Is this the incorrect way? I appreciate you advise James.

[@StumpyNubs]

During normal use, the dust is stopped on the inside surface of the filter. If you attempt to clean it by blowing air against the inside, you are pushing the dust deeper into the filter media, which is designed to resist letting that dust through. Blowing from the outside should not only dislodge the dust, but it is a much cleaner process since the dust goes into the sealed system and may be emptied out when you are finished.

[@stevenhzoll7057]

A paper filter becomes more efficient as it is used, ( imagine a screen, as large particles embed in the holes it will trap the smaller pieces.) It will eventually become plugged, but that can depend on the equipment using the filter. Internal combustion engine applications may have a filter minder ( vacuum gauge ) installed between the filter and engine. My experience is in heavy equipment operating in sometimes very dusty conditions. Most filter manufactures recommend replacing air filters as they are protecting very expensive machinery, but with a large fleet of equipment this to can become very expensive. The filter restriction gauge and a through inspection of all plumbing between the filter and engine blah blah blah, sorry about the ramble. Mr. Nubs methods should work very well for the conditions. One could also take the filter out onto the driveway and some what gently tap the hole side down edge on the concrete followed by the use of compressed air or a leaf blower . Finish by using the leaf blower and blow the loosened debris into your neighbor's lawn.

[@StumpyNubs]

That is not true of modern pleated paper filters. They are already designed to filter out the tiniest dust particles when new and clean. By plugging the holes with dust buildup you are not increasing its ability to remove particles, you are reducing the means for the air to escape and lowering the system's performance. These filters are made to be cleaned, and the process I demonstrate was confirmed by a quality filter manufacturer, whom I consulted for this video.

[@petekirks760]

Grizzly told us to remove the bag, turn our bag inside out re-install move the unit [ most are on wheels ] outside the shop on a day with a stiff breeze and turn it on. Take a soft brush to the outside of the bag with the unit is still running and after the big dust has blown off. shut everything off and return the bag to its working position. this is not an every time thing, you will see good results and my bag is lasting longer. thy it.

[@StumpyNubs]

Sounds convenient 🙄

[@gregstockert3169]

I always try to time my filter cleanings with " a windy day", and I always stand up wind. Also, make sure the neighbors aren't home. 🤣

[@grandmajosephine383]

I'm from Frodo's Fine Filters. Crank that handle like you're churning butter. Then I'll sell you another one.

[@SHoodA]

Can i use compressed air with 8 bar? Imcleaning it outside

[@RobyWanKenobi]

Any thoughts on how to add a canister to a Wen DC3402 wall mounted collector? Has a 4.5 inch plastic outlet.

[@StumpyNubs]

Yes, in fact we will be making a video about it soon :)

[@RobyWanKenobi]

@@StumpyNubs perfect

[@AndrewR74]

I typically clean my filter each month.

[@Giacobbo88]

What is the metal outside mesh for? I look it as an obstacle to clean the filter, they should make it inside

[@StumpyNubs]

It protects the pleats. It is no obstacle to cleaning, the air blows right through it.

[@1144panda]

When you tap the sides of the cannister and when using the leaf blower; would it also help to have the collector turned on?

[@StumpyNubs]

No, you are trying to dislodge dust inside the filter. When the collector is running air will blow the dust back into the filter.

[@1144panda]

@@StumpyNubs thanks

[@scottmorris4914]

If you don’t mind me asking. What brand of system was in the video?

[@StumpyNubs]

That was a Harbor Freight collector with a Wynn canister filter.

[@nightcatarts]

Stick a big piece of hook/loop tape to the top of the canister & then you only have to slap your palm sander on there & turn it on for a minute or so..

[@easysuper2001]

Will do that tomorrow!

[@nightcatarts]

@@easysuper2001 Just make sure it's not a rotary one..

[@davidfarnall3211]

@@nightcatarts 🌪️🌪️🌪️🤪😂😂

[@michaelprozonic]

NOTE: The OSHA regulation for compressed air cleaning SHALL NOT EXCEED 30 psi with the use of chip guarding and proper PPE (section 1917.154 and 1910). If you own a business and set your air pressure for cleaning to 60 to 80 psi, you could be cited for a violation

[@zapa1pnt]

That applies to blowing material in open air. All dust here, is contained within the filter/collection system. No problem.

[@michaelprozonic]

@@zapa1pnt No. The danger is from possible air injection into the skin which could cause an air embolism in your blood stream which could be fatal.

[@PaulChandler1951]

Those blower attachments are out of stock on the link 🙁

[@DarkTouch]

Like a Homer Simpson moment "yeah, heh heh, i beat my filter until it broke", except by design and we all fell for it. Jeez. Maybe I should open mine up and disassemble the agitator?

[@StumpyNubs]

No, just don't over use it. You can clean it as described in this video even if there is an agitator inside.

[@galvanizedgnome]

PROJECTFARM!!! WE NEED YOU!

[@Worrsaint]

The crank agitator is probably because it is cheap to do vs a vibratory one. I would say do not blow out the filter though. You will lose filtration. Filters are rated for particle filtration efficiency when dirty, not clean. Filters simply do a better job of removing fines when dirty. You only want to remove the heavy caked on stuff.

[@StumpyNubs]

That may be true of the old cloth bag filters, but it is not true of pleated paper filters. They are already designed to filter out the tiniest dust particles when new. By plugging the holes with dust buildup you are not increasing its ability to remove particles, you are reducing the means for the air to escape and lowering the system's performance. These filters are made to be cleaned, and the process I demonstrate was confirmed by a quality filter manufacturer, which I consulted for this video.

[@Worrsaint]

@@StumpyNubs While you are correct that removing the heavy cake improves air flow, such as tapping on the sides etc, i specified to not blow it out. Pleated paper or bag type, the efficiency of removing fine particles (as in percentage it removes vs pass through) goes up when filters are dirty vs clean. There are engineering standards and papers based around this. The larger particles they filter help to catch the smaller ones. I am an engineer and have had to look into this for process reasons in the past. No filter is perfectly made and the larger pores need to be plugged for the fine particle filtration. That is done by being slightly dirty.

[@StumpyNubs]

@@Worrsaint I appreciate that you are an engineer but I did not come upon this conclusion on my own. I consulted with filter experts, including one who has been in the industry for half a century. You have stated your opinion, I have shared mine. Have a nice day.

[@d.k.1394]

People need remember 1 simple thing; all filters are delicate.....

[@bobzimmerman1905]

Yes, like women if you treat them with respect and kindness they improve with age...

[@scottw9412]

My shop is in the house so dust management is critical. I spent the money on a Laguna Tools PFlux 2, mostly because of the HEPA filter. It has an automatic agitation that slaps the filter...WHILE IT'S RUNNING. The agitator does a cycle when the vac motor is shut off, but it also runs a few seconds after startup and every 10 minutes or so during use. If the goal is to get the dust embedded as far as possible into the filter, this is what you would do. Terrible design.

[@sween187]

Filters get better with use as it blocks up the tiny holes, which block the smaller finer partials in the air,

[@StumpyNubs]

That is not true of modern pleated canister filters. They already provide high-level filtration when clean, and blocking the holes will only reduce the airflow and suction.

[@d.k.1394]

Filters are like women....they DO NOT get better with age!

[@zapa1pnt]

@@d.k.1394: The system only allows 1 thumb up, per person. If I could, I would have given 5. 🤣🤣👍👍👍👍👍 Hey, look, I could!

[@thomaskirkpatrick4031]

That way you prematurely wear it out, now you need a new one, money in the bank for filter manufacturers.

[@SnootchieBootchies27]

I think they put those things into the filter *SO THAT* they will get destroyed prematurely. Then they can sell you another one.

[@michaelrobinson9643]

Whilst I don't disagree in this instance.... Common sense is never a substitute for actual objective testing! BTW... it's likely you are not prematurely wearing it. It may be wearing at exactly the rate the manufacture wants it to. That's why there is a "Filter wear handle" installed on it.

[@FFT-J]

Mhmmm dust cake... Must be time for lunch