I bought an air filtration system after I had an asthma attack. I had done some sanding earlier in the day and I was wearing a mask, but I took the mask off after I was done sanding. There was some residual dust in the air and I think it was enough to cause my asthma attack.
Why I bought an air filtration system
In most forms of woodworking, you will generate some dust that is so fine it just hangs out in the air. Maybe you can afford a high-end dust collection system designed for woodworking (this is the one on my wish list), but I cannot. Airborne dust can be breathed and it will eventually cause problems with your lungs. My eyes get really dry too!
For the long-term health of my lungs and eyes, I invested in an air filtration system.
The Good Stuff
- It works. I don’t have an air quality meter so this is just my subjective opinion. After an average sanding session, fine dust will remain in the air for about 90 minutes. When I turn on the air filtration system on high, the air clears in about 10 minutes. The dual-filters work together very well. I’ve replaced the outer filter (about $9) a few times now and the inner filter (about $12) is still clean.
- It’s an efficient use of space. I like that it is designed to hang from the ceiling and operate with a remote. In my small workshop, floor space is at a premium.
- It has three speeds. When I’m in the workshop, I generally leave the air filtration system on low. If I have to do any sanding or staining, I’ll bump it up to medium or high.
- It has a timer. Often, when I’m done for the day, I’ll set the timer and let the air filtration system run for an hour after I leave.
The Bad Stuff
- RF Security? This is a minor thing, but every once a long while I go into the workshop and find the air filtration system is on. I figure another device in the house is operating on the same frequency, but I cannot figure out which one. The downside is over-filtered air, so I haven’t tried real hard to figure it out.
Conclusion
The Wen 3410 Air Filtration System does the job at a lower price point than comparable systems from Powertec and Dewalt. If a hanging unit with a built-in timer and multiple speeds is what you’re looking for, you don’t need to look any further.
I have to point out that many are satisfied with a DIY solution. Search for “box fan air filter” on YouTube and you’ll see people taping a 20×20 air filter to a box fan. Better versions make a box out of four or five filters. Here’s a representative video from This Old House. You can even use pre-filters, build a frame, put it on wheels, and attach it to an outlet timer. Naturally, the cost goes up as you add these features. In the final analysis, I was happy to pay $125 for the Wen and get something that was ready to go out of the box.
By the way, the link takes you to the product page on Amazon.com and if you subsequently buy it I will earn a small commission. Please know this does not change the price. If you go to the product page without using my link, you will see the same price. Here’s the official disclosure statement. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Thank you for supporting Moto Woodworks!
Finally, I only recommend products that I use on a regular basis and have proved their worthiness over time. Check out the Product Reviews page to see more.
