Replies

1. 
   Francis_Voignier | Mar 13, 2001 07:35am | #1

   *
   Shop vacs are good for some tools like orbital sanders. I use a Fein vac for that. I also use a vac with a 2" hose on my router table. For the big stuff, like table saws and planers, you're better off with a dust collection system.
   fv

1. 
   Alan_Kim | Mar 13, 2001 02:19pm | #2

   *If you're talking about for general housecleaning, I use a 16-gallon/5-hp ShopVac (QSP model) and several extension hoses/couplers.In addition to it being a quieter model (their claim - and they seem to be), the 2" hoses does help make the noise more tolerable because of the different pitch sound.The longer length of hoses is not a concern when it goes to general house cleaning for dust/crumbs/etc - there's plenty enough suction.It's "central" enough to reach most places and I can cover a 1,800 SQFT main floor area by relocating the cannister only once.I usually place the cannister near an open door (during warm weather) or clean area where dust won't get kicked up from the exhaust.But the key components are a pre-filter bag and a CleanStream cartridge filter so dusty exhaust itself is not a concern.I have a length of PVC pipe hanging on the handrail to the basement so I can hook up the cannister at the top of the stairs and vaccuum in the basement. (This is if I don't want the cannister downstairs.)

2. 
   Gio_Robson | Mar 13, 2001 02:19pm | #3

   *
   In the last FH Tips&Tools someone suggested using a shop vac in lieu of a central vac. Has anyone else done this before? I'm wondering about A)noise levels and B)suction power. The price of a good shop vac sure does beat out the Central Vacs. I can't find any sone ratings anywhere for my Rigid Shop Vac or for Central Vac manufacturers.