HEPA dust extractor vs shop vac
Both are job-site vacuums. Only one is built to deal with fine dust. Here is how to tell which job needs which.
Side by side
| Feature | Wet/dry shop vac | HEPA dust extractor |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Water, debris, general cleanup | Fine dust at the source |
| Wet pickup | Yes | Usually no, unless it is made for it |
| Filtration | Standard filter; fine dust can pass through | HEPA filter for fine dust |
| Connects to tools | Sometimes | Yes, designed for it |
| Typical jobs | Leaks, sawdust, debris | Drywall, concrete grinding, renovation |
What HEPA means
A true HEPA filter is rated to capture 99.97% of particles at 0.3 micrometres. That matters because the finest dust is the part you cannot see and is the part that stays airborne and is harmful to breathe.
A standard shop vac filter can look clean and still pass fine dust back into the room through the exhaust.
Which should you rent?
For water and general debris rent a wet/dry vacuum. For sanding, grinding or cutting rent a HEPA dust extractor. If a job needs both, rent both.
Tell us what you need
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