I'm trying to manage the dust in my garage but only have a 2 horsepower shop vac. I've noticed that dust separators, like the Dustopper, often recommend using them with 5HP shop vacs. Will my smaller 2HP shop vac still work well with one of these separators, or should I consider upgrading?
3 Answers
Honestly, I'd guess a 2HP could work, but it won't be optimal. The horsepower ratings on shop vacs can be misleading, so I wouldn't rely on just those numbers. Instead, dust collection effectiveness is more about how much air you can move, typically measured by CFM. Most effective systems need a true 1HP motor at the minimum.
I'd say go for it! Just make sure to use the shortest hoses possible to improve airflow. It'll help your vac run a bit more efficiently with the dust separator.
It really depends on the sizes of the ports you're using with your tools and hoses. If you've got the right fittings that match up well, your 2HP shop vac should work decent enough. For smaller tools like a sander or a miter saw, you should be fine. But if you're working with larger tools, like a big table saw or a planer, you might struggle to move enough air effectively.