Using Henry Hoover As A Dust Extractor For Power Tools
Using power tools such as sanders, saws and routers can create huge amounts of dust very quickly.
Thankfully, many power tools can be connected directly to a vacuum cleaner to collect dust at the tool and cut down on the mess left behind after DIY or workshop jobs.
Henry Hoover can work surprisingly well as a dust extractor for many common power tools, particularly for general home DIY.
Can You Use Henry Hoover As A Dust Extractor?
Yes. Henry can be connected to many power tools including:
- Sanders
- Mitre saws
- Circular saws
- Routers
- Planers
- Multi tools
Connecting the vacuum directly to the tool helps collect dust as you work, keeps your workspace cleaner and can considerably reduce the amount of cleaning needed afterwards.
For general DIY this can be a very useful setup. However, an ordinary Henry is not a substitute for an appropriately rated dust extractor where hazardous or very fine dust requires specialist dust control.
How Do I Connect Henry To My Power Tools?
If your power tool has a dust outlet of approximately 31mm, the standard tapered 32mm Henry tool adaptor supplied with many Henry tool kits may fit directly.
The adaptor fits onto the end of the Henry hose, with the tapered end connecting to the dust outlet on the power tool.
The problem is that power tool dust outlets come in many different sizes, so the standard Henry adaptor won't fit every sander, saw or other power tool.
Using A Henry Power Tool Adaptor
If the standard Henry fitting doesn't match your power tool, a stepped power tool adaptor is an easy way to connect different sized dust outlets to your Henry hose.
The adaptor below is designed to be cut down at the appropriate step to match the dust outlet on your tool. Check the size guide underneath before ordering to make sure it will suit your power tool.
Adaptor Size Guide
The adaptor is universal and steps up through several sizes. Simply cut it down to the size that best matches your power tool dust port.
Depending on the size of the outlet, the adaptor can fit either inside or outside the tool opening.
Please compare the dimensions below with your power tool dust outlet before ordering.
Updated Rubberised Power Tool Adaptor
The current version of the adaptor is rubberised, giving it more flexibility and helping it form a snug connection with different power tool dust outlets.
Tips For Using Henry As A Dust Extractor
Henry Hose
There is usually no need to upgrade your hose. The standard Henry hose works perfectly well for most general power tool applications.
If you need more reach around a workshop or garage, a Henry hose extension can also be used.
Henry Filter
Your existing Henry filter is usually suitable for ordinary household and general DIY use, but check it regularly when using power tools. Fine dust can clog the filter much faster than normal household vacuuming and cause a noticeable loss of suction.
Henry Bags
Always use a genuine Henry Hepaflo filter bag when using Henry for dust extraction. The bag helps contain the collected dust and protects the vacuum's filter and motor from excessive dust build-up.
Running Henry without a bag for this type of work is strongly discouraged. Fine dust can quickly clog the filter, reduce suction and potentially shorten the life of the motor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Henry Hoover be used as a dust extractor?
Yes. Henry can be useful as a dust extractor for many general DIY jobs and common power tools including sanders and saws. For hazardous dust or work requiring a particular dust class, use an appropriately rated dust extractor.
How do I connect a sander to Henry Hoover?
Connect the Henry hose to the sander's dust outlet using a suitable adaptor. The standard tapered Henry adaptor may fit some tools, while different sized outlets may require a stepped power tool adaptor.
Do I need a special Henry hose for power tools?
No. The standard Henry hose is usually perfectly suitable for general dust extraction tasks.
Should I use Henry without a bag for dust extraction?
No. Always use a Hepaflo bag when collecting dust to help protect the motor and filter.
Can I use Henry for plaster dust?
Plaster and other very fine construction dust can quickly clog bags and filters and may require specialist dust extraction. For work involving hazardous construction dust, use an extractor and filtration suitable for the material being collected.
Why is my Henry losing suction while sanding?
Fine sanding dust can quickly clog the bag or filter. If suction drops while you're working, check the bag and filter before continuing.
I hope you've found this guide helpful and that connecting your Henry to your power tools saves you plenty of cleaning time on future DIY projects.