BENCHVENT FAQ

Do I need an Extraction Unit?

Yes, if you have a process that creates airborne contaminants like dust, fumes, vapours or powders.

Are BenchVent products suitable for my specific industry?

BenchVent products are designed for multiple sectors including:
– Beauty and cosmetics (including airbrush tanning)
– Medical and dental applications
– Educational institutions and laboratories
– Electronics manufacturing
– Hobby and model making
– Art and design studios

Why do I need Extraction?

It’s the Law. You can be fined or shut down if you fail to protect your staff or clients. It also lowers long term exposure which reduces illness and improves productivity.

How does it work?

Extracting airborne contaminants from the air and exhausting them direct to atmosphere (Via Ducting) or through a series of filters to re-introduce clean air back into the room (Recirculating)

What makes BenchVent products different from competitors?

BenchVent products stand out through:
– Cost-effectiveness compared to similar products on the market
– Lifetime warranty on all air filtration and fume extraction product
– Compliance with COSHH and HSE health and safety standards
– UK design and assembly with over 40 years of industry experience
– Special discounts for NHS, education, and military customers

How do I choose the right BenchVent product for my needs?

Selecting the appropriate BenchVent product depends on several factors:

1. Application type: Consider what substances you’re working with (airbrush paint, solvents, dust, etc.)
2. Space requirements: Measure your available workspace to ensure proper fit
3. Airflow needs: More intensive applications require higher airflow (measured in m³/h)
4. Filtration requirements: Different materials require specific filter combinations

For personalized assistance, please contact our customer support team at 866-784-1657

or email: customerservice@strikeforcehobbies.com.

What happens if something goes wrong?

Great care is taken in the design and manufacture of all BenchVent high quality, robust and reliable equipment. A provided lifetime guarantee for all BenchVent manufactured products provides for peace of mind.

Do I need a Ducted or Recirculating unit?

If you can accommodate a ducted unit this will remove 100% of the contaminants direct to atmosphere, or our Recirculating units through the process of filtration, adsorption and dilution, the operator exposure to concentrations of potentially hazardous substances is vastly reduced.

How long can my ducting be?

BenchVent Units are designed to extract through a MAXIMUM of 4 metres of ducting, anything above this will negatively affect air velocity (2m supplied as standard per duct)

What are the power requirements for BenchVent products?

BenchVent products operate on standard UK power (230V/50Hz), with power consumption varying by model.

Also offered for North America 110V @ 60Hz power supply as an option.

Smaller units (e.g., BV200H): Approximately 40W
Medium units (e.g., BV100H): Approximately 80W
Larger/ducted units (e.g., BV100H-D, BV930H-C): Approximately 210W

All units are designed for safe operation when connected to properly grounded outlets and are supplied with the correct plug type for the specific country of use.

Do I need an LEV Test?

LEV tests should be carried out every 12-14 months to ensure the machine is in fully working order. It also ensures that you and your staff are being adequately protected using the unit.

How long do Filters last?

We recommend changing your particulate filters every 2-3 months and your carbon, HEPA or EPA filters every 6 months. If the machine is constantly in use, then filters should be changed more frequently.Signs that filters need replacement include decreased airflow, odours passing through the unit, or visible saturation of the particulate filter.

Where can I purchase replacement filters for my BenchVent product?

Genuine BenchVent replacement filters can be obtained through:
– Direct purchase from https://www.strikeforcehobbies.com/
We recommend using only genuine BenchVent filters to maintain warranty coverage and ensure optimal performance.

Can I extract into another room?

No. You must extract fumes to the outside atmosphere via an external wall vent. Flexi-ducts can be installed to a standard domestic vent or window venting via window adapter option. Alternatively, you can add unit ducting into your existing ductwork.

What is the paper test?

The paper test is a quick and simple method to check whether a Local Exhaust Ventilation (LEV) unit is functioning correctly by confirming the presence of airflow at the filter face.

How to Perform the Test:

Hold a standard A4 sheet of paper directly against the front of the filter face:

✅ If the paper stays in place without falling, the unit is operating correctly.
❌ If the paper falls away, it may indicate:

Reduced or no airflow
Blocked filters or ductwork
Fan malfunction
Incorrect filter installation

Why use this test?

Quick and easy visual confirmation of airflow
Helps identify obvious performance issues
Ideal for daily or pre-use checks

Important Note:

This is a basic functional check and does not replace formal LEV testing, which must be carried out at required intervals according to local safety regulations (e.g., COSHH in the UK)

What routine maintenance does my BenchVent unit require?

Beyond filter replacement, recommended maintenance includes:

Monthly:
– Wipe down exterior surfaces with a damp cloth
– Check for any obstructions in air intake and exhaust areas
– Inspect power cord for damage

Quarterly:
– Clean fan blades if accessible (power off and disconnect first)
– Check and tighten any loose fasteners
– Verify proper operation of controls and switches

Annually:
– Full inspection of all components
– Airflow velocity check (recommended for professional/industrial applications)

The airflow from my BenchVent unit seems reduced. How can I fix this?

Reduced airflow typically results from:

Clogged filters: The most common cause – check and replace filters if needed
2. Obstructed intake: Ensure the air intake area isn’t blocked by walls or objects
3. Ducting restrictions: For ducted models, check for kinks or blockages in ducting
4. Fan issues: Dust buildup on fan blades can reduce efficiency (clean with power disconnected)
5. Incorrect speed setting: For dual-speed models, verify you’re using the appropriate speed setting

If airflow remains inadequate after these checks, please contact:

Strike Force Hobbies Customer Service Department Phone: 866-784-1657.

I can still smell fumes when using my BenchVent unit. What's wrong?

If odours are passing through your unit:

1. Carbon filter saturation: The most likely cause – carbon filters need replacement
2. Incorrect unit for application: Your current model may not be rated for the specific substances you’re using
3. Airflow bypass: Check for gaps around filters or in the cabinet that might allow air to bypass filtration
4. Excessive fume generation: You may be producing more fumes than the unit can handle at once
5. External factors: Check for other sources of odours in the workspace

For persistent odour issues, contact please call customer support 866-784-1657 to discuss your specific application and assistance.

What does Our BenchVent lifetime warranty cover?

Our BenchVent lifetime warranty includes:
– Manufacturing defects in materials and workmanship for the original purchaser
– Fan motors and electrical components (excluding consumable items)
– Structural components of the cabinet or booth

The warranty does not cover:
– Consumable items such as filters
– Damage from improper use or installation
– Normal wear and tear
– Modifications or repairs by unauthorized personnel

For warranty service, please contact Strike Force Hobbies 866-784-1657 and or email info@benchvent.com.