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We're here to help you

Below are some frequently asked questions relating to our BOFA products and services.

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General FAQs

I have placed an order directly with BOFA. How can I track my order?

All of our parts and machines are sent via tracked delivery. Please contact the sales order processing department for more information.

If you have placed an order through a BOFA distributor, please contact them directly.

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About local exhaust ventilation (LEV)

What is LEV?

Local exhaust ventilation (LEV) is a proven and cost effective means of removing airborne fume and dust hazards from the workplace to ensure operator safety and comfort.

How do LEV systems work?

Potentially harmful fumes are captured at source and passed through a series of filters which remove hazardous particulate and gases before recirculating the cleaned air back into the workplace.

Which extraction system do I need for my application?

BOFA has a range of extraction systems suitable for a wide range of applications across several industries.

Please refer to Your industry in the first instance. In here, our search function will help you identify suitable units and our product comparison tool will help you work out what is right for you.

If you are still unsure which is the right system for you, our technical and chemical engineers can work with you to understand your process and establish which system and filters are compatible. Contact us for more information.

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Usage

Where can I get a user manual for my extraction system?

All machines are dispatched with a CD ROM user manual.

If you no longer have this, you can access our user manuals by logging into our customer portal. If you don't have login details, please complete the customer sign up form and we'll get back to you shortly.

What flow rate (speed) should my machine be set to? (If unit fitted with variable speed control)

You can find the unit model on the silver label attached to the unit - you can find this on the side or the rear of the unit.

We recommend setting the extraction rate as low as possible but so that the fume can still be effectively removed from enclosures/breathing zones.

Can my extractor connect to my process machine for automatic control?

This preserves the life of filters and internal components of the extractor.

There are a number of optional extras available for our extractors, including interface cables which allows extractors to communicate with PLC's or machines to show filter status or allow a remote stop/start.

For more information please liaise with your sales representative.

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Reporting Issues

What information do I need to supply to report a problem with my unit?

Please complete our Ask the expert form so we have the relevant information to hand when helping you.

Where can I find my extractor's model and serial number?

All BOFA extraction systems have individual serial numbers. This, along with the unit's model name or number can be found on a silver label located usually on the side or rear of the unit.

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Filters

How often should I replace my filters?

The frequency with which you need to change your filter will be determined by the specific application you are using your fume extraction systems for. The following should be treated as guidelines only:

We recommend that filters 'in use' are replaced every 12 months (both pre and combined or bag/HEPA).

Otherwise, please replace when filter indication screen or LED lights state a blockage.

Please note, this is a guide only as each filter will depend on the specific application it is being applied to.

How do I dispose of my blocked or saturated filters?

Pre-filters (Stage 1 filtration): These can be disposed of as 'General Waste' as long as they are contained appropriately (in a sealed bag). This will prevent any particulate from reaching breathing zones of anyone during transportation or disposal of the filter.

Combined-filters (Stage 2 HEPA/carbon filtration): Saturated 'carbon element' filters are classed as hazardous waste and should be disposed of according to local disposal rules and regulations. This normally requires a special service collection and a filter history or MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet) for the product that has been introduced to the filter - contact your materials supplier directly to obtain an MSDS.

How do I change my filters?

Please refer to your user manual for guidance on how to change the filter in you specific unit. Alternatively login to our customer portal to access short, easy to follow videos showing you exactly how to replace your filter.

How can I buy a new filter?

Please contact the company you bought your extraction unit from.

If you bought your system directly from BOFA, please complete our contact form.

Do BOFA offer a service to take away old / saturated filters?

BOFA does not dispose of customer's filters as we cannot guarantee the history of used or saturated filters and so we may be putting the health of our staff or the disposal companies at risk.

How do I know what filters my unit takes?

Every BOFA filter has a specific 'A' number and description located on a yellow label attached to the filter.

If the label is missing, please contact the BOFA technical department and quote the unit's model and serial number.

My extractor LCD/LED filter condition display states my filters are in good condition, however I can smell the process - why?

Filter condition displays only register a physical blockage so will not alert you to a saturated carbon filter (unless the VOC sensor option is fitted to the machine). Any smell coming from the extraction unit's exhaust is a strong indication that either the extraction is not adequate enough to contain the contaminant release or the carbon in the filter has become saturated and requires replacement.

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For further assistance, please complete our Ask the Expert form, providing as much detail as you can about your application.

How often should I check over my machine?

All local exhaust ventilation (LEV) systems should be thoroughly examined and tested by a qualified engineer at least every 14 months - some process may mean that your unit requires much more frequent servicing.

In addition, we recommend keeping a log of weekly checks of any extraction systems to monitor performance and filter condition.

For more information or to book, please visit our Service section.

How do I comply?

In order to be compliant, a thorough examination should be carried out as part of the installation process and at least every 14 months thereafter. It is also the duty of the employer to keep a suitable record of the examination for a period of at least five years. This record should also include details of repairs carried out as a result of the examination and test.

For UK customers, P601 certified BOFA engineers wil carry out a thorough examination and test of LEV systems to ensure optimal performance and legal compliance. Book your service here.

What are my responsibilities?

Employers are responsible for maintaining LEV dust or fume extraction systems to ensure they are kept in effective working order and good repair. They must also ensure the equipment has been suitably installed.

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For further assistance, please complete our Ask the Expert form, providing as much detail as you can about your application.

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Are your systems maintained?

Our team can help you with service contracts, warranty claims and replacements.

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Find an extraction system to suit you

Our extraction technologies meet or exceed the standards set by health and safety legislation around the world… search for the right one for your needs.

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