Festool Dust Extractor CT 15 HEPA: Compact Power for Montana Contractors

The CT 15 HEPA delivers what contractors need most from portable dust extraction — genuine HEPA filtration and 130 CFM suction in a 23-pound package that moves easily between jobsites. At 130 CFM airflow and 96 inches water lift, this extractor pulls harder than most shop vacs twice its size.

Perfect for finish carpenters, remodelers, and any contractor working in occupied spaces where dust control matters. The variable power control runs from 350W to 1,200W, letting you dial in the right suction for everything from aggressive sanding to delicate surface work.

Compact Professional Performance

Size matters when you’re hauling gear up narrow staircases or working in cramped mechanical rooms. The CT 15 weighs 23.1 pounds and measures 18.5 x 12.6 x 17.1 inches — small enough to ride in the truck cab, powerful enough to handle real work.

The 3.96 gallon container holds more debris than it looks like it should. Almost the entire container volume can be used - for long periods of work without having to change the filter bag. That’s German engineering — maximizing usable space instead of wasting it on plastic bulk.

Specification	Value
Airflow	130 CFM
Static Pressure	96 inches water lift
Power Range	350W – 1,200W
Container Capacity	3.96 gallons
Filter Bag Capacity	3.3 gallons
Weight	23.1 pounds
Sound Level	72 dB
Power Cord	16.4 feet

Users like Tyler Bancroft have expressed satisfaction with the CT 15, noting that it performs well for general shop cleanup and can be easily connected to various tools such as drill presses and routers. Its performance is comparable to larger models like the CT 26, but with added portability.

True HEPA Filtration Standards

Full-unit HEPA Certification means the entire system — not just the filter — meets the 99.97% efficiency standard. OSHA Table 1 Compliant (when used with appropriate tools/shrouds) keeps you legal on commercial jobs where silica exposure matters.

The filtration system handles both wet and dry pickup. For wet use, an optional wet filter (NF-CT) is recommended. Tool-free filter replacement from the outside of the unit means no wrestling with dirty internals during filter changes.

Its HEPA filtration is valued for capturing fine dust particles, which is important for health and safety, particularly in environments where dust control is critical. Montana’s long winters mean working indoors for months — proper filtration prevents turning client homes into dust bowls.

Variable Power Control

Five power settings match suction to the task. Crank it up for hogging off material with a planer. Dial it back for finish sanding where too much suction lifts the workpiece. The 350W to 1,200W power range covers everything from light cleanup to heavy extraction.

Integrates with Festool power tools via the on-board socket. Tool-triggered operation starts extraction automatically when you pull the trigger. No reaching for switches with dusty hands.

Common applications include:

• General workshop cleanup (sanding, routing, planing)
• Jobsite dust collection in compact spaces
• Occupied space cleaning (homes, offices, cars)
• Wet spill and water extraction
• Vehicle interior detailing

Systainer Integration

Compatible with Festool 27mm, 36mm, and 50mm hoses. The modular hose system lets you match diameter to the tool — smaller for precision work, larger for bulk extraction. Accessories are interchangeable with CT Mini/Midi and CT 25 models.

The kit includes essential accessories:

• Suction Hose: 27/32mm x 3.5m (RAS-CT)
• Crevice Nozzle: D36 (150mm length)
• Upholstery Brush: D36 upholstery nozzle
• Filter Bag: Self-cleaning SELFCLEAN SC-FIS-CT MINI/MIDI-2

Lacks Sys-Dock latching for Systainers — one of the few missing features from this model. No built-in Bluetooth either. Hose included is basic (not the smooth anti-static version). These omissions keep the price down while delivering core extraction performance.

3-year ‘Warranty all-inclusive’ (requires registration) covering wear-and-tear, repair service, and spare parts. That’s confidence in build quality — covering wear items that other brands exclude.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the real difference between the CT 15 and larger Festool extractors? Weight and capacity. The CT 15 gives you the same filtration quality and suction technology in a package that’s actually portable. You’re trading container size for mobility.

Does the CT 15 work with non-Festool tools? Yes. Standard hose adapters fit most power tools. The tool-triggered outlet works with any corded tool up to the amp rating.

Is HEPA filtration worth it for construction dust? For occupied spaces and finish work, absolutely. Drywall dust, wood dust, and especially treated lumber dust shouldn’t be floating around client homes. OSHA compliance aside, it’s about doing professional work.

How does it handle water extraction? Swap to the optional wet filter and it becomes a wet vac. The sealed motor handles moisture without issues. Just remember to empty it before storing.

Why not just buy a cheaper shop vac? Shop vacs move air. The CT 15 filters air while maintaining suction as the filter loads. Extremely quiet operation at 72 dB means you can actually have a conversation while it runs. Try that with a screaming shop vac.