5 Signs Your Fume Extraction System Isn’t Working Effectively

 and maintaining productivity. When systems begin to fail, the signs may be subtle at first, but ignoring them can lead to dangerous exposure levels, damaged equipment and potential compliance breaches. Below are five clear indicators that your LEV or fume extraction system may not be performing as it should be. 

1. Reduced airflow or weak extraction  

If fumes and particulates linger in the air longer than usual, or operators notice odours or visible smoke escaping the capture zone, this is often the first sign your LEV system isn’t operating as intended. Common causes of reduced airflow include: 

• Blocked or saturated filters 

• Faulty fans or motors 

• Incorrect hood positioning 

• Leaks in ductwork 

Low airflow directly impacts your COSHH and HSE compliance, as systems must always maintain adequate capture rates to manage hazardous fumes and particulates, so we strongly recommend booking an LEV service if your airflow drops unexpectedly. 

2. Filters becoming saturated too quickly 

If your filters need replacing more often than instructed, or the system alerts you to frequent filter saturation, this can indicate: 

• Heavy particulate or vapour levels 

• Incorrect system setup 

• Using the wrong filtration type for the process 

As a result, operating costs will be significantly higher, and your unit efficiency will be much lower. That’s why it’s crucial to select the correct clean air solution for your operations. With experience working across countless industries, our team of experts can help you find the best fume extraction system for your business.  

3. Visible dust, vapour or fume escapes around the work area 

When contaminants escape the collection zone, operators are exposed to harmful substances that, if left unaddressed, can result in long-term health issues. Many hazardous fumes are invisible to the naked eye, but if you can see fumes, vapours and particulates circulating the space, it’s a clear sign that your LEV system is not capturing fumes effectively. 

There are several reasons why your system is not operating effectively, but common causes may include: 

• Incorrect face velocity 

• Incorrectly positioned extraction arms  

• Your system is undersized for the desired application 

4. Increased noise, vibrations or system alarms 

Unexpected noises or recurring warning messages are another clear indication that there’s a fault with your fume extraction system. These may be the result of: 

• Fan deterioration 

• Motor issues 

• Blocked filters 

• Loose components 

At Purex, our systems are designed with intelligent monitoring and multiple performance indicators to alert operators when your system needs inspecting or servicing. 

5. LEV testing failures or incoming HSE concerns 

Under COSHH regulations, LEV systems must undergo statutory testing at least every 14 months. If your system fails its LEV test or your records show a decline in system performance, you must act immediately. Failure to do so can result in: 

• HSE enforcement notices 

• Production downtime 

• Increased employee health risks 

• Potential legal consequences 

With a team of P601 and P602 accredited engineers ready to deliver tests and services across a comprehensive range of LEV systems, trust Purex to ensure your system adheres to HSG258 guidelines. 

When should you replace or upgrade your fume extraction system? 

If your LEV system is showcasing several of these warning signs or is repeatedly experiencing fluctuations in performance, despite frequent repairs and services, it’s possible your system is no longer able to meet the demands of your processes, and an upgrade may be necessary.  

At Purex, we offer a comprehensive range of clean air solutions. Catering to various industries with varying flow rates, we can help you find the right fume extraction system for your business.  

Keep your workplace safe with Purex 

Spotting performance issues early is key to protecting your workforce and maintaining full regulatory compliance. With our complete suite of solutions, from high-efficiency clean air systems to ongoing maintenance, LEV testing and industry-specific support, we are always on hand to help. 

If you suspect your extraction system isn’t working effectively, our team can diagnose the issue, recommend improvements and help you maintain the safest possible working environment. Contact us today to see how we can improve your LEV performance.