I was dead wrong about solder fume extractors being overpriced

Used to think those $200+ fume extractors were a total scam. Figured cracking a window and holding my breath was good enough. But after 6 months in a cramped avionics bay at KAPA, I started getting headaches and a weird metallic taste. Bought a Hakko FA-430 last month, and now I can't believe I was breathing that junk for so long. Anyone else ignore the safety gear for years before finally giving in?

3 comments

3 Comments

the_tessa21d ago

@jasonf17 it's actually lead-free solder that causes the most fumes, so you're still in trouble either way.

lopez.quinn24d ago

Used to roll my eyes at guys with the fancy extractors, but after a month of weird headaches I caved and bought one. Totally changed my mind, that stuff is no joke.

jasonf1724d agoMost Upvoted

Tbh, I was the same way - thought my lungs were made of iron until I realized I was just slowly marinating myself in lead and flux. Guess we all gotta learn the hard way, right?