Sanding - Your Questions Answered

Planex Questions

Can I use the backing plate for the LHS 2 Planex part number 205415 on my Planex Easy?

We recommend you use a Soft Backing Pad part number 202546 for the Planex Easy. This doesn't require an interface pad.

What lengths can you achieve with the LHS 2 using the extension arms?

The length of the fixed handle is 1.20m. With one arm extender (205416) the length increases to 1.70m and with two arm extenders the length extends to 2.10m.

Is theirs a systainer for the Planex Easy?

Due due its fixed length, there is only a protective bag option, the Carry Bag for LHS E PLANEX Easy (part number: 202477)

Can I buy the 8 x plastic screws that come with the 220 interface pad (205418) separately?

Unfortunately the screws only come with the backing pad (part no. 205418)

Can I use 220mm interface pad for soft fillers for lhs 2 planex with my LHS 225 planex easy?

No. You cant use backing pad 205415 with the PLANEX Easy sander. We recommend you use part number 202546 Soft backing pad for the PLANEX Easy. The Soft backing pad 202546 doesn't require an interface pad.

LHS 2 225 is leaving swirl marks in soft filler

Try reducing the dust extraction and consider using the 220mm interface pad for soft fillers 577252

What is the green button for on the handle of the LHS 2 225 that looks like an alarm?

This button is the bluetooth function that can be used with the Festool Bluetooth app - unfortunately, this is not currently available in Australia.

Can I join a Planex hose and to a normal smooth hose?

If you have the smooth 27-32 hose the planex hose can be plugged into the extractor end fitting. If you dont have the appropriate rotating adaptor you will require the below fittings. 493047. Take the reducing sleeve off 1 end (tool end) of the hose and fit 204920. Then plug both ends into the joiner 493047.

Can you buy the Hook and Loop Fasteners that come with the Planex 2 225 separately?

Yes, a pack of 5 is available Hook and Loop Fastener for Plugit Cable to Suction Hose - 5 Pack (part number 205294)

LHS 2 225 is leaving swirl marks in soft filler

Try reducing the dust extraction and consider using the 220mm interface pad for soft fillers (577252)

Can I use the Festool App to adjust the brightness on my LHS 2

The app is currently not available in Australia.

Can I use the bluetooth app on my new Planex 2 225?

Unfortunately the bluetooth app isn't available in Australia just yet.

How can I turn down the LED light on my LHS 2 225? I can see an app available in Germany.

Unfortunately the app isn't available in Australia and the light cannot be turned down manually.

Can I use any hose for my Planex sander?

Festool advises that the correct hose to use for the PLANEX sander is part number 577101. This hose is designed and manufactured to be used especially with the PLANEX sanders and will provide optimal performace.

Can a long life bag be used in the CTM 36 Planex when sanding with my Planex Dust Extractor?

No, the long life bag should not be used when sanding plaster dust with a PLANEX system. Because plaster dust is so fine, if the long life bag were to be used, this extremely fine dust can clog the pores of the bag quickly therefore reducing the effectivesess of the dust extraction. Festool recommends using a Autoclean Dust Extractor when working with plaster and concrete dust with the open plastic bag.

Can I use the standard Plug It Cable on my Planex Sander?

You could use it however we recommend the Planex Plug It Cable (part number 203933) as it is engineered specifically for the Planex connection.

Why does my auto clean dust extractor keep beeping when the bag is only half full while sanding dry wall/concrete ?

For sanding dry wall & concrete, plastic waste bag is recommended. Fine dust generated from sanding such applications tend to clog up the enclosed bag. With the plastic bag, the filter is fully exposed. Fine dust built up on the filter will be shaken off by the auto clean function of the dust extractor.

How thick is the 220mm interface pad (part number 577252) for the LHS 2 225 Planex Drywall sander?

The 577252 pad is approx 8mm thick. This interface pad dampens the PLANEX LHS 2 225 application pressure when sanding very soft fillers. This creates perfect surfaces even on very soft substrates. ideal for use when sanding soft coatings on plaster board.

How do you reach corners and edges? Is it all possible with the LHS 225 EQ Plus Planex Long Reach Sander?

For edges: -use LHS 225 EQ Plus Planex Long Reach Sander and flip front bracket off. -use LS 130 EQ Plus Linear Sanderwhich is a rectangular sander to insure reaching every edge For corners: You need to use other tools -use DX 93 E Et- Baugruppe -use RO 90 DX F EQ Plus Rotex 4 in 1 Orbital Sander with the Delta Pad

Polishing Questions

Can I use my RO 90 to polish out stone?

No, Festool does not have any polishing systems for stone.

What setting do I use on the ROTEX for polishing

When requiring to polish with the ROTEX the tool should be in the geared mode. Variable speed can be adjusted to suit the material being worked on.

Can I use the 80mm Sheepskin Buff Pad on the RO 90m Rotex?

Yes, the 80mm Sheepskin Buff Pad can be used on the RO 90 but it will need to be used with the Foam Polishing Pad 80mm FastFix 495625

Do I need to purchase a polishing pad for my RO 90/125/150 or can i use the normal backing pad?

Although you can use the standard backing pad, we recommend the use of a polishing pad. They have a smaller diameter to lessen the chance of protentional damage to painted or delicate surfaces.

Rotex Sanders Questions

Can a RO 125 FEQ pad be fitted to a RO 150 FEQ?

No , they are not compatible

How do I change the backing pad on the RO 150 FEQ?

Locate the green button on the side of the sander and press in - you will then be able to twist off the pad. When replacing press the same side button in and twist pad on.

How long do the motor brushes in an RO 150 last?

The brushes last approximately 200 hours.

I have an RO 150, does it have a built in crevice attachment?

Sure does! Push the small green button in the handle and the extraction tube pops off

How can I stop wearing out the tips of my RO 90 Triangle pads?

When using your RO 90 Sander working in corners and on edges tends to subject the tip to increased stress and results in increased heat development. In such cases, work with reduced contact pressure and if you do wear the tip, rotate the pad to the next tip.

What it the part/item number for Hardwire Kit for RO150 FEQ & ETS 150/3 EQ?

The part number for the Hardwire Kit is 492780 - CONVERSION KIT TO FIXED CABLE

Will a 36mm anti static hose connect directly to a Rotex 150 sander or is a connector needed?

A 36mm hose end requires an adaptor to reduce down to 27mm for the tool - Anti Static Reducing Sleeve (768135)

Can I use the triangular base plate 93mm on my RO 150?

No, the 93mm base plate part number 496802 is only adaptable to the smaller Rotex RO 90mm

Do I need to purchase a polishing pad for my RO 90/125/150 or can i use the normal backing pad?

Although you can use the standard backing pad, we recommend the use of a polishing pad. They have a smaller diameter to lessen the chance of protentional damage to painted or delicate surfaces.

Does the 150 rotex Pad fit on the on the 125mm machine?

No, these pads have different Fast Fix pad fitting systems so are not compatiable.

Why is the pad on my RO 150 free spinning on the sander when in random orbit mode?

The brake seal that lies just beneath the pad needs replacing - check the spare part drawings online to find the part number for your sander

Which abrasives of the Sander Rotex RO 150 E should be used to remove paint from weatherboard?

The best abrasive of the Sander Rotex RO 150 E to use for the removal of paint from weatherboard is the Granat.

Which backing pad should I use on my ROTEX sander?

ROTEX 150: For this model, you can choose from hard, soft, and super soft high-temperature backing pads, as well as a louver backing pad. The hard pad is recommended for sanding flat surfaces and narrow edges, while the super soft pad is better for contours and profiles. Festool ROTEX 125: This model also has compatible hard, soft, and super soft high-temperature backing pads.

Can I attach my belt sander and my rotex sander to my dust extractor and run both machines at the same time?

Yes, we have a 452898 Y Piece connector allowing you to use both tools simultaneously. The Y piece will connect to either 27 mm, 36mm and 50 mm hose. Some sanding applications are best used with single hose operation as they will require the full suction to remove dust.

Does the RO 90 have Rotex motion when the triangle sanding pad is attached?

No, when using the RO 90, the Rotary motion is blocked when the Triangle pad is attached - it will work with Eccentric motion only.

How are the two modes - fine sanding and coarse sanding different on the RO 150?

Coarse Sanding Mode. This is the more aggressive, gear-driven mode. The sanding pad is forced to rotate and is combined with the eccentric motion of the sander. Fine Sanding Mode. This is the classic random orbital, or "eccentric," mode. The sanding pad spins freely on its own.

Is it normal that my ROTEX sander gets warm while in use?

ROTEX sanders run warm while in use however they have have a thermal protection system which prevents them from overheating. If the system is not activating then the unit is running at normal operating temperature. When this system does activate the tool slows down considerably and produces very little power.

General Questions

Can I use a hepa filter (part number 205412) in my CTM 36l M Class Autoclean Dust Extractor for ultra fine particles dusts when cutting MDF board and other fine sanding application?

Yes you can use 205412 hepa filter in the CTM 36l M Class Autoclean Dust Extractor for ultra fine particles dusts when cutting MDF board and other fine sanding applications however it is not recommended by Festool. This is because the the flow sensor alarm may go off prematurely and constantly as the CTM 36l was not being designed to work optimally with a hepa filter.

Can I use a Lex 3 air sander with no dust extraction?

Yes, with the IAS adapter (part number 497214) can be used to adapt the tool to operate without an extractor.

Can I use my Festool sander to wet sand, if I don't connect a vacuum to the tool?

Some sanders like the ETS 150 , DTS 400, and any others that have a bag option have a built in fan so can suck water into the unit causing damage to the tool and risk of electrocution. Other sanders which always need a vacuum for dust extraction RO150, ETS EC 150 also are not recommended to wet sand due to the increased risk of electrocution and damage to the tool.

Can I use my non Festool sander with the Compressed Air Module?

The CT Compressed Air Module must be used in conjunction with either a Festool 2-1 or 3-1 hose, and Festool Lex air sander.

Can I use the same dust extractor for all sanders?

When choosing a Dust Extractor for use with sanders it is important to undertsand what dust class is required (L, M or H). Please see our Dust advice hub in the menu to ensure you use the correctly matched extractor. Some dust extractors have different hoses for better performance with the application they are designed for, and may need swapping if being used for different tasks. An example would be the Planex Autoclean extractor which has a black hose optimised for the long reach sander, this may need swapping to a general purpose hose for other sanders

Can the LEX air sander be used for wet sanding?

Although there is no electrics in this tool we still recommend a dry sanding system to be used with this sander.

Can you use the FastFix 93mm pad (part number 496802) on the RTS 400 sander?

No, the RTS 400 sander doesnt have the FastFix attachment to operate the FastFix Base Plate part number 496802

Do I need an Air module to use the Lex 3 air sander with my CT Extractor?

Yes, the compressed air module with auto on/off to use the Lex 3 air sander, this is used for our CT 26/36 and 48 series extractors

Do you have a sander that can be used as a cordless or mains powered?

Yes, we have a few sanders that have the capability to be corded and cordless. 577684 - RTSC 400 Quarter Sheet Rectangular Sander or 577516 - DTSC 400 Orbital Iron Head Sander or 575718 - ETSC 125 Random Orbital 2mm Sander 125mm all use the ergo battery / adapter. (Note NOT new ETSC 2 sander)

Does a 36mm hose fit on to a Domino and sanders?

No.To enable the 36mm hose (at tool end) to fit an adapter will be needed. Search for 768135 anti static hose reducing connector or D27/32mm tapered hose

How do I know when I need to replace the pad brake in my Festool sander?

To check if the pad brake works, turn on and off the sander without touching material, and see if the pads stops, or keeps spinning. The pad should stop rotating in less than a second after you shut it off.

Is there a cordless 150mm random orbital sander?

FYI, this tool is planned in the near future.

What are the sizes of replacement dust bags for sanders?

Sizes of replacement bags for Festool sanders are as follows. RS/RTS 400, DS400, DTS400, ES125, ETS125 - Dimensions - 15cm x 7cm Availlable in: 5 Pack - Part number 489128. RS300, RS3, RS200, RS2, ES150, ETS150, ET2 is 23cm x 8cm Dimensions - 23cm x 8cm Available in: 5 Pack - Part number 487779 - 25 pack Part number 487871. Visit the sander dust bags category for more details

What are the speeds for cordless sanders?

Cordless sanders speed is 6,000 - 10,000 RPMs, which is a little slower than the Festool brushless sanders, which are 6,000 - 12,000 RPMs For full details and specifications see our range of Cordless Sanders category

What is the best sandpaper to use on plaster?

The Granat range of sandpaper is appropriate to use for plasterboard applications. Each individual sander has a range of different grits to suit varying sanding requirements to give ideal results.

What is the warranty for sanders and dust extractors?

Festool offer 3 years warranty for all sanders and dust extractor (the tools must be registered) except the H class dust extractors which offer 1 year. (due to higher contamination risks that exist with prolonged usage)

What sander is best for me?

To find the right sander for your application please visit the Sander advice hub on our website

What’s a brake in my Festool sander, and when do I need to replace it?

The brake is designed to keep constant pressure to the pad, and stop the pad quickly once you turn the sander off. If the pad free spins in Random orbit mode on the RO tools, or normal mode on ETS range, the brake rubber needs to be replaced. Send the tool to the Melbourne Festool service centre or see your closest warranty agent (link in footer)

Which sanders can be used without Dust Extraction and which ones need dust extraction?

It is always advisable to use some form of dust extraction when sanding. Sanding, on most surfaces, creates fine particles that can be harmful even in small amounts. Please see our valuable resource on Dust Safety in the dust advice hub for important information. The ETS 150 (NOT ETSC 2) sanders can be used without dust extraction as it has an internal fan that will remove the dust and can be used with a dust collection bag (part number 489631). The RO 150, RO 125, RO 90, and ETS EC have no fans so it is essential to use them in conjunction with a dust extractor. Please also note when sanding without Dust Extractor, the abrasive life and the life of the tool, in the long run, will decrease.

Why does my auto clean dust extractor keep beeping when the bag is only half full while sanding dry wall/concrete ?

For sanding dry wall and concrete, a plastic waste bag 496215 is recommended. Fine dust generated from sanding such applications tend to clog up the enclosed bag. With the plastic bag, the filter is fully exposed. Fine dust built up on the filter will be shaken off by the auto clean function of the dust extractor.

Why does my cordless sander have less power when connected to mains?

Overload Protection on the cordless sander is engaging at a lower point when on the power adaptor than when used with the battery causing the sander to cut out more often. This is normal. The battery can deliver significantly more power than a power adaptor so when the sander is running the power adaptor it will cut out more due to this limitation.

ETSC2 Questions

Can this cordless model also use the same batteries as the ETSC

No the ETSC2 use airstream batteries which most of the Festool range now use. The ETSC use the ergo batery

Belt Sander Questions

Which base should i choose for the BS 75, a graphite base or cork base?

There is a choice between the cork base or the graphite base for the BS 75mm Belt Sander, depending on the application. The 490824 cork base is for coarse sanding work while the 490823 graphite base reduces the temperature generated by the friction between the material, acting as a dry lubricant, it also prevents abrasive belts from clogging due to heat.

Does the BS 75 E come with cork base or the graphite base?

The BS 75 E Belt Sander comes with graphite base. A cork base can also be attached - part number 490824

Is it recommended to use the frame when sanding with a BS 75mm belt sander?

The BS75 Belt Sander in Systainer with Sanding Frame can be used with or without the sanding frame. If you want to prevent damaging flat surface area, we suggest you use the BS 75 with the sanding frame. This will protect larger surface areas and prevent tilting.

ETS / DTS / RTS 1 Questions

Does the delta pad for the DTS 400 fit the RTS 400?

No, the pads for the 577521 DTS 400 REQ 100 x 150mm Orbital Iron Head Sander and the pads for the 576055 RTS 400 80 x 133mm Orbital 1/4 Sheet Sander are not interchangeable.

My ETS EC 150/3 does not have the extractor signal function shown in some videos

The extractor signal function was removed as a feature on the brushless sanders because it didn’t offer any major benefits to the user.

Can I use the 490165 on my RTS 400?

No, the LS 130 pads cannot be used on the RTS 400.

How to change the backing pad on ETS 150, ETS EC 150?

Using a 5mm allen key counter clockwise undo the bolt, take off the backing pad and vacuum the inside before you put the new backing pad on, thread the bolt using the allen key.

I can see two Festool tools item numbers, is the tool the same? if so, what's the difference ? eg ETS 150 EC , current 576333, replaces 575049

Great question! if the tool name is the same, then the Systainer has been changed from a Tloc to a Sys3 version - same tool inside! The main difference is most Sys3 systainers now have an handle on the side, as well as top.

I have an ETS 150 can I hardwire this on my own, I purchased kit number 492780?

The ETS 150 and RO 150 can not be hardwired using kit 492780, both these sanders can only be hardwired in-house by our qualified technicians.

Is there a hard backing pad available for the ETS 125?

There is only soft part number 492280 and super soft part number 492282

Can I use the dust bag and plastic attachment set for ES 150 on the EC version?

No. The Dust Bag cannot be used on the EC models are without a suction fan to reduce size and weight of the tool, the ETS 150EC models require a dust extractor to be economical with abarasives.

When using a RTSC 400, DTSC 400 or ETSC 125, why does the overload protection engage when under pressure on power adaptor and not when same pressure is applied and it is on battery?

Due to the limitation of the adaptor it will cut out when overloaded. for this reason significantly more power can be delivered when running on battery (202497) than on the power adaptor (203738).

Why does the ETS/RO vibrate badly when not fitted with a pad?

This vibration is not an indication of a fault of the ETS/RO sander. The mass of the pad forms part of the machines rotating mass, and is counter-balanced by internal weights. With the pad not fitted, the machine is imbalanced as the counter-weights do not have any opposing mass to balance.

ETS EC 150 - Will not start, no go

We have received a few calls from dealers and end-users that their new ETS-EC 150 will not start - in these cases it is important the user check the extractor signal setting Refer below extract from the operation manual Extractor signal. The electronic extractor signal detects whether an extractor hose is connected at the power tool. Upon activation the power tool can only be switched on with a connected extractor hose. Refer customer to the operation manual for further details Switching the extractor signal ON/OFF The extractor signal is supplied in a deactivated state. 1. Switch on the power tool using the ON/OFF button[1-1]. 2. Hold down the ON/OFF button [1-1]. 3. Motor switches off, power tool beeps once. 4. Turn speed control [1-2] to level 1 and level 6. Power tool beeps three times. 5. Release ON/OFF button [1-1]. Extractor signal is activated. To deactivate the extractor signal repeat the above-mentioned procedure, power tool beeps twice.

ETS-EC extraction detection safety

The new range ETS-EC sanders have an extraction hose detection system, if this function has been activated the sander will not run without a hose and extractor connected The ETS-EC indicator light inform the user if this function is activated This function or lack of knowledge about its existance has caused unnecessary returns of the ETS-EC to workshops for repair and calls to CS The hose detection system is a function that can be switch on and off, for activation and deactivation instructions please refer to the attached document or the products operation manual

Why does my ETSC/RTSC/DTSC sander produce less power on the mains adaptor than when using a battery?

The sander may cut out at a lesser load when powered by the main adaptor because the mains adaptor is designed to deliver 150W continuously and will cut out if tool is overloaded beyond approximately 200W. Batteries are capable of delivering short bursts of much higher power so the tool will tolerate more extreme overloading and continue to run.

Can my RTS 400 be converted to a DTS 400 sander?

Yes it could be converted by the Festool service centre, but then the original pad from the RTS will not fit so keep that in mind!

Can the 201693 Long life filter dust bag be used for all ETS, DTS, RTS and ETSC, DTSC , RTSC Sanders?

Although the bag is shown as a male the housing can be clipped on for use with the mains powered ETS,DTS & RTS or for unclipped for use with the ETSC,DTSC & RTSC sanders. So one bag fits all palm sanders. This bag is also suitable for the ETS150 sanders but not the ETSEC as that hasn’t got a internal fan to move the dust into the bag.

Can the DTS 400 be used for round over and small profile sanding?

Interface pads cannot be added to the DTS 400 for round-over and small profile sanding. As Festool recommends the use of interface pads for round over and profile sanding the DTS 400 therefore is not recommended for this type of application.

Can the edge sanding position guide be used for the RTSC & DTSC sanders?

No. The Edge Sanding Position guide can only be used for the following sanders: ETS 125 REQETSC 125ES-ETS 125ES-ETSC 125

What standard pad can I use for my old ET 2E sander?

The standard pad for this sander is the soft high temperature backing pad, part number 202458 Pads are available in soft, super soft and hard to apply to various applications.

What standard pad comes with the ETS EC 150/5mm sander as apposed to the ETS EC 150/3mm sander and why?

The ETS EC 150/5mm sander comes with the soft temperature pad part number: 202458 . The ETS EC 150/3mm sander comes with the super soft temperature pad, part number: 202459. Due to the fact the ETS EC 150/3 would normally be used with finer grit abrasives and the super soft high temperature pad has longer velcro to enable the abrasive to flex while sanding.

Can Festool ETS 150 sander be used on aluminum - or similar

Aluminum dust is combustible and therefore should only be sanded with pneumatic tools or by hand.

What does the 3mm and 5mm orbit relate to in the ETS 150 and ETS EC sanders?

The 3mm and 5mm indicate the orbit size or the sander. The orbit size is the size of the tiny random oscillation circle that the sanders make measured in mm.

Which backing pad should I use with the ETS 125 and Edge Sanding Position Guide?

The pad that comes with the ETS 125 is suitable. If wanting to keep edges sharp the hard pad would be recomended.

Does the ETS EC range sanders leave swirl marks?

No, the random orbit or eccentric motion is perfect for reaching results quickly and eliminating swirl marks.

How much pressure should I apply when using a random orbit sander, ie: ETS /ETS EC 150?

Using just minimal pressure will give best results when using a Festool sander. Users should guide the sander rather than pushing it, this will also extend the life of sanding material and acheive better results faster.

Is the DELTA 100 x 150/7 pad Item No. 493723 suitable to convert onto the RTSC 400 sander to gain more flexibilty?

DELTA 100 x 150/7 pad Item (493723) is not compatible as the attaching screws are a different configuration.

Is there a hardwire kit for my sander?

There is a hardwire kit for plugit cable -> Hardwired for the ETS 150 EQ and the RO 150 FEQ (#492780). The Festool Service Centre is able to perform these conversions if required.

What is the most suitable application for 3mm and 5mm orbit ETS 150 sanders?

The 3mm versions ETS 150mm Brushless Random Orbital 3 mm Sander are for fine and extra fine sanding – best surface quality. The 5mm versions ETS 150 mm Brushless Random Orbital 5mm Sanders are for sanding where more material removal is required. The 5mm could be used in the preparation stages where more coarse sanding is requied. The 3mm would be used in finishing stages.

What is the standard pad for the discontinued WTS 150 Sander?

The standard pad used for the ETS 150 series can also be used on the WTS 150 sanding machine. Part number 202458

When should you use interface or protection pads on a sander, eg ETS 150/ RO 150?

Interface pads are needed when you need to conform over curved surfaces. The pads come in 5mm /15mm thick options in 150mm diameter. They also extend the life of your backing pad and abrasives. The thin Protection pad (3mm) is required if using any mesh or net abrasives to protect the backing pad from excessive heat.

Can you convert all sanders from power to 18v Li using the Ergo Bluetooth battery pack? Part No. 577704

No, this can only be adapted to specific ergo battery/adapter cordless sanders ETSC 125, RTSC 400 DTSC 400. This does not apply to the new ETSC 2 sander which does NOT use the Ergo Battery / Power adapter

Abrasives Questions

What is the difference betwenn Granat and GrantNET abrasive?

Granat is a versatile, high-performance abrasive designed for a wide range of materials, including wood, paint, varnish, and composite materials. It is known for its durability and anti-clogging coating, and it features multiple holes for dust extraction. GranatNET is a newer addition to the line, featuring an open-weave mesh or net structure. This design allows for dust extraction across the entire surface of the abrasive, making it highly effective for materials that produce a large amount of dust, such as drywall compound, plaster, and fillers. Its open structure also helps prevent clogging and contributes to a longer lifespan. It is recommended to use a protection pad with GranatNET abrasives to prevent wear on the sander's backing pad.

Which abrasives are recommended for various applications?

Please refer to the Sander advice hub category on our website

Which Festool abrasives are aluminium oxide?

Rubin, Brilliant, Titan, Granat and Saphir are all Aluminium Oxide abrasives.

Is there a risk of "fish eye" or other defect using Granat abrasives before painting latex-based paints, clear polyurethane , 2 pack and other water-based finishes?

There is no problem using Granat before a finish is applied. Granat has a zinc stearate, and doesnt contain any wax therefore will take a coating over the top.

Any more sanding tips to help reduce swirls or pigtails?

Wipe off your work before you start and also between grits. Adjust your suction to closer to minimum - you don't want to suck the sander down into the work. Start your sander off the work surface and lift it off before turning it off. Sand in patterns - go side to side and then top to bottom so to speak. Go methodically and overlap your patterns. Use a raking light to check your progress - particularly at the end prior to applying finish. Let your sander do the work - don't apply more pressure than necessary to keep it on the surface - see #2. Check your sandpaper to make sure you don't get anything stuck on the paper which would create a lump. Check your Velcro on the backing pad for debris as well as on the back of the paper.

Are the backing pads on hybrid sanders interchangeable?

The backing pads on hybrid sanders are not interchangable. There are different screw configurations and the pad are balanced individually to the correct weight/sander combination

Can I use a different brand sandpaper or mesh on my Festool sander?

Yes. However, if the holes in the sandpaper do not align with the dust extraction holes on the sander pad then dust extraction performance will be impacted, this may lead to a shorter sandpaper life-span and potentially poorer results on teh surface of your job. Also some abrasives can have a different hook and loop connection velcro that can be detrimental to pad life.

My sandpaper no longer sticks to my sanding pad, do I need a new pad? what can I do to protect my pad so they last longer?

You will need a new pad if your sandpaper no longer sticks. For Granat paper not sticking, try a protection or interface pad first. To prevent damage to your pad, heat is the main issue which will melt the hooks on the backing pad. 3 tips - Keep the sander moving to prevent heat build up, don't use excess pressure. Let the sander do the work. Finally , keep the sander flat , pressure in one spot will melt the hooks.