David,DLB wrote: ↑Tue Nov 14, 2023 9:14 pm The instructions were clear up to that point, in hindsight maybe a little thin on detail. Paraphrasing : Plug it in, 5 minute warm up, place the tip against the solder, when the solder melts push the button and solder will be absorbed. Nothing confusing or with major grammatical errors. Followed by the warning I quoted. It probably would have been clear to someone familiar with the type. The ones I've experienced were a much higher grade of tool, and like I said did not exhaust through the tip. This is perfectly adequate, might benefit from a check valve to divert the exhaust. Results were superior to braided solder wicking tape, at least on through-hole, it's fast, and ~$35.
- David
Oh, you have the deluxe model!
I was talking about the solder suckers that you have to apply your own soldering iron to heat the component while you also hold the solder sucker into position for extraction. I haven't looked at these products in years, but I can imagine the type you are using and it sounds like a steal for only $35 if it works halfway decent at all. Don't knock solder braid. It sucks on axial lead components but it is the best low tech way to remove SMT's. Portable hot air gun reflow is even better. 
What you described reminded me of a fun memory from childhood with my 1st solder sucker. My Dad had a solder sucker and I have no idea where he got it from, but it looked homemade. It was a motor and vacuum pump mounted on a wood board. Small motor, not idea the HP but maybe 10" long and 5" diameter. There was a small glass capsule about the size of a 35mm film canister connected at the input of the vacuum pump and the hose attached would be used to suck the solder away from whatever you had heated up with your solder iron. The solidified solder would be deposited in the glass capsule that you had to empty later. Sharing this memory in case it triggers anyone else's memory or brings up nostalgia. Thanks for sharing.
RF Guy