Choosing a central vacuum system

Central vacuum systems offer cleaning convenience because they have inlets on each floor and in several locations. There is a higher chance that occupants will clean more frequently if a central vacuum is installed in the home.

A central vacuum is versatile and convenient; it can be used for all types of flooring as well as for unusual tasks such as pet grooming and concrete floor scrubbing.

Central vacuums allow for superior cleaning compared to traditional portable vacuums. Regardless of the central vacuum model chosen, the power is about three to five times greater than that of a mobile vacuum cleaner.

Central vacuum systems are highly effective at sucking up fine particles of dust, dirt, and other allergens and particles into a collection canister.

The power unit is a large stationary motor. Regardless of the type of central vacuum system selected, the power is about three to five times more powerful than a portable vacuum. Each system is designed for hoses that reach up to 30'. If the hose needs to be longer, there are select motors available.

As with any vacuum system, a central vacuum system is rated per air watts which is calculated by measuring the air flow and the motor’s overall power usage. Air watts range between 450-1040 air watts, depending on the model. Manufacturers have charts available for homeowners to match a system’s air wattage according to the size and number of rooms to clean

Water lift rating

The industry-wide standard rating that describes suction strength is water lift, listed in inches. The water lift typically ranges from 107" to 155" with the larger number indicating greater suction power. Water lift does not refer to vacuuming water as central vacuum systems are not designed to suction liquids.

Bypass cooling

With bypass cooling, the air flow that cools the motor is different from the one that is used to work the vacuum.

LCD display screen

An LCD display screen feature is available on select models to provide the user with information on the system’s performance and maintenance levels, such as filter replacement.

Noise level

In addition to remote installation locations, there are anti-vibration mountings systems available. Some canisters have sound insulation. If needed, an additional muffler can be installed for any central vacuum system after the initial installation.

There are different types of filtration systems: vertical, cyclonic, and inverted. Depending on the model and the manufacturer, you will find these different types of filters combined in different configurations.

• Vertical system: sucks debris into the canister’s chamber before dropping them into the collection bucket.

• Cyclonic system: uses centrifugal force to separate particles from air flow where particles drop into a canister for disposal and air is exhausted

• Inverted system: is similar to a vertical bag system, but the air is drawn up and through a filter. The particles are then dropped down into the collection bucket. The vertical bag and the inverted systems allow the air to exhaust outside.

Within the central vacuum systems, it is typical for the filters to be HEPA filters. HEPA filters ensure particles are completely eliminated. Occasionally, the filters are self-cleaning and will not ever need to be replaced. 

The dust collection system is comprised of a canister bucket, PVC pipes, inlets, and attachments.

Canister bucket

• Canister buckets are rated per gallon size, with the most common sizes ranging between 22.71-45.42 L.
• These large canister buckets generally do not need to be emptied more than every 3 to 4 months.
• The benefit of a canister bucket is that it is protected from wear and tear.
• Easy to maintain and cannot tear nor rip.
• Some buckets are translucent and some have anti-microbial linings to stop microbial growth between emptyings.

Disposable bags

Canisters are available either with or without disposable bags or liners. Having bags allows for a cleaner process when emptying the canister. The main disadvantage, however, is you must plan to buy some regularly.

Pipes

• Users must simply plug a flexible hose into an inlet to clean.
• These special pipes are thinner and are designed with a specific diameter for central vacuum systems to control the right amount of suction force.
• While the pipes are made of PVC, they are not the same PVC pipes used for plumbing systems.
• The pipes used for the system are standard central vacuum system piping regardless of manufacturer and type of power unit.
• Tubes are connected with low-voltage wall inlet terminations through:
• Interior walls
• Crawl spaces
• Attics
• Basements
• Closets or enclosed spaces, when necessary

Valve inlets

• The inlets vary depending on whether they are hard wired or not, in addition to their low voltage power supply.
• The valve inlets open the airway when a hose is attached and seal the airway when the cleaning is completed.
• The valve inlets are low-voltage couplers that trigger the motor’s on/off switch when the hose is attached to the valve inlet.
• In new constructions, a wire for line voltage can be installed to power up an agitator brush or other accessories that require additional
• Inlet installation kits are available for homeowners.

Hoses

• While different hose lengths are available, the most typical length is 30' and covers 700 sq. ft. A 50' hose would reach up to 1500 sq. ft.
• The power is consistent for an outstretched hose, providing the same amount of power regardless of the distance from the motor.
• Hide-a-hose features are available through select manufacturers such that the hose retracts back into a wall cavity.
• Crushproof hoses spring back to retain original shape. Padded anti-static polyester covers are also available to protect hoses from dents, scratches, chips, and scuff marks while vacuuming.
• The hose cover also protects banisters, walls, furniture, floors, wall coverings, and moldings.