Despite the fact that the central vacuum has been around for over 100 years I still get the question asking what they are. In short a central vacuum is a vacuum that has a power unit in one centralized location most commonly a garage, utility room, or even an attic or crawl space. Through the house there is central vacuum tubing running through the living areas where inlets or retractable hoses are placed.
These inlets are where you plug in your hose and do your cleaning. The illustration
below shows how this typically works. If you are building a new house, this is the ideal time to add a central vacuum. While retrofit is possible it typically is more labor intensive and is more expensive.
The advantages you get from a central vacuum are as follows. One, they are very powerful, because a central vacuum has its own dedicated circuit, this means that you are not limited in motor size as you are in a traditional portable vacuum. Two, they are customizable, with thousands of accessories and different types of tool kits available, these machines are built to the way you clean and adapt to your needs instead of you adapting to a typical store bought machine.
Three, they are quiet, because the main unit is located outside of the living area, the only noise you will hear is airflow and the quiet motor from your power-brush. Four, they are powerful, with as much as 5x the power of a traditional vacuum, there isn't much that comes close in comparison to a central vacuum. Lastly, they are they ultimate solution for allergies, with the ability to be located away from the living area and vented outside, you experience a true 100% clean home.
Is A Central Vacuum Right For Me?
So now begs the question, is a system right for me? If you are looking for the ultimate in convenience, power, and longevity the answer is yes. These are not disposable systems that you have been accustomed to disposing of every 1 to 3 years, these are designed to last 20 to 30 years on average in a typical residential environment. These also require much less maintenance then a traditional vacuum so from an economic stand point these also make sense. Ask yourself these questions and you decide if this is right for you.
Comments