Central vacuum systems are also known as built-in, ducted or whole-house vacuums. The main vaccum unit is installed in a garage or basement as a semi-permanent fixture. Pipes connect to the main unit through the walls and appear in different rooms as suction ports (they look similar to electrical outlets).
Dust and debris travel through the hose into the central storage canister. This means instead of lugging around a heavy vacuum, the user can easily attach and detach the hose as they clean from room to room.
In addition to ease of use and portability, central vacuum systems have many advantages over traditional portable vacuums. Central vacuum systems are quieter and more powerful. In addition they reduce dust recirculation via an external venting system that works like a dryer vent.
Generally speaking, buying a central vacuum unit will dramatically improve your household cleaning routine. Expect fast, quiet performance that eliminates dust, deep cleans carpets and makes your whole house sparkle.
However, it’s important to buy the right central vacuum system for your home. Most importantly it should be sized appropriately for the square footage of a home. It’s also important to ensure the appropriate length of piping to service the whole system. In addition you should check the waterlift rating, which shows how powerfully the system can draw dirt through it’s piping.
To help you make the best buying decision, here is a detailed guide to help you figure out which central vacuum system is the perfect match for your needs.
Check Out: Best Vacuum Cleaner Reviews
The various centralized vacuum systems out there can be classified depending on the suction power, unit size, capacity, pipe diameter, and other relative features. If you are living in a bigger space, one that has larger square foot coverage is rather ideal; whereas in smaller homes, the thin-lined tubing units are more beneficial. Also, note that features vary by model. Some boast there are stronger suction, others feature enhanced noise reduction. Did you know that even the dirt bag used inside can be of different types too? Some units don’t even need a bag.
Additionally, the sizes of the motor depend on the capability of the cleaner’s filter bag too. Some can last up to two years until they need changing while others are only good for about half a year. Prices also differ based on the features of your chosen model. Some will come with their own accessories while others don’t. Aside from that, there are also kits and unit-only products that are sold. Know which purchase is more practical and can save you money.
Below, we answer common questions about central vacuum cleaners, and then review the best products on the market.
What are the benefits of using a central vacuum system?
How long does a central vacuum system last?
Does a central vac need to be vented outside?
What are the best central vacuum systems?
Below are product reviews plus must-know details about the top centralized vacuum systems available.
7th rated
This wall mounted vacuum is your typical centralized cleaner but uses a five-foot motor, which can sustain rust and corrosion with its powder-coated galvanized steel casing. Its hose is perfect for cleaning up your garage, workshops, and even outdoor spaces. You don’t need to do any plumbing work when installing but will however, need the bracket to support its weight on the wall.
It also has an estimated motor life of about 550-650 hours. During this time, this will operate with low vibrating sounds all thanks to its rubber grommets at the bottom. Unlike ordinary machines, this has a larger dirt capacity. However, it is only limited to absorb dry materials ─ no any kind of liquid.
Key features and specifications
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Why You Should Buy This Product?
While an ordinary compact vacuum cleaner has smaller capacity, this wall-mounted product gives you up to 7,000 gallon at a reasonable price. There is no need for frequent emptying out of the dirt bags. Save both your cash and effort for this one-time investment.
6th rated
Keep the dust away from your home with this bag-less centralized vacuum system that uses three levels of Micron and HEPA filter instead. It has a window for you to check whether the chamber is full and if it needs to be washed. Aside from that, this is also compatible with wall mounting and only needs screws to affix the braces on any surface.
Using a power motor of Armtek stage 2, this is expected to last for quite a number of years. It can cover up to 12,000 square foot and is considered to be one of the most powerful systems in America. Protect your home from unwanted dirt and minute particles with this muffled unit to absorb everything.
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Why You Should Buy This Product?
If you are looking for a unit with wider area coverage, then this is more suitable for you. It makes a great save on the budget in the long run with its no-bag feature plus its three-level filtration system. Have a home safe from allergens that can harm your health.
Honeywell 040351 Central Vacuum 3-Inlet Installation Kit
5th rated
This is an installation kit with three available inlets which has everything you need to create your own customized centralized vacuum system. Its cord is low-voltage protected and has about 80 feet of pipe included. Also, it has elbow fittings for 45 degrees and 90 degrees. To go with that is the mounting
adaptor, inlet valve, tee, coupler, and even the solvent sealer.
If you want to remedy your old system and add more vents in your home, then this is preferable to use. This is also ideal for new installations and will even suffice for two-story homes. It comes with a manual to guide you on how to put the parts together. This is a complete set to help you accomplish your do-your-own project.
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Why You Should Buy This Product?
Everything you need for an easy installation of your centralized system is in here. From fittings to pipes, this is your complete kit that is ready for assembly. If you need more fittings to go with this, you can find additional ones on stores since it uses the standard two inches size.
4th rated
This power unit is designed for the vacuum system of the same brand to bring a stronger suction performance. It can cover up to 3,000 square foot with over four gallons that fits right in its 11-inched diameter and 33-inched height. Its durability cannot be taken for granted as well with its steel body that is kept hard-cased to ensure that it withstands anything.
The best feature this showcases is the self-cleaning HEPA filter that lessens your effort in manually doing it. It also doesn’t need vents and comes with noise-reduction technology to silence vibrations made by its motor. Take all the dust and allergens from your house with this high-performing corded vacuum unit.
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Why You Should Buy This Product?
The Electrolux 4B-H403 Honeywell Central Vacuum System Power Unit is a self-cleaning vacuum unit with a heavy-duty case that protects it as you use it through the years. If you are looking for a corded unit to match your centralized system, then this is a suitable product to pair it with.
3rd rated
The Electrolux PU3650 is an average-sized cleaner that uses two-stage by-pass motor. Even if it only weighs 27.4 pounds, its power can still withstand an area of 8,000 square foot. The weight already includes its muffler, which keeps the noise down when cleaning. In fact, this takes pride in its quite cleaning advantage.
This product doesn’t need a dirt bag inside its filter. It has its own self-cleaning feature. Although, it still allows paper bag to be used inside for when you wish to use one and can be emptied out manually. It has a conversion inside that keeps the bag in place at the bottom. Furthermore, this can also be mounted on the wall or on elevated spaces. This is a great catch for an acceptable price.
Key features and specifications
- This is 37.5 in length and 15.4 in width with a 15.1 height. (All in inches)
- Brags a HEPA self-cleaning filter system that does not need a dirt bag.
- It supports paper bag on its bin but works fine without it.
- The motor is tangential by-pass with high-performance expectation.
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Why You Should Buy This Product?
Cut your budget for vacuum bags with this self-cleaning vacuum unit. It has two options whether to add a bag inside or not, and will suction dirt from up to 8,000 square foot of space. If you need a new or replacement unit for your system, this tangential-motored vacuum will not break your budget without compromising the quality.
PP500 PurePower 500 Air Watts Central Vacuum System Power Unit
2nd rated
A performance worth the price ─ this centralized vacuum cleaner has a motor that will last until the 4,000-foot range. Despite having to be emptied out once or twice a year, this can still keep up to 6,000 gallons of dirt and dust. All these features are put together in a compact-sized casing that can be made of plastic or steel. Conveniently, this comes with its own power cord of approximately six-foot long.
If the noise of this powerful unit is what you are worried about, then you might find relief when you find out that this has its own suppression system. It muffles the sound from the motor without installing an external muffler. Vacuum the entire house without disturbing anyone or the silence around. Another benefit it offers is the pail handle for the collected dirt which makes it easier to open and empty out the contents. Sadly though, this needs to be cleaned up every six months and then to make sure there is still enough space for more garbage to be collected.
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Why You Should Buy This Product?
This is a lightweight and compact vacuum unit that is ideal for smaller places. Even with its size, its capacity is not limited. In fact, its power reaches until four thousand feet and six gallon of debris. If you want a vacuum for narrow areas, this one is appropriate for you.
All Steel Canadian Central Vacuum Ultra Clean Power Unit 7,500 Sq. Foot Homes
#1 rated
This ultra clean vacuum cleaner that is made in Canada has a sturdy steel case that is protected with an anti-corrosive epoxy coating. Inside it is a 2-stage Ametek Lamb which has the power to cleanup an area of about 7,500 square feet. Conveniently, you have the option to release the exhaust to the outside. Furthermore, there is a variety of collection method for gathered garbage. You can use a disposable paper, a filter bag, or the metal pail type.
The supply cord this unit uses has a prolonged plug with operating voltage of American standard. Save yourself from the trouble of hard wiring when setting up. Speaking of which, this can be placed on the floor or fixed on the wall. A mounting bracket comes with the set when you buy it. The downside in this, however, is its noise-reduction. When compared to others, this can be quite louder but can easily be solved with the optional muffler to add on it.
Key features and specifications
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Why You Should Buy This Product?
This Canadian-made power unit will not let you down with its 7,500 square feet capacity. The performance it brings to your home is worth the price and will give you options of the debris holder to be used. Whether in moist or dry area, this will function as it is. It is durable and will meet your vacuum unit needs.
While there are different Pros and cons for every product, keep in mind this list above to make your decision making smoother. Will you go for the larger collection capacity or would you rather have the strongest power suction? The household dust and garbage won’t clean up after themselves but you have the centralized vacuum system to assist you in keeping everything neat and free from trash. Consider these things above and make your purchase worth every drop of the penny.
Meanwhile, check out the following if you are in need of other types of vacuum cleaners: