Reed’s Built-Ins Central Vacuum Questions

June 15, 2018

A central vacuum system is a built-in vacuum cleaner running throughout your house. One of the more popular home built-ins, central vacuums are efficient, budget-friendly, and easy-to-use. While many people are interested in central vacuums, they still have a few questions. Here are our answers to the most frequently asked questions.

 

Why have a central vacuum system?

Central vacuum systems usually cost about the same price as a high-end portable vacuum but offer far more long-lasting power without any of that extra bulkiness. Along with power and cost-effectiveness, central vacuums reduce allergies, versatile, easy-to-maneuver, environmentally-friendly, and quieter than portable vacuums. They also are a smart investment for homeowners giving buyers extra incentive when your home is on the market.

 

How much does a central vacuum system cost?

While the cost ranges depending on the installer, central vacuum systems are typically around the same price as high-end portable vacuums. There are factors that affect the price of the system, which includes: square footage, accessories, type of inlets, number of inlets, power unit, and hose. Reed’s Built-Ins offers free quotes on any central vacuum installation, contact us to get yours today.

 

How does a central vacuum system work?

A central vacuum system works through a series of pipes and hoses strategically placed throughout your house. This system is hidden through the walls and underneath the floors of your house. Typically, the pipe is hidden behind a wall and runs down to the basement or up to the attic. You access the system through inlet valves found throughout your home.

 

How is dirt collected in a central vacuum system?

When using your central vacuum, the system collects all debris into the vacuum that then travels through the system of hoses and pipes to a filter in the main unit. While these filters need to be replaced occasionally, the system can hold gallons of debris and dust at a time.

 

What’s the difference between a portable vacuum and a central vacuum?

A central vacuum system is a built-in system, while a portable vacuum is completely separate from your home. Unlike portable vacuums that re-circulate dust and debris throughout the house, central vacuums carry the annoying particles outside of your living area to keep your home clean and fresh. Another difference between the two is the number of materials needed to run each vacuum system. Portable vacuums require bulky hardware that you carry throughout the house to use. Central vacuums only require a single hose which makes cleaning your home quick and easy.

 

Will I need to clean out my central vacuum?

Yes, to keep your central vacuum system working properly and efficiently you’ll need to clean the system regularly. However, since the main unit holds gallons of debris at a time, you’ll only need to replace the filter a few times a year.

 

How do I clean my central vacuum system?

Cleaning a central vacuum system is typically trouble-free and efficient, if done regularly.

  1. Empty the canister or change the vacuum bag.
  2. Attach the hose in the reverse (directed towards the central canister). This will unclog the hose and clean out any leftover dirt left in the house.
  3. Attach the hose and place your over the opening, while the vacuum is still running. Allow the pressure to build and then remove your hand. This also allows the dirt and clogs within the system to suck down into the main unit.
  4. Another method you can use is feeding a cleaning cloth into the hose and allowing it to run through the system. You can then retrieve the cloth in the main unit and then repeat the process at every inlet.
  5. When replacing a filter, you also have the option of using a reusable filter. When cleaning a reusable filter, dip the filter into a bucket full of soapy dishwater solution, swish it around and then rinse. Make sure to dry the filter before reinstalling it into the vacuum. If you don’t use a reusable filter, just replace the filter with a new one.

 

Contact Reed’s Built-Ins to learn more about central vacuum systems and receive your free quote.