Finding a qualified central vacuum repair service is simple. Better Homes & Gardens Local Services connects you with professionals near you that repair and install central vacuum systems. We make it easy to receive free estimates from local contractors.
Unlike traditional vacuum cleaners that move around freely, a central vacuum system is built into the infrastructure of the home. The power unit and debris container are installed in a garage or storage area. Inlets (or ports), are located throughout the house, allowing homeowners to plug a hose into any port in the house, from any room, thus eliminating the need to drag around a heavy vacuum cleaning unit.
Dirt, dust and debris are vacuumed into the system and transported back to the central debris container through a series of connected tubes inside the walls and/or under the house.
A stationary, central vacuum unit – typically three+ times faster than traditional, portable vacuum cleaners – powers the system. Ports are located conveniently around the house, and the hose can be plugged into any port, eliminating the need for a portable unit. The hose, which can be inserted into any port around the house, attaches to vacuum accessories just like a traditional vacuum. The system is powered on and off by a switch typically found on the hose/handle, so there's no need to go to the central vacuum unit to turn the system on.
Dirt and dust are sucked into the hose, travel through a system of tubes, and end up in a dust bin located adjacent to the central vacuum unit, which is usually located in a garage, basement or storage area.
All vacuum systems need some sort of system to capture and hold dirt and dust and maintain the greatest possible air flow. Central systems employ either a filtering system, or a cyclonic approach. For consumers, the choice is mainly a matter of preference:
Filtering systems capture dust and dirt with filtering elements that must be regularly cleaned and/or replaced, like filter cloths and vacuum bags.
Cyclonic systems capture dust and dirt into a cannister that simply needs to be emptied.
As for maintenance, the tubing – which transports dirt and dust to the filtering system and dust bin – must be serviced and cleaned from time to time. Homeowners can attempt this, but accessing all that tubing is challenging, so choose to call in a central vacuum cleaning service for that job.
Contact a company that specializes in central vacuum system installations. Knowledgeable pros have the experience to know:
how much power your system will need (based on the size and layout of the house),
how many outlets your home will need, and where to place them,
how to best route tubing through the walls, crawlspace, attic and/or basement,
how to install the wall inlet valves,
where to locate the power unit and dust capturing bin.
Test the suction power of the system:
Performing these tests will help you identify system-wide and/or isolated problems around individual inlets.
If you do find a system-wide issue, the problem could be blockages at key points in the tubing, or issues with the power unit. If you're unable to diagnose the problem, contact a central vacuum service professional.
Homeowner who suspect that their central vacuum system is clogged should call a company specializing in central vacuum services. With their unique knowledge of vacuum systems, power sources, motors, filters, tubing and air flow, central vacuum cleaning and repair services are simply better prepared to handle clogging issues.
Additionally, unless you can see the clog, it is possible that there's more than one issue, and/or that the issue has more to do with other parts of the system. For example, problems with in the power unit or motor can reduce suction, causing the system to behave as though it's clogged. A professional specializing in central vacuum systems will be best prepared to identify the problem(s) and recommend the best solutions for your particular system.
