Central System Vacuum Cleaners
When you are tired of lugging your corded vacuum around your home and up and down the stairs, you might want to make the switch to a central vacuum system. These systems are hidden behind the walls and offer many benefits over an upright or handheld cordless vacuum. Since the actual vacuum is mounted in another room, it tends to be very quiet. Central vacuums also vent the air used for suction outside of the home, rather than recirculating it. This can help tremendously if you have allergies that tend to flare up when you clean the floors.
What Types of Central Vacuums Are There?
There are two main types of ducted vacuum systems. The traditional installation features the vacuum mounted in an out-of-the-way area (usually the basement or attic) with ductwork hidden behind the walls. Inlet valves in each room allow you to plug in separate vacuum brushes and hoses to clean your floors. The other is the Hide-a-Hose system, which requires no external vacuum hoses, as the hose is contained within the vacuum ductwork and easily pulls out to attach to a brush when in use. Homeowners can opt to install modified systems that have hidden hoses in some areas of the home and inlet valves without hidden hoses in other areas too.
How is the Dirt Collected From Vacuuming?
A central vacuum system features special ducts hidden behind the walls of your home that will pull any dirt and debris down to the vacuum. The dirt is collected in the tank or a vacuum bag inside the vacuum. Since these units are designed to handle the entire household's floors, the tanks can hold much more dirt than a traditional corded vacuum can before it needs emptying. Depending on the make or model of your central vacuum, you'll need to either unclasp a simple canister that is connected to the bottom of the unit or open the vacuum and pull out the filled vacuum bag.
Can I Buy Replacement Parts?
These systems are commonplace, and it is easy to find replacement central vacuum parts that will get your machine back up and running again. There are some issues that occur more frequently than others, such as clogged hoses, burnt fuses and filters that need replacing. These are repairs that most homeowners can handle with a little research. More complex issues, such as worn-out motors and installing replacement vacuums, should be handled by trained electricians.