House & Beyond is reader-supported. We may earn a commission through products purchased using links on this page. Learn more about our process here
While everyone likes their homes looking sparkling at all times, only a few numbers of people are ready to put in the effort it requires. Apart from the all too familiar frustration it comes with, not everyone can actually exert the time and effort it requires to lug a traditional vacuum from one room to another, especially if your house is large. A one-size-fits-all solution is to install the best central vacuum system in your home, and thereby reduce the time you need to spend each day to clean the floors of your house. This system utilizes a central hub and ventilation ducts to deliver the vacuum power required in every room.
Things to Consider
These days, the market has been littered with a wide range of options when it comes to central vacuum systems, not to talk about the several deceptive marketing gimmicks adopted by various companies. Consequently, finding the right model can become a daunting task for you, except we have prepared a comprehensive buying guide like this to help you make the right decision.
Advantages of installing a central vacuum system
Easy to use
Nobody would argue with the fact that central vacuum systems are one of the easiest domestic machines to use. With a central vacuum system, you don’t need to log a large vacuum unit around your home again in the name of cleaning. Most individuals who use these machines in their houses even enjoy the fun that comes with them. You can easily vacuum a 12,000 square feet house utilizing this sort of system.
Minimal noise
Central vacuum units utilize a noise-reduction system to guarantee quieter operations while vacuuming. With this, you can rest assured that your cleaning tasks won’t perturb anyone around you.
Versatile central vacuum units are capable of cleaning even the most confined of spaces. If you buy the best central vacuum system with retractable hose, you’ll be able to clean tight corners and various kinds of surfaces that you can only dream of with portable vacuums. Moreover, this kind of vacuum system is perfect for every type and size of homes.
Deep cleaning
Central vacuum systems are also three times more powerful than traditional multi-surface vacuum cleaners when it comes to deep cleaning. Besides, central vacuum systems last longer since the motor is static in an inaccessible location.
Cost-effective
Besides increasing the value of your property, these vacuum systems are also cost-effective in the long run. Since most units come with a great warranty, you don’t need to worry about replacements and repairs.
Cleaner air
Central vacuum cleaners are capable of cleaning large areas without recycling dust and dirt back to the areas that have already been cleaned. This makes sure you get to breathe in cleaner, allergen-free air.
Features to consider while choosing a central vacuum system
Before going ahead to pay for a particular model, ensure it is the ideal one for your needs. If you are unsure about how to determine the right model, just read further. Below are some critical factors you need to take into consideration before shelling money on a particular model.
Air watts
Actually, air wattage is otherwise known as suction power, and it is really the combination of two different specifications, water lift, and CFM. As indicated by the American Society of Testing and Materials, the air wattage is the most precise indicator of a vacuum’s efficiency. The conclusion you should keep in mind is that the higher the number of air watts, the higher the central vacuum system’s suction power.
CFM
Another important factor you need to consider is the CFM of the unit. The CFM is actually one of the main elements that measure the airflow of a central vac system. CFM along with water lift will determine the total air watts of the central vacuum.
Bear in mind that while a CFM of a unit can be high, it may still deliver higher or less suction based on its design.
Filtration system
There are several kinds of filtration systems, and none can be explicitly stated to be superior to the others. In the end, this factor will be determined by your inclination, whether you want to be replacing or cleaning the filter. Of course, self-cleaning filters are always preferred since they are permanent.
Coverage area
The coverage area is another important consideration you need to make. It is the total area of space that your central vacuum system is capable of vacuuming. This factor is especially important if you have a large house since you wouldn’t want to buy a model that is inadequate. With a coverage area of up to 12,000 square feet each, the models with the largest coverage area on our list are the OVO Heavy Duty Powerful Central Vacuum System and the Prolux CV12000 Central Vac System.
Noise
This is dependent on the personal taste of each person. If your house is small or the unit will be installed in a region where people assemble, then you need to go for a model with quieter operation. If you have a larger house and the unit can be installed in a basement or a corner, then this shouldn’t really be a concern. The quietest model on our list is the Nutone PP500 PurePower.
Motor type
There are two categories of motors – Bypass and Thru-Flow motor. The Bypass type is actually the best due to how it separates its motor from the collected debris. The Thru-flow type has a very quiet operation, but it can have issues with wet debris and water lift because of its design.
Warranty
The warranty is a significant consideration to make when buying a central vacuum system, which is understandable when you take the expensive price tags of these machines into account.
Always check the warranty terms when looking to buy one of these vacuums, as you don’t want to be investing so much money without any sort of security.
With a ten-year limited warranty on motor and a twenty-five-year limited warranty on all steel body parts, the Prolux CV12000 is the product with the best warranty on this list.
Extra features
You also need to check if the product comes with some key accessories such as filters and hoses, among others. Of course, you wouldn’t want to make additional spending on accessories after you’ve bought your vac, so make sure the model you’re looking at comes with some or all the accessories you require.
Apart from new and existing homes, you can also install a central vacuum system in your offices and recreational vehicles, for people who like going on long trips with their RVs. However, keep in mind that RV models aren’t usually as powerful as home models.
The power, efficiency, and overall performance of a vacuum usually relate with the square footage it is rated for. In fact, it makes complete sense to buy a unit that has a coverage area that doubles the square footage of your house. Since you want constant, powerful suction, installing a vac that has a coverage area that doubles your house’s footage will guarantee excellent performance, and will not be an overkill.
It is recommended to empty your vacuum’s collection bags when they’re 1/2 to 2/3 full. Your failure to follow this tip means your filter can clog up quickly, which will hamper airflow. Apart from decreasing the cleaner’s efficiency, the same airflow also cools the cleaner’s engine and can result in failure and overheating.
