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Get transparent information on central vacuum repair costs. Learn what impacts price, compare repair types, and see how to save on your central vacuum repair.
How Much Does a Central Vacuum Cost? [2026 Data]
Normal Range: $1,094 - $2,194
Central vacuums cost an average of $1,094 to $2,194, with most homeowners paying an average of $1,583. Your price depends on home size, system type, labor, and added features.
How we get this data
Photo: galinast / iStock / Getty Images
Photo: galinast / iStock / Getty Images
Cost Insights
Installation labor ranges from $50 to $120 per hour, with many pros charging a flat rate or per-square-foot fee.
Minimum service fees often fall between $100 and $250, and labor can make up 25% to 40% of the total project cost.
Choosing advanced features can shift your budget such as retractable hose systems adding $175 to $1,000, or cyclonic and filtered power units ranging between $200 and $2,000.
Required permits cost $50 to $200, and some municipalities also require inspections, adding another $50 to $150 to the project total.
Expect $10 to $30 per year in electricity use and $20 to $120 annually for bags or filters.
This article was created using automation technology and thoroughly fact-checked and edited by an Angi Editor in accordance with our AI policy.
On average, a central vacuum costs between $1,094 and $2,194, with most homeowners spending an average of $1,583. Prices vary based on home size, system type, and installation complexity. Expect to pay $240 for smaller homes and up to $3,000 for large or custom installations.
Labor costs can range from $50 to $120 per hour, and installation is often quoted as a flat rate or per square foot, depending on the job’s complexity. Understanding central vacuum costs helps homeowners budget for a cleaner, more convenient home.
Central Vacuum Cost Factors
Several factors directly impact your central vacuum cost, from the professionals you hire to the features you choose, the system type, and the complexity of your project.
System Size
The size of your home plays a key role in determining your total central vacuum cost. Larger homes require more piping, a more powerful unit, and additional wall inlets for full coverage. Here’s what you need to know about sizing and its impact on your budget.
Smaller homes (up to 1,500 square feet) can get by with two or three inlets, while medium homes (1,500 to 2,500 square feet) may need three to four. Large homes (over 2,500 square feet) often require five or more inlets and a higher-capacity power unit. Multi-story homes and retrofits in older properties cost more due to increased labor and materials.
Single-story homes are less expensive to outfit than multi-story homes, since installation is simpler and requires less vertical piping. Retrofitting an older home can add to the cost, especially if walls are finished or access is limited.
Central Vacuum Type
Choosing the right type of central vacuum system has a direct impact on your installation and long-term costs. The main system types include cyclonic and filtered.
Cyclonic systems use centrifugal force to separate dirt, requiring less filter maintenance but needing venting outside. Filtered and bagged systems trap dust in bags or filters, making them easy to maintain but requiring regular replacements. Retractable hose systems cost more upfront but add convenience for $175 to $1,000.
System type also affects installation complexity. For example, retractable systems need special piping and more labor, while basic filtered or bagged systems are easier to install.
| System Type | Description | Average Cost | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cyclonic | Uses airflow to separate debris | $200–$2,000 | Fewer clogs, less filter maintenance | Requires venting, more noise |
| Filtered | Uses filters to trap dust | $400–$2,000 | Easy to maintain, no venting needed | Filters need regular cleaning/replacement |
Location
Within your home, the installation location makes a difference. Installing the power unit in a garage or unfinished basement is often less expensive than in an attic or finished utility room, due to easier access and fewer obstacles. Multi-story homes or those with finished walls may see higher costs for wall repair and routing pipes.
Accessibility also plays a big role: if walls are finished, expect additional labor for patching and painting after installation. Tight crawl spaces or attics may also increase the total cost.
Where you live can impact your total central vacuum cost due to regional labor rates and material prices. Urban areas and regions with high demand for home upgrades often see higher installation costs, while rural areas may benefit from lower labor rates but have fewer qualified installers.
Labor
Central vacuum systems are installed by HVAC specialists, electricians, or contractors with experience in built-in systems. Labor costs range from $50 to $120 per hour, or a flat fee based on home size and complexity. Minimum service fees often cover the first hour or a site visit, ranging from $100 to $250.
Labor costs can account for 25% to 40% of your total central vacuum cost. Complex projects, such as retrofitting finished homes or custom layouts, will increase labor time and cost.
Permits
Some municipalities require permits for central vacuum installation, especially if electrical work or wall modifications are involved. Permit fees range from $50 to $200, depending on your location. Inspections may be required, adding $50 to $150 to your total cost.
Contractors will obtain the necessary permits, but homeowners should confirm responsibilities before work begins. Skipping required permits can result in fines or issues when selling your home.
Features
Accessories and upgrades can add to your central vacuum cost. Standard hoses, powerheads, and wall inlets are often included, but specialty brushes, retractable hose systems, and HEPA filtration are extra. Expect to pay $100 to $500 for each premium accessory or upgrade.
Adding extra inlets or specialty attachments increases both material and labor costs. Integrating your central vacuum with home automation or security systems also raises the price due to added components and setup time.
Other Cost Factors
The complexity of your project will affect the final bill. Installing a central vacuum in new construction is less expensive than retrofitting an existing home, especially if walls are already finished. Accessibility to crawl spaces, attics, or existing piping can impact labor time.
Other potential costs include moving furniture, patching and painting walls, delivery fees for large equipment, post-installation cleanup, and design or consultation fees for custom systems. Pre- or post-installation inspections may also be required, especially for custom or high-value installations.
Additional Costs to Consider
When budgeting for central vacuum costs, remember to account for long-term and recurring expenses beyond installation.
Warranties
Most systems come with a manufacturer's warranty, often covering five to 10 years for the power unit and one to five years for accessories. Extended warranties are available for $100 to $300 and may cover both parts and labor. Warranties can offset future repair costs, making them a valuable consideration.
Operating Costs
Central vacuum systems are energy efficient, using electricity only during operation. Annual electricity costs are $10 to $30. Replacement bags or filters cost $20 to $120 per year, depending on usage and system type.
Specialty attachments can add to ongoing costs if you upgrade or replace tools over time. The main piping system often lasts decades, but motors and hoses may need replacement every 10 to 15 years.
Maintenance
Regular central vacuum maintenance keeps your system running smoothly. This includes emptying the dirt canister or replacing bags, cleaning or replacing filters, and checking hoses and inlets for blockages. Annual professional maintenance costs $100 to $200, while DIY maintenance mainly involves purchasing replacement bags or filters.
Taxes
Sales tax applies to both equipment and installation in most states. Rates range from 5% to 10%, depending on your location. Some localities may also charge additional taxes on home improvements. Taxes can add several hundred dollars to your total central vacuum cost, especially for high-end systems.
Insurance
Installing a central vacuum system may not change your homeowners' insurance premium, but it’s wise to check with your provider. Some policies cover accidental damage during installation, while others do not. For high-value or custom systems, consider additional coverage to protect your investment.
Why You Should Hire a Central Vacuum Installation Pro
Hiring a local central vacuum professional costs more upfront, but you benefit from accurate system design, proper installation, and long-term performance. Pros bring the right tools and experience to route tubing, size the power unit correctly, and ensure the system operates efficiently—helping you avoid costly mistakes that can increase overall project costs.
Here’s why it’s ideal to hire a central vacuum pro
Installing or upgrading a central vacuum system involves planning pipe routes, integrating wall inlets, and selecting the right unit for your home’s size. Here are some of the top reasons to work with a pro:
Pros ensure PVC tubing, fittings, and wall inlets are installed correctly and without air leaks, which directly affects suction power.
They know how to match the motor and collection unit to the square footage of your home so the system performs reliably.
Hiring a pro reduces the risk of damaged walls, misaligned inlets, or improperly sealed connections—issues that can increase project costs or reduce system efficiency.
Many installers can bundle services such as adding extra inlets, retrofitting older systems, or providing maintenance plans to help manage long-term expenses.
If you want to DIY parts of the project
If you want to take on some tasks yourself, these DIY steps can help reduce time and labor costs:
Clear access to basements, crawl spaces, and utility areas where tubing and the power unit may be installed.
Decide where you prefer wall inlets before the pro arrives so the layout can be planned quickly and efficiently.
Measure your home’s square footage and note where you want the most convenient access points; this helps your installer design a system that stays within your budget.
Photo: Klubovy / iStock / Getty Images
Central Vacuum Replacement vs. Repair
When your central vacuum system isn’t working as it should, you’ll need to decide whether to repair or replace it. Signs of trouble include loss of suction, motor failure, damaged hoses, or faulty inlets.
Repairing components like motors or hoses costs $50 to $800, depending on the part and labor involved. If your central vacuum repair costs exceed half the price of a new system—the 50% rule—it’s often more cost-effective to replace the unit, especially if it’s over 10 years old or out of warranty.
| Component | Repair Cost | Replacement Cost | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Motor | $150–$800 | $300–$800 | Repair if under 10 yrs |
| Hose | $30–$60 | $50–$250 | Repair or replace |
| Piping/wiring | $100–$400 | $500–$1,000 | Repair if accessible |
Does Installing a Central Vacuum Add Value to Your Home?
Installing a central vacuum system can increase your home’s value and appeal, especially to buyers looking for convenience and cleaner indoor air. The average return on investment ranges from 65% to 75%, depending on your local market and system quality.
Compared to other home upgrades like HVAC or flooring, central vacuum systems offer unique benefits: improved air quality, quieter operation, and universal design that suits all ages. High-quality systems with modern features and professional installation tend to yield the best ROI, especially in mid- to high-end homes.
Other advantages include safety (no cords to trip over), efficiency (faster cleaning), and aesthetic appeal (hidden piping, no bulky equipment).
Tips to Reduce Cost While Installing a Central Vacuum
You can take several steps to lower your central vacuum cost without sacrificing performance or reliability:
Obtain multiple quotes from qualified local central vacuum installers to compare pricing and services.
Choose a system type that matches your home’s needs and budget, avoiding unnecessary upgrades.
Install during new construction or major remodels to reduce labor costs for wall access.
Limit the number of inlets to essential areas to save on materials and installation.
Opt for standard accessories rather than premium upgrades if you want to keep costs down.
Perform basic maintenance yourself, like changing bags or filters, to extend system life.
Purchase system components during sales or promotions for added savings.
Save on labor by combining central vacuum installation with other home renovations.
Use existing wall inlets or piping when possible to cut both labor and material costs.
Next Steps: Finalize Your Project With a Central Vacuum Pro
Share your home’s layout and where you’d prefer inlet locations so the pro can plan the most efficient tubing path.
Ask which central vacuum unit size and filtration type best match your home’s square footage and cleaning needs.
Discuss any prep work needed—like clearing access to crawl spaces, attics, or utility rooms.
Confirm whether unexpected costs could arise from hidden obstacles in walls or additional tubing requirements.
If you’re interested in add-ons (like retractable hose systems or specialty attachments), ask whether it’s worth bundling them with the installation.
How Angi Gets Its Cost Data
Home is the most important place on earth, which is why Angi has helped more than 150 million homeowners transform their houses into homes they adore. To help homeowners with their next project, Angi provides readers with the most accurate cost data and upholds strict editorial standards. We extensively research project costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We rely on reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.
Want to help us improve our cost data? Send us a recent project quote to [email protected]. Quotes and personal information will not be shared publicly.
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