"Remarkably competent and well equipped with parts for older central vacuums. Contacted us on the weekend, came over next day and replaced our old worn out motor in about an hour ( 10 year part warranty). WOW! A real go to pro."
"We have nothing but great things to say about SLTD Electric. They have come out to our house a couple times now for different projects, and they are always very communicative and deliver affordable, prompt, and effective services. They are also super friendly (and sweet to our gaggle of pets). We cannot recommend them enough."
Friendly Odd Jobs is dedicated to providing our customers with the best quality and craftsmanship. We are here to build relationships with our customers and communities and to provide our employees with a great place to work. We look forward to working with you!
Central Vacuum Systems questions, answered by experts
No. Only the hose or the attachments are portable in a central vacuum system. A portable vacuum is a standalone model like a stick, canister, or upright. A central vacuum system is defined by a central power unit, which is installed in one place like an AC unit, and the connected network of piping to funnel the suction.
The disadvantages associated with central vacuums start with cost. They are expensive to install, especially in existing homes, as retrofitting requires opening walls. The system's bulky hoses can also be inconvenient to maneuver and store compared to portable vacuums. Additionally, repairs may need professional service, adding to maintenance costs. Lastly, while powerful, they may be overkill for smaller homes or apartments, making the investment less practical for some households.
They’ll use more electricity than the average upright vacuum, but not remarkably more. Most power units plug into a standard 120-volt outlet and don’t have significant power demands. You shouldn’t notice an increase in electricity bills. If you have any specific questions about energy costs, ask your installer as you examine purchase decisions. Larger power units will need more electricity for their suction levels.
It can be difficult to know right away if your central vacuum is clogged since it operates quietly compared to regular vacuums. However, there are a couple of signs you can look for. If you feel like it’s losing suction or isn’t cleaning effectively, then there’s likely a clog somewhere.
Make sure you turn the vacuum on and feel the end of the hose handle. If you don’t feel any suction, then you’re dealing with a clog in the hose. You can see if the clog is further down in the system by attaching the hose to each outlet until you find the one with the least amount of suction.
A central vacuum system can be a worthwhile investment depending on your needs and budget. While the upfront cost is higher than a traditional vacuum cleaner, it offers significant long-term benefits. These systems can save you time and make cleaning your home easier, as you only need to carry the hose and vacuum head, eliminating the need to lug a heavy unit up and down stairs. They also tend to operate more quietly and can improve indoor air quality. The convenience and performance over many years may make it a valuable addition to your home if you can budget for the initial installation.
The Brewer, ME homeowners’ guide to central vacuum system services
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