Central Vacuum Installation
Central Vacuum installation is relatively straight forward; however, there are a number of important factors to take into account during the construction of you new home, which will ensure trouble free use. The following decisions should be considered:
Location of inlets:
Just like location in real estate, placing your inlets is also important. Most vacuum hoses are 30 feet long; make sure that you will be able to reach all of the nooks and crannies from the outlets you install. Usually two inlets per floor are enough depending on the size of the home.
Consider the placement of your furniture so that you do not place inlets where they may be blocked furniture. You should also make certain there is an electrical outlet within 3 feet of each inlet, to provide electricity for the electric rug beater.
Number of inlets:
This issue is closely related to location of inlets; however for convenience, you may want to place an extra inlet in specific rooms. Also consider one inlet in the garage and inlets in your basement, even if it is unfinished. Some owners will also have an outlet in their workshop with an extra hose.
Size of the power unit:
You should discuss this topic with the dealer or company you are buying from. A final decision should be made based upon the size of your home, the number of outlets and the overall length of PVC piping that will be installed.
Location of the power unit:
The power unit needs to be installed close to an electrical outlet with easy access to the discharge container.
Additionally the selection of an installation location should always minimize the number of 90-degree bends.
Finally, for those people who suffer from allergies, you may want to consider installing the power unit in the garage, since all exhaust air will then be vented to the outside. The down-side to this is that air will be drawn out of the house creating negative pressure. This draws replacement air through doors, windows, and fresh air intake vents resulting in higher heating and cooling bills.
Tips during the installation phase:
Plan your layout to minimize 90 degree bends and overall length of the longest run.
Ensure there is an electrical outlet near every inlet
Coordinate with the furnace installation to ensure that PVC piping is not in the way of the furnace hot or cold air returns.
When cutting pipe minimize all rough edges. Saws can leave rough cuts; deburr them if necessary.
Install all piping inside walls before the drywall is attached.
Drop a plumb from the 2nd floor to ensure a straight run for the piping and outlets.
Protecting the PVC & outlets during construction:
It is important to install all piping before any plaster, drywall
or any other materials that will close the wall. While it is not impossible to install a central vacuum after the house is finished it is certainly a lot easier if done ahead of time.
Once you have the pipes installed, use temporary plaster
or plywood guards to ensure that the pipe is fully protected.
Useful Resources:
