This is the most complete information on central vacuum systems on the internet.
You will learn:
A central vacuum system is integrated into a building's structure, providing access through various connection points in different rooms and hallways. These systems are favored by architects and designers for their convenience, ease of use, and low maintenance. The vacuum pressure is generated by a central motor, which creates a strong suction capable of extracting various types of debris, including dust, dirt, metal shavings, and plastic particles. Depending on the system's design and the materials it handles, central vacuums may feature filtration or be unfiltered.
Inlets for the central vacuum system are linked through ductwork, piping, or tubing installed within the walls. Maintenance personnel use a hose, typically 25 to 30 feet in length, equipped with a wand. The hose’s electrical circuitry is activated by a switch located at the vacuum port, which turns on when the cover is lifted.
Central vacuum systems offer a practical and cost-effective solution for cleaning large, multi-story buildings. Unlike compact vacuums, these systems enable several users across different floors to access a unified cleaning network. Dirt and debris are transported via a network of pipes to a collection unit, which may be a detachable trash container or a sizable vacuum bag. In systems equipped with filters, these are positioned to capture particulate matter from the air. Standardized hoses and attachments minimize the amount of equipment that cleaning staff need to manage.
Central vacuum motors function on principles similar to those of standard vacuums but are typically larger, more powerful, and constructed from highly durable materials. There are three primary types of central vacuum motors: flow-through, peripheral bypass, and tangential.
Central vacuum systems are an effective solution for various cleaning needs. They channel collected dust, debris, and materials to a central collection unit, which securely contains the waste and prevents it from being redistributed.
The core elements of a central vacuum system include the motor, the canister or housing, a filtration unit if the system is filtered, and an exhaust component. The performance of the system is influenced by the motor's size and the configuration of these components.
Central vacuum systems offer several benefits compared to portable handheld vacuums. Below are some of these advantages.
The central vacuum power unit operates without expelling forced air or disturbing allergens and dust particles. According to estimates by the Environmental Protection Agency, using a central vacuum can significantly lessen dust-related allergies. The expelled air is directed to a utility area or vented outside through an outlet akin to a conventional clothes dryer vent.
Central vacuum systems are equipped with larger, more powerful motors that enhance cleaning efficiency. Increased suction strength ensures a higher standard of cleanliness by effectively removing even the smallest dust particles. Some systems feature dual motors for even greater suction capability.
The filtration system in central vacuums is highly efficient, capable of handling significant volumes of dust and allergens. It effectively traps harmful particles, which are then safely expelled through the system.
Central vacuum systems are designed to handle dry materials like plaster dust, spilled flour, laser printer toner, metal shavings, wire clippings, and small glass fragments. While systems without filters can manage a broad range of materials, those equipped with wet vacuum interceptors are capable of separating liquids. However, for hazardous substances such as asbestos, it is crucial to use specialized equipment rather than relying on a central vacuum system.
Central vacuum systems operate quietly since the motor is situated away from the user, providing a quieter experience for both the operator and those nearby.
Setting up, using, and storing hoses and cleaning tools is both quick and efficient. The minimal equipment required simplifies the process of cleaning stairways.
Central vacuum systems can accumulate substantial amounts of dirt and dust, reducing the frequency of emptying to just a few times a year. However, cyclonic systems necessitate particular care when handling and emptying their canisters due to their distinctive design.
While the initial investment for installing a central vacuum system can be substantial, ongoing expenses are minimal. Systems with filters require periodic filter replacements, while those without filters mainly incur costs for hose replacements. Regular maintenance is recommended for optimal performance and may contribute to additional costs.
The hoses of a central vacuum system are compatible with industry standard tools used with portable vacuum cleaners. In the United States, the standard size is 1 1/4 inch, inside diameter. With some accessories, it may be necessary to bleed off excessive suction.
A central vacuum system eliminates the need for bulky equipment that could potentially damage furniture or bump into walls. The flexible hose connects to the inlet, while the operator uses the handle or wand. These are the only components present in the cleaning area.
Central vacuum systems have a lifespan of 30 to 40 years. Maintenance typically involves replacing filters, bags, or occasionally lubricating the motor.
Central vacuum systems are designed for easy dirt and debris removal, with inlets positioned for straightforward access. Users simply insert the hose into the inlet for quick operation.
A central vacuum system includes components such as the vacuum motor, canister housing, a filter (for filtered models), an exhaust unit, connecting hoses, and inlets. The system's power varies with the motor size, which can range from 10 hp to 100 hp, depending on factors like system size, power unit placement, and the cleaning area.
Industrial central vacuum systems are capable of handling substantial volumes of material per hour and can filter particles as small as 0.3 microns. These systems enhance product quality, improve material reclamation, and help reduce equipment wear and labor costs.
Two key factors influencing a central vacuum system's performance are airflow and pressure. Airflow, measured in cubic feet per minute (cfm), indicates the volume of air passing through the system. Pressure, measured in pounds per square inch (psi), reflects the system's suction strength or force.
The central power unit is located out of the way in a utility closet, storage area, or janitorial room. The power unit, canister, and filtration system are on the lowest floor of the building. If they are placed at a higher level, the unit will require greater power. The system is activated by a switch or button on the handle or wand of the connecting hose. Power to the hose and wand is supplied through wiring in the hose.
The number of inlets required for a central vacuum system is determined by the building's square footage, typically installed every 600 square feet. Multi-story buildings and large office spaces may need additional inlets to cover the entire area effectively.
The quantity of inlets is not directly related to the size of the power unit. Instead, the system's performance is influenced by how many users are operating it simultaneously.
A single operator can typically clean around 3,000 square feet of clear floor space within an hour. However, in environments with rougher floors or obstacles, such as factories, the area covered in an hour may reduce to approximately 2,000 square feet. The total number of vacuum power units needed depends on the size of the cleaning system and the number of operators.
The vacuum system is activated via a power button located on the wand's handle. Simply insert the hose, and press the button on the handle to start the vacuum.
The handle or wand features a two-way switch to control the system's power. These handles come in various designs, including styles resembling gas pump handles or those similar to those found on portable vacuums.
The hose is equipped with a metal ring or reinforcement around the end that connects to the wall inlet. When the hose is inserted, it triggers the automatic activation of the suction. The hose also carries electricity and typically has a diameter of 1 1/2 inches or more, depending on the system. Hoses are available in lengths ranging from 25 to 30 feet or even longer.
The tubing for central vacuum systems is engineered to prevent clogs. It features thinner walls that align with the hub thickness of the fittings, minimizing gaps or crevices. All backup plates are designed to accommodate this tubing size, and manufacturers typically recommend it for optimal performance.
The central vacuum system's core component is its motor, which is responsible for drawing air through the piping and hose to capture and expel dust, dirt, and debris. There are three primary types of motors used in these systems: flow-through, tangential, and peripheral bypass.
Flow-Through Motors - Flow-through motors are akin to those found in upright and canister vacuums, albeit on a larger scale. Unlike other motor types, they lack a dedicated cooling system and are instead cooled by the air being vacuumed as it circulates around the armature. This cooling method results in quieter operation but requires regular inspection of the intake to ensure it remains unobstructed and clean.
Peripheral Bypass - Peripheral bypass motors feature a cooling fan that circulates air around the armature and expels it through side vents on the motor. This design ensures reliable performance by using clean air for cooling and preventing unfiltered air from entering the motor chamber. These motors are commonly used in midrange central vacuum systems.
Tangential Bypass - Tangential bypass motors are the most frequently used type in central vacuum systems. While they are the most costly, they are built to be highly durable and long-lasting. These motors are designed to redirect heat and exhaust away from the motor, contributing to their extended lifespan. They are the most powerful of the available vacuum motors and can replace several other motors in terms of performance.
In a tangential motor, air enters through the bottom and is channeled through an air tube on the side, allowing for wet pickup capabilities. These motors feature a high-torque startup, operate at high speeds, and generate vacuum pressure and suction through a rotating fan. Their design prevents debris and moisture from coming into contact with the motor’s windings, making them effective for wet pickup applications.
A central vacuum system is intended for cleaning dry, granular materials or low-viscosity liquids. The dimensions of the cleaning area and the volume of debris dictate the size of the hose, wand, and accessories required. The following is a brief overview of the steps involved in installing an industrial central vacuum system.
When planning the installation of a central vacuum system, key factors include the types of materials to be collected and the cleaning area’s layout. Industrial environments often feature obstructions, uneven surfaces, and diverse debris types. A thorough assessment of these conditions is essential for selecting an appropriately sized central vacuum system.
Power units for central vacuum systems are typically installed on the lowest floor of a building, often in a utility room, storage area, or janitorial closet. This location should allow adequate space for the exhaust pipe, canister, motor, and connecting tubing. In certain instances, especially with very large units, the power unit may be positioned outside the building and connected via multiple tubes.
The image below shows a system installed in a corner of the building, with ample space allocated for the tubing.
The key principle in installing the tubing system is to keep the runs as short as possible. Main pipes or tubes can be routed in various configurations. Installation typically starts at the furthest inlet and progresses backward to ensure that the routing is correct.
Inlet valves must be positioned to ensure that every area can be accessed effectively. In factories, tubing systems and inlets are typically mounted along the walls, while in office settings, they are concealed within the walls. Generally, the tubing connecting the inlets to the system is installed at a 90° angle to deter objects from being inserted. However, in some factory or workshop environments, inlets might be set at a 45° angle.
Central vacuum systems offer a labor-saving, efficient, and time-effective solution for maintaining clean and organized work areas. They eliminate the need for additional cleaning equipment and are readily accessible.
Central vacuum systems come in three main types: cyclonic, filtered, and unfiltered or bagless.
Central vacuum systems can utilize various types of filters, including screen, cloth, foam, and paper filters. Filtered systems are generally preferred because they capture excess dust and debris, which is then collected in the disposal bin.
Bagged central vacuum systems offer a highly hygienic method for capturing and disposing of dirt, dust, and debris. In these systems, the suction power directs debris into a disposable bag, as illustrated below. These bags are effective at trapping dust, dirt, and debris, including 99.9% of microscopic particles and allergens. Using a bag system extends the motor's lifespan and eliminates the need for system venting.
Bags are available in various filtration levels, including standard, micro-lined, and high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA). They come in materials such as cloth or paper and should be replaced or emptied when they are half to three-quarters full.
Bagless central vacuum systems are user-friendly and cost-effective to maintain. They maintain optimal suction power even when the canister is almost full. To empty the system, you simply unlatch the canister and dispose of the contents.
Many bagless systems feature a self-cleaning filter that prevents dirt and debris from reaching the motor. During operation, the filter lifts to shield the motor, and when the system is turned off, the filter lowers, allowing debris to fall into the canister.
Cyclonic systems employ cyclonic separation to effectively remove dirt, dust, and debris. Most of the collected debris is deposited into the canister, while smaller particles are expelled outside. These systems operate without bags or filters, making them virtually maintenance-free. They have been a reliable solution for many years.
In a cyclonic system, dirt and debris are spun within a sealed chamber. The centrifugal force drives the heavier particles to the chamber's walls, where they fall into the collection unit. The remaining clean air is then expelled through an exhaust that vents outside the building.
Some cyclonic systems come with an additional feature—a filtered cyclonic system—that includes a pleated filtration cartridge. This cartridge requires replacement once or twice a year. The filter ensures that the air exiting the system is clean and free from contaminants.
Compact central vacuum systems are designed for minimal installation and offer the advantage of portability. They provide comparable suction power to larger systems but with the added convenience of being easily relocated as needed.
Wet/Dry central vacuum systems are versatile units that handle both dry dust, dirt, and debris as well as liquid spills. In addition to performing all the functions of a standard central vacuum, they can efficiently manage liquids. These systems are connected directly to a drain, allowing for the automatic disposal of collected dirt, debris, and fluids into the sewage system. As a bagless system, Wet/Dry vacuums offer minimal maintenance and high performance. They are especially useful for managing various spills and can also assist with unclogging drains.
Central vacuum systems are known for their durability, reliability, and convenience, making them an excellent choice for cleaning shop floors, factory spills, and other debris. Despite their dependability, these systems are complex and can experience malfunctions if issues arise within any part of the system. Below are some common problems that may occur with central vacuum systems.
Several factors can lead to reduced suction in a central vacuum system. Potential issues include a full canister or filter, damage to the filtration system, a clogged or blocked exhaust vent, or improper installation. Before attributing the loss of suction to the central unit itself, it is crucial to inspect the hose for any clogs or blockages.
A clog in the hose or pipe can lead to reduced suction, whether it’s a partial or complete blockage. To identify the location of the clog, start by inspecting the hose, which can be connected directly to the central unit for easy clearing. If the blockage remains, the issue is likely within the piping. In this case, you’ll need to check all the inlets to locate and address the clog.
Leaks in the system can arise from several issues, such as using multiple hoses simultaneously, unsealed inlet covers, damaged tubing, or clogs in multiple hoses.
If the unit fails to shut off, potential causes include a faulty relay, a short circuit in an inlet, or issues related to rodent infestation.
If the unit fails to activate, it is likely due to electrical issues common to all electrical equipment. Potential causes include a tripped circuit breaker or insufficient voltage. A short circuit in the wiring or a malfunction in the motor could also be responsible for the issue.
Motor malfunctions in central vacuum systems are rare and typically addressed during installation. Most problems with turning on the system are usually related to power supply issues or wiring problems.
Over time and with continued use, central vacuum system pipes may crack or be punctured. Since the majority of systems have PVC piping, the steps for repairing them are the same as those used to repair any form of PVC pipe.
Dirty or worn bearings in the motor can lead to a tripped circuit breaker. Applying lubricant may resolve the issue if the bearings are simply dirty. However, if the bearings are worn out, they will need to be replaced.
Regular maintenance is crucial for preventing many potential issues with a central vacuum system. Although these systems are designed to operate smoothly for years, consistent upkeep is essential for optimal performance. Below are key maintenance tasks to keep your central vacuum system running efficiently.
For large industrial systems, canister maintenance might be required every other day, depending on the canister's capacity and the volume of waste collected. Typically, industrial canisters should be inspected and emptied two to three times a week. Establishing a regular schedule for this task helps ensure it becomes a routine part of the cleaning process.
Under typical conditions, the filter in a central vacuum system should be replaced two to four times per year. This frequency depends on the amount of waste collected. Regularly checking the system's capacity and performing periodic inspections of the filtration system will help determine the appropriate replacement schedule. In environments like clean rooms, filters may need to be changed more frequently.
For filter bags, it is advisable to replace them when they are half to three-quarters full. Waiting until the bags are completely full can lead to system clogs and potential motor damage.
Cyclonic systems lack a filter, so maintenance primarily involves checking the collection container, which functions similarly to a canister. In a cyclonic system, you typically only need to empty the container when it becomes full or if you notice a decrease in suction power. Some systems feature clear containers, making it easier to monitor the fill level.
The motor is the core component of any central vacuum system. Like any machinery, it requires regular inspection and lubrication to maintain optimal performance. The motor's bearings should be lubricated regularly, unless specific issues arise that necessitate additional attention.
A common but often overlooked issue with central vacuum systems is the type of substances they collect. Typically, the system handles dry dirt and dust from the work floor. However, sticky substances like glue or epoxy can occasionally clog the tubing. If this occurs, a plumber's snake or a length of wire can usually clear the obstruction.
Problems with the tubing often become apparent when there is a noticeable drop in suction power. Regularly checking the suction quality is essential to ensure the system operates correctly and to prevent potential damage to the motor.
Explosion-proof vacuums are vacuum systems that use compressed air, electricity, and cyclonic motion to prevent the ignition of gasses or vapors and operate at temperatures that will not ignite a possibly flammable atmosphere. Replacing motors with...
A HEPA vacuum cleaner is a vacuum cleaner that accepts high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters, is tightly sealed, and allows air to only pass through the HEPA filter. They are designed to capture particles of dust, dirt, and...
An industrial vacuum cleaner is a heavy duty piece of cleaning equipment designed to remove debris, industrial waste, construction refuse, and matter that remains after a manufacturing process or construction project...
Vacuum cleaners use suction to collect dirt, dust, waste products from industrial processes, and other debris for disposal, recycling, or reuse. They are mainly used for building maintenance and cleaning of industrial space...
Air filters are devices used to remove airborne particles, pollutants, and microorganisms hazardous to health and the ecosystem. In industrial facilities, air filters preserve the quality of products and materials and protect critical equipment from damage...
A baghouse is a pollution control device that uses tubes, envelopes, or cartridges to remove, capture, and separate dirt, particulate matter, and dust from the air of a manufacturing or processing facility. The main components of a baghouse are the media or bags used to filter the particles from the air as it passes through the system...
A centrifugal blower is an air moving device that uses an impeller to pull air into a tube like structure and release it at a 90o angle. The impeller is a set of blades inside the blower that rotates at a high rate to pressurize and move air...
A dust collection system is a system that removes particulate contaminants from the air in production facilities, workshops, and industrial complexes. The system cleans air by forcing it through a series of airtight filters...
A HEPA filter is a high efficiency pleated air filter capable of capturing extremely small particulate matter down to particles that are the size of a micron (µ), or a micrometer, which is 1/1000th of a meter...
An industrial blower is a device that enhances the air flow in a workspace effectively and efficiently using an electric motor, impeller, and airfoils. The purpose and function of industrial blowers is to be a permanent addition to a workspace to increase airflow and...
An industrial fan is a highly efficient, heavy duty air flow device that is constructed from exceptionally durable materials and components to withstand stringent environments and operate longer to provide constant air flow and pressure. The strength of industrial fans is due to the materials used...
A jet dust collector is a suction filtration unit that pulls dust ladened air into a filtration system that collects particulate matter and releases clean air. The filters of jet dust collectors are cleaned by compressed air that uses...
During the Industrial Revolution, when companies began producing high volumes of industrial waste like fine dust, wood dust, and other particles, an American, in 1852, S.T. Jones, applied for the first dust collector patents, a single bag filter...