Since the development of semi-permanent central vacuum systems, most homes’ values have increased drastically. Its tubing is expertly installed in the walls, then connected to a collection container, usually in the basement or the garage with permanent power units.
But how long does this system last?
A central vacuum system lasts for 30 or more years. However, it is more expensive than a portable vacuum cleaner. With constant maintenance, you can get more than 30 years out of it. For utmost efficiency, it is best to have a professional perform the maintenance.
The central vacuum cleaner comes with high-class ease of life. Make sure you read on for everything you will need to know about this efficient system.
Why Did My Central Vacuum Stop Working?
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Your central vacuum stopped working because of a possible clogged system or a reduced airflow, possibly resulting from a full vacuum canister. It may also be a problem with its power intake.
A central vacuum functions effectively by a central power motor that removes the dust, dirt, and other debris. The systems, however, vary in their filtration means since some may have filters before joining the collection while some may have no filters.
However, like any other pressure machine, the vacuums might have issues with their airflow leading to reduced suction or clogged hoses. At the same time, others may occasionally fail to turn on.
In any of these cases, unless it’s a power issue which is quite rare. You shouldn’t be worried about the normal functioning of the system.
Here are some of the common causes resulting in the vacuum’s failure and their resolutions:
Power Unit Not Igniting
Any problem with the power could be after using a high wattage machine or a power issue with your grid supply. But to be sure, you may need to:
Check for a tripped circuit breaker. These breakers offer protection against excessive current. Some vacuum systems may contain high-performance motors that produce more heat. As a result, they may keep tripping the circuit breakers.
However, if it’s a new central vacuum, you may need to contact your customer care since it’s a common problem in some types of built-in vacuums. If you have used it before, you should check for a reset button and press it. If it still fails, contact customer service or your warranty provider.
Clogged Central Vacuums
As much as this doesn’t happen always, it is common in most vacuums. But before addressing it, you may need to be sure you have a clogged system probably in the hose. Check for the same by:
Insert a Tornado Power Cloth at each inlet and turn on the canister. If the cloth gets to the unit in one piece, then you have no problem. But if it does not, there may be a full blockage obstruction on your tubing.
The cloth may also get to the canister but tattered; this will imply a partial blockage. You might have to check which inlet did not drop the fabric. Turn off the canister and, using a plumber’s snake, try pushing the clog out.
Reduced Airflow
This is quite usual when you forget to empty the canister resulting in a reduced suction. However, to be sure that’s the case, you may have to;
Empty the canister, or if you just did, the filter bag may be full, so you’ll need to replace it.
It could also be a problem with the installation of a dirt canister. So with the help of a technician, you may reinstall the canister and test its functionality.
How Do You Maintain a Central Vacuum System?
To maintain a central vacuum system, you should have a professional checkup on the motors for occasional lubrication and other regular inspections. You should also change the filter bags and check for any clogged hoses.
The quiet running of your vacuum system may make you forget of its existence, but it needs maintenance at least once in a while. So to go about the routine maintenance, you should:
Clean or Change the Filters
Different vacuum systems have varying types of filters though some may lack the filters. So in case, yours has one, you should empty the canister and replace the filters. It is best to replace the filter bags at least two to four times a year based on the location of your various inlets.
For re-usable filter bags, you should clean with soap and water before placing them back.
Remove Clogs and Dirt
Clogs are often the results of sticky substances in the vacuum hose. So it is best to feed a cloth once in a while to the inlets for ensuring a smooth and free hose tubing. You can also fix the hose in reverse or use a plumber’s snake to clear the hoses.
You should also make sure you appropriately store the hose because it is the most used. Therefore, it is more susceptible to wear and tear. Do not forget to inspect the bristles to make sure you have no entangled particles in them.
Schedule Regular Inspections
It is best to have an expert do regular inspections on your vacuum cleaning system to stand better chances to note any faults. In addition, some maintenance tasks need to be done by professionals. So plan your budget for the inspections around the whole system at least once in few years.
Such maintenance procedures for the experts in that field may include
Regular Checkups on the Motor
The motors, however, do not require too much maintenance, but they may need occasional oiling and lubrication. In addition, your system may have worn-out brushes that need occasional replacements for smooth running.
Evaluation of the Installed Vacuum
This checkup might need a technician more so if you installed the cleaner yourself. In such cases, the technician may notice slight errors even if you followed the manual during the installation.
How Often Do You Empty a Central Vacuum?
You should empty the contents in your central vacuum every four to six months. However, it depends on the location of your inlets.
You also need to check if your central vacuum is full more frequently. However, in case you haven’t had time for such checks, you may notice the vacuums reduced suction. That should be the systems reminder for you.
However, technically it’s best to empty the vacuum when its two thirds full to keep the system working efficiently, hence the need for a frequent check on the canister or the bag.
Some versions of cleaners use a bag for depositing dirt and debris. You should also pay for their frequent location visits.
Does a Central Vacuum Add Value to My Home?
A central vacuum adds your home value at about $2000. However, this value will depend on the efficiency of the system resulting from your regular maintenance.
In addition to the home resale value, central vacuums have countless benefits for you and your house occupants.
Here are some of the things you won’t miss on by having the central vacuum system at home:
- Saves You Money: -Once you have the unit installed, you can be sure of deep cleaning of your carpet, thus prolonging its life. This will have saved you money that you’ll have used for cleaning and purchasing a new carpet.
- Boosts Air Quality: – You can’t believe the amount of dust in the air. Therefore, with a vacuum cleaner, you can be sure of breathing cleaner air.
- Controls Dander from Your Fur Babies: – despite cats and dogs being favorite indoor pets, they can be constant irritations because of shedding their fur. These could lead to different allergies in the home occupants, but by using a working vacuum system, you can be sure of having them under control.
- Deep Cleaning: – You can’t compare the cleaning of a central vacuum system with a conventional vacuum cleaner. The central vacuum has more additional power that does the job professionally and does not blow dust into the air. In addition, the central vacuum is very silent. You can almost fail to notice its presence. While the portable vacuum cleaner alerts the neighbor of your presence any time, you do the cleaning.
