Central Vac Education: Installation FAQs
  1. Can the central vacuum be installed in an existing home?
    ANSWER: Yes, and without breaking open a single wall. See central vacuum installation guides above.
  2. Do all central vacuum brands use the same installation supplies?
    ANSWER: Yes. The installation materials haven't changed since the 1990's. See all installation supplies. To retrofit an older system, simply click here to find your brand name located on the left side and middle of that page for detailed instructions.
  3. Can the inlet valve covers open up or down?
    ANSWER: Yes - on non-AC powered electric inlets. The door on the cover can open either up or down however you prefer.   However, on 110-volt AC powered inlets, the contacts on the inlet cover must fit the inlet’s 110-volt electrical contact exit points.
  4. What is the average cost or price for a central vacuum installation:
    ANSWER: In a new construction home, pipe and fittings installation is estimated at $100 - $300 per vacuum inlet port location. In an existing home, the itemized total cost figure price will include installing the pipes, fittings, power unit, and all accessories.  Total estimated install time is typically one or two days.
  5. Why don't you offer installation kits?
    First (and most often preferred), a dealer in our network can install your central vacuum. Second, we let homeowners build their own kits to meet their requirements. MD has created a thorough parts guide to assist with questions, logistics, and all other info.
Installation 101

Although this might not be as simple as installing a phone line, a central vacuum system is really quite easy to install. A typical home needs approximately one inlet for every 600 square feet of living space, and for maximum access a 30’ hose end must easily reach the upper cupboards, closets, tile floor and even patios. You don't need an inlet in every room.  One inlet (with a 30’ hose) at the end of the hall can access two or three bedrooms. Also, plan to locate one inlet near the bottom of your stairs. Place it away from doors, furniture or other inconvenient locations.

Cut the pipe with a tubing cutter (not a hacksaw!) and make sure you remove all edge cut burrs. Glue the male end only of the joint to prevent creating ridges inside the pipe run. Use sweep elbows throughout the pipe run (except immediately at the inlet valves) and always use (2) 45-degree bends for any offset jogs instead of (2) 90-degree bends. The main runs can be under the house or above in the attic. Carefully plan your entire pipe installation to minimize the amount of fittings whenever possible.

For homes larger than 5000 square feet, select a power unit stronger than 110V, 20 AMPS. Installation of multiple power units is only appropriate when multiple users vacuum simultaneously. New Supervalves or Electravalves include the 24-volt activation switch along with 110 volts for use of an electric power brush. An electrician can easily connect these valves to a nearby electric outlet. The two conductor CL2 (18-22 gauge) low voltage wire should be strapped or taped to the pipe every five feet, and can be looped all the way back to the power unit. Check your local building codes regarding the necessity of steel pipe to penetrate the firewall if the power unit is located in the garage. Most manufacturers now carry steel pipe and fittings.

Temporary plaster guards will protect the interior of the pipe while the construction is in progress and inlet valve extensions can make your life easier if the wall ends up thicker than expected. Check for manufacturer recommendations concerning exhaust venting, and make sure it is not located in an area which will cause exhaust problems. Many systems will not need venting if they have an adequate filtration system.

Remember - don't be afraid to tackle existing homes! These jobs are quite easy with the help of instructional videos like "Where There's a Wall There's a Way" by Hayden manufacturing. Central vacuum systems often use closets, soffits, return air ducts, pantries and any other hidden spaces.  You’ll love your central vacuum!