Motors, Filters, and Maintenance for AirFlo Central Vacuum
All Products for AirFlo
Only hear a "click" when trying to start the system? Does it shut off and start back up in a few minutes? These are common signs of a dead motor which only leaves two options. Replace the motor or the replace unit. If you liked the amount of suction it originally had, then replace the motor. If you'd like stronger suction or if you'd like a cleaner disposal system consider a different unit or alternative brand.

How is a central vacuum maintained? Generally, the only thing required is emptying the main unit. Beyond that there are some upkeep and preventative options given below.
Replacement Chart for AirFlo Vacuum Motors, Filtration, & More
Model # Replacement Motor
 Filtration and Parts
CFM-2
(CFM2 is the same as the MD B2)
110-120 volt		 116336 MotorPrice / Details / Instructions
(takes 2 motors) 116336

 Bag #720H-5 or
Closed Bag Option
Relay #242
Transformer #232
CFM-3
(CFM3 is the same as the MD E3)
110-120 volt		 116336 MotorPrice / Details /
Instructions
(takes 3 motors) 116336
Remove screen on unit for taller motor.		 Bag #721H-5 or
Closed Bag Option
Relay #242
Transformer #232
Basic Maintenance for AirFlo Vacuum

Filtration Maintenance
Much like a regular portable vacuum, the basic maintenance of a AirFlo Central Vacuum System is changing the bag in the main unit. To do this, remove the top of the unit, remove the black gasket, if installed, then lift the paper bag and support bag out together, and place a paper bag into the trash can. Put a new paper filter into the support filter, wrapping the elastic over the edges. Set the filter into the vacuum putting it below the necks of the intakes. Some vacuums have a closed bag that slips off an elbow and a new bag is simply slid back on. Below the support filter is a mesh filter that keeps large debris out of the motors if there was an accident with the main filter. The AirFlo Owner's Manual is available here and please note that MD Vacuum manufactured the AirFlo.

Motor and Vacuum Maintenance
There is nothing to lube or oil in or on the central vacuum system, including the AirFlo motor, AirFlo vacuum motor unit, or AirFlo vacuum cleaner. For the indoor vacuum brush, the fibers that get wrapped around the brush roll of the vacuum cleaner head should be cut out and removed on a regular basis.

Pipe and Hose Maintenance
We recommend cleaning out the hose and piping system at least once per year. The best way to do that is with Tornado Central Vacuum Maintenance Cloths. They do a couple of things. First, they push through the pipes, bringing along stalled out debris. Second, they deodorize the hose, pipes, and unit. Some amazing results can come from this product. The vacuum hose will last longer if it is stored on a hanger, always being detached from the vacuum after each use. See if any of these Storage Items can help your situation (scroll to the bottom of the Accessory Page).

Email Reminders to Empty Vacuum
Sign up for the Free Quarterly Email Reminders to dispose of your central vacuum debris. Let the trash build up can reduce suction, making the unit run hotter and clean less efficiently.

Replacement Motors and Parts for AirFlo Vacuums

Troubleshooting
Self diagnose your system using this Interactive Troubleshooting Guide and Solutions.

Motor Replacement
Contact a local dealer for service, or consider doing it yourself. Motors on the AirFlo vacuum have a few fasteners and wires that need to be unattached, the reattached on the new motor. It should take less than one hour. First, turn off the circuit breaker or unplug the central vacuum unit. Then, access the motor by releasing the outer housing. Use the chart to find the right replacement motor for your AirFlo motor model. A motor may have many numbers on it but typically the real motor number starts with 11. Here are detailed AirFlo Motor Replacement Instructions.

Circuit Board, Relay, Transformer, MiniBreaker
Prior to 8/2004, AirFlo units used a separate transformer, relay, and minibreaker. Since then, a circuit board is installed which houses all these electronics. The most common circuit board replacement for single motor AirFlo vacuums is the Vacuum Motor Circuit Board for Single Motor Units 110 Volt. For other models with different voltage and two motors the replacement circuit boards are here. These robust boards are made by an industry supplier.

Motor Carbon Brush
The AirFlo motor has two carbon brushes that wear down and can be replaced before they damage the motor. However, the AirFlo motor may go bad for other reasons while the carbon brushes remain fine. AirFlo motor brushes can be checked every few years and replaced if the 3/4-inch-long solid carbon is worn down. Definitely replace if one or both are down to 3/16 inch. Type the motor replacement number (not model number) in the search box and the motor brushes will come up along with instructions.
 
Note: AirFlo Vacuum is a registered trademark of M.D. Manufacturing, Inc.
Need more help? Try our extensive and helpful AirFlo Vacuum Questions and Answers or give us a call at 1-800-997-2278 M-Th 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Pacific Standard Time.