Motors, Filters, and Maintenance for D & R Central Vacuum
All Products for D & R
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 D & R Vacuum Motors, Filtration, & More
Model # Replacement Motor
 Filtration
DR100
120 volt		 Price / Details /
Instructions
117465
Paper Bag #722
DR200
120 volt		 Price / Details /
Instructions
(takes 2 motors)
117465
Paper Bag #722
DR300
120 volt		 Price / Details /
Instructions
(takes 3 motors)
117465
Paper Bag #722
Basic Maintenance for D & R Vacuum

Filtration Maintenance
Much like a regular portable vacuum, the basic maintenance of a D & R Central Vacuum System is changing the bag in the main unit. To do this, remove the top of the unit, remove the then lift the paper bag out and set it in the trash can. Put a new paper filter into the support filter. Below the support filter is a screen or filter that keeps large debris out of the motors if there was an accident with the main filter. Be sure this trap filter is basically clean.

Motor and Vacuum Maintenance
There is nothing to lube or oil in or on the central vacuum system, including the D & R motor, D & R vacuum motor unit, or D & R 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 D & R 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 D & R 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 D & R motor model. A motor may have many numbers on it but typically the real motor number starts with 11. Here are detailed D & R Motor Replacement Instructions.

Circuit Board, Relay, Transformer, MiniBreaker
Separate transformers, relays, and minibreakers are not available here for D & R. However, when a circuit board is installed, the most common board replacement for D & R vacuums is the Vacuum Motor Circuit Board for Single Motor Units 110 Volt. The board is strong, yet generic and may need to be retrofitted. There are other Generic Circuit Boards here for units with different voltage and two motors. These robust generic boards are made by the leading industry supplier. An electrician will be able to replace the circuit board, or replace the relay, transformer, and minibreakers with a circuit board quite easily. Print and use the large photograph of the board as the wiring guide.

Motor Carbon Brush
The D & R motor has two carbon brushes that wear down and can be replaced before they damage the motor. However, the D & R motor may go bad for other reasons while the carbon brushes remain fine. D & R 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: D & R Vacuum is a registered trademark of D & R, not M.D. Manufacturing, Inc. Products sold by M.D. Manufacturing, Inc. are not from D & R Vacuum but are designed to complement a D & R Central Vacuum. Therefore, parts and products carry warranties from MD Manufacturing and not D & R Vacuum and thus may alter the warranty provided by D & R Vacuum.
Need more help? Try our extensive and helpful D & R 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.