Motors, Filters, and Maintenance for Zenex Central Vacuum
All Products for Zenex
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 Zenex Vacuum Motors, Filtration, & More
Model # Replacement Motor Filtration

Zenex 210
120 volt
Price / Details /
Instructions
116472
 The 210 has a cloth filter.


Zenex 275
120 volt

 Three motors have been used in this model. Click for specs and larger photos. See all three.

Price / Details /
Instructions
115334

 The 275 has a cloth filter.
Price / Details /
Instructions
116119
Price / Details /
Instructions
117507
(replaces 116507)

Zenex 257
120 volt		 motorPrice / Details / Instructions
ONLY PURCHASE IF original motor starts with 116765		 The 257 has a cloth filter.

Zenex 375
120 volt		 Price / Details / Instructions
117500-12		 The 375 has a cloth filter.
Basic Maintenance for Zenex Vacuum

Filtration Maintenance
Much like a regular portable vacuum, the basic maintenance of a Zenex Central Vacuum System is dealing the filter. For units with a permanent cloth filter, remove the bottom buy undoing the latches then empty the dirt receptacle into a trash can or plastic garbage bag. Then shake out the filter by placing a plastic trash bag over the bottom of the unit. Reach up and grab the center weighted cloth filter and shake it. This filter can be further cleaned or replaced. To remove the filter, grab a side of it and pull toward the center. The outer stiff rim of the filter bends in and the filter drops out.

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

Circuit Board, Relay, Transformer, MiniBreaker
Separate transformers, relays, and minibreakers are not available here for Zenex. However, when a circuit board is installed, the most common board replacement for Zenex 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 Zenex motor has two carbon brushes that wear down and can be replaced before they damage the motor. However, the Zenex motor may go bad for other reasons while the carbon brushes remain fine. Zenex 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: Zenex Vacuum is a registered trademark of Zenex, not M.D. Manufacturing, Inc. Products sold by M.D. Manufacturing, Inc. are not from Zenex Vacuum but are designed to complement a Zenex Central Vacuum. Therefore, parts and products carry warranties from MD Manufacturing and not Zenex Vacuum and thus may alter the warranty provided by Zenex Vacuum.
Need more help? Try our extensive and helpful Zenex 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.