Step 2 of 3: Choose Inlet Valve Type, Style, and Color
The installation supplies connect to the inlet valve backing plate. The backing plate receives an inlet valve cover. All inlets below can be used in existing and new construction homes.
- Basic Inlet Valves
Easiest to install and the least expensive.
Remember to buy #517 backing mounting plates on Basic Inlet Valve page.
Use an attachment kit that is air powered or electric powered (hose has an eight foot pigtail cord that comes out of the wall end of the hose and plugs into a nearby electrical outlet).
- Electric Inlet Valves
More difficult to install and about $10 more per inlet, but perfect for homes with carpeting necessitating electric vacuum head grooming.
Backing / mounting plate is included. The inlet cover is not included with ElectraValves but available on the page.
Use an attachment kit that is air powered or electric powered (hose has direct connect pins for voltage connection at the vacuum inlet).
- Toe-Kick Inlets (VacPan/VacuSweep)
You will love to use (and show visitors) the toe-kick sweep inlet. Simply sweep debris right into the central vacuum. It's so easy, and really handy. Put one in the kitchen, and possibly the bathrooms and mud room.
Other Considerations
- Penetrating a Fire Block Wall
Some state and county codes will not allow PVC penetration of fire block walls. If your local code permits block wall penetration, use a 6-inch piece of steel or a 3M Fire Stop Ring. See fire block options here.
- Using Helpful Installation Tools
Smooth transitions are essential in preventing a system clog. Remember to cut straight and debur all cut edges. To ensure straight cuts, use a miter box, or for better results use a PVC cutter. Here are tools you can buy online for a professional installation. Also listed is a 2 9/16 hole hog bit for large drills. Vacuum PVC is 2 inch OUTER diameter, but you will need a larger hole than that in your stud bay to run necessary low voltage (and possibly 110 volt ) wires along the PVC pipe.
- Low Voltage Wire
The low voltage wire from step one turns the vacuum suction on and off. It will run to each inlet and back to the main canister unit. The 20-gauge wire can be spliced and/or daisy chained to a 'home run' wire back to the unit.
Step 1
Step 3
REVIEWS
MD Vac's are Designed & Assembled in the USA.
