Flexible Pipe Q&A

The instrument used is called a waterlift gauge. Waterlift is a measure of vacuum force, a special gauge is produced that can accurately determine this. Most vacuum technicians and repair stores have them in their tool kits.

It is not recommended that these pipes be used for any other application other than normal, dry, in-home vacuuming.

Yes, the pipe you used is 2 inch outer diameter so this will slide right over it correctly, for the connection.

For a temporary solution, flex will be fine. You just want to change it out to prevent any clogs in the future.

Hi, in nearly all applications the intake on the unit fits an elbow or coupling and the pipe goes directly into that fitting. Avoid using the flex pipe as it can clog easier and restricts airflow.

Using the flex pipe where rigid pipe is traditionally used is not a good idea. There is not a clean connection from the flex hose to rigid pipe. It is a clog waiting to happen. The way it connects is the rigid pipe fits snuggly into the flex one and a hose clamp or wire-tie is used to secure it. Debris that enters the flex pipe and needs to reenter the rigid encouters a step from the edge of the rigid pipe. Things will get stuck there and over the years pipe up. If you have to use flex then do so but if there is any way to use rigid then by all means use it.

Hello we recommend using the central vacuum pvc pipe and elbows, not the flex pipe. Flex has to much resistance and it difficult and unsightly. Here are the materials to use http://builtinvacuum.com/install_shop/pipe-fittings.html and here is the muffler that fits between two sections of the pipe http://builtinvacuum.com/retail/shopretail.php?part_no=260

Hello Ryan, first, here is the VacPan installation webpage http://builtinvacuum.com/installguides/vacpan/index.html. The flex hose can be used instead of the rigid central vacuum pipe between the 90 on the VacPan and the first 90. It allows you do slide the assembled and piped VP into place without also having the line up pipe (which is not too difficult and better to use that flex pipe). First, if you have a basement try to enter the cavity below the cabinets from beneath. You will T off the existing pipe in the basement and bring it to the cavity. Cut the kickboard with a sawzaw after you drill an entrance hole and use the dimensions on the install page. You will run wire from the T to the VacPan as you put it all together.

Hello, in traditional central vacuum flex pipe there is a corrugation that greatly inhibits airflow. Even our PVC pipe is quality controlled for interior smoothness because it has a dramatic affect. PVC is ideal for airflow because it can be extremely smooth compared to other transits over a hundred feet long with bends and all.

It really is better for airflow and less clogs to run the pipe with couplings. Being installers ourselves we know the difficulty but we also know the payoff of the more difficult work. Remember, too, that the central vacuum pipe is bendable to a large degree and you can put long sections together.

It could be but we highly recommend using the central vacuum rigid PVC. You will have less troubles in the long run and you will have better vacuum by avoiding the unfriendly airflow in flexible pipe.