Central vacuum systems are one of the most popular types of home appliances. The purpose of central vacuums is to remove dirt and debris efficiently and to make cleaning tools accessible easily. With strategically placed inlets, access to the system is a one-step process. They are often used to clean large areas, such as whole apartments or houses.
A central vacuum system consists of five major components: the power unit, piping system, low voltage system, hose, and attachments. They work in conjunction to provide the most effective cleaning. In this article, I will discuss briefly how does a central vacuum system work?
1. Power Units
Power Units are stationary, heavy, and contain more powerful motors than portable vacuums. Additionally, it has a much more comprehensive filtering system to extend motor life.
Most of the units are hidden away in a basement, garage, or mechanical room. By doing so, debris particles can be removed from a living space and captured within an enclosure. The trash bags can also be easily accessed and replaced.
2. Piping System
Pipes are installed in the walls, attic, and crawlspace in order to connect inlet valves to the remote power unit.
A hose length of 30-35 is perfect for cleaning all surfaces of a home from the inlets, which are about the size of electrical outlets.
An inlet is typically installed every 600 square feet. This rigid pipe measures 2 in. (50 mm) in diameter and has a very smooth interior that ensures no obstructions in airflow.
The number of inlets is not directly related to power unit size. The efficiency of the system depends on the number of users at one time.
In one hour, one operator can clean 3000 square feet of rough floor surfaces and obstructions, such as in factories and workplaces.
3. Low Voltage System
From the inlets to the power unit, a small wire follows the pipe. Like a doorbell, closing the circuit activates the device on the other end. There are two small contact points inside the inlet valves that fit the hose.
4. Hose
You can find a wide variety of hoses in your home for different purposes. You can choose to either use regular hoses that insert into the valves around your house or use Hide-A-Hose, which retracts into the wall for easier storage.
5. Attachments
Attachments have a 1.25 (32mm) diameter and fit into the hose end. The switch on the end of the hose will turn on both the Electric Beater Brush (through the low-voltage wire) and the Remote Power Unit (through the hose).
You can safely and efficiently remove unwanted dust and debris from your home by using suction from the remote Power Unit.
How Central Vacuum Motors Work
At the core of any central vacuum system is the motor. The motor draws air through the piping and hose to collect dust, dirt, and debris. Motors can be flow-through, tangential, or peripheral bypass.
1 Flow-Through Motor
They are similar to upright and canister vacuums, but they are larger. Vacuumed air is passed over the armature to cool it. They make them quieter, but ensure the intake is clean and clear.
2. Peripheral Bypass
Cooling fans blow air over the armature of peripheral bypass motors. This motor is reliable and uses clean air to cool the chamber. It does not use unfiltered air.
3. Tangential Bypass
Most vacuum systems use tangential bypass motors. It is the most expensive type of motor, but it is built to last. Heat and dirty exhaust divert from the motor, making it last longer.
Tangential motors feature an air tube on the side, letting air flow into the bottom of the motor for wet pickup.
Related post: How to replace central vacuum motor?
Is There Any Danger in Using a Central Vacuum System?
Do you know about central vacuum system pros and cons? There is some debate over the safety of central vacuum systems, but most experts believe they are safe to use.
Central vacuum systems suck up dirt, dust, and other debris from floors and carpets with a powerful air stream. It comes with filters that should be replaced regularly (usually every 6 months), and there have been very rare instances where this type of cleaner injured people’s lungs.
However, injuries are typically caused when users fail to properly install or maintain their central vacuum system.
More importantly, empty the vacuum bag and regularly clean the filters to avoid potential health risks.
Expert Opinion
“A whole house vacuum is an appliance that sucks dirt through 2-inch pipes to a 35 liters canister in the basement.
Instead of moving a heavy, noisy vacuum around, you can simply plug a lightweight, 35-foot hose into a special wall outlet, which automatically starts the 700 air watts motor.
With 140 Cubic feet of air per minute, it is twice as fast as a portable and does not spread dust.” says Tom Proctor – Central Vacuum Experts.
Final Thoughts
Knowing how does a central vacuum system works is essential if you’re thinking of buying one. They’re often seen as an essential part of any home and for good reason! Not only do they reduce the amount of dust and dirt in the air, but they also save you time and money in the long run.
If you’re looking to spruce up your space without all the hassle, a central vacuum system is the perfect solution! So, why not learn more about these systems and find the best one for your needs? Read our “Central Vacuum” category to find out more!
Brian Bennett is an experienced central vacuum expert who has written extensively on the topic. His articles cover a variety of topics related to central vacuum systems, including installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting. Brian also offers a variety of helpful tips and tricks for optimizing central vacuum performance.
