Central vacuum systems are a convenient and efficient way to keep your home clean and allergen-free. With the added feature of a retractable hose, you can now have a clutter-free cleaning experience. This blog post contains both a step-by-step video and written guide to walk you through installing a retractable hose central vacuum system. Let's get started!
Preparation
- Before you begin the installation, choosing the right location for the valve is essential.
Preparation
- Pre-measure upstairs and downstairs to determine the ideal spot for the valve.
- Ensure no obstructions like heating ducts, pipes, or wires are in the way.
Preparation
- Once confirmed, drill an eighth-inch pilot hole to ensure you won't drill into any ceiling beams below.
Preparation
- Once you’re sure of clearances, use a hole saw to drill a hole for pipes.
- In a downward orientation, align the valve with the height of electrical outlets, typically around 11 inches from the floor.
- For an upward orientation, mount the valve at the height of a light switch.
Mounting Backer Plate
- Secure the backer plate to the stud using two-inch drywall screws.
Pipe Installation
- Pull the pipe up from the basement into the bottom of the valve without gluing any fittings at this point.
Pipe Installation
- Use a central vacuum pipe cutter or a fine-tooth saw to cut the pipe to fit the 90-degree elbow.
- Smooth the rough edges of the pipe with sandpaper to avoid hose snagging.
Pipe Installation
- Feed the pipe through the floor and test fit the 90-degree elbow.
Laying Out Track
- Plan and measure the track layout, ensuring there are as many straight runs and as few angles as possible.
Laying Out Track
- Make a chalk line parallel to the outside wall to ensure a straight track.
Laying Out Track
- Screw a pipe clamp into the floor joists at regular intervals.
- Attach the mud cover to protect the inlet from damage during drywalling.
Nailer Plate
- Install the nailer plate to prevent punctures through the pipe.
Pipe Connections
- Feed the pipe through the pipe clamps
Pipe Connections
- Glue the pipe using couplers for straight runs and perfect 90-degree angles, and dry-fit all fittings and cuts before gluing.
Pipe Connections
- Apply glue to the outside of the pipes and spin the pipe as you push it into place.
- Central vacuum pipe does not require primer.
Mounting Unit
- Mount the bracket that came with the unit to the wall at chest height using the provided screws.
- Slide the unit onto the bracket to complete the mounting process.
Mounting Unit
- Connect the tubing to the unit without gluing it for potential future maintenance.
- Consider using a muffler for the exhaust to reduce noise.
- If possible, vent the exhaust outdoors.
Wireless Receiver
- Mount the wireless receiver next to the unit and an electrical outlet.
- Run direct low-voltage wires from each inlet and accessory back to the unit.
Low-Voltage Connections
- Strip the outer sheathing on the wires about 1-1.5 inches back and then the smaller sheathing about 1/2 inch.
Low-Voltage Connections
- Connect all the wires correctly, reds to reds and whites to whites, and connect with wire nuts.
Low-Voltage Connections
- Depending on which unit you choose, the Duovac and Beam require a connector at the end of the wire to connect to the unit, while the VacuMaid allows the wire to be pushed directly into the clips.
- Crimp on the connectors and slide them onto the male connectors on the unit.
Valve Assembly
- First, make sure the central vacuum is turned off. Then unscrew the mud cover from the valve.
Valve Assembly
- Pull the low voltage wires out from inside the valve, strip the outer sheathing on the wires about 1-1.5 inches back, and then the smaller sheathing about 1/2 inch.
Valve Assembly
- Connect the two leads from the switch mounted outside the valve to the low-voltage wire using wire nuts.
Valve Assembly
- Insert the valve assembly into the rough-in frame.
- Align the four holes in the valve assembly with the holes in the frame. Secure with the four screws included in the trim kit using a screwdriver.
- DO NOT use a power tool, as you could damage the backer plate.
Hose Installation
- Turn the switch on the valve to the ON position to trigger the central vacuum suction.
- Slowly feed the end of the hose with white trim into the valve.
Hose Installation
- When using any retractable hose, ALWAYS lock the hose in place using the black lever on the valve after the hose is pulled out to the desired length.
- Connect the built in vacuum hose to your cleaning attachments and you're all set for EASY cleaning!
Installing a retractable hose central vacuum system is a worthwhile investment that provides convenience and a clutter-free cleaning experience. By following these step-by-step instructions, you can enjoy the benefits of a central vacuum system with the added convenience of a retractable hose. Just need to replace your central vacuum unit, we can show you how to do that too! Happy cleaning!
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