Central Vacuum Installation

General notes

Vacuum sockets

However, it is easier to insert the end of the hose into a vacuum socket if it opens downwards (picture above) so that the hole in the socket is exposed as the flap starts to open. If this arrangement is required, then the fittings must be installed with the arrow and ‘UP’ at the bottom, not the top, of the fitting. When using the 90° elbow fitting, rotate the box on the end of the tube, if necessary (picture above right).

NB When the box is correctly positioned, don’t forget to glue it to the elbow.

Internal pipework

It is important to note (and preferably mark) the route of the pipe through the building when it is not obvious that there is a pipe under the floor or in a wall. This is especially important during construction as not all artisans will be familiar with a central vacuum system and may inadvertently damage the pipework. A nail through the pipe will soon cause a blockage and a fractured pipe will lead to a loss of suction.

External pipework

It is assumed that the pipework will be run within a building, but sometimes it is necessary to run a pipe outside - to a detached garage, for example. In this case, it is important that the pipe be insulated from extreme cold in order to prevent condensation in the pipe, although short runs of unprotected pipe should not be a problem. If it is necessary to run a pipe to another building, the rigid PVC pipe should be buried at least 50cm deep and protected, preferably by putting it inside a larger diameter pipe. This not only gives a degree of insulation, but also provides some protection against ground movement. Alternatively, a reinforced heavy-duty flexible hose can be used underground. Whilst this hose is more costly, it is a lot easier & quicker to lay. Ensure all joints are glued well and that there is no opportunity for ingress of water to the system. If a pipe runs outside a building in a position where it can get very cold, it should be lagged and boxed (or run inside a larger pipe).

Maintenance

The system needs virtually no maintenance, apart from changing the carbon brushes on the motor. It is generally advised that these be changed after 8 to 10 years of normal domestic use. This is a simple task - the lid of the vacuum unit can be taken off after removing 2 self-tapping screws. The brushes are easily accessible as they are at the top of the motor and each is held in place with a clip. Do NOT glue the first connection of the pipework to the vacuum unit inlet as it is a good ‘push fit’. This means that vacuum unit can easily be dismounted if necessary.

And Finally

Having installed a vacuum system in a new house, many people are tempted to take advantage of its impressive performance to clean up the site. Please be aware that cement and plaster dust will stick to the heavy duty textile filter inside the vacuum unit and cause a loss of performance. This can be overcome by removing the dust bin from the unit and shaking the filter vigorously, and if necessary, removing the filter from the canister to clean it. Alternatively, do not use the central vacuum cleaner for cleaning a building site!

Don’t forget - if in doubt - ask!

If you have any further queries regarding installation or installation materials please contact us at install@cvcdirect.co.uk

or ring us free on 0800 0830 431

(or +44 1491 836 666 from outside the UK)

Click here for a random selection of installation photographs

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