- Can a system be installed in an existing home?
- Does the complete system have to be installed at one time?
- Will I need an inlet valve installed in every room?
- What is the standard height for installing the inlet valve?
- Where is the power unit typically installed?
- Do systems need to be exhausted to exterior?
- For an existing installation, how does the tubing get in the walls?
- Can I locate the power unit in an attic?
- How long does it take to install a central vacuum system?
- What is a rough-in?
- Is it possible for objects to get caught in tubing?
Can a system be installed in an existing home?
Yes. It can easily be installed in both new and existing homes: on slabs, in crawl spaces, garages or basements. Our installation professionals will work with you to determine the placement of the power unit and inlet valves. The complete installation, including tubing and low-voltage wiring, can usually be completed in less than a day.
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Does the complete system have to be installed at one time?
No. Some homeowners choose to rough-in the tubing system when a home is being built and then complete the system by adding the power unit and inlet valves at a later time.
Will I need an inlet valve installed in every room?
No. For maximum cleaning convenience and whole-house coverage, standard inlet valves are strategically placed throughout the home. You can estimate one inlet valve for every 600 square feet of living space. The average home (2000 sq. ft.) would need 4-5 inlets. Chameleon Retractable Hose Valves can cover up to 2,200 sq.ft. So one well placed valve could cover your entire home depending on the floorplan. Our central vacuum installs provide whole-house cleaning coverage with as few inlet valves as possible. Tubing and low-voltage wiring are run in tandem to each valve location, speeding up installation.
What is the standard height for installing the inlet valve?
Standard valves are typically mounted at the same height as electrical receptacles. Chameleon Retractable Hose valves are generally installed at the same height as the electrical receptacles or as the light switches, depending on preference and necessity.
Where is the power unit typically installed?
The power unit is typically located in a garage, basement or utility room.
Do systems need to be exhausted to exterior?
Depending on the unit, most are designed with optional exhaust - the unit can be exhausted outside if desired.
For an existing installation, how does the tubing get in the walls?
You will need to have access to the studs either through an attic or basement location. Tubing can be inserted between the studs from either location.
Can I locate the power unit in an attic?
We do not recommend placing the power unit in an attic. The attic space may retain heat and cause the motor to experience premature failure. An attic location may also be difficult to reach when the dirt canister needs emptied.
How long does it take to install a central vacuum system?
Most new home installations can be complete in less than one day.
What is a rough-in?
The rough-in consists of determining valve placement and installing the mounting plate, elbow, and drywall cover (this is called a drop), in the wall. Once the home is ready for completion, our installer will return and run the trunk line, low-voltage wiring, connect the inlet valves, and hang the power unit.
Is it possible for objects to get caught in tubing?
It is not likely as long as the tube system is properly installed. Typically any object that can fit through the inlet valve will be sucked through the tubing and end up in the dirt canister.