Clean central vacuum pipes are important for effective and efficient performance. This type of vacuum cleaner is not as popular as the standalone variants but can be quite useful.
We won’t be talking much about the workings or usage of a central vacuum. If you want to know all about it including if it is what you need, you can read our guide on it.
A lot of central vacuums too use cyclonic technology so they rarely lose suction. However, if you mistakenly vacuum a large object or debris ball-up together, it might get stuck in the pipe leading to the remote vacuum.
Since central vacuum pipes run through walls, it’s a bit tricky locating the clog. To clean central vacuum pipes can be costly if you have to call a professional.
So, it is best to be mindful when vacuuming to avoid the clog in the first place. However, we’re offering you a DIY method that works in case it happens. We’re always happy to help.
How can you locate clogs in central vacuum pipes?
Central vacuum pipes are laid out such that each outlet flows to the actual vacuum as directly as possible. This technically makes finding a clog easy. You can suspect a clog if the suction power of an outlet drops. That means something is obstructing the airflow from the vacuum to the outlet.
- In this case, test the other outlets closer to the vacuum to gauge their suction too.
- Most of the time, the outlets closer to the vacuum would have lost suction too. This means the clog is somewhere in the pipe from the outlet closest to the vacuum.
- There could be cases where the loss of suction is not due to clogs. Then, you might have to go check the vacuum itself.
Ideally, you will have multiple vacuum pipe wall outlets. These outlets are connected to a central pipe that leads to the canister in your basement or garage.
The clog could be at any part of the piping depending on which outlet sucked it in.
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If you want to know more about central vacuums or how to clean other vacuums, the posts below will help:
- Central Vacuum Cleaner — Your Guide For The Best Fit
- How to Clean a Black and Decker Hand Vacuum
- How to Clean a Eureka Vacuum Filter
- How to Clean a Dyson Vacuum Filter
- How to Clean Bissell PowerForce Compact Vacuum
- How Do You Clean a Shark Vacuum?
How do you clean clogs in central vacuum pipes?
The aim is to pull the clog back and forth until it comes loose. The ideal vacuum to use is one that has a hose you can detach from the brush head. Something like a Shop Vac.
- Start by inserting the nozzle of the ‘external vacuum’ and turn it on. This will suck the clog toward the outlet.
- Check the dust cup to see if it has been sucked in. If not, insert the hose of the central vacuum and turn it on to suck the clog toward the central vacuum.
- Do this back and forth a few times till the clog is pulled into either vacuum.
- In most cases, it will be sucked into the external vacuum since the clog is closer to it.
Central vacuums are great to have. You don’t have to worry about inhaling dust and allergens. You also won’t be bothered by the noise since the actual vacuum is located remotely.
Another good thing about central vacuums is that they’re not so expensive and you will get loads of attachment tools as well. If you choose to go for it, check out our guide here. It will be a good idea, especially now that you know how to clean central vacuum pipes.
How to Clean Central Vacuum Pipes — FAQs
What kind of pipes are used for central vacuums?
There are pipes that are created specifically for central vacuums; those are the ideal choice. However, there are other options of pipes you can use to connect your central vacuum to your home. You can use a schedule 40 plumbing pipes or a flexible hose. These options will work well with your central vacuum as long as you get the accurate pipe size.
Which is the best central vacuum model?
“Best” is quite relative when it comes to central vacuum models, it often comes down to what works best for your needs. However, we’ll list out the good ones we recommend for particular needs. Here they are:
Prolux CV 12000 – Top pick
Honeywell 4B H403 – Best for small homes
Imperium CV300 – Quiet vacuuming experience
Electrolux PU 3650 – Best for allergic users
Dirt Devil 9880 – Budget pick
Should a central vacuum be vented outside?
Many central vacuum manufacturers and professionals stress the importance of venting your central vacuum exhaust on the outside. It is not just best practice, it is the safest and most effective method. They warn that it can be hazardous to vent in a wall, ceiling, or anywhere else. So, if you’re going for a central vacuum system, please vent it outside.
Should you glue central vacuum pipes?
It is best to use glue when connecting the pipes when installing a central vacuum. If you’re connecting the pipe to a fitting, you should glue only the pipes as this give you the best type of adhesion. But if you’re going to use a pipe adapter, you should glue both the pipe and the fitting. Glue the pipe liberally and the fitting a little. After the applying the glue, twist the pipe into the fitting for strong adhesion.
Are central vacuum cleaner systems worth it?
Whether to invest in central vacuum cleaners or not depends on your situation. If you have a small home, say about 1,500 sq ft, it won’t make a lot of sense getting a central vacuum. However, if you live in a bigger house, say 10,000 sq ft, a central vacuum system might even be a better option that a regular vacuum. So, it’s best to weight your options and consider your needs before making the investment.
Does central vacuum increase a home resale value?
A house with central vacuum already installed surely increases its value. Look at it this way, would you prefer a home that already has utilities that you might still need to buy or not? Moreover, a central vacuum takes the noise out of vacuuming as the main vacuum is in the basement or garage. Estimates say, the resale value of a home with a central vacuum installed can rise by $2000.
