Centralized vacuum system: what it is and how to choose it

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Emma Potter

We hear more and more often about central vacuum cleaners, but not many people still know what exactly it is.

A suction system centralizedas the name itself suggests, is a system made up of one central vacuum cleaner from which a network of pipes branches out throughout the house.

They are present in various parts of the house wall or floor socketsto which flexible pipes (usually nine meters long) capable of covering large surfaces are connected.

How to choose a centralized vacuum system?

The main factor to consider when choosing a centralized vacuum cleaner for the home is the size of the home and the number of socket points installed. All the main manufacturers of central vacuum cleaners declare the maximum surface area for which each central vacuum cleaner can be used, and it is precisely the main factor that helps to choose the right central vacuum cleaner.

Many manufacturers also indicate the maximum air flow and maximum depression values, which are particularly useful for comparing the different central vacuum unit models.

The first term refers to the quantity of air sucked in by the system. The value of air flow is expressed in dm³/s (cubic decimeters per second) or m³/h (cubic meters per hour), and obviously the higher it is, the better the performance of the centralized vacuum system. In any case, you should opt for a system with an air flow of at least 190 m³/s.

Equally important is the depression, i.e. the force that lifts and captures the vacuumed dust. Typically it is measured in mmH2O (millimeters of water column), but some manufacturers they also use kPa (kilopascals).

The depression varies based on the type of motor that is installed inside the central vacuum unit: in any case it is advisable to choose a central vacuum unit with a minimum depression value of 2950 mmH2OFinally, we must not forget to also evaluate the noise, especially if you intend to install the control panel in a condominium. Usually, however, a central vacuum system has a sound level between 60 and 75 decibels which vary based on the degree of soundproofing of the central vacuum unit.

The different components of the central vacuum cleaner

The centralized vacuum system is made up of different elements. First, it comes with a wall fixing system and various accessories (such as hoses, brushes, nozzles and various suction sockets).

There central vacuum cleaner it is normally sold in kit, ready to be installed and used. Some kits also include a particular nozzle “collect crumbs” to be placed in the skirting board of Kitchen where it is possible to gather dirt and crumbs and then open the suction nozzle and make everything disappear.

Regarding the system start-up, the most modern systems provide for the starting and stopping of the suction flow through a switch located on the handle of the flexible hose. In older systems, however, suction starts when the hose is inserted into the suction socket.

The centralized vacuum system, in practice, is made up of: a central suction, pvc pipesdifferent fixing systems, fittings,bends, flexible hose and suction sockets.