How to Determine an Appropriate Central Vac System
Central vacuum systems make life easier for homeowners. They're convenient because you don't have to haul a vacuum cleaner around the house, they're more effective at picking up dust and dirt, and they have significantly less dust blow-back into the room than conventional cleaners do. Because the motor is located away from the portable hose, central vacuums also are much quieter. If you're thinking of purchasing a central vac system, you'll need to consider several points before making a decision. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Determine the square footage of your home so you know how large a central vac system to buy. You can find the square footage on documentation from your purchase of the home. If this is not handy, obtain a square footage estimate with a tape measure. Measure the length and width of one room, and then multiply the length by the width. Add any areas that do not fit directly into the standard shape of the room, such as a cubbyhole or bay window. Record the number on paper. Continue with all the rooms in the house. Add the numbers to estimate the total square footage.
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Multiply the square footage by 1.5. Choose a central vacuum system for that square footage. If your home is 2,000 square feet, for instance, you'll want a system of at least 3,000 square feet. Central vac systems typically start at 2,500 square feet.
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Consider your lifestyle to determine the level of air watts and suction (water lift) you'll need. If your home gets little tracked-in dirt and other particles, you might choose a system with 90 water lift and 400 air watts. Other factors might make it advantageous to choose a water lift of more than 130 and air watts of 600 or higher. Points to consider are kids tracking in sand, a dog or a cat living in your home, lots of rugs and carpeting, many pollinating trees and plants in your yard and hobbies that create dust and other particulates.
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Measure the distance to each corner of every room from each planned central vac receptacle. This helps you choose the length of hose you'll need. Determine the longest distance that the hose must reach, and buy a hose at least 2 feet longer. This way you'll have no trouble getting around furniture and other obstacles.
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Choose accessories according to floor surfaces and furniture in your home. You'll need different accessories for wood or tile floors, for instance, than for carpeting, rugs and upholstered furniture.
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