Central Vacuum System Installation Guide Tools Needed | Typical Central Vac Installations | Fittings | Central Vac Components Download this Installation Guide as a PDF (requires Adobe Acrobat)

Installation Steps: Getting Started | Step 1 | Step 2 | Step 3 | Step 4 | Step 5 | Step 6 | Step 7

Getting Started

A central vacuum system will make cleaning your home easier and improve indoor air quality. The system typically can be installed in virtually any home with no costly alterations and very little mess. This guide will show how to install your central vacuum system in just seven steps.

Drywall saw (Optional)	Pencil
Electrical Tape/Duct Tape/Cable Ties	Pipe/Tubing cutter or Hacksaw and Miter Box
Electric Drill - 1/2” (1.3cm) with right-angle head if possible	Safety Goggles
Flashlight	Screwdrivers (Phillips and Flat Blade)
Forstner wood-boring bit - 2-3/8” (2-1/2” if using PVC 2" Sch 40)	Steel Tape Measure
Hammer	Stud Finder
Hole Saw or Cutter - 2-3/8” (2-1/2” if using PVC 2" Sch 40)	Utility/Razor Knife
Masonry Bit - 2-3/8” (2-1/2” if using PVC 2" Sch 40) (Optional)	Wire Stripper/Cutter
Metal Coat Hangers	Wood Chisel
Miter Saw	30ft (9.15m) Piece of Cord of String

45 Degree Elbow	Sweep Tee	Short Tee
45 Wye	45 Degree Spigot (Street)	Stop Coupler
Short 90	Short 90 Degree Spigot (Street)	Trim Ring
Sweep 90	Medium 90 Degree Spigot (Street)	Inlet Trim Plate
3 Way ELL Sweep (Y Sweep)	Sweep 90 Degree Spigot (Street)	Pipe Cap
Pipe Strap	Vac Pipe to Sch 40 2x2 Adaptor	2 x 1-3/4" Adapter (Kenmore)
Inlet Valve Extension	Firestop Coupler	Floor Mount Adapter
Plaster Guard

1 - The Unit

There are three main types to choose from; Paper Bag Filtered Systems, Cyclonic Action Systems (with drop down filters, cartridges, or washable filters), or True Cyclonic Separation Systems. The Unit is usually mounted in the garage, basement, utility room, storage room, or mud room to remove dust and allergens from living areas. Note: True Cyclonic units require venting to the outside. Other units may be vented to the outside as well.

2 - The Inlet Kit

Choose from Standard Inlets or Electrical Inlets. Dust and dirt are carried through tubing from the inlet to the power unit. You may choose from 2in O.D. Central Vacuum tubing, or use 2in I.D. PVC Schedule 40 Pipe with adapters.

Sample of a (3) Inlet Kit with Vacuum Pipe

Reasons to use our exclusive Patent Pending Adaptor 2x2 Kits which enable you to use Schedule 40 (2 inch) PVC Plumbing Pipe purchased locally.
Using plumbing pipe will increase your CFM or your airflow by over 25%. 2in plumbing pipe is available almost anywhere. Vacuum pipe is limited mainly to central vacuum dealers. Plumbing pipe is much more substantial (thicker and stronger) than vacuum pipe. Plumbing pipe comes in lengths up to 20ft which offers greater system performance requiring less cutting and gluing. Plumbing pipe works well under ground. Plumbing pipe offers less chance for clogs because of the larger diameter.
We offer you more choices - Vacuum, Steel or Plumbing Tubing. Click here to find out more.

 

3 - The Attachment Set

Choose from Air Turbine Attachment Set, Electrical Attachment set with an Electric Power head (shown below), or a Bare Floor Attachment Set. The components included in these sets usually consist of a hose, wand(s) and various tools.

Read this guide and your unit's operating manual before you begin installation. Also, review your local building codes so your installation is in compliance.