Central Vacuum Myths

Think you know everything about central vacuum systems? Check out some of the most common misconceptions about central vacuums. You may discover something new!

How loud are central vacuums?
The powerful central vacuum motor is located in a garage or basement and away from the living environment and power heads are designed with a number of special acoustic features including belts and bearing housings. Consequently, central vacuum systems have one of the lowest decibel ratings in the industry. Riccar central vacuum systems have a decibel rating similar to that of a clothes dryer.

How does a central vacuum compare to portables in performance?
With up to five times the suction and power of uprights, central vacuum systems capture 100% of all vacuumed dirt, dust, odors and allergens. After vacuuming with most uprights, it’s tpical to smell odors and see dust particles reflected in the sunlight. Traditional vacuums spread these particles and allergens around your home and re-circulate them into the air you breathe. Central vacuums eliminate these odors and dust particles for a cleaner home with cleaner air.

Can the system be used on more than carpets?
Riccar central vacuums offer a wide range of versatile attachments for all carpet types and hard-surface flooring like wood, tile, marble and vinyl. It can also be used to clean upholstery, draperies, crown moldings, ceiling fans, lampshades and fixtures.

Does the suction power work properly in the farthest reaches of the home?
Yes! Central vacuums are closed systems that maintain vacuum power in every part of the system. Properly sized and installed systems position the inlet valves throughout the home for whole-house coverage and maximum performance. The sustained cleaning power of the Riccar central vacuum system will ensure a consistent level of suction power and airflow in every part of the home.

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.

Will the hose damage walls or woodwork?
No. Stuart’s House of Vacuums offers a soft hose sock that fits snugly over hoses to protect woodwork, furniture and corners from scuffs and scratches.

Does a central vacuum system add value to my home?
Central vacuum systems are not only considered a built-in appliance but add an exciting convenience feature when it comes time to sell. Typically a home equipped with a central vacuum system will realize an added value of approximately $2,000.

Why is a central vacuum system so much more powerful?
If a portable vacuum had a comparable motor, you wouldn’t want to push it through the house! The genius of central vacuum systems is putting a powerful vacuum unit in a stationary location and allowing access to this powerful vacuum from the inlets (valves) located throughout the home.

Most of the floors in my home are bare so why would I need a central vacuum?
A central vacuum is perfect for hard-surface flooring. Instead of stirring up dirt and debris with a broom, you can vacuum it with specially designed bare floor tools. The dirt is deposited into the dirt container, eliminating the recirculation of dust and odors.

I have a cleaning service so why would I need a central vacuum system?
Most cleaning services use portable vacuums that are transported from home to home, re-circulating someone else’s vacuumed dirt, dust and odors into your home. A central vacuum eliminates dirt, dust and odor recirculation regardless of who does the cleaning.

I already have a portable vacuum; why would I need a central vacuum?
A typical house has 4 portable vacuums (sticks, garage vacs, uprights, canisters). A central vacuum system can conveniently replace all of these. A central vacuum from Stuart’s House of Vacuums has 3-5 times the power of a traditional portable and its sustained cleaning performance never loses suction like portables. Virtually all interior surfaces can be conveniently cleaned with the complete line of vacuum attachments.

I have heard central vacuums are expensive. Is this true?
A central vacuum system may be less expensive than you think, especially if you figure it into your monthly mortgage payment. The cost of ownership is less than replacing and maintaining portable vacuums over several years.