Central vacuums are becoming more and more popular and it’s easy to see why! Unlike a traditional vacuum cleaner, you don’t have to carry them from room to room or up and down stairs. So they’re more convenient and also save you time. They’re quieter than traditional vacuum cleaners as well. And they provide you with a better, more powerful overall clean. But once you decide to have a central vacuum, you have to be sure to keep up maintenance.
Thankfully, central vacuums are fairly low maintenance overall. But a little goes a long way, and the following central vacuum maintenance tips will make sure yours keeps working as effectively as possible to keep your whole house clean.
These tips will also help you avoid expensive repairs and help your system to last longer. And, don’t worry, you can even do some of them yourself! Read on to see the central vacuum maintenance tips we recommend.
Install A Central Vacuum Correctly
First and foremost, be sure that your central vacuum is installed correctly. It’s usually recommended to have a professional central vacuum technician install the vacuum system. But if you really want to you do it on your own, you can purchase do-it-yourself kits.
However, you should keep in mind that this installation requires a lot of skill and technique. Especially if you’re having one installed in a pre-existing home, as they are typically easier to install in newly built homes. Just like I always recommend a professional interior designer for your interior home design and decorating. I also recommend an expert in the central vacuum field. Professional technicians, on the other hand, bring years of knowledge and experience. Having a professional central vacuum installation, when you know it’s done correctly, will help you to avoid problems down the line.
Check the Motor for Regular Central Vacuum Maintenance
Check that your central vacuum’s motor is working properly. While the motor shouldn’t require too much maintenance, it may occasionally need oiling or lubrication. Also, check the motor brushes periodically. If the brushes are too worn down, they may need to be replaced. And if for whatever reason it turns out you need to replace the motor itself, it is usually recommended to have a professional do so.
Change or Clean the Filters
Make sure to either change or clean out the filter in your central vacuum. Different systems have different types of filters. But no matter which yours has, this is one of the simplest and most important central vacuum maintenance steps you can take. Maintaining the central vacuum filter will help it stay as efficient as possible. Empty the canister, or if your system has filter bags, you’ll need to remember to replace them.
Central vacuum filter bags usually need to be replaced about two to four times a year, but that depends on some additional factors, such as how often you use the central vacuum system. But if you find you do have to replace the bags very often, that might be the sign of a larger issue.
Clean reusable central vac filters with soap and water, and then allow the filters to dry before putting them back in the vacuum.
Remove Clogs and Dirt
Learn how to remove dirt or clogs from the central vac hose. Clogs can be caused by sticky or moist substances, or by any debris that is too large. You can use central vacuum maintenance cloths for cleaning these clogs, which can be found at central vacuum dealers or hardware stores. Just feed a cloth into the hose while the central vacuum is running, and then let the cloth come out the other end. You can also attach the hose in the reverse direction to clear out clogs. Or try running a plumber’s snake through it. Finally, if you’re really having trouble, you can contact a professional to remove clogs as well.
Also, make sure to store the hose and the other attachments in the best way possible. The hose can experience the most wear and tear, since it’s used the most, and proper storage will help it last longer. Store the hose on a hose hanger that is mounted to the wall. Or you can use the Hide-A-Hose system, which conveniently stores your hose inside your walls. And don’t leave any other attachments on the hose but detach and put them away separately.
The hose isn’t the only attachment you should complete maintenance for. Also, take care of the carpet brush attachments. Inspect them to make sure there’s nothing stuck or tangled in the bristles, like hair or dust. You can also trim the brush’s long fibers. And inspect the cords to check that they are not frayed or damaged.
Schedule Regular Inspections
Keep up regular inspections by professional technicians. These system inspections should usually be done about once every few years. This is an incredibly essential step for making sure your central vacuum continues to function properly. Experts will always know exactly what your central vacuum needs.
In some cases, they might be able to detect an issue and take care of it before it becomes a major problem. And, in general, there are some maintenance tasks that only professionals can do.
Finally, try not to overuse your central vacuum system. Overusing can lead to excessive debris, which causes clogs and could also cause issues that end up requiring repairs. Make sure to carefully read your owner’s manual on how to use the vacuum properly.
Most vacuum appliance centers also sell a number of cleaning and maintenance products for your central vacuum system. This includes replacement bags and filters, cleaning kits, and Tornado central vacuum maintenance cloths, one of the top brands. You can see these products and more, as well as find out more information about central vacuums online. Also, you can always contact them if you have any questions or concerns.
This post is a collaboration and may contain resourceful affiliate links. All opinions are our own and for informational purposes only.