Which Kinds of Homeowners Should Install Central Vacuum Systems?
Should you consider a central vacuum system for your home? Well, what was once thought of as a luxury that few could afford, may actually make sense for a great many people. After evaluating the price of a central vacuum system and the cost of a portable vacuum that is really the appropriate size for your home, you'll find that the costs are not that far apart. That seems to be the major hurdle for those who do not consider the purchase of a central vacuum. If however you have a maid service that cleans your home for you, perhaps you may not want to invest in a system. There are still the health considerations that would be applicable to all homeowners.
Certainly the best time to consider a central vacuum system is during the initial construction of your home. Especially for financing and construction reasons. It is much simpler to wire the electrical inlets and run the vacuum pipe through unfinished walls. You may even wrap the cost of the unit into your overall mortgage or home equity.
That does not rule out older homes, with some creativity and the help of a skilled electrician, you can install the central vacuum successfully into existing homes, as well.
What are some other considerations besides cost and convenience of installation? How about the convenience of not carrying a portable vacuum through the house and on any stairs that you may have. With a 30 foot hose, the central vacuum can reach from carefully placed inlets to any corner of your home. No more trying to balance a portable unit on a stairway or to wedge it in a tight spot to get all of the dirt out.
There are some health considerations for owning a central vacuum. If you have a respiratory condition, such as asthma, emphysema, or allergy issues, the added cleaning and exhaust benefit of the central vacuum are certainly recommended. With a 5-fold increase in suction power over a portable vacuum, the central vacuum gets down deep in carpets and in crevices at wall joints to eliminate potential respiratory irritants. Make sure you use it on mattresses and cushioned surfaces, as well, another harbor for unwanted allergens.
Should you have some type of physical challenge that makes heavy lifting impossible or painful, the hose of a central vacuum is much lighter than a portable unit. For a multi-story home, you could purchase two hoses and keep one on each level, thus further minimizing the need to carry any weight on the stairway.
Whether you clean your own home, or hire someone to clean it for you, consider a central vacuum system. Not only does it do a better job of removing dirt and debris, but it runs more quietly with the central motor unit outside of the home. Also the exhaust is with the central unit and not in the rooms of the home, further eliminating the circulation of dust and allergens in your indoor air environment.
So, who should consider a central vacuum? Probably, just about everyone.
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