First of all, what is a central vacuum?
A central vacuum works just like a normal push vacuum that we all remember from childhood and which most of use (or usually plan on using) on a weekly basis. But the central vacuum is much larger and does not move around. The system consists of a central motor and filter assembly (manufactured by such companies of Electrolux, vacuflo, and Beam) attached to an input and output hose assembly, a system of tubes which run throughout your home to the major vacuum spots. These tubes end in outlets into which you can attach your choice of hose assemblies.
What makes a central vac easier to use?
Well, for one your hose assembly is very light, far lighter than a self contained push vacuum. Think about it, how many times have you butted your vacuum up against a table or couch, leaving little scuff marks to tell the tale? And how fun is it to have to roll up the power cord to move it across every room, or to have to pull it up stairs one at a time (or for that matter, to try to vacuum the stairs as you went up or down them?) Central vacuums do require you to have a spot to store a coil of plastic tubing and a nozzle assembly, however you simply bring this into whatever room you need it, plug it into the wall, flip a switch and you’re set. Plus the plastic is lightweight enough you can use it in all the little crevices of your home without tearing off paint or varnish. AND let’s try to see you dust your ceiling with a push vacuum. See how that goes.
Central vacs are also easier to handle because of their greatly diminished replacement rates. These machines, due to their larger size, break less often and are far more repairable when they do. They are an actual investment which endures along with your home. Typically, in the space of a year, the most you have to do to care for them is oil the bearings and empty the waste container once or twice. Yes, that was what I said. With a central vac you can vacuum consistently, weekly, and only need to empty the waste once or twice a year! That is phenomenal.
What else is more convenient about a central vac?
Central vacuums are much, much quieter to use than push vacuums. These have their motor directly in front of you, whereas central vacuum systems have the motor located in a separate mechanical room or storage closet elsewhere in the house. This means that you get increased sucking power due to the much larger and more durable motor (which clogs far less often by the way) with only a faint sucking hum from your vacuum nozzle. This can make Saturday mornings much less painful in a crazy house full of children or a home with infants or pets that are agitated by the sound.
Central vacuums are also up for tasks which normal vacuums cannot handle. Ground vacuums can’t handle large amounts of dust or liquids due to their mechanics and clogging dangers etc… Central vacuums, with the large motor and much larger tube system (as well as more durable filters and larger, isolated storage chamber) are fine with sucking up a pile of flour or a big bowl of jello. The capacity to handle a larger variety of jobs (think of dusting, upholstery cleaning, word floors, garage clean up) makes central vacuums far more convenient when brought into the typical American experience.
Central vacs are also great for allergy sufferers. Because these systems pull air in and then shoot it outside of the home they don’t simply stir up harmful particles in the air. This is great for anyone with sensitive breathing issues, or anyone who just wants to breathe easier.
How do I know these are for real?
Do some research online. You will find that central vacuums have been rapidly increasing in popularity for years do to these factors and a few interesting details which have developed in response to them. Realtors, noticing the huge benefits of a central vacuum to a structure, tend to add twice the value of the actual system to the total value of the home they are installed in, making them a quick way to bolster your property value. Also, the huge variety of well respected experienced manufacturing companies out there who make these systems speaks volumes to their legitimacy and usefulness. Also investigate failure rates. Most central vacs are around long after their owners have begun to take them for granted.