As a homeowner, you are continuously looking for ways to add value to your investment, and installing a central vacuum system is a creative and innovative way to do so. A common question for those who are installing a central vacuum system is which type of hose to invest in. There are several different types, each with its benefits and best uses.
These are the three main categories of central vacuum hoses:
- Dual Voltage Hoses
- Low Voltage Hoses
- No Voltage Hoses
With central vacuum systems not yet being the most well-known or popular choice for a home, you can become confused and overwhelmed as you shop. No worries, though. We have you covered. Keep reading to learn about the different types of central vacuum hoses.
The 3 Types Of Central Vacuum Hoses
Dual Voltage Hoses
These hoses are dual low and high voltages, with low voltage wires and high voltage wires traveling from the wall inlet side of the hose to the handle grip. Made possible by this electrical design, there come the most options in terms of user control. These systems feature a three-way switch, which can be used to turn on the suction and brush roll. These are the most versatile hose systems but also the most expensive.
If you need brush roll capabilities to clean your home, this is the best option for you. This will be a worthwhile purchase if you have carpet or any other non-bare flooring. To break it down even further, there are two subcategories of dual voltage hoses separated based on their power sourcing.
Direct Connect
These hoses gain their power directly from the wall inlet by utilizing a special connector with pins. Simply plug into the wall inlet and turn it on via the switch.
Check out this direct connect central vacuum hose on Amazon.
Universal (Corded) Connect
These hoses include an extended cord and wall plug to supply power to the system. Most of these systems can also be used as a direct connect system if desired. The cord is located on the wall end of the hose and can be plugged into a nearby outlet.
Take a look at this corded central vacuum hose on Amazon.
Low Voltage Hoses
Low voltage hoses are simple in their design, with only low voltage wires traveling from the wall inlet to the handle grip inside the hose. There are no floor settings or brush roll of this type of hose, so it's best for bare flooring and utility purposes. The greatest advantage is that the low voltage electrical capability offers control of suction settings as well as an on/off switch on the handle. Therefore, the user doesn't have to return to the wall inlet to end power to the hose.
You can also purchase many different attachments for this type of hose, all for straight suction. This could be a great investment for those with a lot of bare flooring, such as hardwood, in their home. Cen-Tec Systems features many different mix and match accessories for central vacuum systems.
You can purchase this low voltage central vacuum hose on Amazon.
No Voltage Hoses
The standard hose could remind you of what you would typically see at a carwash vacuuming station. The most simplistic of all, this hose contains no wiring and thus no electrical capabilities. It is simply an extension of the wall inlet and has no electrical control.
This hose may also carry the name of air only. That is, there is no on/off switch on this hose nor any other controls, so you must return to the wall inlet and disconnect to turn it off. It only uses suction, and there is no brush roll or settings. For this reason, this type of hose is best for the car or garage and not for flooring.
You can purchase accessories and attachments for this type of hose as well. For example, you can purchase an attachment with a straight brush if you plan to use the hose for vacuuming and scrubbing your vehicle's carpets.
Check out this no voltage central vacuum hose on Amazon.
Related Questions
How Can You Test A Central Vacuum Powerhead?
One of the accessories that you may especially be interested in if you have carpet is the central vacuum powerhead. Usually featuring a brush roll, this accessory closely symbolizes the traditional vacuum. It sits on the floor and is pushed by a vacuum wand.
You can purchase this central vacuum wand on Amazon.
To test a powerhead, you will also need a wand. This is the part of the vacuum that attaches from the hose handle to the powerhead. Connect the wall inlet to the hose, the hose to the wand, and insert the wand into the top of the powerhead. Then attempt to start power from the hose handle. With any luck, you can begin to vacuum!
Are All Central Vacuum Hoses Compatible?
There are so many brands of central vacuum systems, including Honeywell, Beam, Electrolux, and Eureka. So must you buy your hoses and accessories from the company which created your central vacuum system? The short answer is no. Most central vacuum hoses are universal and will be compatible with your system, no matter the brand.
How Long Do Central Vacuum Hoses Last?
While a central vacuum system, in itself, guarantees a long lifespan, this is not necessarily the case with central vacuum hoses. This completely depends on the frequency of use, upkeep, and storage of the hose. Most can expect to keep a central vacuum hose for five years with regular use.
Can Central Vacuum Hoses Be Repaired?
Yes, just like stand-alone vacuums, a central vacuum hose can typically be fixed when there is an issue. Especially with dual and low voltage hoses, you may run into electrical problems. You can either try to repair these issues yourself or take them into an old-fashioned vacuum repair shop.
In Closing
Central vacuum units are ever-growing in popularity with homeowners, and you may be ready to get in on the new fashion. Still, there could be a lot of confusion about these systems' hoses and which is best for you. Dual voltage hoses are the best investment for those with carpet or non-bare flooring. Low voltage hoses may be good for those with bare flooring, such as hardwood. Lastly, hoses that are no voltage should be used for garage and car maintenance only.
Whatever your needs and intentions for your central vacuum unit, there is a central vacuum hose to match. There are also a great variety of accessories and attachments for these hoses to help you have the best-kept home on the block.
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