Central Vacuum Systems FAQs

What size Power Unit should I use?

Answer

The power units are designed for different type applications and for varying square footage requirements of residences. Please contact Technical Support at: 1-888-882-7626 for assistance.

How many inlets may be installed in a system?

Answer

You may install as many as you require, assuming all are in proper working condition with tight seals and gaskets. Though it is recommended to keep this number to a minimum.

Where should I locate my wall inlet valves?

Answer

If you are using one of Broan-NuTone's current carrying hoses the wall valve inlets should be located within six feet of a household receptacle. We suggest that you take a 25 foot length of cord or a measuring tape set to 25 feet then walk though your home and locate your wall inlets so that they cover all the areas you wish to vacuum.

What is water lift?

Answer

"Water Lift" is an industry-wide technical standard which defines the strength of a system's suction. Water lift is a measure of how high a given system can lift a column of water. The result is expressed in inches. The higher the number, the more powerful the vacuum system. Under no circumstances, should any Broan-NuTone Central Vacuum System be used to remove water.

What are air watts?

Answer

Air watts is a combination of air flow and vacuum water lift created by the power unit. The greater the air watts, the greater the cleaning ability of the system.

Is it required to exhaust the power unit to the outside?

Answer

Noting indoor air quality in a residential setting, Broan recommends venting the exhaust to the outside. This is not mandatory, but is recommended for a complete installation. One of the advantages of a central vacuum system is the ability to vacuum up all items and microscopic particles that may not be captured by the primary filter (bag) will then be sent to the outside environment through the exhaust duct.

When designing a system, what should I keep in mind?

Answer

Minimize the number of inlets and place the power unit as low as possible in the system.

Does Broan-NuTone offer any information on how to install a Central Vacuum System?

Answer

There are installation instructions on our website product pages.

Can regular plumbing PVC be used for central vacuum tubing?

Answer

No. Broan-NuTone Canada Inc., uses a special "thin wall" tubing. This tubing must be used to ensure proper fit of inlets, hoses etc… and also proper operation of the installed system.

What is cyclonic action?

Answer

Cyclonic action is a special feature that forces dust and debris to the bottom of the power unit's canister allowing the power unit to operate at its peak effectiveness.

What is the difference between the air-driven powered vacuum cleaning heads and the electric powered cleaning heads?

Answer

The air-driven powered heads use some of the power unit's suction to operate the cleaning head. The electric cleaning heads uses all of the power unit's suction for cleaning. In order to use the electric cleaning heads you must use one of Broan's current carrying hoses.

When is a power brush or power head required?

Answer

Broan-NuTone recommends that you have a power brush if you have carpet in the residence. The power brush loosens the dirt for proper cleaning along with separating and lifting the nap on the carpet to keep it in top condition and proper appearance.

Are the air-driven brushes operationally equivalent to the power brushes?

Answer

The air driven twin-turbine is a uniquely designed, super performing non-electric brush for cleaning with the central vacuum system. The electric power brush maintains constant brush action through the use of the motor used to run the unit.

Will a dedicated electrical circuit be required for a central vacuum power unit installation?

Answer

Yes. It must be either a 15 amp or 20 amp circuit depending on the specific power unit you are installing.

My Central Vacuum has lost a lot of its suction. What is the most likely cause?

Answer

If you have not regularly cleaned your motor filter that may be the cause of poor system performance. Consult your owner’s manual or call Broan-NuTone Technical support for assistance. Other problems that cause poor system performance are, leaky wall valve inlets, blockages in the intake or exhaust piping, or a blockage in your system hose.

Is the Power Unit Filter washable?

Answer

Yes. Hand wash and hang to dry. Make sure the filter is absolutely 100% dry before re-installing it!

What do I do when my hose gets clogged?

Answer

Take a straightened clothes hanger and fish through one end of the hose until you hit obstruction, then push through or fish out.

How can I clear a blockage in my vacuum system?

Answer

A blockage in your system can be quite a challenge. You can rent a plumber's snake and then work it through your system piping. Sometimes a small diameter hose worked through your piping may clear a blockage.

Can I use my central vac to vacuum up drywall dust?

Answer

No. The Broan-NuTone central vacs are manufactured for residential use only. This does NOT include drywall dust from renovations! Drywall dust could harm your motor, and will not be covered under warranty.

Why does my system keep running even when my hose is removed and the power unit's switch is turned off?

Answer

The most likely cause is incorrect wiring to your wall valve inlets. Disengage one of the system wires on the front of your power unit and if the system shuts down then you need to verify the wiring to your wall valve inlets is correct. If the problem persists call Broan-NuTone Technical Support.

How do I remove my power unit’s motor filter?

Answer

You must first remove the dust collection canister. After locating the motor filter grasp the flexible band that holds the filter in place and then pull it to the center of the filter, and it should come free. If you have trouble call Broan-NuTone Technical Support.

What is the difference between a Two Stage and a Three Stage motor?

Answer

A Two (2) Stage Motor has two swirling blades while the Three (3) Stage Motor has three swirling blades. The three blades create more air turbulence and as a result give greater vacuum power.

What is the Sone Rating for any of our Central Vacs?

Answer

We do not calculate this because the Power Unit is normally located in a remote area of the house. But, the muffler diminishes the shrill of the exhausted air and quiets the sound.

Is it better to install the Power Unit in the basement or garage?

Answer

There is no better way. But, if you do not want the exhausted air in your home you should put the Power Unit in the garage. Another reason for installing the Power Unit in the garage is if the owner wants to use the built-in inlet on the Power Unit to vacuum out his/her vehicle. By putting the Power Unit outside, it also removes the noise from the house.

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