Central Vacuum Systems: Your Top 10 Questions Answered

When you’re weighing up a central vacuum system for your home, it’s natural to have a lot of questions. From how many inlets you’ll need to whether it can be installed in an existing house, there are plenty of details to consider. At European Central Vacuums, we’ve pulled together answers to the most common FAQs so you can decide with confidence.

How Many Inlet Valves Do I Need?

The golden rule: as many as necessary, and as few as possible. The number of inlets depends on the size and layout of your home.

As a guide, a single-family home of about 250 square metres usually needs 5 - 7 inlet valves, depending on hose length (hoses generally cover a radius of 6–12 metres).

We also recommend:

• Installing an inlet valve at the garage entrance for easy car cleaning.

• Adding a pipe valve set in the utility room where the main unit is located, so you can vacuum there too.

Will Suction Power Be Consistent Throughout the House?

Yes. A properly installed system can handle distances of up to 100 metres without losing suction. Every inlet provides the same strong, reliable cleaning power, no matter how far it is from the unit.

That’s because power units come in different motor strengths, so your system is designed to suit your home perfectly.

Is There a Risk of Blockage?

Not when the system is installed correctly. Every inlet valve includes a small 90° “safety bend” that prevents large items from entering the pipes.

If a blockage ever occurs — say from a stray fabric — there are simple ways to clear it. But with proper installation, blockages are extremely rare.

Why Not Install the Unit in the Ceiling?

This is a big one. Central vacuum systems work with gravity, so they need to be installed at the lowest point in your home (usually the garage or a utility room).

If you place the unit in a ceiling space, heavier particles may never make it up into the system — meaning dust and debris could collect inside the pipes and fall back down. To keep everything flowing smoothly, the safest and most efficient option is always to install the unit low.

Can It Be Installed in an Existing Home?

Absolutely. Central vacuum systems aren’t just for new builds. With the right planning, virtually any home — old or new — can benefit.

Common solutions include:

• Running pipelines through an unused chimney

• Using a supply shaft

• Routing through an open stairwell

It’s nearly always doable, and our team can recommend the best option for your layout.

Do Central Vacuum Systems Need Maintenance?

Yes, like any high-performance product, they benefit from regular care. The good news is that maintenance is minimal:

• Clean or replace filters annually

• Don’t overfill the waste bag, as suction drops when it’s full

• Keep an eye on filters to protect the motor from fine dust

With basic care, these systems are designed to last for decades.

Can I Vacuum Ash or Liquids?

Not directly. Ash and liquids can damage the motor and block the ducting. However, there are special separator attachments designed for handling tricky materials safely.

How Much Does It Cost?

Costs vary depending on your home’s size, number of floors, and how many inlets are required. As a starting point, expect material costs to begin around $3,000.

Optional extras (like smart features or added accessories) can be built into the design, so you only pay for what you’ll actually use.

What Is an AirWatt?

If you’re comparing vacuums, you’ll see the term AirWatt - a measure of motor power and efficiency. It reflects the balance between airflow (in litres per second) and suction strength (in millibars). In short: the higher the AirWatt rating, the more powerful and efficient the unit.

Does the Exhaust Need to Be Routed Outside?

Not always. With a HEPA 13 filter, the exhaust air is cleaned up to 99.95%, making it safe to vent indoors.

That said, in some situations, routing the exhaust outside can still be a smart choice - especially if you want to guarantee the cleanest possible indoor air.

Final Thoughts

Central vacuum systems aren’t just about convenience - they’re about creating a healthier, cleaner home environment. With strong suction, low maintenance, and smart design, a BVC system from European Central Vacuums is built to last.

👉 Want to know what setup would work best for your home? Contact us today for a free, no-obligation quote.