Getting Started with Central Vacuums
The following information is provided to assist you in designing the most efficient central vacuum for the application. We have created some simple guidelines for you to consider in the following areas: Power Units, Location, Hose, and Kits.
We offer two distinctly different power units:
A. FloMaster Model: This vacuum unit was designed for those whose bottom line is price. FloMaster is a low-priced, well-built unit with a five-stage filter design, but without the fancy add-ons. The removable 2-ply Germistaad paper bag eliminates the need for an external exhaust. Its quiet operation, all-metal construction and high-performance will provide decades of excellent performance. This unit is recommended for homes up to 3,500 square feet in size.
B. AirMaster Model: This central vacuum combines powerful suction, electronic enhancements, and cyclonic filtration. The Diagnostic Control Panel provides up-to-date status of power unit maintenance status warning of routine needs while the HEPA cartridge filter is fitted for maximum cleaning performance. The high-impact ABS housing and patented cooling system reduces noise level around the power unit to a mere whisper. For homes larger than 5,000 sq. ft., consider one C300 for every 5,000 sq. ft. of living area.
Where should the unit be located?
Preferably, the power unit should be located in a space outside the living area such as a garage or basement. However, if the unit must be located in a confined area where heat build-up could be a factor, we recommend the unit be vented to the exterior of the home.
Which hose do I need?
As a result of industry standards, most hoses come in 30-foot lengths. However, for your particular application, 35-foot lengths are available. Hoses come with an inlet adapter on one end (some with direct or corded electrical connection), and a handle (or curved wand) on the attachment end. We offer four types of hoses to suit all applications.
A. Electric Hose: Our top-of-the-line crushproof hose has both low voltage and high voltage wires molded into its corrugations. Its 360-degree swivel handle avoids tangles and the hose is extremely pliable and resilient, and a 110 volt switch is at your fingertips. It is designed to fit both SuperValves and ElectraValves but is also available with an 8' cord for non-electric valves.
B. Low Voltage Hose: With an on-off switch and a 360-degree swivel handle, is our most popular non-electric hose due to its larger inside diameter for less restriction of air flow. Tests show it delivers a higher CFM (Cubic Feet of airflow per Minute). These added features not only provide the convenience of activating the power unit from the hose handle, but also help to minimize kinks in the hose. (This hose does not contain 110 volts.)
C. Basic Hose: It does not have any switches on it but activates the power unit as soon as it is inserted into the valve.
Which attachment kit is best for me?
Individual hose and tool sets are shown on a separate brochure and are divided into three categories: 1) Electric Brushes, 2) Air-Driven Brushes, and 3) Air Only (no beater brush).
A. Stealth Electric: By far this is the most sophisticated electric power brush available in the world. Computer assisted, it cannot break the belt and it consistently delivers deep down cleaning.
B. BlackHawk II Electric: For great value, less a few bells and whistles, our BlackHawk II brush provides excellent point-of-contact cleaning at less cost.
C. TurboCat Zoom Air-Driven: This power brush eliminates the need for electrical cords or wires and is excellent for retrofit installations. The Deluxe Zoom and Tool Hose Kit has a heavy-duty, upgraded air-driven power brush and a 30 foot Low Voltage on/off hose that deep-cleans dense, plush carpets. It feels more like a portable vacuum and is very easy to push.
D. Air Only: The tools in these packages have no beater brushes, relying solely on suction (CFM) and working vacuum to remove the dirt. They are quiet, reliable, and excellent for a garage or homes with no or low-pile carpeting and/or throw rugs. They can also be used by commercial establishments where abuse is part of the daily routine. The Combo Tool Kit and others come with hoses, a 4-piece tool kit, wands, hose hanger, and tool caddy. The garage kit is similar but exchanges the ability to vacuum carpet with a hard-floor-only tool.
Suggested purchase for homes up to 5,000 square-feet:
Suggested basic purchase for homes up to 3,500 square-feet:
We hope these guidelines will help in making your selections. If you should need further assistance, please call us at 800-628-6093.
