Central Vacuum Cleaning: Common Issues and Solutions

September 08, 2023Back to blog
central vacuum cleaning

This article will educate central vacuum system users about common issues they may encounter and provide practical solutions to ensure their systems’ efficient and trouble-free operation.

Central vacuum systems

Central vacuum cleaning systems our whole house, built-in vacuums. They have a series of tubes that are installed in the home as it’s being constructed with motorized power units and several Inlet valves that can be run to collect dirt, dust, and other pollen or dander.

These systems differ from a traditional vacuum you have to move by hand from room to room, with a canister or bag that has to be emptied regularly. However, it’s important to properly maintain these central vacuum systems and address common problems.

Common issues with central vacuum systems

central vacuum cleaning

Even if you maintain your central vacuum system and clean components regularly, you could face issues down the line because of regular wear and tear. These issues can include reduced suction, loud or unusual noises, and problems with power failure or clogged attachments.

Reduced Suction:

One of the most common issues homeowners face is reduced suction. Your central vacuum system needs a powerful form of section to remove all the debris from your floor. There are several potential causes of reduced suction:

  1. Clogged hoses or attachments
  2. A full canister
  3. Dirty filters
  4. Failed motor

Some things like dirty filters might be easily replaced or a full canister easily dumped, but in other cases, cleaning a central vacuum system might require professionals, especially to get rid of clogs in hoses or attachments.

Note: If you have cleaned the hoses and attachments, emptied the canister, and replaced the filter, the issue might be more severe, and it could point to a possible motor failure. If you have had your system for several decades, you might need to call a professional to replace the motor.

Noisy Operation:

Sometimes, your system is noisier than normal. If you’re noticing unusual or loud sounds, check for the following:

  • The motor could be dirty, in which case you may need a professional central vacuum cleaning service to take a look at it
  • The belt drive could be faulty, in which case repair or replacement may be necessary
  • The fan could be loose or damaged, something that you might fix yourself or hire out

Power Failures:

If you are trying to clean and you notice that the hoses in your inlet valves are not functioning properly, this could indicate a power failure. One thing you can do for a DIY fix is to check whether hoses work in other parts of the home and if it’s an isolated issue.

  1. Test the other inlets for power failures
  2. Plug your power brush into the valve; if it works there but not the inlet, then it could be a voltage issue
  3. Check your circuit breaker to see if anything was tripped

In other cases, these power failure issues might persist, in which case a central vacuum Duct cleaning service could help repair the issue inadvertently by addressing other problems, such as dirty filters or clogs in the system.

Note: If your issue has to do with the power units or electrical connections like high voltage lines, you may need to call in an electrician.

Clogged Hose and Attachments:

Hoses and attachments can get clogged. You can prevent clogs with regular DIY clearing measures by regularly cleaning a central vacuum system and hiring a professional central vacuum cleaning service.

  • Check for dirt or build-up inside the hose or attachments
  • Check that the hose is properly attached to the valve
  • Check for dirt or debris in the contact points

Note: If central vacuum cleaning for the hoses and attachments does not fix the problem, it might be electrical, in which case the switch for the hose will need to be replaced or repaired, or it could be an issue with high-voltage lines.

cenreal vacuum cleaning

Importance of routine cleaning

If you have a central vacuum system, it’s important that you regularly clean central vacuum parts and make sure you address issues like clogged hoses, power failures, reduced suction, or a noisy operation. These common issues indicate a larger problem that can compound with time if you don’t address it.

Still, there are several signs that your system needs more than just regular cleaning, and you might need a central vacuum cleaning service.

  • The unit does not turn on manually, or when it does, there is a click
  • The system does not have enough suction even after you do a DIY clean
  • There is evidence of mold or dust
  • There is a problem with vermin
  • The system is too noisy even after a DIY clean

Working with a central vacuum cleaning service

You get several benefits when you engage professionals to clean central vacuum systems and components. With central vacuum duct cleaning, professionals can reach parts of your system that you might not be able to maintain regularly. They can save you time and money by quickly addressing issues you might be facing and providing a solution with better equipment and knowledge.

You can even work with a professional central vacuum dust cleaning service regularly before there is a problem. Even the most diligent house cleaner will want to invest in professional cleaning services at least once per year, maybe more if there are many pets or if you live in an area prone to high dust or debris.

Summing Up

If you notice problems with your central vacuum cleaning system, it is important to address them immediately. You can address these with simple DIY measures, employed at your home with regularity, depending on the severity of the issue. Common issues often result from clogs or the need for replacement filters and cleaning services.

In addition to the steps you take cleaning a central vacuum system consider a professional central vacuum cleaning service to come in at least once per year and check on all the filters, the motor, and the ductwork to ensure everything is working properly.