Installation is as easy as 1-2-3
Installation Guide for New Homes [pdf file]
Installation Guide for Existing Homes [pdf file]
A VACUFLO® system can be easily installed in both new or existing structures: on slabs, in crawl spaces, or basements. Installation usually takes less than a day. The dealer determines the power unit placement and inlet valve location, then installs the tubing and low-voltage wiring.
VACUFLO systems should be installed after all the plumbing, wiring, and HVAC work is completed. Systems can easily be installed by an authorized VACUFLO installer. Good planning and familiarization with the home will reduce installation time.
1. Power Units: The power unit can be installed in a basement, garage, utility room or any other appropriate area. It is best to choose a location near an exterior wall, minimizing the length of the exhaust run.
2. Inlet Valve Locations: Inlet valves are usually placed on interior walls, in hallways, near doorways or close to the bottom of stairs. Potential furniture placement should be considered when determining valve locations. The objective is to use as few inlet valves as possible while providing whole-house coverage. Inlet valves can be situated between studs, clear of obstructions like plumbing, wiring, heating ducts, etc. They are typically positioned at the same height as electrical receptacles.
3. In-wall Tubing and Low-voltage Wiring: Tubing and low-voltage wiring are run in tandem to each valve location, speeding installation. Both are installed beginning with the inlet valve farthest from the unit.
Installation FAQs
How much tubing do I figure per inlet valve?
Each valve will use approximately 20' of tubing.
When do I use a 90 short el vs. a 90 sweep el?
A 90 short elbow (also called a 90 adapter elbow) is designed to use at each inlet valve location. The tight 90 acts as a trap for debris that might be too large to pass completely through the tube system. For example, if you vacuumed up a small toy or even a comb, it would most likely get caught in the adapter elbow, preventing the system from a potential clog.
How many sq. ft. will one valve cover?
One valve will cover approximately 600 square feet of living space. This estimate is based on using a standard 30' hose. If a shorter hose is used, more valves are needed.
How high do I mount the inlet valves?
Inlet valves are typically installed at the same height as electrical receptacles.
Do I need a valve in every room?
No. With proper planning, one valve will usually cover two or three rooms.
Do systems need to be exhausted to exterior?
True Cyclonic Systems must be exhausted outside. Filtered Cyclonic Systems are designed with optional exhaust - the unit can be exhausted outside if desired.
Where do I run the trunk line?
The trunk line will be run either in the basement or in the attic. The trunk line should be run as straight as possible from the power unit location to the farthest inlet valve.
For an existing installation, how do I get the tubing in the walls?
You will need to have access to the studs either through an attic or basement location. Tubing can be inserted between the studs from either location.
Can I locate the Power Unit in an attic?
We do not recommend placing the power unit in an attic. The attic space may retain heat and cause the motor to experience premature failure. An attic location may also be difficult to reach when the dirt canister needs emptied.
How do I recommend the correct power unit for a specific job?
Each power unit is manufactured with a specific motor to handle a suggested sq. ft. area. All you need to do is figure the homes total square footage and locate the correct power unit on the Performance Specs.
What is the longest recommended run of tubing?
Each power unit is different. However, we provide general guidelines in the Vacuflo Installation Guide. The longest run of tubing is the run from the power unit to the farthest inlet valve.
Does an electrician need to install the Electravalves?
In most instances, an installer can install the low voltage portion of the Electravalves. Each Electravalve has a 6' length of 110 v wire that will need hardwired into electrical system by a certified electrician.
Can I use schedule 40 tubing plumbers tubing?
The 2" PVC central vac tubing is different from plumbing grade tubing. Central vacuum tubing is manufactured with a completely smooth interior to prevent the tube system from catching small dirt particles and building a clog.
How long does it take to install a Central Vacuum System?
Most new home installations can be complete in less than one day.
What is a rough-in?
The rough-in consists of determining valve placement and installing the mounting plate, elbow, and drywall cover (this is called a drop), in the wall. Once the home is ready for completion, the installer will return and run the trunk line, low voltage wiring, connect the inlet valves, and hang the power unit.