Question 1

Do I need an inlet in every room?

Accepted Answer

No — inlets are typically placed in hallways or passage areas where the extension hose can service multiple rooms. Hallways also avoid furniture conflicts and provide maximum accessibility.

Question 2

How long does it take to install a system?

Accepted Answer

Existing homes can usually be installed within a day. Construction and renovation projects usually require 2 visits — open wall or "rough-in" phase with completion done immediately prior to move-in.

Question 3

I am modifying my home. How do I add additional inlets?

Accepted Answer

Inlets are easily added onto an existing system during the construction or renovation phase of the project. A substantial increase in square footage may require an upgrade to a larger PowerHaus™ Machine.

Question 4

Can a system be installed in an already existing structure?

Accepted Answer

Yes — many people are unaware that central vacuum systems can usually be retrofitted into an existing structure with little or no disruption to finished walls. HausVac specializes in the ability to customize your installation to provide maximum convenience and ease of use.

Question 5

How much does a central vacuum system cost?

Accepted Answer

Central vacuum system costs vary depending on the size and complexity of the structure, typically ranging from $2 to $5 per square foot. A 1,500 square foot home starts around $3,000, while larger Hamptons estates may range from $8,000 to $15,000+ for complete installation. This includes the PowerHaus machine, all tubing, wall inlets, and a quality hose and attachment set.

Question 6

Is a central vacuum worth it?

Accepted Answer

Yes, central vacuums are worth the investment for most homeowners. They offer superior cleaning power (3-5x stronger suction than portables), eliminate airborne allergens by exhausting particles outside your living space, run quieter since the motor is in the garage or utility area, and typically last 20-25 years compared to 5-7 years for portable vacuums. The convenience of lightweight hoses and no heavy machine to carry makes cleaning effortless, especially in multi-story homes.

Question 7

What are the disadvantages of central vacuums?

Accepted Answer

The main considerations are upfront cost (higher than portable vacuums) and installation requirements (best done during construction, though retrofit installation is possible in most existing homes). The unit requires dedicated space in a garage or utility area, and the hose must be carried between inlets. However, these factors are outweighed by the 20+ year lifespan, superior air quality, and dramatically better cleaning performance for most homeowners.

Question 8

How large of a PowerHaus™ Machine do I need for my home?

Accepted Answer

PowerHaus™ Machines are sized according to the square footage of the structure to be serviced. Your HausVac technician will properly size the PowerHaus™ to your home.

Question 9

What should I do if my machine does not turn on?

Accepted Answer

First, make sure there is electricity going to the PowerHaus™. Often times, circuit breakers trip internally on an electric panel or GFI circuit and are not readily visible upon initial inspection. Also, most PowerHaus™ Machines have a built in internal circuit breaker that can easily be reset directly on the machine. Call HausVac technical support for precise location of the reset button.

Question 10

What should I do if my machine does not turn off?

Accepted Answer

Machine run-on may be the result of a faulty wall inlet or a defective circuit board. Tracing a short can be time consuming and sometimes problematic; So it's recommended that a HausVac technician comes to assist. The machine should of course remain unplugged from the electrical outlet but can be plugged-in for use, until the repair can be scheduled.

Question 11

My machine runs but the suction is low. How do I fix this?

Accepted Answer

Low suction may be the result of a blockage in the line, a dirty filter, an obstructed vent, or a mechanical issue with the PowerHaus™. Blockages in the tubing line typically only affect one or two of the household inlets. If all of the inlets are affected and your filter appears clean, we recommend calling HausVac for service.

Question 12

Why doesn't HausVac sell replacement parts over the Internet?

Accepted Answer

A central vacuum system is customized and unique to your home. It is therefore essential that accessories match the system that you have — NOT what some vendor wishes to push out of the door. Accessories sold from a store or online may not be compatible with your installed system. Avoid the hassle of unnecessary returns and have HausVac deliver quality accessories for all central vac systems right to your door.

Question 13

How can I get replacement attachments?

Accepted Answer

Attachments are best replaced on site by your HausVac technician. Many attachments ordered online are incompatible with your system and may actually damage or compromise the effectiveness of your central vac.

Question 14

How do I know when it is time to empty the dirt bucket?

Accepted Answer

A visual inspection of the bucket is the only way to truly determine the proper time for dirt removal. Most residential systems only require emptying twice a year under normal household use.

Question 15

Does my machine need regular servicing and if so, how often?

Accepted Answer

Filters and/or bags should be replaced as needed. Many customers prefer to have their central vacuum system professionally tuned and inspected by a HausVac technician once or twice a year to provide maximum suction and cleaning performance.

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