Vacuums are popular appliances in modern homes. However, only a small number of households have a central vacuum. Commonly referred to as a built-in vacuum cleaner or even a duct vacuum cleaner, a central vacuum is a lasting fixture built onto or attached to a wall of the home. A big collection container stores all the dust and rubbles that is vacuumed up around the house. A hose installed for temporary use in several outlets in various rooms. Notably, people have been using the central vacuum cleaner since the 19th century. The portable vacuum that most people are familiar with came much later.

Differences Between a Central and Portable Vacuum

The critical difference between a portable vacuum and a central vacuum is what requires to be carried around.

A portable vacuum has to be carried from one place to another and sometimes one can have multiple spots within one room to suck up dust, dirt, and debris.

That can be difficult, especially for elderly or disabled users. In addition, a portable vacuum cleaner needs a functioning electrical outlet to work effectively. If the outlets within a room are already in use, the existing devices need to be unplugged for the portable vacuum cleaner to work.

On the other hand, a central vacuum cleaner only involves a small hose to be carried around. In some rooms, the hose may be installed as a permanent feature while it will need to be attached to a hole at the base of the wall for proper suction in other rooms.

Various central vacuums have strong suction than their portable counterparts do, and the container units are typically larger.

Advantages of Installing a Central Vacuum

The benefits of installing a central vacuum cleaner include the fact that they can improve a home's resale value, improve the air quality in a home, and give superior cleaning.

A central vacuum cleaner also has collection units that do not need to be emptied frequently. Central vacuum installation cost is the major worry for homeowners since a central vacuum cleaner may cost at least $1,000.

The price may go up in price depending on many factors. Many portable vacuum cleaners can go for more than that, especially at the higher end of the market.

Unfortunately, those portable vacuum cleaners will eventually need replacement. A central vacuum has a longer average lifecycle. While portable vacuum cleaners may release some dirt or debris into the air, central vacuum cleaners are less likely to do so. That is a significant health benefit for those with respiratory problems, including allergies, or asthma.

Factors that Influence the Cost of a Central Vacuum

Some factors that affect the cost of a central vacuum include the total number of desired outlets, the extra accessories required, the brand of central vacuum, and whether the system is fitted during construction or in an already built home. The more outlets there will be, the higher the system cost will be. Adding a central vacuum to an existing home demands more work than adding it before the drywall is fixed. The extras like a power hose, an extra-long hose, additional attachments, and cabinets to store hoses and extra-large collection containers will lead to an additional expense.

References and Resources

• About Vacuum Cleaners