Tips for Choosing a Vacuum Hose

Are you at all confused about the different kinds of central vacuum hoses? Perhaps you're asking what is standard, turbo, pigtail, and direct connect? We hope the following explanation takes the mystery out of which type of hose to purchase. First, let's look at the two types of central vacuum inlets so you can determine which kind of channels you have, and then we will answer some common central vacuum hose questions.

Standard Central Vacuum Inlets

Standard Inlets are non-electrical inlets. These inlets need low voltage for turning the vacuum system on or off. These inlets have NO electrical capacity. If electrical attachments are used (i.e., powerhead), then you need to use a central vacuum hose known as a Pigtail Hose. This hose has a power cord attached to it, and in addition to connecting the hose to the inlet, there will be a 4 to 8-foot power cord (typically referred to as a Pigtail) that plugs into an electrical outlet for electricity. NOTE: Standard inlets will not function with direct connect hoses, which are for electric outlets. Standard inlets utilize either a pigtail, standard, or turbo hose. Another choice for having a powerhead with a standard hose is using a Turbine Powerhead. The air of your vacuum powers a Turbine powerhead, and so no electricity is needed.

Electric Central Vacuum Inlets

Electric Inlets can be utilized with any standard, turbo, pigtail, or direct connect hoses but are designed for direct connect hoses. These inlets need low voltage wiring and electrical wiring. The low voltage wiring is used to turn the vacuum system on or off. The electrical wiring provides electricity to the powerhead that is used in cleaning a carpet. The direct connect central vacuum hose has an electrical wire running through the tube, and the end that plugs into the inlet has prongs that fit into the inlet for electricity to the powerhead

Will a Standard Kind Hose Without Pigtail Function in an Electric Inlet?

Yes, the central vacuum unit will power on with a normal hose connected, but you will not have any power in the hose to run an electric powerhead. You can, however, utilize the hose to run a turbine-powered powerhead.

Electric Hose with Direct Connect

When you hear the words "direct connect," it refers to a 2-pin plug that connects directly into the inlet for power. This power is then sent to the handle for electric power brush compatibility.

Electric hose with Pig Tail (corded)

Pig tail is basically just another term for corded. You plug the cord into a nearby outlet, and then your hose will have similar benefits as a 'direct connect' hose. This hose is compatible with 99% of central vacuums and is the absolute best choice when upgrading your hose.

A closer look at the Electric Hose Handle

Notice the two-hole female end for electrical application. If your current tube handle doesn't have any pin-holes like the one pictured, you will have a low voltage or basic hose.

Resources and References:

• Central Vacuum Work Mechanism