Central Vacuum Systems: The Pros and Cons Every Homeowner Should Know
Apr 9th 2025
Central Vacuum Systems: The Pros and Cons Every Homeowner Should Know
If you’re tired of dragging a vacuum cleaner from room to room — bumping into furniture, tripping over cords, and dealing with noisy motors — a central vacuum system might be the upgrade you’ve been looking for.
These whole-house systems are built right into your home and offer some impressive benefits. But they’re not for everyone. In this post, we’ll go over the key advantages and potential drawbacks so you can decide if a central vacuum system is the right fit for your home and lifestyle.
The Pros of Central Vacuum Systems
Stronger, More Consistent Suction
One of the biggest reasons homeowners make the switch is suction power. Central vacuums typically outperform traditional upright or canister vacuums because the power unit can be much larger and isn’t limited by portability.
? Check out our power units here
Much Quieter Than Traditional Vacuums
Because the motor is tucked away in a garage, basement, or utility space, the noise level in your living areas is dramatically reduced. You can clean without disturbing anyone watching TV, sleeping, or working from home.
? Browse our quiet vacuum accessories
Cleaner Air Inside Your Home
Unlike portable vacuums that can stir up dust and allergens, central vacuums vent debris outside or into a sealed canister far from your main living space. This is especially helpful for families with allergies or pets.
In-Wall Convenience
No more lugging a vacuum up the stairs. With wall inlets installed throughout the house, you just plug in your hose and start cleaning. Some systems even have sweep inlets — perfect for quick kitchen cleanups.
? See available inlets and parts
Can Add Value to Your Home
A built-in central vacuum system can be a selling point for future buyers. It’s a nice upgrade that signals attention to detail and long-term thinking — especially in newer or custom homes.
The Cons (Because No System is Perfect)
Higher Upfront Cost
Installing a central vacuum system is more expensive than buying a standard vacuum. The equipment, labor, and installation materials do add up. That said, many homeowners see it as a long-term investment in convenience and quality.
? Looking for budget-friendly install kits? Start here
Installation Can Be Tricky
If your home is already built, installing the piping may require cutting into walls or going through an attic or basement. It’s doable, especially for pros — or confident DIYers — but not always simple.
? Need help troubleshooting or planning? We’ve got you covered
Storing the Hose
The vacuum hose is long and can be awkward to store if you don’t have a dedicated space. Many homeowners use a wall-mounted hanger or tuck it away in a closet. If you want something even more convenient, consider a Hide-A-Hose system — it retracts right into the wall, so there's no hose to carry or store at all.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are central vacuums worth the cost?
If you value power, quieter operation, and better air quality, they absolutely can be — especially over time.
Do they work in garages and workshops?
Yes! We even offer special garage cleaning kits made for just that.
Can I install one myself?
Some homeowners do, especially during remodeling or new construction. We carry installation kits and offer free troubleshooting help if you need it.
Final Thoughts
Central vacuum systems aren’t for everyone, but if you’re looking for a cleaner, quieter, and more convenient way to maintain your home, they’re worth serious consideration. Whether you’re building new or upgrading an older system, we’re here to help you choose the right equipment and accessories for your space.
Got questions? Reach out to us here — we’re happy to help!