Central Vac FAQs

My Central Vacuum isn't working! How quickly can you get here?!

Pretty fast! It depends on what time of day you call, where you live, and how busy we are. Typically, it can take 1-3 days before we can service a Central Vacuum System.

Do you bring parts to fix the product on the first visit?

Our goal is to fix the product in one visit, and we do in approximately 90% of cases. We do carry a wide variety of parts in our service vehicles, and we try our very best to have what we need on hand.

I'm not sure if my Central Vacuum System is working as well as it should be. Do you have some way to determine if it is?

Absolutely! It's a good idea to have your system thoroughly checked periodically to ensure it's performing as well as it should. The larger your home and the more use the system gets, the more frequent the need. Larger homes, annually, and smaller homes, once every three years.

Do you service all makes of In-Home Vacuum Systems?

Yes. Well — 99.9% of them. Some of the oldest central vacuum units out there were manufactured by companies that no longer exist, so parts aren't available, but we can certainly upgrade your vacuum unit in those cases.

I need to purchase a new floor brush or dust brush. Do you sell accessories?

Yes. We provide in-home service, so when we come out to see you on a service call, we have hoses, brushes, etc. with us. We also sell complete accessory kits (an accessory kit is a hose with all of the attachments).

Do you sell central vacuum pipe, fittings or repair parts to DIYers?

No. Although we do use these parts and materials in our work, sorry, we don't sell repair parts or materials.

I live in a town that's not within your service area, but I would really like you to service my central vacuum. Will you make an exception?

It depends. Contact us with your address and we will determine if our technicians can service your home.

Do you repair or sell portable vacuum cleaners?

No. We do not repair or sell portable vacuum cleaners.

Do you do free estimates for repairs?

No. Sending an experienced technician to your home in a fully insured and stocked service vehicle isn't free. If you decide to upgrade your central vacuum unit rather than repair it, at the quoted price, and on the same visit, then the service call fee is credited towards the cost of the new vacuum unit.

Are you licensed?

Yes. We are licensed by the state of South Carolina and North Carolina consumer protection.

How much does it cost to install a new central vacuum system in my new home?

The answer to this common question is: it depends. Installation of a Central Vacuum System is not an off-the-shelf product, or commodity. It's customized to your home and requests; therefore, the cost depends on how much work is involved, and the type and quantity of accessories and equipment you choose. If you are building a new home, we will come out and meet with you, discuss your needs, and provided you with a free estimate for the installation.

Can a system be installed in an existing home?

Yes. It can easily be installed in both new and existing homes: on slabs, in crawl spaces, garages or basements. One of our installation professionals will work with you to determine the placement of the power unit and inlet valves. The complete installation, including tubing and low-voltage wiring, can usually be completed in less than a day.

Does the complete system have to be installed at one time?

No. Some homeowners choose to rough-in the tubing system when a home is being built and then complete the system by adding the power unit and inlet valves at a later time.

Will I need an inlet valve installed in every room?

No. For maximum cleaning convenience and whole-house coverage, inlet valves are strategically placed throughout the home. You can estimate one inlet valve for every 600 square feet of living space. The average home (2000 sq. ft.) would need 4-5 inlets. Sq. ft. of home/600 = # of inlet valves. Tubing and low-voltage wiring are run in tandem to each valve location, speeding up installation.

What is the standard height for installing the inlet valve?

Valves are typically mounted at the same height as electrical receptacles.

Where is the power unit typically installed?

The power unit is typically located in a garage, basement or utility room.

Do systems need to be exhausted to exterior?

Exhausting all Element Central Vacuum Systems outdoors is optional.

For an existing installation, how does the tubing get 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 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.

Is it possible for objects to get caught in tubing?

It is not likely as long as the tube system is properly installed. Typically any object that can fit through the inlet valve will be sucked through the tubing and end up in the dirt canister.