Central Vacuum System Installation for the Ordinary Heroes Among Us

You don't have to be Superman to install your own central vacuum system. Everyday heroes live among us: men and women who place a shining new Imperium central vac in their homes over the course of a weekend. You don't need a special suit or a magic power to become one of them. With a few helpful websites and some spare time, you can install your own central vacuum any day. It's never too late, and the experience is rewarding.

"I think homeowners get a certain degree of satisfaction out of installing a central vacuum system themselves," says Roger Ambrose, President and CEO of Central Vacuum Stores. "If you liked playing with Legos and Erector Sets as a child, you'll probably love installing a central vacuum system."

Today, the average weekend warrior can install a system in an existing home over the course of a weekend. Before you start dusting off your tool box, however, check out the following websites for valuable tips and information designed for the reasonably skilled customer. You don't even have to leave your chair for this first step: just relax and watch the installation videos. (Go ahead and grab yourself a bowl of popcorn.)

Two of the most helpful vacuum websites are Beam and Central Vacuum Stores. Beam is the largest manufacturer of central vacuums in the world and has a portion of their website devoted to the "do-it-yourself" homeowner, including a "Seven Step Installation" guide, an installation video, and an installation manual. When Consumer Reports rated central vacuum systems in June of 2004, they awarded Beam the highest rating of any central vacuum on the market. In the same article, they also mentioned one retail website, centralvacuumstores.com which they said was the most comprehensive central vacuum site on the web. If you're preparing to tackle a central vacuum installation, this website holds plenty of valuable information for you.

"Our site offers a step by step guide for anyone interested in the process," Roger Ambrose explains. "We also have a unique interactive tool that allows you to do a side by side comparison of the specs on the majority of central vacuum units on the market today." He also advises homeowners to be sure to choose the right size unit for their home and place their inlets strategically throughout the house.

After you've visited the websites and gathered information, don't rush to install your central vacuum. First, consider the following questions:

1. What size unit should I buy?

2. Should I use a vacuum or plumbing pipe?

3. Do I need standard or electric inlets?

4. Who came first, Superman or Batman? (Don't worry: this question is optional.)

People can feel overwhelmed when they first consider an installation project. Don't be. You are not alone in the universe. Millions of websites and professionals are just waiting to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with you in this endeavor. For example, Roger Ambrose says anyone considering a project like this should take advantage of the free technical advice his company offers. Whether you go to your local Drainvac Powerhouse dealer, study the available online information, or call a company like Central Vacuum Stores, just know there is plenty of advice and help available to you.