What Kind of Pipes Should You Use in Installing Central Vacuum System
Are you planning to install a central vacuum system in your commercial or residential property? If you are, you should learn about the different types of pipes you can use and how to ensure that this integral part of your property is taken care of. Three types of pipelines are ideal for central vacuum systems, and it will be discussed below as to how they are beneficial and why they are suitable options for you.
What is a Central Vacuum System?
A central vacuum system is a semi-permanent fixture in residential or commercial buildings. It consists of three major components, the central vacuum unit, vacuum accessories, and concealed PVC pipes. There are two types of central vacuum systems available that you can choose from which are the:
- Cyclonic: This type of vacuum system uses a tornado-like force and gravity to filter out the impurities in the air taken in by your vacuum. The debris collected then gets deposited into a bag or canister.
- Filtered: Most used in residential properties, you can have a bag or bagless version of this vacuum system.
How Does It Work?
The pipe network runs throughout the building behind walls and floors and connects various vacuum inlets to the central vacuum system. Depending on what vacuum system you choose, it will either turn on immediately when you attach a hose or require a manual switch. Anything your vacuum takes in will travel through the piping network and ends up in the bag or canister.
Three Types of Pipes to Use
Now that you know how the central vacuum system works, it is time to learn about the types of pipes you can use to connect the system throughout your home or commercial building. For maintenance and cleaning needs of the central vacuum system, experts recommend installing a removable floor hatch. The main benefit of installing one is that you can have direct access to the system, and the removable feature allows you more open room in case the removal of equipment is needed.
The three main pipes to use in your central vacuum systems are:
- Plumbing Pipe: If you chose the standard plumbing pipe that construction contractors of homes use to supply water and carry wastewater to and from homes, there are many advantages. This type of pipe differs from the standard vacuum pipes commonly used.
Advantages: You won’t have a hard time looking for these types of pipes because they are usually available and on the market in most areas. It is cheaper than other pipelines and has a thicker wall for various applications.
Disadvantages: Because of its mass production, the quality could be better. Generally, the manufacturers of these types of pipes assume that they are being used to carry water. It is also tough to cut through as it leaves a crooked or rough finish and creates a strong potential or debris to be stuck.
- Flexible Hose: This option was introduced in the early 1960s. This method includes using a 2″ flexible hose in the piping’s fittings and elbows of the central vacuum system. The main reason for this type of pipe was to allow accurate installation capabilities. It comes in two different styles: a vinyl material with wire reinforcement and a PVC material with more rigid.
Advantages: The main advantage of this type of pipe is that the installation would be made more accessible. The installer would not have to use so many fittings, and the installation process won’t be so complex. The cost is also lessened because of the lower labor costs, as using a flexible hose is more accessible than using anything else.
Disadvantages: having such flexible piping will add a lot of friction loss to the whole system. With its short radius turns, the propensity for a clog significantly increases as sharp pieces of debris could easily lodge with the pipe’s flexibility.
- Vacuum Tubing: The last type of pipe you can use is the one that is built for vacuum systems and is recommended. All manufacturers of this type of pipe make sure that they follow the ASTM ruling F2158 regarding piping. It focuses on the safety and security of the users and the functionality of the central vacuum system.
Advantages: this pipe is specifically for use in vacuum systems. It is to lessen the possibility of clogs in your central vacuum systems. Today, all central vacuum manufacturers recommend using these types of pipes for your central vacuum systems.
Disadvantages: It is not readily available in most areas, and you might need help looking for them in your local hardware stores.
When it comes to central vacuum systems, choosing the most available pipe option can be challenging. If you are searching for something that will bring fewer problems, look for vacuum tubing. Although, if it is not readily available, you can compromise only if a vacuum system manufacturer has approved it.
