Central Vacuum Maintenance: The Best Way to Always Keep Your System Running Well

Maintaining your home’s central vacuum system is essential for keeping your home clean and healthy. Regular maintenance keeps your system running smoothly and efficiently, better enabling it to keep your home free of dirt, dust, and airborne contaminants. Periodic service of your central vacuum system can also extend its lifespan and reduce the likelihood of costly malfunctions, saving you money in the long run. In this article, we’ll explore the importance of maintaining your home’s central vacuum system and discuss some easy ways to keep your system in top condition.

What Are the Advantages of a Central Vacuum System?

Central vacuum systems are often seen as something of a luxury. Some people regard them as nice to have, but not essential. After all, there are always traditional handheld vacuums to get the job done, right?

A central vacuum system is remarkably superior to the traditional vacuum, however. It is far more powerful, providing up to five times the suction power. This means that a central vacuum system can remove more dirt, dust, and allergens from your home. A central vacuum is also much quieter than a regular vacuum, and the attachments are less cumbersome and easier to use. And don’t forget its economy. A central vacuum system consumes less energy and lasts much longer than its handheld counterpart.

Even a relatively old central vacuum system makes it easier for you to maintain a clean home. It pays to invest in a quality system and keep it in top condition.

Top 8 Tips for Maintaining Central Vacuum Systems for Homes

Maintaining a home central vacuum system can seem like a daunting task, but it doesn't have to be. With a few simple tips, you can keep your system running smoothly and efficiently. Whether you're a first-time user or an experienced owner, Liberty Home Guard’s tips below will help you keep your system in excellent shape. 

1. Empty the canister or bag. 

Just as with a traditional vacuum, replacing the debris canister or filter bag is paramount in maintaining a central vacuum. No suction from the system is most often the result of a full canister. 

How often you empty the canister or bag depends on how often you use your vacuum and the quantity of dust and debris that you pick up, but most experts recommend attending to this task every two to four months.

2. Replace the filter. 

Many central vacuum systems use filters to catch small particles of dust and airborne allergens. These filters become clogged over time, just as they do in HVAC appliances and automobiles.

Clean or change your central vacuum filter every few months, or as often as the manufacturer recommends.

3. Clean the hoses and attachments. 

Over time, dirt and debris accumulate in the vacuum hoses and attachments. Larger items, such as balled up tissues or stray socks, can become lodged in the hoses as well. Clean these components on a regular basis to ensure that they remain unblocked and in good condition. And if you ever notice suction problems, one of your first central vacuum troubleshooting steps should be to check your hoses for potential clogs.

4. Lubricate the motor. 

To keep your central vacuum system running smoothly, it's important to check on the motor from time to time. While your motor shouldn’t require especially frequent maintenance, you may need to lubricate its moving components to keep it from straining or deteriorating.

5. Check the wiring. 

Wear and tear can cause the wiring in your central vacuum system to become damaged or worn. Be sure to check exposed wires and connections regularly for any signs of damage. Contact a professional or make a claim on your home warranty as needed to repair any frayed or damaged components. 

6. Monitor the suction power. 

Whenever you use your central vacuum, monitor the suction power to ensure it's working at optimal levels. Note any changes from the norm. If the suction power is weak, you may need to empty the canister, clear a clog, or troubleshoot some other issue.

7. Be mindful of what you clean with your vacuum system. 

Central vacuum systems are typically suitable for dry, somewhat fine debris. Never use your vacuum to clean liquid messes or food items that will rot or attract pests. Also avoid vacuuming items that are bulky, heavy, or jagged. 

8. Schedule regular inspections. 

Homeowners can’t be expected to be familiar with all there is to know about central vacuum systems. Occasionally a professional eye is required to identify problems that the layperson may overlook. Arrange to have a professional technician inspect your central vacuum system every two years or so. You may want to increase the frequency of inspections as your system ages.

Using Home Warranty Coverage to Your Advantage

Many central vacuum system maintenance tasks are easy enough for the average homeowner to manage, but you may be more comfortable having your system attended to by a professional. While you can seek out an independent specialist on your own, consider leveraging your home warranty coverage to simplify things.

Liberty Home Guard offers central vacuum system coverage as an optional add-on to our standard Appliance Guard, Systems Guard, and Total Home Guard plans. If any mechanical part that is essential to the system’s function happens to break down, we can schedule a service call with a licensed technician within 48 hours. All you need to do is file a claim through our Customer Portal. No fuss.

Use our website for a free quote on a new policy or amended policy with central vacuum system coverage. You can also call (866)-432-1283 to talk with someone on the Liberty Home Guard team. We’re happy to discuss any other optional add-ons that are relevant to your home and lifestyle. Just let us know!