A central vacuum is supposed to make dirt disappear—not send it back into your home! If your central vacuum is spitting dirt back out, there is likely a problem somewhere in the system that is preventing proper airflow.
The good news is that it doesn’t necessarily mean you need a new central vacuum. A clog, dirty filter, full collection canister, or blocked exhaust may be all that’s standing between you and a properly working system.
Here are some of the most common problems to check.
1. Clogged Vacuum Hose or Inlet
A blockage in the flexible vacuum hose or the PVC piping inside your walls can prevent dirt and debris from reaching the central power unit. Depending on where the blockage occurs, debris may become trapped or come back out of the system.
What to do: Disconnect the hose from the wall inlet and check it for an obvious blockage. You can also test whether the hose is clear by passing a small, appropriately sized round object through it.
If you suspect the clog is inside your home’s central vacuum piping, it’s best to have the system professionally inspected rather than risk pushing the blockage deeper into the system.
2. Full or Damaged Dirt Canister or Bag
When was the last time you checked your central vacuum’s collection bin?
An excessively full dirt canister can interfere with the vacuum’s performance. If your system uses disposable bags, a torn, incorrectly installed, or overfilled bag can also allow dirt and dust to escape.
What to do: Empty the dirt canister or replace the vacuum bag. When replacing a bag, make sure it is properly installed and check for tears or other damage.
3. Dirty or Clogged Central Vacuum Filter
Your central vacuum relies on proper airflow to create suction. A dirty or saturated filter can significantly restrict that airflow and cause poor performance.
What to do: Check the filter at the main power unit. Depending on your central vacuum system, the filter may need to be cleaned or replaced. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for your particular system.
4. Blocked Central Vacuum Exhaust Vent
Some central vacuum systems vent exhaust air outside the home. If that exterior vent becomes obstructed, air may not be able to escape from the system properly.
Leaves, lint, dirt, insect nests and other debris can potentially restrict the exhaust.
What to do: Find the central vacuum exhaust vent on the exterior of your home and make sure it isn’t blocked.
Still Spitting Dirt? It May Be Time for Central Vacuum Repair
If you’ve checked the obvious causes and your central vacuum is still spitting dirt back out, Certified Vacuum can help.
Our technicians are trained to diagnose and repair central vacuum systems, including problems involving clogs, filters, hoses, wall inlets, power units, motors, electrical connections and loss of suction.
At a central vacuum service visit, we can inspect the entire system, including the power unit, motor and brushes, electronics, filter, vacuum lines, wall inlet valves, hoses and connections. We can also check the system for clogs and clean out vacuum lines as needed.
Proper servicing can often extend the useful life of an existing central vacuum system and help you avoid replacing equipment unnecessarily.
Central Vacuum Repair in Shrewsbury & Greater MetroWest Massachusetts
Certified Vacuum Inc. provides professional central vacuum repair and service throughout Shrewsbury and the Greater MetroWest Massachusetts area. We service all makes and models and can help determine whether your central vacuum needs a relatively simple repair or whether it’s time to consider replacing the system.
Certified Vacuum is fully insured, and our workmanship is fully guaranteed.
Having trouble with your central vacuum? Contact Certified Vacuum today to schedule an in-home service visit and get your system working properly again.
One-time service fee of $199 is due at the time of the visit. Additional costs may apply for parts. Service is 100% guaranteed. Fully insured.