Vacuflo Vs. Dirt Devil Central Vacs


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Thread Number: 14236
Vacuflo Vs. Dirt Devil Central Vacs

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Post# 150504 9/5/2011 at 19:45 (4,616 days old) by OCScott3085 (DMV)
Checkrate/Likes Hi Everyone, So I'm looking at buying a new house and after speaking with several owners I've discovered that they use the Dirt Devil brand for central vacuums. Upon looking at Dirt Devil's website, I notice they seem to have some sort of partnership with Vacuflo. Vacuflo has an outstanding reputation for central vacuums. Is Dirt Devil's central vac just a rebadged Vacuflo? If so, I'm not so nervous. My parents have a MD Silentmaster which is what I wanted to put in my new house. If anyone has more info on Dirt Devil's units, please let me know. Happy Labor Day!

Post# 150510 , Reply# 1 9/5/2011 at 20:08 (4,616 days old) by singingrainbow (Texas)
Checkrate/Likes I do believe that they are rebadged vacuflo central vacs but if I were you I would go for the MD. It uses a bagged system that protects the motor from premature wear due to the buildup of fine dust on the fan blades. Here is a link to an article that explains it in detail. This is just my opinion so if you really want a bagless unit I would go with the vacuflo but I would also read this article first, it is very informitive. Hope this helps! Scott CLICK HERE TO GO TO singingrainbow's LINK

Post# 150523 , Reply# 2 9/5/2011 at 22:05 (4,616 days old) by vacu-finder ()
Checkrate/Likes *Central Vacuums..........* Most central vacs are all the same. They are simply a can with a motor. It's just that simple and nothing more. Don't let any sales person tell you otherwise. Now as far as bag versus bagless....use a unit with a bag it's not as messy later on dumping the crap. And true enough bagged units are easier on the motor. Most central vacs can be coverted to bags simply by adding an adapter inside the tank.

Post# 150539 , Reply# 3 9/6/2011 at 02:11 (4,615 days old) by tolivac (Greenville,NC)
Checkrate/Likes MD central bagged units-depends on the bag quality and how ful the bag was allowed to be.Remember a unit brought to the Vac shop out my way-the bag was packed with drywall and plaster dust-the thermal OL kept tripping even with a fresh bag.The filter was replaced,too.Turned out the motor and fans were caked with fine plaster dust-causing it to overheat.the motor had to be taken down and cleaned-fans washed.Put it back together-and was OK.Now if it had a TRUE bypass motor-the overheating would not be an issue.I think ALL central vacs should have real bypass motors-the motor is out of the dirtstream and cooled by its own fan.NOT air over as with the non-bypass system.Like the GE vac pictured above has a REAL bypass motor.the dirt doesn't go thru the motor.The MD is a nice vac-they just need to go to the full bypass motor system.

Post# 150576 , Reply# 4 9/6/2011 at 10:15 (4,615 days old) by vacu-finder ()
Checkrate/Likes I think a bypass motor looks like the one in the photo...

Post# 150583 , Reply# 5 9/6/2011 at 11:19 (4,615 days old) by luxflairguy (Wilmington, NC)
Checkrate/Likes *Vacuflo versus Dirt Devil centrals* Vacuflo makes the DD central vacuums. Instead of the true "cyclonic" system used by Vacuflo for over 50 years ago, DD uses the Vacuflo "filtered cyclonic" style more or less like a shop vacuum. You have a large filter cartridge up in the machine that you take off and clean periodically. This principle works well and one of the advantages in homes were the garage might be cinderblock or below ground level is that they do not need to be exhausted. While the MD Silentmaster machines are good, they are expensive! And to me they have two distinct drawbacks. First is the messy emptiying of the bag. You have to wrap the paper bag around the cloth bag and then push it down into the cloth bag. The lip around the bag will be covered in dirt and filth and is messy to take out and change. I prefer the ease of a Filtex to the MD. The other thing I don't like is that in order to get to the lid on the top to empty the bag you have to mount the unit low to the floor. It makes the space around the power unit unusable. I prefer the dirt can on the bottom style as it can be mounted higher up and you can use most of the space under the unit for storage. Spend a little time on the ThinkVacuum website where they have many pages devoted to the yes and no's of all the various filtration and emptying styles. Hope this helps! Greg

Post# 150590 , Reply# 6 9/6/2011 at 13:48 (4,615 days old) by centralvacs1928 (Chicagoland)
Checkrate/Likes Greg is right, the Royal/Dirt Devil central vacuums are private labeled Vacuflo filtered cyclonic units. However, I MUCH prefer the Vacuflo "true cyclonic" units (which are dark blue in color and only available under the Vacuflo brand)...the cartridge filters on the FC units are difficult to completely clean, and the very fine dust that can (and does) get by the seals on the filter causes the motor to run louder and louder over time. I sold quite a few of the Vacuflo filtered cyclonic units due to their great performance specs and quicker installation (no outside exhaust needed) but have shied away due to the issues above, which I've seen time and again. Hayden central vacuums rely on the same principle and have the same issues. If you want a bagless central vacuum, the Vacuflo true cyclonic is worth the extra 15 minutes to chisel a hole in the wall (assuming you have brick, rather than siding) and vent it outside. For a bagged central vacuum, the cleanest and easiest to empty are the ones with a "closed" bag...NuTone, Cyclovac, Drainvac, etc. However, these also lose their performance the most quickly, as the bag sits in a bucket with the inlet on top, and the suction coming from above. Meaning that only a small amount of the bag's surface area is exposed to airflow, the majority just glues itself to the sides of the bucket. The genius of the MD Silentmaster/Filtex/CVI design is that the bag is inside a cloth bag, suspended by the rim with the motor(s) below, so the entire surface area of the bag is exposed to airflow. You can tell a BIG difference as the bag fills; the open bag design keeps the air flowing longer. A little messier to empty, but nowhere near as bad as a bagless system, with or without a filter. I really have to take issue with vacu-finder's comment that most central vacuums are the same, just a "can with a motor"...my experience having sold, serviced, installed and owned most every central vacuum system out there shows that to be completely untrue, for the reasons outlined above and many more. Scott, I hope this helps. If you're looking for more information, you could check out my blog at jcvacs.blogspot.com... or contact me by email, operkins@justcentralvacs.com Best regards, Owen Perkins

Post# 150599 , Reply# 7 9/6/2011 at 14:22 (4,615 days old) by luxflairguy (Wilmington, NC)
Checkrate/Likes *At last!* Owen! I was waiting for your to chime in! Two minds think alike. Check out my "latest greatest find" in vintage for a super 60's GE central!

Post# 150607 , Reply# 8 9/6/2011 at 16:31 (4,615 days old) by OCScott3085 (DMV)
Checkrate/Likes Thank you for all of your replies. Apparently, if I have the central vacuum put in at the time of build, Ryan homes will ONLY install a Dirt Devil Central vacuum because they have some sort of agreement with the company. I am definitely getting one put in this new house because I've lived in my current house for a few years without one and am going nuts without it! I guess if the Dirt Devil goes bad in a few years I can always just change out the unit. I do agree that the Silentmaster is disgusting to empty. That was always my job...and still is every few months I get the call to "come by and empty the vacuum". There really is no easy way to empty the bag without getting some dirt on my hands and in the bottom of the tank. In fact,I remember using their Dyson or Miele to vacuum the inside of the Silentmaster because I would inevitably drop some dirt while removing the bag.

Post# 150615 , Reply# 9 9/6/2011 at 18:13 (4,615 days old) by centralvacs1928 (Chicagoland)
Checkrate/Likes Scott, one final suggestion would be to say you're only interested in having the central vac roughed in so you can purchase the unit at a later date. Just tell them it's not in the budget. Then, buy whatever unit and toolset you like. Just make sure they do a complete piping installation (terminating to wherever you'd like the unit to hang) rather than "drops" that need to be connected later. If you wanted to be a little more "ballsy" about it, you could make buying a house from Ryan Homes contingent on hiring your own (properly insured, etc.) contractor for the central vacuum. Same thing if you wanted to hire your own home theater contractor, or source the appliances yourself, etc. etc...It's a lot to put on the table, but I've been hired in the past because a buyer insisted on using me and my products rather than the builder's contractor. -Owen

Post# 150619 , Reply# 10 9/6/2011 at 18:33 (4,615 days old) by luxlife (Under a Pecan Tree)
Checkrate/Likes 1 *Very good advice!! May I ask for some, please?* Owen, I hope it's appropriate for me to ask for you for a suggestion while on this thread. My house is almost "roughed in". I've got the electricals squared away in the fuse panel, but the pipes were never installed. I've got a question for you: You said: " If you want a bagless central vacuum, the Vacuflo true cyclonic is worth the extra 15 minutes to chisel a hole in the wall (assuming you have brick, rather than siding) and vent it outside." What exactly is being vented outside? Is it just noise, or is there some blow-by dust from the machine as well? If the vented air is relatively clean, then I'll deal with the hassle of disposing of what's collected in a bagless central. I love the whole bagless phenomenon because it's so liberating for anyone who's ever run out of bags in the middle of vacuuming. However, having a bagless machine of any kind is like having a baby with a very full diaper: someone's gotta empty the thing and disposal always becomes the same dirty deed. I've considered having one designated trash can for nothing other than bagless vac waste matter. I'd have to keep it out of the garage to avoid a dust problem. They make a device called a "Diaper Genie" for dirty diapers. I sure wish there was such a thing for emptying bagless vacuums! If I were to lean towards a bagged central unit, which one would you suggest? I know they all bags lose their suction (and I can deal), but I need options for bagged or bagless central units that will work for a 5000 s.f. home. I'm also planning on installing Hide-A-Hose, unless you think it's a bad idea.

Post# 150620 , Reply# 11 9/6/2011 at 18:57 (4,615 days old) by centralvacs1928 (Chicagoland)
Checkrate/Likes Hi John, If you are looking into Hide-A-Hose (very good if you have mostly hard floors, but be aware that on carpeting you're limited to a turbine power brush), you'll want a power unit with lots of waterlift. Lots of CFM will still benefit you, but not as much as waterlift in this situation. With a true cyclonic central vacuum (like Vacuflo or its much-worse competitor, Vacu-Maid), the majority of what you pick up is collected in the bin, which you empty into a trash can. Easier if your system is in the garage, so you can walk right over to the big trash cans. About 2% of the dust you vacuum up goes out the exhaust, so it's not something you want going back into your basement or garage. Venting any central vacuum will also remove any odors and some of the noise, so it's usually a good idea even with a non-cyclonic system. For a 5,000 square foot home, my recommendations would be: Bagged system: SilentMaster S44 (or, if not using HAH, the SilentMaster S2 offers lower noise, higher CFM and longer-lasting motors) Bagless system: Vacuflo 566Q for non-HAH, or Vacuflo MaxAir for HAH. Once again, the 566Q has a single, large, slower-running motor which will be quieter and last longer. The MaxAir has very, very impressive waterlift and airwatts, but the two small motors in series are noisier and will wear out faster. Vacuflo's lifetime warranty pretty much makes that a non-issue, though. Hope this helps. -Owen

Post# 150676 , Reply# 12 9/6/2011 at 22:45 (4,615 days old) by bimmer740 (Long Island, New York)
Checkrate/Likes I installed a VacuFlo 566Q in my house 5 years ago and it was worth every single penny I spent on it and then some!! It is very quiet, has wonderful suction, and even though I use it to dust and clean every thing in the house, I only have to empty it 2 to 3 times a year. As soon as the dirt container is more than half way full, I usually empty it out. Some of the biggest selling points for me when buying the VacuFlo was its ability to maintain its suction level, the external exhaust, and its low maintenance. When you empty the dirt container, simply vacuum off the metal screen inside the unit, mine has never really been that dirty, wipe the dust container out, and then re-attach it to the main unit. I know that so many online sites and many central vacuum dealers promote the Hide-A-Hose or similar unit. Honestly the only one that I would install in my home is the "Doc It" hose system because its the only hose I've seen that can still carry 110 volts to use with an electric power nozzle. If you have read the Contemporary forum for a while, then I hope you have seen the previous discussions we have had about central vacuum units. As far as my opinion goes, no matter what home I own it absolutely will be outfitted with a VacuFlo Central Vacuum. I also have Direct-Connect Super Valve Inlets that have 110 volts wired to each inlet which allows me to choose between a TurboCat or an electric power nozzle. No matter what brand you decide to install in your own home there are two recomendations that I can make to you: #1) buy the largest unit that you can afford for your home, something that is rated for more square footage than you have, #2) install electrified direct connect inlets! No matter what a dealer tells you, no matter how much more power your unit has vs. what you need, a turbo nozzle will never clean as well as a quality electric power nozzle! It will add to the expense of your installation but it too is worth its weight in gold. It will allow you to clean with the power nozzle of your choice while using a unit that has much more power than any portable vacuum will have. Our previous WebMaster Fred Nelson has a Silent Master which he has raved about over the years. I've never used one but he certainly knows what he is talking about and is a wealth of information. I know that he too would tell you but the most powerful unit that you can afford, even if it is rated for a home much larger than your own. I guarantee you wont regret it! ~Steven

Post# 150692 , Reply# 13 9/7/2011 at 01:59 (4,614 days old) by tolivac (Greenville,NC)
Checkrate/Likes The motor picture is a form of bypass motor-note the vent holes on top of the motor housing and the separate fancase.These motors are now REQUIRED in many types of wet-dry vacuums and carpet extractor machines.Keeps water and moisture out of the motor.The GE central vacuum had a radial discharge on the fancase-even better.

Post# 150699 , Reply# 14 9/7/2011 at 03:12 (4,614 days old) by luxlife (Under a Pecan Tree)
Checkrate/Likes Thanks to both of you for more good advice. I'm fortunate in my house floorplan to have interior walls where I can strategically place the outlets. I liked the Doc-It because it's got an electric hose, but ohhh that cover and box setup is huge! I'll consider this if there's some way that I can install the Doc-It in my closets or out of the way rooms so I don't have to look at that ghastly cover that the hose retracts into. Beam has a new hose setup that retracts into a 13 foot hose. Any thoughts on that?

Post# 150737 , Reply# 15 9/7/2011 at 11:15 (4,614 days old) by centralvacs1928 (Chicagoland)
Checkrate/Likes The Doc It and the Beam "hose within a hose" both scare me for different reasons. Starting with Doc It, not only do you have a huge, ugly door (3x the size of a HAH door) on the wall, you've got a retractor mechanism of dubious reliability, and a 55-foot wire reinforced hose snaking around in a box inside your wall. Those heavy wire-reinforced hoses are bad enough for airflow in a 30-foot length...imagine how little cleaning power you'll have with nearly double that. The hose length is not adjustable, unlike Hide-A-Hose. If the technology (which has been passed around several times to different manufacturers) doesn't take off, you've got an "orphaned" system that nobody can get parts for, and that cannot easily be converted over. One of the things I like about HAH is the simplicity...retraction is done by suction, and the only "mechanism" in the valve is the hose locking lever, which is easily and cheaply replaced. Also with Doc It, you do not have the ability to add a hose sock, and the extension/retraction of the hose is slow...you have to stand there holding the button down on the hose handle. I'd much rather grab the 30-foot, 4-pound crushproof hose out of the closet, plug it in and go. I have installed quite a few HAH systems and they work very well, but it comes down to your preference...I love my traditional system, and Steven is right...Supervalves/Electravalves are a must if you've got lots of wall-to-wall carpet. The Beam Easy Reach "hose within a hose" is a cool idea, and I always applaud innovation...however, you once again cannot use a hose sock, the outer hose is around 2" diameter and quite bulky to move around. The inner hose is a "stretch hose" which is even worse than a traditional wire-reinforced hose in terms of airflow. I think that, like the Doc It, despite being a nice idea, actually having to use the Easy Reach hose on a regular basis would change your opinion. One of the wonderful things about being a vacuum collector/enthusiast is the ability to use all sorts of different machines to clean your home...you can overlook the flaws and enjoy the variety of cleaners because you don't depend on only one, day in, day out, for 15+ years. One of the things I always try to keep in mind is that unlike me, my customers cannot decide to use one toolkit one day, and another the next...they can't just pay dealer cost and get another power unit if they're not quite satisfied with the one they've got now. They really don't have the ability to easily change the elements of their system. So, new technology that I wouldn't mind buying and trying myself like the two above products, is usually not something I will recommend to a customer right away. I sell a central vacuum system as a powerful, reliable, serious cleaning tool. Anything uproven and "gimmicky" runs the risk of leaving the customer feeling like they've wasted their money, and jeopardizes future business for me. Just my two cents.

Post# 150739 , Reply# 16 9/7/2011 at 11:44 (4,614 days old) by luxflairguy (Wilmington, NC)
Checkrate/Likes *Central Vac Int'l* Owen! I see your company is a authorized dealer for CVI. Do you get much business from them? I have a dual motor 16 that I bought about 12 years ago and more or less don't use. While good, I found that in the California desert, the knob on the lid came unglued in the summer heat and the inlet neck also came loose. I stopped using it because of those problems. Comments... Greg

Post# 150748 , Reply# 17 9/7/2011 at 13:33 (4,614 days old) by centralvacs1928 (Chicagoland)
Checkrate/Likes Greg, I like the CVI units, though you're absolutely right...I wish they'd change the plastic. I had one unit where the knob came unglued. I drilled through the center of the knob and the center of the lid, and put a screw in to hold it in place. Overall though, they've been holding up well...no problems with the units I've sold (besides that minor issue, and they would have replaced the whole lid free if I had asked), and even the 40+ year old units I see around here from time to time are usually competely intact. The big thing about the CVI units is the bag design (Filtex-type cardboard rim, but set down a few inches so the dirt can go straight in instead of going through those three tight turns on any Filtex), and the external motors, which I really believe run cooler and last longer than the same motors mounted internally would. I have a CVS-16 (single motor) in my house that has had tons and tons of use and just keeps going. Old Filtex units offered the same advantages, but without the ability to mount the motors independently of the dirt canister. Have you checked out the D & R units? Knockoffs of CVI, and I wonder if they haven't made their own improvements in the plastic. They combine three 7.2" motors in their largest unit...talk about CFM! They're also notable for manufacturing their own "Designalet" inlet valves, like the old CVI "Vaculet" inlets. Very, very high quality. They're in the LA area, and I believe they started making the units and inlets themselves after CVI moved from LA. www.drvacuumsystems.com.... P.S. I'll buy your CVS-16DP if you want, or I can get you a new dirt canister. Interested?

Post# 150816 , Reply# 18 9/7/2011 at 20:57 (4,614 days old) by floor-a-matic (somewhere)
Checkrate/Likes *Which CV should I go for?* I'm having a difficult time deciding between: Bagged: XXX NuTone MD Silent Master Aerus Cyclonic: Vacuflo MaxAir Vacuflo True Cyclonic If I do get a central vac, I'm getting Aerus attachment set (Classic style)

Post# 150826 , Reply# 19 9/7/2011 at 23:02 (4,614 days old) by vacu-finder ()
Checkrate/Likes *touching base centralvacs1928* Ok yes there are differences with some Central vac's. Having said that most of them that share the Common Lamb motor, regardless of cyclonic suction, etc........etc.....at some point in time the motor will have to be either rebuilt or replaced. Lets be realistic here after 10 years most products loose their worth, appeal and effectiveness. Technology is changing so fast. Why spend $1,500 on a great Vac now when the future will have better machines with unique features that we only ever dreamed about...!

Post# 150886 , Reply# 20 9/8/2011 at 09:43 (4,613 days old) by centralvacs1928 (Chicagoland)
Checkrate/Likes Dean, You're right that most manufacturers have access to the same motors, and a few popular motor models are in many, many different central vacuums. However, the design of the central vacuum unit can greatly influence not only the motor life, but the suction and airflow available for cleaning. After ten years (perhaps even sooner) most products lose their worth and appeal. However, they don't necessarily have to lose their effectiveness. That's why I pay so much attention to the differences between products...one of my biggest goals is to identify products that WILL work as well in 10, 20 or 30 years as they did when they were brand-new. They're out there, but you have to distinguish the differences to find them - NOT assume that they're all just a "can with a motor".

Post# 150890 , Reply# 21 9/8/2011 at 10:16 (4,613 days old) by centralvacs1928 (Chicagoland)
Checkrate/Likes Erik, If you want a bagged central vacuum, the MD SilentMaster will be a far longer-lasting and better-performing choice. The NuTone VX series no longer uses Lamb motors and so far what I've seen is that the motors they are using do not give a satisfactory lifespan. The bag system, while innovative, is complicated (you have to open the door, release the bag, then take the bucket off to remove the bag). MD units still use Lamb motors, which have been proven in the central vacuum industry for 50+ years. The bags are twice the capacity of NuTone bags, keep their airflow longer because they're supported by a cloth bag and suspended by the rim, and allow the use of a metal, canister-mounted utility inlet. The upside to a NuTone is that it's quite a bit less money, and the VX550 actually has some good performance stats. My biggest concern is long-term reliability and ease of use. I would avoid the Aerus power unit -- the foam filter is subject to the same issues as the Hayden and Vacuflo Filtered Cyclonic units, that dust can circumvent the filter and build up on the motor's fan blades, causing the motor to make God-awful, horrible noise levels. Most of the Aerus/Electrolux installations (at least around here) have been horrendous, and you run a much better chance of getting a quality installation from a Vacuflo or MD dealer. Finally, cleaning that foam filter is no fun at all. It's the "paint roller from hell". Your cyclonic unit selections are both good choices, but unless you're going with Hide-A-Hose, the MaxAir is unnecessary. If your system is designed around a 30-foot, 1 3/8" hose and has properly laid-out piping runs, you can take advantage of higher CFM without the need for higher waterlift. I am a huge fan of the Vacuflo 566Q, as its one large slower-running motor is quiet and has excellent lifespan and performance characteristics. If you want even more power, the 760 is wonderful, though the dual 5.7" motors make a little more noise. This is the one I put into my parents' house. The "mother of them all" is the 960, and you can have two users going at once, both "sucking the paint off the walls". Downside is, the unit is huge, and it's the only one in the Vacuflo line without a clear dirt bucket.

Post# 150899 , Reply# 22 9/8/2011 at 11:57 (4,613 days old) by bimmer740 (Long Island, New York)
Checkrate/Likes I installed my VacuFlo in my house myself, fairly easy to do, with a little bit of careful planning it went very smoothly. I have the VacuFlo Turbo Kit with the original turbo grip hose, turbocat zoom, and what they call premium tools. I also have a genuine electric VacuFlo direct connect hose to use with a power nozzle. If you clean often and have a small amount of wall to wall carpet in the house, then I'd highly recommend buying both a low and high voltage hose. The 35 ft low voltage house is very light weight and its the one I use 9 out of 10 times. As I said earlier, my 566Q was worth every last penny and then some. I highly recommend because its powerful, very quiet, and you can't beat the lifetime warranty. I had a faulty ciruit breaker in my unit when I purchased it, apparently their was a bad batch that VacuFlo had received, and my dealer came out to the house and replaced the breaker right away. Its been a little over 5 years now and it hasnt skipped a beat.

Post# 150904 , Reply# 23 9/8/2011 at 12:48 (4,613 days old) by luxflairguy (Wilmington, NC)
Checkrate/Likes *CVI* Owen, email me privately about my 16. I am interested in selling it. Email's in my profile. Greg

Post# 150937 , Reply# 24 9/8/2011 at 19:50 (4,613 days old) by vacu-finder ()
Checkrate/Likes *20 or 30 years.....* Later well that machine would be a Garbage can by then...... Are the brushes and Bearings still good after 20 years..? The older vacs are most appealing (uprights and canisters), I think thats why this site exists today.

Post# 150968 , Reply# 25 9/8/2011 at 22:48 (4,613 days old) by luxflairguy (Wilmington, NC)
Checkrate/Likes *OMG!* Vaci-finder, your last posting is fighting words. Why do you think a central vacuum will be a garbage can after 20 years? The motors in these machines are just like in any typical canister vacuum. They are servicable and with the same care given to an upright or canister vacuum can last for many years. I still use in the only home I still clean-where I've been doing the housework for 31 years, a wonderful 1964 VacuMaid. It is serviced when needed and is still has the power it did when installed. O.K. for all the orientals in the house, we use a Hoover 62. But for 90% of the cleaning, the VacuMaid is still used today. The Hoover is even older and we laid in a supply of bristle and bearings before Hoover decided to discountinue parts for those machines. I even know of several homes here in Seattle that had installs from the 50's that have been updated and are still in use today. An older central system is as usable today as it was when it was installed! And just like any upright or canister vacuum can be replaced if needed or wanted! As for Vacuumland. I'm not a card carrying VCCC member anymore, but from the inception of Vacuumland, central vacuums have been discussed along with the other parts of a good cleaning arsenal. We talk about floor polishers, carpet cleaners of all types, even carpet sweepers! As was pointed out in the last two days, even Fred Nelson, the past webmaster is a central vacuum devotee. He also has a wonderful collection of vintage vacuums, as have I. I love Kirby's, 50's Hoover and have a vast collection of Electroluxs'. I love them too. But since I first used a central vacuum at the young age of 6-7, they have fascinated me and I'm hooked. You live in Canada, where more homes have central vauums than any other country in the world. Education is also part of what Vacuumland is about and I think the viewers of the site are both interested in learning new things, sharing in the joy of a great find, teaching each other about service techniques. It's all about being open to learning and leaving your ego at the door! Owen, Fred, Steven, myself and others love another part of the wonderful world of vacuums...central vacuum systems! That doesn't leave us out of talking about them here! Greg Bushman

Post# 151023 , Reply# 26 9/9/2011 at 06:34 (4,612 days old) by centralvacs1928 (Chicagoland)
Checkrate/Likes Hey Greg, I'm curious about your 1964 Vacu-Maid. I'm aware that early Vacu-Maid machines used a single large fan attached to a non-Lamb motor. Is that the way your unit was built? What's the performance like? I would love to see pictures.

Post# 151067 , Reply# 27 9/9/2011 at 18:11 (4,612 days old) by vacu-finder ()
Checkrate/Likes not down playing central vacs or any other vacuum. just stating a fact that machines become obselete after a few years. The newer central vacs now have information centres right at your finger tips, they never had that 20 - 30 years ago. And they have other features like anit-vibration, noise reduction etc......etc..... Having said that central vacs even 10 years from now will be totally different.!

Post# 151068 , Reply# 28 9/9/2011 at 18:16 (4,612 days old) by floor-a-matic (somewhere)
Checkrate/Likes I wonder if the Aerus attachment kit is a good choice? Or is there better tools & Power Nozzle than the Lux? Its hard for me to choose between the Lux, Stealth or Wessel Werk EBK340/EBK360QDC Link of Stealth kit (I couldn't find the Stealth II which has quick release wand) CLICK HERE TO GO TO floor-a-matic's LINK

Post# 151069 , Reply# 29 9/9/2011 at 18:21 (4,612 days old) by floor-a-matic (somewhere)
Checkrate/Likes *Wessel Werk kit* Link (Also includes HEB160/MEB160 Mini Electric brush) CLICK HERE TO GO TO floor-a-matic's LINK on eBay

Post# 151071 , Reply# 30 9/9/2011 at 19:14 (4,612 days old) by bimmer740 (Long Island, New York)
Checkrate/Likes The Wessel-Werks kit is the way to go and definitely avoid the Stealth nozzle. I have the Stealth and I think you will be very dissappointed with it, especially if you pay full retail. I bought the Stealth brand new on eBay several years ago for a fraction of what the retail cost is and I'd be kicking myself if I paid the full price. The Wessel-Werks nozzle is almost the same as the Miele SEB236 which I had when I owned a Miele Red Velvet and its a great p/n! I think the Lux p/n might work well with a central vacuum but I dont think the Lux nozzle cleans as well as the Wessel-Werks does, but certainly would do a good job.

Post# 151101 , Reply# 31 9/10/2011 at 07:30 (4,611 days old) by centralvacs1928 (Chicagoland)
Checkrate/Likes Erik, the Aerus set is very good quality and worth having, but I have found that I don't like the heavy wire-reinforced hose that Aerus uses - like any wire-reinforced electric CV hose, I feel they're too heavy, rough on furniture and they do choke off noticeably more airflow than crushproof hoses. However, some people really prefer the heavier, sturdier feel of the wire-reinforced hoses and don't seem to mind the weight. So, try both. Steven, I'm curious what you didn't like about the Stealth. I've had both and liked both. Quality wise I feel they're on par with each other (same with the fantastic SEBO ET-2), cleaning-wise my only insight was that the Stealth seemed a little less aggressive, though it still left beautiful lines in the carpet (I love me some perfect vacuum lines). What are your thoughts?

Post# 151117 , Reply# 32 9/10/2011 at 09:13 (4,611 days old) by compactelectra (Palm Springs)
Checkrate/Likes *Hey guys!* Been out of town or would have chimed in earlier. Indeed, I am a huge fan of central vacs. Whatever some folks feel about them (dragging and storing the hose, emptying, etc. etc.) I could make the case that in those instances where you can get one installed, they are one the best and most efficient systems for vacuuming. The advantages of course are power (way more than a portable vac) no bulky unit to push or pull around, time between emptying, etc. When I do a heads down cleaning , which isn't often due to my housekeeper, I go right for the central vac. It's the fastest and easiest. My housekeeper obviously can choose what to use and she uses the central exclusively. I feel good because the system uses electric power nozzles (Stealth and Aerus) and I know the house is getting its best cleaning. With respect to the choices, they are many. Primarily between cyclonic and bagged. I prefer bagged but hold no grudges to those who like no bags. To each his own and enjoy. I just emptied the Silent Master S5 and got no dirt on me. The new designs are much more user-friendly. The bags are high-filtration and the ring around the top makes all the difference in the world. With the old bags I was covered with dust after emptying and had to use another vacuum to clean the unit before putting in a new bag. Now no flying dust from the cloth bag. I have had a few units over the years and this one is the best. Worth the money. And yes, well cared-for those machines can easily run over 20 years. The MD units are good when any parts need to be replaced. Lamb motors and Honeywell relays easily found off-the-shelf. Plus you can use any combination of tools and hoses. One last comment here. This site is definitely for all things vacuum. Why would anyone's interest in vacuums be excluded? I originally felt a bit of rejection over my love of central vacs, but worked to eliminate the prejudice. Bring on more discussion. BTW Owen I am very interested in the HAH. Are they fairly easily retrofitted? I have a perfect setup for it on the first floor with hardwood floors and kitchen. Fred

Post# 151119 , Reply# 33 9/10/2011 at 10:10 (4,611 days old) by centralvacs1928 (Chicagoland)
Checkrate/Likes Hi Fred, It's easy to retrofit a HAH and hook it into your existing system, and I'm certain your SilentMaster (it's an S5, correct?) has more than enough power. Do you think you could reach your entire first floor with a 40 or 50 foot hose, centrally located? I've never seen your home but would be happy to take a look and give you an idea what would be involved. -Owen P.S. Did you see my posting on the Filtex "Perma Vac" I traded in? Since your CV history started with Filtex, I thought you'd get a kick out of it. I removed it from a home in Oakbrook Terrace.

Post# 151120 , Reply# 34 9/10/2011 at 10:36 (4,611 days old) by compactelectra (Palm Springs)
Checkrate/Likes *Owen* I did see that Perma Vac. If it had the two-button system, it must have been very early. It had Filtex written all over it except for the color. I'd love to see it. Here is the Filtex brochure that shows the first Filtex I bought. Installed it myself in a three story townhouse in Lakeview in Chicago. The SB - 300. Sweet. I'll send you an email when I get back from the convention and have you come and scope out a possible HAH installation here.

Post# 151126 , Reply# 35 9/10/2011 at 11:19 (4,611 days old) by luxflairguy (Wilmington, NC)
Checkrate/Likes *More centrals!* Here's a four page brochure for Central Vacuum International from the I'd say the late 60's. Pushbutton inlet, sytle of clothing and furnitre.

Post# 151127 , Reply# 36 9/10/2011 at 11:20 (4,611 days old) by luxflairguy (Wilmington, NC)
Checkrate/Likes *CVI* page 2

Post# 151130 , Reply# 37 9/10/2011 at 11:21 (4,611 days old) by luxflairguy (Wilmington, NC)
Checkrate/Likes *CVI* page 4

Post# 151132 , Reply# 38 9/10/2011 at 12:39 (4,611 days old) by compactelectra (Palm Springs)
Checkrate/Likes *Central Vac* Is still in business, not cheap, but good units with by-pass motors. Very powerful. CLICK HERE TO GO TO compactelectra's LINK

Post# 151133 , Reply# 39 9/10/2011 at 12:41 (4,611 days old) by centralvacs1928 (Chicagoland)
Checkrate/Likes Greg, I'd never seen that CVI brochure before! I love it. Those systems have barely changed at all.

Post# 151159 , Reply# 40 9/10/2011 at 16:41 (4,611 days old) by luxflairguy (Wilmington, NC)
Checkrate/Likes *PICTURES OF MY CENTRAL VACUUMS!* This was asked for in the vintage forum, but I feel it needs to be here because of the mix of old and new. There are also some pictures of my vacuum storeroom! Enjoy! Greg Filtex, VacuQueen by Filter Queen and Filtex

Post# 151161 , Reply# 41 9/10/2011 at 16:43 (4,611 days old) by luxflairguy (Wilmington, NC)
Checkrate/Likes *Picture #2* What's on the wall and in use today. An Allegro unit from Canada. Quiet, cloth inverted filter. Nice, but basic...I think it's getting changed out soon!

Post# 151164 , Reply# 42 9/10/2011 at 16:47 (4,611 days old) by luxflairguy (Wilmington, NC)
Checkrate/Likes *Pic #3* More! Nutone 350 in "Hawthorne Red", Ultra Aircare-private label Vacumaid 2 piece, 70's VacuMaid 125, 2 Electrolux 1590's and another red stunner, Cyclovac E100. The Cyclovac uses big poly bags similar to a Miele. Super quiet and a real favorite.

Post# 151165 , Reply# 43 9/10/2011 at 16:54 (4,611 days old) by luxflairguy (Wilmington, NC)
Checkrate/Likes #4 More and more! All VacuMaid. H-1, bagged unit, 1200 dirt canister which goes with a 350 unit. Motors in a seperate pod, and the Intervac is another private label VacuMaid.

Post# 151166 , Reply# 44 9/10/2011 at 16:56 (4,611 days old) by luxflairguy (Wilmington, NC)
Checkrate/Likes #5 And more... Central Vacuum Int'l doulbe 16, Cyclo vac and Pullman. I did not know until recently that I'm missing the relay box for the Pullman.

Post# 151167 , Reply# 45 9/10/2011 at 16:57 (4,611 days old) by luxflairguy (Wilmington, NC)
Checkrate/Likes *Now my vacuum storeroom!* Yes! I have LOTS of vacuums, too. all the boxes on the left have 3 Lux's in each of them. BOxes of hoses, boxes of tools, boxes of bags!!!

Post# 151168 , Reply# 46 9/10/2011 at 16:58 (4,611 days old) by luxflairguy (Wilmington, NC)
Checkrate/Likes *I'm NOT a hoarder!* I'm not!!

Post# 151169 , Reply# 47 9/10/2011 at 16:59 (4,611 days old) by luxflairguy (Wilmington, NC)
Checkrate/Likes *Well...maybe!!* last pic! Time for a nap!

Post# 151209 , Reply# 48 9/11/2011 at 11:42 (4,610 days old) by OCScott3085 (DMV)
Checkrate/Likes Maybe unrelated....but does anyone have any scans of 1980's central vac product info? I remember one of my grandfather's was a home builder and used to get magazines that always had ads for Nutone central vacs. I loved looking at those ads but sadly, never thought to keep one!

Post# 151216 , Reply# 49 9/11/2011 at 13:58 (4,610 days old) by compactelectra (Palm Springs)
Checkrate/Likes *Scott* Here you go. This is a catalog from '92. I liked the Nutone attachments (good Eureka) but not those power units. Too weak. They were definitely builder's units. This catalog was a bit later, but still had great hoses and the Eureka power nozzle. Front cover.

Post# 151217 , Reply# 50 9/11/2011 at 13:59 (4,610 days old) by compactelectra (Palm Springs)
Checkrate/Likes *Central Vac* Section

Post# 151218 , Reply# 51 9/11/2011 at 14:00 (4,610 days old) by compactelectra (Palm Springs)
Checkrate/Likes *Page 2* .

Post# 151219 , Reply# 52 9/11/2011 at 14:01 (4,610 days old) by compactelectra (Palm Springs)
Checkrate/Likes *Page 3* .

Post# 151220 , Reply# 53 9/11/2011 at 14:01 (4,610 days old) by compactelectra (Palm Springs)
Checkrate/Likes *Page 4* .

Post# 151221 , Reply# 54 9/11/2011 at 14:03 (4,610 days old) by compactelectra (Palm Springs)
Checkrate/Likes *Page 5* .

Post# 151222 , Reply# 55 9/11/2011 at 14:05 (4,610 days old) by compactelectra (Palm Springs)
Checkrate/Likes *Page 6* Love that low voltage on-off switch at the end of the handle. Works with all universal inlets. Makes all the difference in the world not having to run back to the inlet to shut it off. Like I said, I have two of these hoses, one 30 ft and one 40 ft. Use these with all different attachment sets.

Post# 151223 , Reply# 56 9/11/2011 at 14:08 (4,610 days old) by compactelectra (Palm Springs)
Checkrate/Likes *Page 7* They had a neat molded carrying caddy for the tools and the great Eureka power nozzle with an electric hose back in the 70s - way ahead of its time. I also had a couple of the built-in food centers. Not top quality, but fun for margaritas!

Post# 151227 , Reply# 57 9/11/2011 at 15:05 (4,610 days old) by luxflairguy (Wilmington, NC)
Checkrate/Likes *How about 1987 Vacu-Maid. Here it is!* 12 pages...

Post# 151228 , Reply# 58 9/11/2011 at 15:06 (4,610 days old) by luxflairguy (Wilmington, NC)
Checkrate/Likes *1987 Vacu-Maid* page 2

Post# 151229 , Reply# 59 9/11/2011 at 15:07 (4,610 days old) by luxflairguy (Wilmington, NC)
Checkrate/Likes *VacuMaid* page 3

Post# 151230 , Reply# 60 9/11/2011 at 15:08 (4,610 days old) by luxflairguy (Wilmington, NC)
Checkrate/Likes *VacuMaid* page 4. here's when the fun starts. I have the motor from a P-225 and have a P-125. Same motors, but I love the ability of the 225 to place the motor elsewhere!

Post# 151232 , Reply# 61 9/11/2011 at 15:09 (4,610 days old) by luxflairguy (Wilmington, NC)
Checkrate/Likes *VacuMaid* page 5...

Post# 151234 , Reply# 62 9/11/2011 at 15:10 (4,610 days old) by luxflairguy (Wilmington, NC)
Checkrate/Likes *VacuMaid* page 6

Post# 151235 , Reply# 63 9/11/2011 at 15:11 (4,610 days old) by luxflairguy (Wilmington, NC)
Checkrate/Likes *VacuMaid* page 7

Post# 151236 , Reply# 64 9/11/2011 at 15:12 (4,610 days old) by luxflairguy (Wilmington, NC)
Checkrate/Likes *VacuMaid* page 8 Attachments!!

Post# 151237 , Reply# 65 9/11/2011 at 15:14 (4,610 days old) by luxflairguy (Wilmington, NC)
Checkrate/Likes *VacuMaid* page 9. Accessory tools. The tall Air turbine is a VacuFlo product. The electric brush is the original wooden brushroll Eureka.

Post# 151238 , Reply# 66 9/11/2011 at 15:15 (4,610 days old) by luxflairguy (Wilmington, NC)
Checkrate/Likes *VacuMaid* Page 10 schematics

Post# 151239 , Reply# 67 9/11/2011 at 15:16 (4,610 days old) by luxflairguy (Wilmington, NC)
Checkrate/Likes *VacuMaid* page 11 pipe and fittings

Post# 151241 , Reply# 68 9/11/2011 at 15:17 (4,610 days old) by luxflairguy (Wilmington, NC)
Checkrate/Likes *VacuMaid* Last page and one of my favorites! Inlet valves. They were for many years the giveaway that a home had a VacuMaid system. The stainless are my favorites!

Post# 151247 , Reply# 69 9/11/2011 at 16:22 (4,610 days old) by vac_whisperer ()
Checkrate/Likes DD made central vacs? never knew that.

Post# 151255 , Reply# 70 9/11/2011 at 17:51 (4,610 days old) by centralvacs1928 (Chicagoland)
Checkrate/Likes I love all these brochures! I've got a little collection myself. A few times I will change out someone's power unit, and the original literature is sitting right on top of it. In the case of one NuTone system, the literature was blocking the motor cooling vents, and that's what caused the system to burn out! Thought I'd make a couple contributions. The first is one of my favorite systems, the workhorse Vacuflo 26. These things run forever!

Post# 151256 , Reply# 71 9/11/2011 at 17:52 (4,610 days old) by centralvacs1928 (Chicagoland)
Checkrate/Likes And its big brother, the Vacuflo 99. You really can have two people vacuuming at once with this thing.

Post# 151258 , Reply# 72 9/11/2011 at 17:54 (4,610 days old) by centralvacs1928 (Chicagoland)
Checkrate/Likes Finally, its little sister the 107. Has just about the same cleaning power as the 26, but in a more compact design. I've seen a few of these installed in the area.

Post# 151286 , Reply# 73 9/12/2011 at 01:39 (4,609 days old) by bimmer740 (Long Island, New York)
Checkrate/Likes Owen, I should have been a little more specific about what I dont like about the Lindhaus/Stealth. I agree that it is a well made p/n, I think its close in quality to the Wessel-Werks but the W-W seems to be constructed a bit better. Its not the quality of the Lindhaus that I dislike, as it certainly is contrusted better than many other nozzles on the market, but its the lack in cleaning preformance. In my opinion the Lindhaus brush roll is pathetic, it only has a single row of bristles and they arent even stiff/aggressive enough to thoroughly clean my carpet. I'm not looking for something that has those stiff as a wire brush bristles like some of the Hoover machines have, but something that has enough strength to aggitate the carpet properly. I've never used any of my Electrolux power nozzles with my central vac but I'm certain that they would clean circle around the Lindhaus. The last time Lux redesigned their brush roll they added an "extra turn" to it and this has really improved preformance over the previous style. The other minor gripe I have with the Stealth nozzle is the dial height adjustment. Its not a huge deal but I would rather that it was controlled by a foot pedal or just a floating type like the Lux. I've said it on past threads here that it makes me wonder what Lindhaus was thinking when they decided to use that brush roll, especially after they had gone through the trouble of precisely engineering this power nozzle in every other way. I look for quality in whatever I buy and I'm fine with paying a premium price for a quality item, but I guess I also expect that quality and superior preformance should go hand in hand. I should know better by now to not assume that this isn't always the case. The Sebo power nozzle is something that I would really like to try! I tested a Sebo vac once in a vac shop years ago and the p/n really pulled itself across the rug. The Sebo seems like it is a closer competitor to the Wessel-Werks than the Lindhaus. I'm curious to know how loud those CentralVac units are with their motors not being housed within the unit itself? Are they much more powerful than the traditional canister style single motor central vac unit?

Post# 151325 , Reply# 74 9/12/2011 at 11:42 (4,609 days old) by centralvacs1928 (Chicagoland)
Checkrate/Likes Hi Steven, You're right, the difference in agitation between the Lindhaus and WW powerheads is noticeable. I always felt that the Lindhaus cleaned well despite its lack of aggressiveness, due to the serrations in the baseplate that allow air to flow through the carpet fibers. Lindhaus products are so often sold into commercial applications, that I believe they are designing more for commercial carpet. On deep plush, the extra agitation does help to get the sand out of the bottom of the carpet. The system in my parents' house is a Vacuflo 760, basic hoses in garage and basement, Stealth kit downstairs, SEBO ET-2 kit upstairs. They have lots of medium plush carpet and some hard floors. There's never dirt in their carpets though, so it's not a good place to test vacuums. I really should bring the powerheads to my place (where the third floor is all deep plush carpet) and see how they fare. Right now up there I'm using a Hayden hose and powerhead...I don't mind the heavy wire-reinforced hose as much because there's only one inlet in the center and it's all open space. I can still hear cat litter getting vacuumed out of the depths of the carpet from the previous owner's cats. Guess the litter box must have been up there.

Post# 151326 , Reply# 75 9/12/2011 at 11:43 (4,609 days old) by centralvacs1928 (Chicagoland)
Checkrate/Likes And the CentralVac units (without mufflers) are quite loud...dual-motor obviously moreso than the single-motor. With mufflers on cooling air intake and working air exhaust, they're not bad.

Post# 151387 , Reply# 76 9/13/2011 at 00:44 (4,608 days old) by bimmer740 (Long Island, New York)
Checkrate/Likes Owen if you do test out the power heads in your house, I'd like to hear what your results were. When I initially purchased my VacuFlo the dealer sold me the Hayden SuperPak tools which I did not like, the hose was heavier than I wanted it to be, and the power nozzle did not lower itself enough to clean the berber carpets in my house. My best friend has a VacuFlo 760 in her house, its actually her parents but she still lives at home. Anyway, they custom built this multi-million dollar home about 8 years ago which is approximately 8,000 square feet and its outfitted with the VacuFlo. I've used it after some of the parties that we have had at the house over the years and I wasnt overly impressed by it. I thought the suction was a bit weak but its possible the screen in the unit was dirty. The 760 certainly can and does handle all the vacuuming needs in my friends house as all their floors are always spotless.

Post# 151397 , Reply# 77 9/13/2011 at 06:54 (4,608 days old) by centralvacs1928 (Chicagoland)
Checkrate/Likes Hi Steven, I would guess the screen in your friend's 760 is dirty...it should have tons of airflow when working properly. The real test is how it drives a Turbocat...it can be hard to judge if all they ever use is an electric power brush and hard floor tool. If the turbo doesn't scream, something's wrong. I actually did a service call a few years ago on a 760 where the cyclone "can" with the screen at the bottom came off. Maybe the housekeeper thought the screen was removable? Who knows. All kinds of dirt went into the motors, but oddly, they didn't sound too bad. They just had very little if any suction. Fortunately the homeowners were original to the house and their lifetime warranty was still in effect...so two new motors cost them only the labor for installation. That Vacuflo was one of quite a few I've seen around here that were exhausted outside without mufflers...on a 566Q the sound at the exhaust port without a muffler is bad enough. They combined the two exhausts of that 760 into one exhaust line without a muffler and it sounded like a plane taking off. I was in one house that had a 960 and two 560s (biiiiig place) and four exhaust lines, without mufflers, terminating in the same corner of the house. Talk about LOUD when all three systems were on!

Post# 151639 , Reply# 78 9/16/2011 at 15:52 (4,605 days old) by floor-a-matic (somewhere)
Checkrate/Likes *Vacuflo MaxAir* Link of MaxAir Boy, I hear this has record-breaking, whopping amount of suction vs. the SilentMaster?! I'm not sure if its true? CLICK HERE TO GO TO floor-a-matic's LINK

Post# 151640 , Reply# 79 9/16/2011 at 15:57 (4,605 days old) by floor-a-matic (somewhere)
Checkrate/Likes *MD SilentMaster S5* Link of MD SilentMaster S5 I'm still having difficulty choosing between the SilentMaster S5 or the MaxAir, but I LOVE super-powerful suction, so I can pull out deep-down stubborn dirt from carpet CLICK HERE TO GO TO floor-a-matic's LINK

Post# 151641 , Reply# 80 9/16/2011 at 16:01 (4,605 days old) by floor-a-matic (somewhere)
Checkrate/Likes *Aerus/Lux accessory kit* Link of Aerus/Electrolux (deluxe) tool kit CLICK HERE TO GO TO floor-a-matic's LINK

Post# 151642 , Reply# 81 9/16/2011 at 16:15 (4,605 days old) by floor-a-matic (somewhere)
Checkrate/Likes *Aerus/Electrolux classic kit* Pic of kit (from eBay) I'm still having hard time picking which CV unit & accessory kit to go for; but I crave for TONS of power!

Post# 151666 , Reply# 82 9/16/2011 at 20:45 (4,605 days old) by luxflairguy (Wilmington, NC)
Checkrate/Likes *Here's what I'd pick!* Pick the Perfect package. Why? The Lux wand end is huge, ackward and heavy. The two wands are short and when you go to use the floorbrush you loose 3-4 inches in height. I'm 5'9" and it hurt my back. You also have to use the adaptor when you want to use the dusting brush. And as has been said, the hose is heavy! The power nozzle neck is prone to breaking and isn't cheap to repair. Pick the old classic style! My 2 cents! Greg

Post# 151708 , Reply# 83 9/17/2011 at 02:54 (4,604 days old) by tolivac (Greenville,NC)
Checkrate/Likes Of the two machines shown-the Maxair or the MD silentmaster-would like the MD because it has a bag-easier and cleaner to empty than the Maxairs dust drum.For power looking at the specs-the motors in them would be about equal-the silentmaster 120V 30A or the Maxair 240V 15A.The Maxair might be easier to wire-lighter guage cable and smaller less expensive breaker.30A 120V uses are VERY rare today.

Post# 151724 , Reply# 84 9/17/2011 at 08:57 (4,604 days old) by centralvacs1928 (Chicagoland)
Checkrate/Likes The SilentMaster S5 comes in 120 or 240 volt versions...I usually spec the 240 because it's easier on the jobsite electricians. The only time I use the 120 volt version is if I'm changing out an existing unit with a 120 volt, 30 amp circuit already present. MaxAir vs. S5...the MaxAir is really a special-application unit for very long hoses, like what you find in Hide-A-Hose installations. It's got 208" waterlift, but only 122 CFM. A system with a standard 1 3/8", 30 foot hose makes better use of a power unit with lower waterlift and higher CFM...you really get noticeably more velocity at the power brush or floor tool. That means between the two, the S5 is your better choice. However, if you still want a Vacuflo machine, take a look at the 760 and 960. Both run on 120 volt, 30 amp circuits and have specs similar to the S5 (though even less waterlift and more CFM). Any of those three units would be an excellent choice.

Post# 151725 , Reply# 85 9/17/2011 at 09:01 (4,604 days old) by centralvacs1928 (Chicagoland)
Checkrate/Likes RE: Toolsets, you'll probably end up having one of each. Part of the fun of a central vac :) I might recommend getting the Perfect powerhead (or just a used Lux PN-6) and buying the genuine Lux hose with pistol grip...while the Perfect wire-reinforced hose is a good copy, I prefer the feel of the genuine hose handle. Downside is, there's no switch for the power nozzle on the genuine hose. My other choice would be to get the Perfect kit with a crushproof hose, which is much lighter, with better airflow, and the ability to turn off both the power unit and power nozzle. The pistol-grip wire-reinforced hose (either genuine or Perfect) starts the power unit as soon as it's plugged in.

Post# 152136 , Reply# 86 9/19/2011 at 21:26 (4,602 days old) by floor-a-matic (somewhere)
Checkrate/Likes @centralvacs1928 Then I'll also buy a TurboCat or Hayden SuperPak? I'll DEFINITELY go for the Perfect & Wessel Werk! That ways, when I'm in the mood to use the WW, I'll use the WW; or the Perfect when I'm in the "lux-y" mood.

Post# 275185 , Reply# 87 4/7/2014 at 22:34 (3,671 days old) by floor-a-matic (somewhere)
Checkrate/Likes Is there a Compact/TriStar style attachment set available for CVS? I'm refering to the TriStar CXL style PN & tools

Post# 340324 , Reply# 88 12/31/2015 at 11:17 (3,038 days old) by superiorvac (Swift Current, SK Canada)
Checkrate/Likes "You can hear the phone, doorbell or Hi-Fi. Sleeping children or invalids will not be disturbed" as it says on the old Central Vac brochure!! LOL! Times have changed!

Post# 340375 , Reply# 89 1/1/2016 at 02:41 (3,037 days old) by tolivac (Greenville,NC)
Checkrate/Likes Now own the Silentmaster S5-44 unit as shown in the large picure.Replaced its bag to start the New Year.When I replaced it-the unit hadn't been used for more than a month-bag was almost half filled!!My unit runs from 120V 15.8A.Runs off a 15A outlet just fine.Unit is in the hallway of my place-so the 35Ft hose will reach both ends of my house.This machine is the GO TO in my vac collection along with Kirby,NSS M1.Used the M1 to vacuum the area around the Silentmaster bag before removing it.My machine uses GIANT Filtrete bags.The motor area under the cloth bag -SPOTLESS!!I have a Stealth Kit-customer bought it-used it a few weeks and didn't like it.The hose has a blue cloth hose wrapper.Nice touch.The Stealth powernozzle works good for me.Use it in areas where the Kirby Avalir rigged to the Silentmaster doesn't fit.also have a wand with the Sebo ET1 powernozzle.The custoemr traded the hose set back to Mike and got a Meile canister instead.I got the set at a good price-hose cover thrown in!I will continue to try to collect Central machines.The Filtex ones are common here-but no units in the trade pile.Figure since the motors on these are easily replaced-you don't see them.Also changed the bags in My NuTone CV450 and CX550 machines.NuTones are common here.

Post# 354051 , Reply# 90 6/19/2016 at 01:55 (2,867 days old) by Ultralux88 (Denver, Colorado)
Checkrate/Likes Tomorrow I'm going to start installing a 3 motor Filtex unit from the 90s in my would be mother in law's house. I can relate in the area of craving power, in my ouse I had a Riccar RPU-C10, its a 240V dual motor Cyclovac unit, 1160 Airways, 248CFM and 134 IOW. Its got enough power at the end of the hose that it hurts your hand when I put it over the hose end. I expect this triple motor Filtex will be about the same. It'll be quite the thing for all the pet hair and dirt they've got, its overwhelmed every vacuum I've taken over there in one way or another, none have come close to deep cleaning like I want, and they all fill up so fast on the dog hair.

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