Vacuum Cleaner Buying Guide

Central Vacuum and Pets: The Perfect Duo for a Clean Home

You love your pets, but you'd rather not spend your life picking up their fur? Good news: the central vacuum is by far the best solution on the market for cat, dog, rabbit, or any other furry animal owners. Here's why — and more importantly, how to get the most out of it.

Why is a Central Vacuum Ideal for Homes with Pets?

The vast majority of portable vacuums share one common weakness: they redistribute a portion of pet hair and allergens back into the air of the room you just cleaned. For people with pet allergies, this is particularly problematic. A central vacuum solves this issue at the source, in two ways.

First, since the motor unit is permanently installed in the basement, garage, or utility room, the hair, dander, and allergens travel directly through the piping into the unit's reservoir — far from your living spaces. No dust blown back into the living room. Second, central vacuums with HEPA certification filter up to 99.5% of particles, including pet allergens. For people suffering from asthma or pet dander allergies, this makes a tangible difference in everyday quality of life.

Pet Hair and Suction Power: A Real Challenge

A shedding cat or a long-haired dog can generate a surprising amount of fur in just a few days. That fur works its way into carpet fibers, accumulates along baseboards, sneaks under furniture, and clings to cushions. A mid-range portable vacuum will often need to pass over the same spot two or three times to pick it all up. A central vacuum, on the other hand, has far greater power in reserve, allowing it to lift deeply embedded fur from carpets in a single pass.

This is especially true for owners of heavy-shedding breeds like the German Shepherd, Golden Retriever, Maine Coon, or Persian. These breeds are known for their abundant seasonal shedding and require equipment that can keep up.

Which Attachment Should You Choose for Pet Hair?

Choosing the right attachment is just as important as choosing the right vacuum. Here are the most effective options depending on your type of flooring.

For Hardwood, Ceramic, and Hard Surfaces

A soft-bristle floor brush is ideal for hard surfaces. It captures hair without scratching the floor. Some models feature a rubber perimeter seal that creates an extra suction effect to pick up light hairs that tend to scatter ahead of the brush.

For Carpets and Rugs

This is where your choice really matters. There are two main options:

• The turbo brush: powered by the vacuum's suction, it spins a rotating brush that dislodges hair embedded in carpet fibers. Effective and affordable, it works well for short to medium pile carpets and homes with a single pet.
• The motorized electric powerbrush: equipped with an independent 120-volt motor, it always runs at full power regardless of hose length or suction pressure. This is the recommended tool for homes with multiple pets, heavy-shedding breeds, or thick, long-pile carpets. Its rotating brush penetrates deeply into fibers to extract even the most stubborn hair.

For Sofas, Cushions, and Upholstery

The mini turbo brush is the ideal attachment for upholstered surfaces. Compact and maneuverable, it slides easily between sofa cushions and over padded chairs where your pets love to lounge. Paired with a short extension wand, it lets you clean quickly and efficiently without moving every cushion.

Bagged or Bagless Central Vacuum for Pet Owners?

This is a common question, and the answer mostly depends on your tolerance for messy maintenance. Bagged models have the advantage of containing pet hair and allergens in a sealed bag that you remove and dispose of without direct contact — a significant benefit for allergy sufferers. Bagless models have a larger reservoir capacity and are more economical in the long run, but emptying them involves direct contact with accumulated hair, which can be irritating for sensitive individuals.

In either case, a central vacuum's capacity far exceeds that of a portable vacuum, meaning that even with multiple pets in the home, emptying remains infrequent.

Pets Are Afraid of the Vacuum: The Central Vacuum, an Unexpected Solution

If you have a dog or cat that panics the moment you bring out the portable vacuum, you're not alone. The intense noise of a portable vacuum — often between 70 and 85 decibels at ear level — is a significant source of stress for pets. Some even develop lasting anxiety behaviors associated with the appliance.

The central vacuum changes things dramatically. Since the motor unit is installed in a utility space away from the living areas, the noise level in the room being cleaned is considerably reduced. Most animals tolerate the gentle hiss of the hose far better than the roar of a portable vacuum sitting a meter away. Many owners report that their pets no longer even leave the room during cleaning after a few sessions.

Maintaining Your Central Vacuum in a Pet Home

Homes with pets require slightly more frequent central vacuum maintenance, for two main reasons: the volume of hair vacuumed is greater, and hair tends to accumulate more quickly in the filters.

• The filter should be checked more regularly. With one or more pets in the home, cleaning or replacing the filter every 3 to 6 months is recommended rather than annually.
• The bag or canister will need to be emptied more frequently. Keep an eye on the level and don't wait until it's completely full — a full reservoir reduces suction power.
• The rotating brush on the turbo or electric powerbrush must be cleared of hair wrapped around the axle regularly — a simple operation that takes just seconds with a pair of scissors.
• The piping itself requires little maintenance, but if you notice a sudden drop in power, it's possible a hair clog has formed at a pipe elbow. A simple flexible rod usually clears the blockage.

Is a Central Vacuum Suitable for Pet Allergies?

Yes — and it's one of the strongest arguments in favor of a central vacuum for pet homes. Pet allergies are actually reactions to dander (tiny particles of dead skin) and proteins found in animal saliva and urine, which settle on fur and disperse into the environment. These particles are microscopic and remain airborne for hours.

A central vacuum with HEPA certification and an exhaust vented outside the home is the most effective configuration for reducing indoor allergen concentrations. Combined with an air purifier in the rooms where your pet spends the most time, it can significantly transform the quality of life for allergy sufferers who still wish to share their home with a four-legged companion.

In Summary: Why Pet Owners Choose Central Vacuums

• No allergens released back into the air of the room being cleaned
• Sufficient power to extract hair deeply embedded in carpets
• Reduced noise level in living spaces — less stress for pets
• Specialized attachments available for every surface and hair type
• Large reservoir capacity — fewer emptyings despite heavy use
• HEPA filtration for people with pet dander allergies
• Lifespan of 25 to 40 years — a worthwhile investment for the entire life of your pet

You have pets at home and you're still on the fence? Contact our team — we've been central vacuum specialists in Quebec since 1985 and can recommend the ideal configuration for your home, your animals, and your budget.

Central Vacuum Maintenance: Everything You Need to Know to Make It Last 40 Years

The central vacuum is often presented as an appliance that maintains itself — and that's almost true. But like any quality piece of equipment, a minimum of regular attention makes all the difference between a unit that lasts 20 years and one that lasts 40. Here is the complete, no-jargon maintenance guide to keep your system running perfectly.

How Often Should a Central Vacuum Be Emptied?

This is the most frequently asked question, and the answer depends on your usage. For a standard household without pets, once a year is generally sufficient — one of the great advantages of the central vacuum is its reservoir capacity, which is incomparable to that of a portable vacuum. For a home with pets or heavy use, two to three emptyings per year are recommended.

The most reliable sign that it's time to empty: a noticeable drop in suction power. Never let the reservoir fill beyond 75% — beyond that threshold, power begins to drop significantly, as the motor has to work harder to move air through an overfull canister.

How to Clean a Central Vacuum Filter?

The filter is the most important component to maintain regularly. A clogged filter reduces airflow and forces the motor to compensate, which increases its operating temperature and accelerates premature wear.

The procedure varies by filter type:

• Washable foam filter: remove it, rinse it under lukewarm water without soap, gently squeeze out the excess water, and let it dry completely in open air for 24 hours before reinstalling. Never put it back while damp — moisture inside the motor can cause significant damage.
• HEPA filter: depending on the model, it may be washable or replaceable. Consult your appliance manual. As a general rule, a HEPA filter should be replaced every 2 to 3 years under normal conditions.
• Cartridge filter: gently tap it over a trash can to dislodge accumulated dust. Cleaning with compressed air (from outside to inside) extends its lifespan.

Does the Motor Need Lubrication or Maintenance?

Good news: no. Modern central vacuum motors are designed to operate without external lubrication for their entire lifespan. The ball bearings are factory-sealed and require no intervention. This is actually one of the reasons why a well-chosen central vacuum can run for 25 to 40 years without a major motor failure.

What you can do, however, is periodically check that the ventilation fins around the motor are clear and that the area around the motor unit is well ventilated. A motor that lacks airflow overheats, and overheating is the primary cause of premature failure.

How to Unclog Central Vacuum Piping?

A clog in the piping typically manifests as a sudden, significant drop in suction power, even though the filter and reservoir are clean. The most common cause is the accidental vacuuming of a bulky object — a sock, a child's toy, a cloth — that has lodged at a pipe elbow.

To locate and remove the clog:

1. Remove the hose from the inlet valve and first check whether the clog is in the hose itself by holding it up to light or passing a flexible object through it.
2. If the hose is clear, insert a flexible rod or drain snake into the inlet valve in the direction of the motor unit.
3. As a last resort, start the vacuum and use another inlet valve to create a strong airflow that may dislodge the clog.
4. If the clog persists, a technician can locate the problematic elbow and access the piping directly.

When Should Attachments and Accessories Be Replaced?

Accessories have their own lifespan, independent of the motor unit. Here are the signs that it's time to replace them:

• The floor brush loses its bristles or they flatten permanently and no longer spring back — it is no longer effectively capturing fine dust.
• The turbo brush spins irregularly or noisily even after cleaning the hair wrapped around the axle — the turbine or bearings are worn.
• The motorized electric powerbrush makes unusual noise, vibrates excessively, or stops on its own — the motor or internal brushes need inspection.
• The flexible hose shows visible cracks, permanently flattened sections, or a handle with an intermittent switch — replace it before a mid-cleaning failure becomes frustrating.

The Most Common Maintenance Mistakes

• Reinstalling the filter while still damp after washing — this is the number one cause of mold inside the unit and motor damage.
• Vacuuming water or liquids with a central vacuum not designed for it — only wet & dry models are equipped for this use.
• Vacuuming hot ashes, embers, or still-warm materials — heat can damage the bag, the filter, and in extreme cases create a fire hazard inside the piping.
• Ignoring unusual noises — a sharp whistling, a clicking, or excessive vibration are warning signals not to be ignored.
• Never checking the seals between the lid and the canister — a failing seal lets dust through and reduces efficiency.

How Much Does Annual Central Vacuum Maintenance Cost?

This is where the central vacuum truly shines over the long run. Under normal use, the annual maintenance cost amounts to:

• One replacement bag: between $5 and $20 depending on the model (if your unit uses bags)
• One replacement filter every 2 to 3 years: between $15 and $50
• No motor repair costs for the first 15 to 25 years in the vast majority of cases

Compare this to the total cost of ownership of a portable vacuum — replacement every 5 to 7 years, frequent filters, repairs, proprietary accessories — and the difference becomes obvious over a 20-year horizon.

Central Vacuum in a Condo or Apartment: Is It Really Possible?

The question comes up often: can you install a central vacuum in an apartment or condo? The short answer is yes — but with important nuances depending on your situation. Here's everything you need to know before making a decision.

Can I Install a Central Vacuum in My Condo?

It depends on your ownership situation and your building's configuration. There are three distinct scenarios:

You Own Your Condo and Are Renovating

This is the most favorable scenario. If you have access to walls and ceilings as part of a renovation, installing a central vacuum in a condo is entirely feasible — especially in large units or two-level condos. The piping can be concealed in walls and ceilings, and the motor unit can be installed in a utility closet, storage room, or even under the sink for compact models designed for small spaces.

You Own Your Condo and Are Not Planning Major Renovations

In this case, options are more limited but not nonexistent. For a single-level condo without wall access, there are compact central vacuum units designed specifically for small spaces, which can be installed in a closet without requiring embedded piping. A single strategically placed inlet valve, combined with a 30 to 40-foot hose, can be sufficient to cover the entire unit.

You Are a Tenant

Permanently installing a central vacuum in a rented unit is generally not feasible without the landlord's explicit consent, since it involves permanent modifications to walls and structures. That said, some high-end building owners offer pre-installed central vacuum systems as included equipment — an increasingly valued selling point in the upscale rental market.

Which Motor Unit Should You Choose for a Small Space?

Central vacuum motor units come in a much wider range of sizes than most people realize. For a condo or apartment, the selection criteria differ from a single-family home:

• The area to cover is often smaller — an entry-level or mid-range model is generally more than sufficient for a condo between 800 and 1,500 sq. ft.
• Noise level becomes more important when the unit is installed in a living space rather than an isolated basement — some models are specifically designed to operate quietly.
• Compactness of the unit is a key criterion — some models are designed to install vertically in a narrow closet or even in an under-counter space.

Does a Central Vacuum Increase the Value of a Condo?

Without a doubt. In the Quebec real estate market, the presence of an installed central vacuum is consistently listed as included equipment in property listings — on the same level as a dishwasher or central air conditioning. It's a concrete selling argument that sets your unit apart from comparable condos without this equipment.

For buyers sensitive to air quality — allergy sufferers, families with young children, or pet owners — the presence of a central vacuum can be a decisive factor in their choice. It's an investment that pays off not only through daily use, but also at resale.

Special Case: The Two-Level Condo (Penthouse or Split-Level)

Two-level condos are the easiest to equip, because the internal staircase often provides a natural pathway for piping between floors. An installation with two inlets — one per level — typically covers the entire space with a standard 30-foot hose. The motor unit can be installed in a closet on the lower level or in the storage space under the stairs.

Retractable Hose Systems: The Ideal Solution for Condos

For condos where a full piping installation is possible, retractable hose systems are a particularly well-suited option. In a smaller space, having to retrieve, unroll, use, and then store a long conventional hose can feel cumbersome. A retractable hose that disappears into the wall after each use is not only practical, but also eliminates the hose storage problem — often a real issue in more compact spaces.

Should You Inform Your Condo Association Before Installing a Central Vacuum?

Yes, and this is important. In most condo associations in Quebec, any modification to walls, floors, or ceilings — even within your own private unit — must be declared and approved. Central vacuum piping passes through partitions that may be shared or subject to specific condo association rules. Consult your declaration of co-ownership and obtain written approval before starting any work to avoid disputes.

Central Vacuum for Seniors and People with Reduced Mobility: Freedom and Comfort Every Day

Cleaning the house is one of those household tasks that gradually becomes more difficult with age or when dealing with reduced mobility. Carrying a heavy portable vacuum from room to room, bending over to plug and unplug it, managing the power cord on stairs — all of these constraints add up and turn what should be a routine task into a source of fatigue or even a fall risk. The central vacuum addresses these challenges remarkably effectively.

Why Is a Central Vacuum Easier to Use Every Day?

The fundamental difference between a central vacuum and a portable vacuum is the weight you have to carry. With a central vacuum, the motor unit — which accounts for the bulk of the appliance's weight — is permanently fixed in the basement, garage, or utility room. What you handle on a daily basis is only the lightweight flexible hose and accessories. A standard hose weighs between 1 and 2 kilograms — a fraction of the weight of a portable canister vacuum.

This weight reduction has immediate and concrete implications:

• No more lifting, carrying, or dragging a heavy appliance up and down stairs
• Less physical effort moving from room to room — the hose glides along the floor
• Fewer risks of tripping over a power cord — the hose carries no electricity
• Less arm and shoulder fatigue, especially during longer cleaning sessions
• No effort required to start the appliance — a simple switch on the hose handle does it all

The Telescopic Wand: Adjusting the Height to Your Needs

An accessory often overlooked in the context of reduced mobility is the telescopic wand. Unlike portable vacuums with a fixed handle height, telescopic wands for central vacuums adjust precisely to your height, allowing you to work in a standing position without bending over. For people with lower back pain, knee problems, or limited bending range of motion, this is a direct functional advantage.

Automatic Dustpans: Clean Without Bending Down

Automatic dustpan stations — known as Vacpan or Vacusweep — represent one of the most practical innovations for people who have difficulty bending. These devices are installed flush with the floor in the baseboard or under a kitchen cabinet. Simply sweep crumbs and dust toward the opening with a regular broom, then activate the suction with the tip of your foot. Result: the floor is clean without bending over once.

In a kitchen, where crumbs and small debris accumulate quickly around islands and counters, this type of installation quickly becomes indispensable. It's an ideal complement to the central vacuum for light daily cleaning tasks.

Wally Flex Stations: Quick Cleanups Without Pulling Out the Hose

For small everyday messes — a cookie crumb, a bit of spilled soil, a few hairs — retrieving and unrolling the main hose can feel disproportionate. Wally Flex cleaning stations are extensible hoses permanently wall-mounted and connected directly to the central vacuum piping. With a simple gesture, you pull out the hose, vacuum the mess, and the hose retracts automatically.

Installed in the kitchen, bathroom, or laundry room at shoulder height, a Wally Flex station lets you vacuum while standing, effortlessly, without hose handling, and without moving to a closet. For a senior living alone, this is often the piece of equipment that makes the greatest difference in daily independence.

Central Vacuum and Aging in Place

Aging in place is a priority for many seniors. Being able to continue maintaining the home independently, without outside help and without risking personal safety, directly contributes to quality of life and a sense of independence. The central vacuum fits naturally into this goal.

Occupational therapists and aging-in-place specialists increasingly recommend central vacuums as adapted equipment for seniors or people with disabilities, precisely because they reduce overall physical effort while maintaining a high level of cleanliness in the home.

Can a Central Vacuum Be Installed in a Home Already Adapted for Reduced Mobility?

Yes, and it's often simpler than you'd think. Homes adapted for reduced mobility generally have accessible utility spaces and a layout that facilitates piping installation. The installation can even be planned to account for the resident's specific constraints — for example, positioning inlet valves at a height accessible from a wheelchair, or avoiding thresholds and floor-level obstacles.

If you are planning home adaptation renovations, this is the ideal time to integrate a central vacuum into your project. Our team can help you plan the most suitable configuration for your situation.

An Investment That Grows With You

The central vacuum is one of the rare household appliances whose value increases with the age of its users. What is simply convenient at 40 gradually becomes essential at 65, 70, or 80. By installing it now, you're making an investment that will accompany you throughout your life in your home — one that will contribute to your autonomy and safety as your needs evolve.

When Should You Replace Your Central Vacuum?

A quality central vacuum can last 25, 30, or even 40 years. But like any mechanical equipment, there comes a point where keeping it running costs more than replacing it. How do you know if your unit still has good years ahead, or if it's time to move on? Here are the signs to watch for.

Signs That Your Central Vacuum Is Aging Well

A central vacuum that's aging well is one that still suctions just as strongly as on day one, starts without hesitation, makes no unusual noises, and still filters effectively. If that's your situation and you're simply worried the appliance is "too old," rest assured: age alone is not a replacement criterion. A unit that works well doesn't need to be replaced, regardless of how old it is.

Signs That Replacement Is Necessary

Persistent Power Loss Despite Maintenance

If your vacuum has lost significant suction power and the problem persists even after emptying the reservoir, cleaning or replacing the filter, and checking the piping for any potential clog, the motor may be at the end of its life. Carbon brush motors — used in some models — lose power gradually and cannot be regenerated indefinitely.

Difficult or Intermittent Starting

If your central vacuum refuses to start, shuts off on its own mid-use, or starts intermittently, this is generally a sign of an electrical issue — a failing contact, an end-of-life circuit board, or a motor that overheats too quickly and cuts out via thermal protection. Some of these repairs are cost-effective; others are not, especially on a unit over 20 years old.

Persistent Unusual Noises

A sharp whistling, a rhythmic clicking, excessive vibration, or grinding are symptoms to take seriously. A whistling sound may indicate an air leak in the piping or at the canister seal — often repairable at low cost. A clicking or vibration coming from the motor itself is more concerning and may indicate a worn ball bearing or a damaged fan blade.

A Burning Smell During Use

A burning smell is always a red flag. It may come from a clogged filter forcing the motor to overheat, or from a motor itself nearing end of life with deteriorating windings. In this case, stop using the appliance immediately and consult a technician before continuing.

Replacement Parts No Longer Available

If your central vacuum is so old that bags, filters, and replacement parts are no longer available anywhere, the replacement question answers itself. A unit that can no longer be properly maintained gradually loses its effectiveness and becomes a source of frustration.

Repair or Replace: How to Decide?

The general rule of thumb in the home appliance industry is simple: if the cost of repair exceeds 50% of the price of an equivalent new unit, replacement is generally the wiser choice. For a central vacuum, this rule applies with an important nuance — high-end units with permanent induction motors often justify investing more in repairs, because their motors are designed for exceptional longevity and replacing them prematurely would be a waste.

For an entry-level or mid-range unit over 15 years old with a failing motor, replacement is almost always the better economic option. Technology has advanced, motors are more efficient, and a new unit will be under warranty for several years.

Can You Replace Only the Motor Unit Without Redoing the Piping?

Yes — and this is one of the great advantages of a centralized vacuum system. The PVC piping, inlet valves, and fittings have a virtually unlimited lifespan. When the motor unit reaches end of life, it simply needs to be replaced with a compatible new model, without touching the existing installation. This is a relatively straightforward operation and far less expensive than a complete new installation from scratch.

This is why the total cost of a second central vacuum in an already-equipped home is significantly lower than the initial cost — you only pay for the motor unit and connection labor, not for the piping or inlet valves.

What to Look for in a Replacement Central Vacuum?

If you decide to replace your unit, it's an opportunity to reassess your current needs, which may have evolved since the original installation:

• Do you now have pets that weren't there originally?
• Have household members developed allergies or respiratory issues?
• Has your home's square footage changed due to renovations or an addition?
• Would you like to take advantage of newer technologies — quieter permanent induction motors, improved HEPA filtration, digital controls?

Our team can help you make the right choice while taking your existing installation into account. Contact us for a free assessment.

The 7 Mistakes to Avoid When Buying a Central Vacuum

Buying a central vacuum is a purchase you will likely make only once or twice in your lifetime. It's worth getting it right the first time. After years of advising customers in Quebec, here are the most common mistakes we see — and how to avoid them.

Mistake #1: Choosing Based Solely on Airwatts

Airwatts are the unit of measurement most commonly highlighted in advertisements and spec sheets, precisely because they produce impressive numbers. But as we explain in our technical guides, Airwatts are a derived unit calculated from a mathematical formula — they do not directly measure raw suction power.

Two vacuums with identical Airwatt ratings can perform very differently on your home's floors. The most reliable indicator for residential use remains inches of water ("H2O), which measures actual suction force. Always compare this value first, and use Airwatts as supplementary data rather than the primary criterion.

Mistake #2: Underestimating the Area to Cover

Buying a central vacuum slightly underpowered for your home is one of the most costly mistakes to correct after the fact. A motor constantly running at its maximum limit will wear out faster and deliver disappointing performance, especially in rooms furthest from the motor unit.

The rule: always choose a model rated for a square footage slightly larger than your home. If your home is 2,500 sq. ft., go for a model designed for 3,000 to 3,500 sq. ft. That extra capacity means a motor that works less hard, better longevity, and more consistent performance even as the reservoir begins to fill.

Mistake #3: Forgetting to Count All Inlet Valves

Every suction inlet installed — whether a standard wall valve, a Vacpan, a Wally Flex station, or a retractable hose system — represents additional load on the motor unit. Many buyers calculate the power needed for the standard wall inlets, then later add a Vacpan in the kitchen and a Wally Flex in the garage, without realizing that these additions may exceed their unit's capacity.

Plan all your inlets from the start — even those you won't install for another year or two — and choose your motor unit accordingly.

Mistake #4: Neglecting the Installation Type in Favor of the Motor Unit

A lot of time and energy goes into choosing the motor unit, while the type of installation — standard 24-volt, Super Valve 120-volt, retractable hose — often has a more direct impact on daily comfort. A retractable hose installation like Hide-a-Hose or Retraflex radically changes the user experience, to the point where customers who had a central vacuum for 10 years and rarely used it become daily users after switching.

Take the time to honestly reflect on your actual cleaning behavior before locking in on an installation configuration.

Mistake #5: Buying the Hose Last

The hose is often treated as a secondary accessory, when in fact it is the primary interface between you and your vacuum — it is literally everything you hold in your hand during cleaning. A poor-quality hose that is too short, lacks a convenient switch, or has an uncomfortable handle turns a pleasant experience into a chore.

Invest in a quality hose from the start. If you have carpets, make sure your hose configuration is compatible with the powerbrush you want to use. If you have elderly people in your home, opt for a lightweight hose with an ergonomic handle. The hose deserves as much attention as the motor unit itself.

Mistake #6: Ignoring the Warranty and After-Sales Support

A central vacuum is a long-term investment. The manufacturer's warranty and the availability of local technical support are therefore important criteria, often ignored when comparing prices. A slightly cheaper unit whose replacement parts are difficult to find in Quebec, or whose after-sales service is unavailable locally, can become a significant source of frustration if a problem arises.

Buy from an authorized dealer with qualified technicians capable of supporting you locally. The peace of mind this provides over 25 years is well worth a few extra dollars at the time of purchase.

Mistake #7: Putting Off the Installation After Moving Into a New Home

This mistake is particularly common when buying or building a new home. Installing a central vacuum is infinitely simpler and less expensive when the walls are open, the floors aren't yet laid, and electricians and plumbers are already on site. Putting off the installation means multiplying labor costs and technical constraints.

If you are building or undergoing major renovations, add the central vacuum to your project list from the planning phase. The marginal installation cost during construction or major renovation is a fraction of what it will cost to do it afterward, once the walls are closed and the finishes are complete.

Still unsure about the right choice for your situation? Our team is available to advise you without obligation — we've been central vacuum specialists in Quebec since 1985 and have seen just about every possible configuration.