Independent · Hands-on · Installer-reviewed
Everything about central vacuum systems in one place: which power unit fits your pipe and inlets, which hose and powerhead you actually need, and what to do when the old one dies.
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OVO
700 air watts and 140 in of water lift from a 2-stage motor, runs bagged or bagless, fits low-voltage and direct-connect inlets, and carries a 10-year parts warranty.
VacuMaid
740 air watts and 58 dB with a vented exhaust, built in Oklahoma, though VacuMaid rates it for 6,000 sq ft, less than the Beam or the SR66.
Beam
659 air watts, 144.9 in water lift and a self-cleaning GORE filter that runs with or without a bag; a dealer brand built by Trovac since 2024.
Which buyer are you?
You have pipe in the walls. Find a replacement that fits your inlets, bracket, and hose.
Replacement guide →
Is a central vac worth it, what does it cost, and how do you plan inlets and hose length?
Buying guide →
Match the right hose to your inlet type and the right bags, filters, and motors to your model.
Attachments and parts →
Guides
A central vacuum is worth it for most homes over 1,500 sq ft that will be lived in for five or more years. Here is the math, the trade-offs, and who should skip it.
Air watts combine water lift and CFM into one measure of vacuum power. What each spec means, how to read a spec sheet, and why peak horsepower means nothing.
Change a bag when it is firm; empty a bagless bin at the fill line and shake the filter. The schedule by type, how to find your numbers, and a calendar.
Central vacuums collect dirt three ways: disposable bag, permanent filter, or filterless cyclonic. Bagged is cleanest for allergies; bagless runs cheaper.
Reviews
A strong, quiet hybrid unit for large homes, with a long parts warranty and a big canister that stretches the time between emptying.
A capable sealed-HEPA hybrid for mid-size homes, but discontinued, with conflicting warranty terms and an unclear support path after the move to Drainvac.
The most powerful unit in OVO's residential line, built for very large homes and long pipe runs; the trade is a higher noise rating than its siblings.