Basement
An unfinished or drop-ceiling basement makes main-floor runs simple. A fully finished basement may need a few small access openings, which we point out before any work is booked.
Retrofit installation
Adding a central vacuum to an existing home
Most finished homes can take a central vacuum. The work is in finding clean routes for the pipe, and that is what a retrofit specialist is for.
How a retrofit works
In a finished home the walls are closed, so we look for paths that already exist: an unfinished basement ceiling, stacked closets, a laundry chute area, the garage, or the attic above the top floor. Pipe runs along those paths and inlets are set into interior walls close to where the pipe comes up.
On a typical two-storey house, main-floor inlets are fed from the basement below and upper-floor inlets are fed either from the attic or up through a closet. Every home is different, which is why we quote retrofits in person.
What we look at during the visit
Closets and chases
Stacked closets are the usual way to reach the upper floor without opening finished walls.
Attic access
Upper-floor inlets can sometimes be fed down from the attic into interior walls.
Power-unit spot
Basement, garage or utility room, with room to empty the unit and an outlet your electrician can confirm.
Inlet locations
Central spots near stairs and hallways so one hose length reaches several rooms.
Existing pipe
If the house already has old central vac pipe, we test it before planning anything new.
What usually affects the price of a retrofit
- How many inlets you want and how many floors they serve
- Whether the basement is finished, unfinished or has a drop ceiling
- Attic access and the length of the pipe runs
- Optional garage inlet or exterior exhaust
- Which power unit and hose package you choose (equipment prices are on our Systems page)
FAQ
Common questions
Can you install a central vacuum in a finished home?
Yes, in most cases. We route pipe through basements, closets, the garage and the attic to keep wall openings to a minimum, and we show you any access points before work is booked.
Will there be holes in my walls?
Each inlet needs one opening about the size of a light switch box. Any extra access openings are discussed and agreed with you first.
How long does a retrofit take?
Many homes are done in a day. Larger homes or difficult access can take longer, and we give you a time estimate with your quote.
Ready to talk about your home?
Free in-home installation quotes. Repairs from a $150 plus HST service call.