Won't start
Check the breaker and that the unit is plugged in. Many units have a reset or thermal cut-out. If it runs from the switch on the unit but not from the inlets, the low-voltage wiring or an inlet contact is the likely cause.
Repair & service
Central vacuum repair and service
Diagnosis, repairs and maintenance for central vacuum systems. Serving Barrie, Innisfil and communities across Simcoe County.
Common problems and likely causes
These are possible causes, not a remote diagnosis. A service visit confirms what is wrong before any repair is quoted.
Weak suction everywhere
Full bag or canister, dirty filter, a clog near the unit or a worn motor. More on weak suction.
Weak suction at one inlet
Usually a clog or leak in the branch to that inlet, or a worn inlet seal. Clog service.
Clogged pipe
Something lodged at an elbow or in the hose. Avoid forcing a plumbing snake into wall pipe.
Motor running loudly
Worn bearings or brushes, a loose muffler or a failing motor. Turn it off if it sounds like grinding.
Unit shutting off
Overheating from a blocked filter, a clog or poor ventilation. The thermal cut-out stops the motor to protect it.
Breaker tripping
A failing motor or an electrical fault. Stop using it and book a visit. Any household wiring repair needs a licensed electrician.
Burning smell
Turn the unit off and unplug it. It can mean worn motor brushes, an overheating motor or debris near the motor. Do not keep running it.
Hose not working
Splits, a blockage or a broken switch in the handle. Electric hoses can also have a wiring fault.
Electric powerhead not working
Check the hose connection and the powerhead's reset or belt. Some hoses carry power from a separate cord, some through the inlet.
Inlet not activating the unit
A dirty or bent inlet contact, a broken low-voltage wire, or a fault in the unit's control board.
Aging power unit
If the unit is old, parts are scarce or repairs keep coming, a replacement unit on your existing pipe may be better value.
Motor replacement
On many units the motor can be replaced. We price the motor against a new unit so you can choose.
System inspection
Check of the unit, filter, motor, pipe, inlets, hose and wiring, with honest advice on what needs attention.
Request a service visit
Tell us what the system is doing and add a photo of the unit or its label if you can. We will follow up to book a time.
Phone: (416) 856-6245
Email: info@simcoevac.com
Looking for a new system instead? Request an installation quote.
Before you call
Quick checks you can do yourself
Many suction problems have a simple cause. Start by emptying the bag or canister and checking the filter. Then try the hose at a different inlet. If suction is fine at one inlet and weak at another, the blockage is likely in the piping near the weak one.
If suction is weak at every inlet, try the power unit's own utility inlet if it has one. Strong suction there points to a hose or pipe blockage. Weak suction there points to the unit, filter or motor.
How it works
What happens on a service call
01
Book a visit
Use the form below or call. Tell us the brand, model and what the system is doing.
02
Diagnosis
We test the power unit, hose, inlets, piping and wiring to find the cause. Service calls start at $150 plus HST.
03
Clear quote
If a repair or part is needed, we quote it before any work goes ahead.
04
Repair and check
Once you approve, we fix it, test every inlet and share maintenance tips.
Service area
Serving Barrie, Innisfil and communities across Simcoe County
We repair and maintain central vacuum systems in Barrie, Innisfil, Alcona, Lefroy, Stroud, Cookstown, Bradford, Angus and nearby Simcoe County communities, whether the system is a few years old or has been in the house for decades.
If you live nearby and are not sure whether you are in our area, call (416) 856-6245 or email info@simcoevac.com and we will let you know.
Towns we visit
- Barrie
- Innisfil
- Alcona
- Bradford
- Lefroy
- Stroud
- Cookstown
- Angus
Serving Simcoe County since 2016.
FAQ
Service and repair questions
Why has my central vacuum lost suction?
The most common causes are a full bag or canister, a clogged filter, or a blockage in the hose or piping. A leaking inlet door seal or a worn motor can also reduce suction. Check the bag and filter first. If that does not help, a service call can find the problem.
How often should I change the bag or clean the filter?
It depends on how often you vacuum and the size of your home. Check the bag or canister every few months and follow the manufacturer's manual for your model. Hybrid units use a bag along with a filter, and both need regular attention.
What does a service call cost?
Service calls start at $150 plus HST. That covers the visit and diagnosing the problem. Repair labour and parts are quoted before any work goes ahead, so there are no surprises.
My system will not turn on. What should I check?
Check the breaker and make sure the power unit is plugged in. Some units have a reset button or thermal cut-out. If the unit runs from the power switch but not from the inlets, the low-voltage wiring or an inlet may be the issue.
Should I repair my old unit or replace it?
That depends on the age of the unit, the cost of parts and the condition of your piping. After diagnosing the problem we will tell you honestly whether a repair or a new power unit makes more sense.
Can you work on a system someone else installed?
Tell us the brand and model when you book. We will let you know up front whether we can help and whether parts are available for your system.