Central vacuum units are great additions to most homes. They provide homeowners with a quick and easy way to keep their homes clean without the need to carry a vacuum from room to room. A central vacuum unit has pipes that run throughout the entire house with entry points into each room via vents. Hoses and other attachments can be connected to these vents and used to vacuum each room. The power that central vacuum units have is usually much greater than standard vacuums. Of course, just like any other piece of machinery, central vacuum units can break down and need repairs.
Costs of Repair
The cost to repair a central vacuum unit varies depending not only on the make and model of the unit, but also on the repair needs. Usually, contractors charge homeowners by the hour, between $15 and $55 on average, for this kind of service. It is important to keep in mind that this price does not include parts. For example, if a central vacuum unit needs a new bag, the homeowner would be charged not only a flat rate per hour but also for the cost of the bag, which can range in price from $5 to $50 for a pack of three. Most bags on central vacuum units need to be replaced every three to six months depending on usage.
If a central vacuum unit is too loud, homeowners can have mufflers professionally installed. These traditionally cost $10 to $25. Replacement hoses, which are often made of cloth, cost between $10 and $30. Motors for these units usually last about 20 years. Replacing a burned-out motor averages between $100 and $700.
Reasons for Repair
There are many reasons why a central vacuum may need to be repaired. Because only a professional can determine the reason a unit needs to be repaired, homeowners can only look for signs that their units need to be repaired. Once these signs are noticed, it's important to call a professional right away. Below are the most common signs that a homeowner might have to contact a professional for central vacuum unit repairs.
- Reduced suction or no suction
- Clogged pipes, which can be caused by damaged tubing
- Leaks, which reduce suction
- Failure to turn on or off
- Burning smell
Why Homeowners Should Not Attempt to Do Central Vacuum Repairs Themselves
Although some homeowners fancy themselves as great at home improvement projects, repairing central vacuum units is something best left to the professionals. This is because many of the repairs that are needed on central vacuum units are electrical. Failure to fix these electrical problems correctly can lead to electrical fires or even further damage to the unit. Other common problems for central vacuum units require work on the motors. This may include, but is not limited to, lubrication of the motor's bearings or replacement of the carbon brushes. Professionals can identify these problems when an average homeowner might overlook them.
Hiring a contractor also offers homeowners a little insurance. If they attempt to do the repairs themselves and end up damaging the unit, they are left with an even bigger repair bill or possibly the need to replace the unit altogether. However, if contractors are hired, but are unable to fix the problem, the homeowners are not stuck with the bill.
