Question 1

Central vacuum: weak suction

Accepted Answer

Change the dust bag. A full bag is the most common cause. Change the motor filter. Replace it after every 5 dust bags. Check the hose for a clog: drop a coin in one end, hold the hose vertical, and listen for it to come out. Make sure every inlet door and VacPort door is fully closed.

Question 2

Central vacuum: the vacuum won't start

Accepted Answer

Check that the power unit is plugged in and the circuit breaker hasn't tripped. Try a different inlet. If the others work, check the low-voltage wires at the one that doesn't. On remote-control (RC) models, check the switch at the hose handle.

Question 3

Central vacuum: the vacuum won't shut off

Accepted Answer

A stuck or shorted low-voltage connection is the usual cause. Check each inlet and VacPort for a door that's held open or wires touching. Unplug the unit while you work on it.

Question 4

Central vacuum: dust around the power unit

Accepted Answer

Check that the bag is seated on its collar and the door is latched. Use genuine InterVac bags. Non-genuine bags may not seal, and they void the warranty.

Question 5

Central vacuum: split or cracked hose

Accepted Answer

A damaged cuff or a split near the end can usually be repaired. Watch the two-part repair video. A 35+ ft replacement stretch hose (AS-11) is $61.25.

Central vacuum troubleshooting

Weak suction

The vacuum won't start

The vacuum won't shut off

Dust around the power unit

Split or cracked hose

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