Choosing a Collection and Filtration System for Your Central Vacuum

Construction & Contractors Blog

When buying a central vacuum (CV), the collection and filtration method is one of the important considerations to be made. There are three common collection methods, each with its advantages and disadvantages. The method you choose will depend on your own budget and preferences, since there are different sizes and performance specifications for each category. Read on to understand a little about the collection systems to help you make the best decision for you.

Bag-only systems

This system resembles the paper-bag portable vacuum. When the bag is filled, bag change includes disposal of the filter and collection system in addition to the bag. This way, the air around isn't contaminated when changing bags. Getting rid of the collection system plus filters removes any odours the filters accumulated in time.

Bag-only systems are ideal in homes where the power unit must be installed in one of the home's clean rooms. They are also ideal for those with respiratory issues like asthma and those with allergies and dust sensitivity. Of course, installing this system means dealing with the additional cost of filters and bags. Also, you have more limited choice of models compared with bagless or hybrid systems.

Permanently filtered bagless system

This is one of the most commonly-used CV design, and it includes a permanent cloth installed within the unit. The cloth separates the incoming air with all dirt and debris from the outgoing air which has been cleaned. Incoming air is cleaned by suctioning through the motor so the debris remains on one side. A mechanical flexing mechanism is included in the design to help filter the debris into a collection bin which you will empty.

These are advantageous in that they offer great motor protection and are available in a number of models. However, it requires additional effort to keep track of and empty the collection bin. Because filters are not removable, any odour it acquires is kept. There are also limitations regarding where they can be installed, as well as performance of these systems compared with the bag-only systems.

HYBRID systems

These are built like permanently filtered systems, but include a few changes in the filter media and/or intake systems. This makes it so that you can either have the conventional bagless dump-out of the above system or install a disposable bag, which just needs replacing. The mode changes depending on what you want.

The advantages are obvious: you have great motor protection in addition to flexibility in collection. In addition, these can be installed in more locations than permanently-filtered bagless systems. The major disadvantages include degraded performance while in bagless mode and additional cost of disposal bags in disposable bag mode.

Share

20 June 2016