Types of Central Vacuum Construction:
When choosing a central vacuum another aspect to consider is the construction type of the vacuum unit. Vacuum units can range from high-quality ABS Polyethylene / Polypropylene injected plastic, to metal, to a combination of both. The quality of the vacuum unit's outer casing is especially important when you factor in vibration, quietness, denting, scratching, rusting, weather conditions and how these things affect the performance and longevity of your central vacuum unit. Please note that the construction material does not in anyway affect the filtration of a vacuum unit, and has no bearing on such things as allergies, dust mites, etc.
Type 1 - ABS Body Constructed Central Vacuums:
Before any ABS production begins, all components are put through rigorous tests and subjected to enormous strain and stress that exceeds typical residential household use. ABS is globally recognized for its durability and longevity and offers such advantages as being dent proof, rust proof, erosion proof, scratch proof and heat resistance as well as offering a vibration-free performance. The use of this material in central vacuum units also greatly helps reduce the decibel level of a unit, making for a quieter operation. In addition to all these features, it also gives you the advantage of having a much lighter canister to work with when changing the bag or dumping the canister. The lighter the canister is, the less likely it is to fall or drop. This can cause heavier metal units to dent. ABS Polyethylene / Polypropylene injected plastic is being used by today's top vacuum manufactures. Vacuum companies such as Sebo, Bosch, Dyson, Electrolux, Oreck, Riccar, Panasonic, Hoover, Eureka & 99% all of the commercial vacuums use this material to ensure longevity and durability. Miele considered the finest quality vacuum in the world, also uses this material in every vacuum they produce. These companies have already recognized the futuristic advantages of this material and all the benefits it has to offer. This isn't your child's toy material! Central vacuum companies that use this state-of-the-art material are; Electrolux, Eureka, Drainvac, Whirlpool, Nutone, Royal, Dirt Devil, Hayden, Vacuflo and so many more.
Type 2 - Metal Body Constructed Central Vacuums:
Many central vacuum companies still use metal as a sign of durability and strength. Metal canisters tend to be much heavier and more difficult to deal with. The vibration caused by the metal design will increase the decibel level and make the vacuum unit operate louder. The metal material may rust over time causing problems with hinges and latches. The metal material may chip over time and is NOT dent proof, rust proof, and erosion proof. Heavy metal canisters may also vibrate themselves off of the mounting bracket, falling to the floor. This design is basically around garage can with a motor in it. Central vacuum companies that use metal are; Hoover, WalVac, Cana-Vac, Budd, Zenex and so many more.
All central vacuums regardless of construction material are designed to last. You will hear many claims from different central vacuum companies about the strength and durability of their vacuum unit's outer casing. These many different claims are based on their own bias opinion and are said to try and influence the consumer. There is truly no good or bad side, but rather a matter of customer opinion. Another important factor when trying to determine the quality of a vacuum units outer casing is its warranty. The length of the warranty is a great indicator of the strength and durability that can be expected from its material. More than 60% of companies in the central vacuum industry will be using state-of-the-art ABS Polyethylene/Polypropylene injected type materials by 2009. Similar to the garbage can industry, which saw the widely used metal trash can virtually disappear and become replaced by the more durable, lighter plastic/rubber style garbage cans, thanks to the injection mold process made famous by companies such as Rubbermaid.
Read ABS vs. Metal Body Construction comparison.
Log In
Create New Account