Comparing NuTone PP5501, PP6501, PP7001
NuTone central vacuums are known for their excellent filtration, high power and reasonable prices. These quality machines are great for a wide array of homes and come with multiple cleaning features and accessories for taking care of multiple floor types and even furniture.
Investing in a central vacuum can take your home's cleaning routine to the next level. With a NuTone central vacuum, you'll enjoy unmatched air quality, high power suction and a very quiet clean. Each NuTone delivers a superb cleaning experience, but various models have been designed with specific advantages meant to better serve different types of homes. Before diving into a purchase, let's take a moment to compare the following three models of NuTone central vacuum: the PP5501, the PP5601 and the PP7001. Each is a superb vacuum, but you may find that one is a better fit for your home and lifestyle.
Understanding specifications
Vacuum specifications refer to the power capabilities and size of the machine itself. These include measurements like voltage, wattage and amperage. For this article, we'll be comparing specifications across NuTone central vacuums only, which makes comparison easy. You should always be wary of comparing specifications between vacuums of different brands as some companies may have slightly different ways of getting their numbers, and this can affect the comparison.
Comparing voltage
Don't stress yourself looking for a vacuum with the best voltage. Household appliances are almost universally 120 volts because voltage is limited by the power source. Anything above 120 will not function properly and could cause damage. You may notice some devices label themselves as 110 volts instead. This is because it is common for the voltage in your home to dip down to 110 every now and then. All NuTone central vacuums are equipped to handle this fluctuation with no hassle.
Comparing wattage
Wattage is the measurement that indicates the overall power of the vacuum. A machine with more watts can handle larger homes. Installing a central vacuum without the wattage to handle your entire home means debris won't be efficiently pulled through the hose system.
However, wattage measurements do not take into account the overall efficiency of the motor and comparing wattage across different brands can be tricky. A highly efficient vacuum with lower wattage may function better than a less efficient machine with greater wattage.
Comparing decibel rating
The decibel rating indicates how quiet the machine is while it operates. The NuTone line of central vacuums operate at a decibel rating somewhere in the 60's, depending on the model. For reference, most full-size vacuums are somewhere in the 70's and a garbage disposal typically has a decibel rating of 80.
Central vacuums have a further sound advantage over other machines, and that is their location. The central vacuum itself is usually located in a basement, sub room or closet. This further muffles the noise as the machine runs.
Comparing amps
Because they are inherently more powerful than standard vacuums, central vacuums have higher amperage ratings. Central vacuums typically pull more than 12 amps and for this reason they are not preferred by people who want to keep their electricity consumption down.
The NuTone models of central vacuum usually operate at 12 to 13.5 amps, which is slightly below the average for a central vacuum.
Comparing size
The size and overall power of a central vacuum is the most important general comparison you can make. Smaller vacuums are inherently less powerful, but that's not always a bad thing. It can be just as bad to have too powerful a vacuum as it can be to have one that is too weak. Be sure to select the vacuum that fits your home, not just the one that is the biggest or most powerful.
Comparing filtration
Some central vacuum models utilize HEPA-grade filtration while others do not. Typically the larger models are equipped with HEPA filters. HEPA-grade filtration is a way to capture even finer debris in the filter.
HEPA filters are not always necessary. In the average home, you may not even notice the difference. However, in homes where residents are sensitive to debris or have allergies or other respiratory sensitivities, a HEPA filter may be the best choice. HEPA filters can also help clean up after pets.
Comparing price
When investing in a central vacuum cleaner, price is an important factor for most people. However, more expensive doesn't always mean better. A cheaper model may be better designed to suit your home. Compare models by their size and power before looking into prices.
Features comparison
All three NuTone central vacuum models are sturdy, powerful machines. However, they all have subtle differences that may make one a better choice for your home. A central vacuum is an investment for your house, so take in all the facts before making your decision and you'll end up with the perfect central vacuum, ready to keep your home clean for years to come.
NuTone PP5501
The NuTone PP5501 is the smallest of the three models in this series. It is designed for homes 1,000 to 4,000 square feet in size. This vacuum fits nicely in smaller homes or condominiums.
Special attributes
The NuTone PP5501 excels primarily in the area of sound control. This model has been designed to have the lowest decibel rating of all the NuTone central vacuum models with no muffler required. This is particularly useful in homes were the placement of the central vacuum cannot compensate for a louder volume. For example, a louder vacuum can be placed in a basement or sub room which will muffle the sound. In homes where this is not a possibility and the vacuum must be placed in a closet, the NuTone PP5501 may be the preferred option.
The NuTone PP5501 achieves its low decibel rating though a combination of sound absorbing materials and high performance assembly techniques which compliment its Thru-flow motor.
Features
The NuTone PP5501 comes with a wide range of useful and unique features.
- Thru-flow motor
The Thru-flow motor contributes to the machine's quiet operation levels. Easily clean during sensitive times of the day without disturbing other residents. With the NuTone PP5501, vacuuming can even be done while watching T.V. or talking on the phone.
- Ergonomic latches
The debris pail is equipped with ergonomic latches that make emptying the central vacuum simple. The handles swiftly flip open so the disposable bag can be easily and hygienically removed when full.
- Large size disposable bag
The disposable vacuum bag holds 6 gallons of debris. On average, the NuTone PP5501 needs emptied only twice a year. NuTone model 391 vacuum bags required.
- Wall-mount bracket
The wall mounted bracket means the vacuum is mounted securely and safely.
- 5-year parts warranty
- 3-year labor warranty
Enjoy the support of an award-winning customer support team.
Specifications
- Voltage: 120
- Wattage: 550
- Decibels: 66dB
- Amps: 12
- Cleaning capacity: 1,000 to 4,000 square feet
NuTone PP6501
The NuTone PP6501 is a step up in power and size. It is designed for homes and condominiums from 2,000 to 7,000 square feet in size. This vacuum is a good compromise between high power and a compact design.
Special attributes
The NuTone PP6501 increases the power and suction of the PP5501 and focuses on a finer filtration process. The PP6501 utilizes HEPA filtration technology. HEPA filtration is capable of capturing debris as small as .3 microns. The NuTone PP6501 is a better option for homes where residents are sensitive to debris in the air.
Features
The NuTone PP6501 comes with a wide range of useful and unique features.
- Thru-flow motor
The Thru-flow motor contributes to the machine's quiet operation levels. Easily clean during sensitive times of the day without disturbing other residents. With the NuTone PP6501, vacuuming can even be done while watching T.V. or talking on the phone.
- Ergonomic latches
The debris pail is equipped with ergonomic latches that make emptying the central vacuum simple. The handles swiftly flip open so the disposable bag can be easily and hygienically removed when full.
- Large size disposable bag
The disposable vacuum bag holds 6 gallons of debris. On average, the NuTone PP6501 needs emptied only twice a year. NuTone model 391 vacuum bags required.
- Multi-directional connection
Set up is easy with the PP6501's multi-directional vacuum connection that allows installation in even small rooms.
- 6-foot power cord
A long power cord makes installation even simpler.
- Wall-mount bracket
The wall mounted bracket means the vacuum is mounted securely and safely.
- 8-year parts warranty
- 5-year labor warranty
Enjoy the support of an award-winning customer support team.
Specifications
- Voltage: 120
- Wattage: 650
- Decibels: 64 dB
- Amps: 13.5
- Cleaning capacity: 2,000 to 7,000 square feet
NuTone PP7001
The NuTone PP7001's greatest attribute is its power. This machine is designed to handle even larger areas, up to 10,000 square feet.
Special attributes
The NuTone PP7001 is the first model to upgrade to a hybrid system that allows you to vacuum with or without a debris bag. This is the most flexible model by far. It provides more versatile cleaning options and even greater filtration with an upgraded HEPA 2.0 filter.
Features
- Thru-flow motor
The Thru-flow motor contributes to the machine's quiet operation levels. Easily clean during sensitive times of the day without disturbing other residents. With the NuTone PP7001, vacuuming can even be done while watching T.V. or talking on the phone.
- Ergonomic latches
The debris pail is equipped with ergonomic latches that make emptying the central vacuum simple. The handles swiftly flip open so the disposable bag can be easily and hygienically removed when full.
- FlexCollect debris disposal
The PP7001 can operate with or without a bag thanks to its hybrid system. NuTone model 391 vacuum can be used, but if you run out, feel free to go bagless without losing power, suction or filtration.
- HEPA 2.0 filtration
Capture more debris than ever and breathe easy while cleaning.
- Multi-directional connection
Set up is easy with the PP7001's multi-directional vacuum connection that allows installation in even small rooms.
- 6-foot power cord
A long power cord makes installation even simpler.
- Wall-mount bracket
The wall mounted bracket means the vacuum is mounted securely and safely.
- 10-year parts warranty
- 6-year labor warranty
Enjoy the support of an award-winning customer support team.
Specifications
- Voltage: 120
- Wattage: 700
- Decibels: 63 dB
- Amps: 13.5
- Cleaning capacity: 2,500 to 10,000 square feet
