Which Central Vacuum Hose Fits My Central Vacuum?

Getting a central vacuum system is a great investment, especially for multi-level homes. No more lugging canister or upright vacuums up and down stairs - what a relief! However, it’s not without challenges. You’ve got to find a central vacuum hose that will work with your central vacuum, which isn’t as simple as it may sound.

In this article, you’ll learn everything you need to know about central vacuum hoses, including what the three types of them are and how they’re unique. Read on to learn more about central vacuum hoses!

Three Types of Central Vacuum Hoses

First of all, let’s go over the different types of central vacuum hoses. Luckily, there are only three different kinds, although some of them go by other names (so it gets a bit confusing). Here are the different types of central vacuum hoses you can expect:

Basic central vacuum hoses (also known as straight suction hoses or standard hoses)
Low-voltage central vacuum hoses
Electric central vacuum hoses (also known as dual-voltage hoses)

In the next section, we’ll cover each type of hose in more detail, along with a short rundown of what we have to offer here at eVacuumStore.com so you can get the best central vacuum hose available for your home.

1. Basic Central Vacuum Hoses

Basic central vacuum hoses can fit the majority of central vacuum wall inlets. They’re crush-proof and plug right into the wall inlet. The metal connection on the end of the hose automatically completes the low-voltage circuit to turn the central vacuum on, which means you’ll enjoy instant suction within moments.

Likewise, as soon as you unplug the vacuum from the wall inlet, your central vacuum will stop. Basic (or standard) hoses come with a built-in air relief valve in the handle of the hose which allows you to operate it without worrying about whether you’ve got too much (or not enough) suction. You can release set-in dirt from your carpets or clean even the most delicate rugs and drapes with no fear of damaging them.

Basic hoses come with a secure button lock system rather than a friction fit and can come in multiple sizes. Most basic hoses have an interior diameter of an inch and a quarter, allowing standard airflow - however, larger-diameter hoses are available if you’re interested.

Basic Central Vacuum Hoses:

2. Low-Voltage Central Vacuum Hoses

Low-voltage hoses have a thin series of low-voltage wires running through which allow you to have complete control of your central vacuum. When you insert the hose into the wall inlet, the metal band at the end will complete the circuit for a low voltage connection, enabling you to turn the unit on and off using a power switch.

One of the obvious advantages to low-voltage vacuums is that, due to the fact that they have a two-position rocker switch on the handle, you can turn the vacuum on and off as you please. This is especially handy if you happen to have frequent interruptions during your cleaning time - rather than unplugging the hose every time you need to be heard, you can flip a switch instead.

Low-voltage hoses also usually come with a 360-degree swivel capability which maximizes your performance and minimizes frustration, along with wrist strain or fatigue. Enjoy a longer-lasting hose life and less kinking with a low-voltage hose. Similar to basic hoses, you can increase the amount of suction or decrease it for delicate rugs or fabrics.

Low-Voltage Central Vacuum Hoses:

3. Electric Central Vacuum Hoses

Electric hoses (or dual-voltage hoses) are built with low-voltage and high voltage wires which run through the hose, allowing you to enjoy the greatest versatility possible. Like basic hoses, electric hoses fit the majority of central vacuum wall inlets. Unlike many basic hoses, however, most electric hoses have a wider inner diameter, allowing for 27% better airflow than the standard size.

The low-voltage wires in electric hoses conduct the signal from the hose to the central vacuum when the central vacuum switch is turned on. The high-voltage wires are supplied by a pigtail cord or a direct connection on the wall end of the hose. This enables you to use a special attachment to clean your home such as a power nozzle or electric beater bar.

Due to the fact that you get extra power with an electric central vacuum, you also get a 3-way power switch:

Suction Off (O)
Suction On (I)
Suction and Electric Power Nozzle On (II)

The three-way switch has the “Off” position in the middle, and the “On” setting is on the left of the switch, with the “Suction and Electric Nozzle” setting to the right. Electric hoses come with an orthopedic grip and 360-degree swivel handle for maximum performance and minimal wrist strain. Rotate the handle 90 degrees in order to clean underneath furniture, and increase or decrease suction as desired.

Electric Central Vacuum Hoses:

Have Questions? We’ve Got You Covered

Whether you’re looking for a central vacuum replacement hose or you’ve just installed your central vacuum system, we’ve got the answers you need. Ask us anything - our expert team of customer service specialists are happy to help.Call 866-972-8227 for more information.