Central Vacuum Units

Central vacuum units (also called power units) for new installations and for replacing an old unit. Choose from 55 units by VacuMaid, Beam, Cana-Vac, Hayden, NuTone, Kenmore, Titan, Broan and Aqua-Air, rated for homes from 1,000 to 20,000 sq ft. Prices start at $519.95. Most units connect to standard 2 in central vacuum pipe, so a new unit can usually replace an old one of a different brand.

Choose a central vacuum unit by home size

Pick a unit rated for at least your home's square footage, and size up for long pipe runs, many inlets or mostly carpeted floors. See also units for homes up to 12,000 sq ft and our top-rated central vacuum systems.

What to compare

• Coverage (sq ft): the manufacturer's rating for the home size the unit can serve.
• Air watts and water lift: air watts measure overall cleaning power, and water lift (in inches) measures sealed suction strength. Higher numbers mean stronger suction, which matters most in large homes with long pipe runs.
• Filtration: bagged units seal dirt inside a disposable bag. Bagless cyclonic and self-cleaning filter units let you empty the canister with nothing to buy. Some brands, including VacuMaid, Cana-Vac and Beam, make both types, so check the product details.
• Warranty: many units, including Hayden, Cana-Vac and most VacuMaid models, carry 10-year warranties. Check each product page for details.
• Noise: models such as the Broan BQ UltraSilent series are designed to run more quietly, which helps when the unit is mounted near living space.

Replacing an existing central vacuum unit

Most homes can keep their existing pipe, inlets and hose. Choose a new unit rated for your home size, and use a central vacuum swap-out kit to connect the pipe and low-voltage wiring. If your old unit only needs repair, see central vacuum motors, filters, bags and circuit boards.

Building new?

A central vacuum builder's package includes the power unit, hose, tools, inlet valves, pipe and fittings, starting at $899.99. New to central vacuums? Read how central vacuum systems work and our installation guide.

Frequently asked questions

What size central vacuum unit do I need?

Choose a unit rated for at least your home's square footage. For long pipe runs, many inlets or mostly carpeted floors, step up to the next size.

Can I replace my central vacuum unit with a different brand?

Usually, yes. Most units connect to standard 2 in pipe and use low-voltage wiring to turn on from the inlets. A swap-out kit makes the connection easier. Call us with your current model if you're unsure.

Bagged or bagless central vacuum?

Bagged units keep dust sealed inside a bag, which suits allergy sufferers. Bagless units cost nothing to run but need the canister emptied and the filter cleaned. Both work well when sized correctly.

Where is a central vacuum unit installed?

Usually in the garage, basement or a utility room, close to where the main pipe line ends. Venting the exhaust outdoors is recommended. See venting a central vacuum outdoors.

Need help choosing a unit? Call our free tech support line at 866-972-8227, Monday–Friday 8:30am–6pm and Saturday 10am–5pm ET.