Ask the Builder
Central Vacuum Sizing Guidelines
By Tim Carter
©1993-2008 Tim Carter
Summary: Sizing a central vacuum system for the average home is fairly easy. The difference between units lies in the motor of central vacuum systems. Use this chart to help determine which size of the central vacuum cleaner systems is needed for your home.
Central Vacuum Sizing Guidelines
If you have an average sized house, purchasing a central vacuum system will be fairly easy. There are different sized units, but for the most part, they are quite similar. The difference lies entirely in the motor. I have a medium sized unit in my own home and some of my vacuum outlets are very far from the motor. I have never had a problem with suction power. In other words, I don't regret buying the medium sized unit. Just so you know, it was sized properly. I didn't just "guess".
The table below is just a general purpose table to help you get close. Once you select a brand, you will need to refer to its specific sizing table to make sure you get the right unit. If you are on the borderline between two units, always chose the more powerful one.
| House Square Footage |
Cubic Feet Per Minute of Suction |
Water Column Height |
Number of Vacuum Outlets |
Filtration Type |
| 2,500 | 110 | 95 | 3-4 | Cyclonic |
| 6,000 | 107 | 113 | 5-8 | Cyclonic |
| 7,000 | 110 | 123 | 6-10 | Cyclonic |
| 2,300 | 110 | 95 | 2-5 | Foam Filter |
| 5,000 | 100 | 123 | 5-8 | Foam Filter |
| 1,100 | 95 | 90 | 1-3 | Paper Bag |
| 2,400 | 124 | 98 | 2-5 | Paper Bag |
| 4,000 | 90 | 136 | 4-7 | Paper Bag |
