The best centralized vacuum cleaners in the UK 2023

The top of the line in terms of vacuum cleaners, the centralized model is more efficient and silent than the classic vacuum cleaner. The central unit is placed in a fixed point of the house while its suction pipes, constituting a real network, serve all the rooms. You can add a wand, a flexible hose, a brush and a nozzle to use it every day. With bag or with tank? Discover through this complete guide the best central vacuum models.

Atepac HD800C
9/10

Editor's Choice

Atepac HD800C

The best central vacuum in 2021

The Atepac HD800C, accompanied by an exceptional 10-year warranty, can cover a total area of 350 m². The device will be offered with a garage kit, a broomstick kit and a 9 m hose.

755 £ on Manomano

The Atepac HD800C shows an unmatched durability. Embedding a high performance 2-stage By-Pass motor that is very robust, it requires no filter or bag. This motor consumes on average between 1200 and 1400 W. Its design allows you to benefit from a remarkable cyclonic effect, sucking up the dust before depositing it at the bottom of the tank.

In addition to the 10-year warranty, the Atepac HD800C, ideally designed for a maximum surface area of 350 m², is available with a crumb collection kit and a garage socket kit. Its vacuum of 31 KPa coupled with an air flow of 205 m³/h and a power of 500 AirWatts guarantees you an optimal efficiency. The unit has a 23.3 L dust container and operates with a nominal noise level of 71 dB.

Aenera 1801
7/10

Best cheapest

Aenera 1801

The best entry-level central vacuum

Despite the lack of accessories, the Aenera 1801 still offers performance worthy of the latest generation models. It is able to cover a surface of up to 300 m².

386 £ on Manomano

You will certainly not find better for such an efficiency/price ratio. Of course, all the accessories such as hoses, brushes and nozzles are missing, but this does not affect the performance of the equipment, especially since it can perfectly meet 90% of your cleaning needs. To make up for this lack, the designer has gone to great lengths to improve the aesthetics and durability of the central vacuum cleaner. This one has been elaborated with brushed aluminum, giving it a visually attractive aspect and conferring an excellent resistance to corrosion.

This cyclonic model has an exclusive and washable filtration system that, combined with the cyclonic action, allows you to clean optimally without compromising on suction power. With a height of 70 cm and a diameter of 33 cm, the Aenera 1801 can be placed anywhere in your home. Best of all, its direct-cooling motor works quietly while letting you enjoy proper airflow.

Aldes 11071102 C.Power
9/10

Best high end

Aldes 11071102 C.Power

The best high-end central vacuum

Suitable for all types of homes, new or renovated, with a maximum surface area of 400 m², the Aldes 11071102 C.Power is one of the most robust in its range.

966 £ on Manomano

The Aldes 11071102 C.Power covers all dwellings with a maximum surface area of 400 m², whether it is a single-family home or a professional building. It is also suitable for all types of floors. It will not stumble even under intensive use. Its power varies from 1400 W to double depending on the activated mode (Eco, standard and Boost). In addition to its basic functions, this device is equipped with a timer that can be set for 30 minutes.

The starting, as well as the stopping, is done in wireless mode. In addition, the connection to the crumb tray requires a voltage of 24 V. Unlike the tank model, this one promises a more hygienic use. Note that the bag filtration offers you up to 6 to 12 months of autonomy. Included in the delivery is a storage bag for the accessories and the flexible hose, a flexible hose with a diameter of 34 mm and a length of 7.5 m, a control handle, a telescopic metal arm, a floor brush, nozzles, a 30-liter bag and a Twinett wipe brush.

AirFlow 2100
8/10

Excellent choice

AirFlow 2100

A great alternative

This centralized vacuum cleaner, with a diameter of 30 cm and a height of 75 cm, can take care of a surface of 400 m². It can be connected to a maximum of 12 outlets and provides an airflow of 207 m³/h.

545 £ on Manomano

The AirFlow is equipped with a new generation direct-cooling motor, 2 inlets and 2 outlets. Capable of working on a surface of up to 400 m² and 75 cm high, it will easily find a good place in your garage as well as in your laundry room. As usual, the brand includes in the purchase various elements that will only facilitate the use of the central vacuum cleaner, namely the crumbs collection kit and the garage plug kit.

Not surprisingly, the AirFlow 2100 is well worth its price. Its performance is indeed comparable to that of high-end models. In terms of power, it proudly displays its 2160 W or so. In practice, you'll be even more surprised by this unit's prowess. With a noise level of only 55 dB, it is equipped with a dust collection tank with a capacity of 30 L.

Buying guide • November 2023

Best centralized vacuum cleaner

Any specific needs?

The best central vacuum in 2021

The best entry-level central vacuum

The best high-end central vacuum

A great alternative

Your guide : Samuel

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Comparison table of the best centralized vacuum cleaners

THE BEST CHEAP TOP OF THE LINE EXCELLENT
Atepac HD800C
9/10
Aenera 1801
7/10
Aldes 11071102 C.Power
9/10
AirFlow 2100
8/10
OUR SELECTION
Atepac HD800C
Aenera 1801
Aldes 11071102 C.Power
AirFlow 2100
The Atepac HD800C, accompanied by an exceptional 10-year warranty, can cover a total area of 350 m². The device will be offered with a garage kit, a broomstick kit and a 9 m hose.
Despite the lack of accessories, the Aenera 1801 still offers performance worthy of the latest generation models. It is able to cover a surface of up to 300 m².
Suitable for all types of homes, new or renovated, with a maximum surface area of 400 m², the Aldes 11071102 C.Power is one of the most robust in its range.
This centralized vacuum cleaner, with a diameter of 30 cm and a height of 75 cm, can take care of a surface of 400 m². It can be connected to a maximum of 12 outlets and provides an airflow of 207 m³/h.
Recommended surface area
Up to 350 m²
Up to 300 m²
400 m²
400 m²
Air flow rate
205 m³/h
225 m³/h
2 x 210 m³/h
207 m³/h
Noise level
71 dB
69 dB
58 dB
55 dB
Tank/bag capacity
23.3 L
15 L
30 L
30 L
Dimensions
102.1 x 35.8 cm
70 x 33 cm
410 x 780 x 370 mm
75 x 30 cm

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Buying guide - centralized vacuum cleaner

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How to choose your centralized vacuum cleaner

You have decided to buy a central vacuum cleaner? Don't rush! Take the time to study these criteria that we consider to be the most important to make the right choice.
choisir aspirateur centralisé

#1 - Location

As for the location of your central vacuum cleaner, there are several options available to you. You can place it in your garage or basement if there is a lot of space. In this case, choose a model with a circular body. In a narrow garage, choose a classic and compact central vacuum. Finally, we suggest a compact, built-in model if you plan to install it in the laundry room, pantry or dressing room.

#2 - Surface to be cleaned

Pay particular attention to the surface area recommended by the manufacturer. Make sure it's compatible with your needs, which is the area you plan to clean on a daily basis. If the average is between 300 and 400 m², you are required to consider the number of outlets you can connect to the central vacuum, the maximum distance between the furthest outlet and the central vacuum as well as the length of the hose.

#3 - Tub or bag?

Efficient and hygienic, the central vacuum with bag requires regular replacement of the dust container. The capacity varies according to the brand and model, but it will always be expressed in liters (L). On the other hand, the central vacuum cleaner with tank is very practical because you don't have to change the bag frequently. However, it is not recommended if you have respiratory problems. You risk breathing in dust when emptying the dust bin.

#4 - Power, flow and vacuum

The efficiency of your central vacuum cleaner is totally dependent on the power, flow rate and vacuum. These parameters, in turn, are based on the type of floors and coverings to be treated.

  • The suction power : depending on the model, it can go from 420 AW to + 1000 W. If it is high, you will benefit from a perfect balance between flow and pressure. As a minimum, choose a model with 500 AW.
  • Vacuum : This is expressed in kPa (kilopascal) or mmWC (millimeter water column pressure). You must match it with the type of coating to be cleaned. For example, in the case of a smooth floor, prefer a vacuum around 20 to 35 kPa, knowing that the standard level (for hard floor and carpet) is 40 kPa.
  • The flow rate : quoted in dm³/s or m³/h calculates the capacity of the central vacuum cleaner to transport the dust to the dust collector. Its choice depends on the type of floor: a smooth floor requires an airflow of about 36 dm³/s while for a hard floor, you need 40 dm³/s.

#5 - Noise level

Although the motor is placed at a good distance from your living spaces, make sure that the noise produced cannot disturb your family members. Measured in decibels, it averages between 60 and 80 dB. To give you an accurate idea of the volume of sound, know that 70 dB corresponds to the sound of a normal conversation between two people at a distance of one meter. If possible, we strongly recommend that you place your future central vacuum cleaner in the garage or think about a model whose noise emission is quite low.

#6 - Accessories

Choose carefully the accessories of your central vacuum cleaner. The dust collector bin must be ergonomic if you want to empty it easily. Its volume depends on the available space and the surface to be maintained. For bag models, you will have to check the availability of replacement bags and their capacity. A filter that can be easily removed makes maintenance easier. In addition, well-made and interchangeable brushes and nozzles will optimize the performance of the unit.

How does the central vacuum cleaner work?

avis aspirateur centralisé

The centralized vacuum cleaner is used by professionals as well as private individuals. It forms a network of ingeniously installed ducts that, connected to outlets, will allow the cleaning of the entire house via light and long hoses. How does it really work and what are its components?

How it works

The central vacuum cleaner is made up of pipes designed mostly with PVC of about 50 mm in diameter. They are embedded in the walls so as not to harm the aesthetics of your home. Connected to the central vacuum unit in the garage or laundry room, these pipes instantly transport the dust and dirt into the tank or the waterproof bag. The tank takes up about the same space as a hot water tank. Suction outlets with watertight valves are located in the walls or baseboards. On average, one outlet covers an area of 80 m². It is therefore not necessary to install them in every room.

To use the central vacuum cleaner, you must first connect the hose to a wall outlet. Because of its standard length of 8 or 9 m, this hose gives you the possibility to move from one place to another with ease. Connect other accessories to the hose depending on the type of surface to be cleaned, switch on the device and start vacuuming.

The components of a central vacuum cleaner

In general, the central vacuum cleaner comes with a wall mounting system and many accessories including nozzles, brushes, canes and vacuum outlets. Some models even include crumb catcher outlets that must be integrated into the baseboard of your kitchen. Outlets equipped with a switch require the installation of electrical wires, apart from the pipes. There are models with sound detection or vibration triggering.

The central vacuum cleaner consists of the following basic components:

  • The central vacuum unit
  • The hoses
  • The fixings
  • Elbows (90° maximum) and fittings

The different types of centralized vacuum cleaners

Currently, there are two main families of central vacuum cleaners, namely the bag model and the tank model, each with specific subtypes.

Bagged central vacuum cleaner

aspirateur centralisé à sac

The central vacuum cleaner with bag adopts the same operating mode as a portable vacuum cleaner. It collects dust exclusively in a disposable bag. This system is more practical and hygienic as the dirt and any bacteria are trapped in the bag in an airtight manner. Although the process requires a little maintenance, it guarantees a better durability of the whole device. Also, the noise level is kept to a minimum.

There are two subtypes of central vacuum cleaners with bags, including :

  • The bag and filter model : ideal for people with asthma and allergies, the bag prevents direct contact with dust and dirt. For pet owners, if hair clogs the filter, performance and suction power will decrease.
  • The hybrid model : this is called this because the bag is optional. However, the bag is necessary if you are allergic or asthmatic. In the event that you do not wish to use the bag, the emptying of the tank is essential as soon as it is full.

Central vacuum cleaner with canister

aspirateur centralisé à cuve

This type of central vacuum cleaner requires regular maintenance and emptying of the dust container. It is less hygienic than the central vacuum with bag. We do not recommend it if you have allergies or asthma.

  • The cyclonic central vacuum cleaner (without bag and without filter): air and dust will separate thanks to the cyclonic action of the device. Under the effect of centrifugal force and gravity, the dust will be pushed against the walls and fall to the bottom of the tank. The conical deflector will then prevent it from rising in the ducts. Volatile elements are harmful to health, which is why connection to an external exhaust nozzle is mandatory.
  • The central vacuum cleaner with self-cleaning filter or with inverted filter : it is a type of model without bag, but equipped with a filter. Being the most popular, it requires very little maintenance. The dust is stirred up in a cyclonic suction system with a maximum speed of 100 km/h. Even though the emptying of the tank is 100% automatic, the central vacuum cleaner must be cleaned at least once a year.

Good to know

The central vacuum system is not only intended for new homes. This type of installation is also suitable for an old building.

Central vacuum or canister vacuum?

Would you like to replace your old canister vacuum cleaner with a central vacuum cleaner? It is important to know if the central vacuum cleaner meets your needs and if you are aware of the work involved in this type of installation. In which case should you choose one or the other?

Centralized vacuum cleaner

It is a stationary vacuum cleaner with a tank or bag for dust collection. Generally, this element is placed in a strategic place such as the garage, the laundry room or the cellar, suspended from the wall for optimal space saving. The vacuum cleaner serves all the rooms of the house through many pipes connected to the central. In each room there is a floor socket where you can connect the hose that will help you to clean. The dirt, once vacuumed, will be stored in the collector, avoiding scattering the dust particles in the house.

Canister vacuum cleaner

The canister vacuum cleaner has not yet finished seducing the French. Nearly 85% of them are now equipped with one. With or without a bag, the appliance is highly appreciated for its lightness and ease of use. Its power cord gives it unlimited autonomy, constant suction power and a large radius of action. The use of such equipment nevertheless imposes some constraints. You have to take it out, plug it in, unplug it and put it back in its place every day. Moreover, it is cumbersome and the access to the floors can really discourage many people.

Verdict

If you are looking for a model that is powerful, quiet, hygienic, easy to use and capable of covering a large area, we recommend the purchase of a central vacuum cleaner. Of course, its installation requires some work. It will be necessary to conceal the vacuum network afterwards. But the investment will only be profitable in the long term, an economic interest for the owners and an advantageous practicality for the companies. The canister vacuum cleaner, on the other hand, will certainly appeal to people who do not wish to carry out work in their homes. Those who have no trouble carrying the machine up and down stairs and from room to room will also find it to their advantage.

Why buy a central vacuum cleaner?

pourquoi acheter aspirateur centralisé

Hygiene and cleanliness

The hygiene and efficiency of the central vacuum cleaner are undeniable. Do you suffer from asthma or allergies? You should know that the classic vacuum cleaner tends to reject dust and allergens from behind, which is not the case with the central vacuum cleaner. Running on a closed circuit basis, it extracts the air contained in the room to be cleaned, purifies it and then leaves it healthy and clean.

Less noise pollution

A more than interesting advantage, the motor of the device is located several meters away from the living rooms, either in a garage, a laundry room or a basement. So there is no chance that you and your family members will be disturbed by potential noise pollution. The cleaning will be done in silence.

Saving precious time

Even though it is light, you don't need to pull or drag your central vacuum in all the rooms since it is fixed to a specific place. No more electric wires to plug or unplug, no more storage in the closet, less effort to make... The use of the equipment will save you a lot of time, a good handling and a remarkable freedom of action thanks to the hoses.

Efficient and effective

Its constant power results in a boosted performance. In this respect, we understand that it can offer up to 5 to 6 times more suction power than a classic model. What's more, it is capable of sucking up debris that could damage its traditional counterpart, such as plaster, glass fragments, animal hair, etc.

Large tank

Weighing close to 10 kg, the central vacuum cleaner has a considerable dust tank capacity, between 10 and 30 L. The frequency of emptying is reduced to once or twice a year only. This implies a less strict maintenance. Some models offer you the opportunity to visualize the interior of the tank in two ways: directly or with an LCD screen.

The best brands of centralized vacuum cleaners

In our opinion, the best brands of centralized vacuum cleaners in 2022 are :

Atepac
Electrolux
Aldes
Aertecnica
OVO

Atepac has made the centralized vacuum system its field of application. The brand has been manufacturing and selling this type of cleaning equipment for several years. You will find in its catalog a wide choice of models for all uses, including at the same time installation kits as well as accessories.

The Swedish giant is known for the quality and durability of its large appliances. The group has several brands such as AEG or Beam, specialized in the marketing of central vacuum cleaners. The company is one of the top brands, but it tries to offer its models with a good quality/price ratio. These are among the 60 million items sold each year.

Aldes was founded in 1925. With almost a century of experience, the French brand offers a wide range of products such as fans, central vacuum cleaners and heating devices, its primary objective being to create a healthier and more comfortable living space.

Since the year 1985, the Italian manufacturer Aertecnica has been designing very well-made central vacuum cleaners, but also various accessories such as vacuum outlets, robot vacuum cleaners and retractable hoses. Its motto? A healthy world where cleanliness is king(Think Clean).

A subsidiary of Nadair, a specialist in vacuuming devices, OVO stands out thanks to its products with a minimalist design that are nevertheless sold at a very reasonable price. Robust and impeccably finished, its central vacuums will last for decades with minimal maintenance.

What is the price for a centralized vacuum cleaner

The diagram below will help you to get an idea of the typical prices for each price range (entry-level, mid-range and high-end).

However, more expensive does not necessarily mean better.

We therefore advise you to always consult our ranking before deciding, rather than blindly relying on price ranges.

Entry-level
350 £ to 600 £
Mid-range
600 £ to 1000 £
High-end
more than 1000 £
Price range diagram

Tips

Get a professional to install it

There is nothing to stop you from installing your central vacuum cleaner if you know how to do it yourself. However, the possibility of a connection error cannot be excluded. In this case, it is better to entrust the work to a professional. You can take advantage of a VAT reduction of up to 5.5% by choosing this option.

Choose the number of motors to suit your needs

The central vacuum cleaner for residential use generally embeds a single motor. The electrical assembly is quite simple. In addition, you have a choice as to the type of exhaust system to adopt. If the hose is longer than 40 feet, a twin-motor vacuum is highly recommended. On the other hand, those working in the commercial sector are more fond of dual-motor models because of the phenomenal airflow they offer.

Use a separator to increase the life of your unit

Without motors, the separator must be installed between the vacuum and the outlet. A model with a filter will increase the longevity of your appliance's life since it will effectively trap fine particles that can interfere with the proper operation of the motor(s). It will also capture any large pieces of debris that might clog the plumbing system.

Add high-pressure cleaning systems for duct lines

You can set up high-pressure water jets along the ducts. This will allow you to clean them at specific points while facilitating the passage of solid substances sucked up by the device. The water will be propelled at regular intervals. Then the vacuum cleaner will continue to run until the pipes are dry. This method prevents clogging of the ducts, which will optimize the suction power.

Consumables maintenance tips

It is essential to change the consumables of your central vacuum cleaner regularly. As for the bags, replace them every 6 months. The filter should be changed every 24 months. In the meantime, you can wash it, dry it and put it back in its place. If you maintain these essential components properly, your unit will last longer and perform better.

Opt for a retractable hose

This space-saving solution is not to your detriment. Installed by a professional, the hose will find its place at the vacuum inlet. You will be able to remove and retract it while taking advantage of the central unit's suction power.

FAQ

How to install a central vacuum cleaner?

Usually, the central vacuum cleaner is installed in the garage, closet, laundry room and basement of the house, where it will be least visible and the sound volume will be almost inaudible. Determine the shortest route for the piping. You can exploit the same paths as those for heating, plumbing, or ventilation.

How to unclog a central vacuum cleaner?

Unclogging the pipes can be done with high-pressure water jets. In addition, you can do this: determine where the blockage is coming from. If the clog is in the hose, connect the nozzle to the central vacuum outlet and reverse the direction of suction. On the other hand, if the clog is in the ductwork, simply vacuum from the clogged outlet.

Why does my central vacuum cleaner not pull anymore?

Thepower of the central vacuum cleaner diminishes for various reasons. The dust bag may be full, the filter may not have been replaced on time or may be dirty, the hose may be damaged, or the vacuum mechanism may be clogged. Check all these items before each use and make sure to replace any defective components.

How to clean a central vacuum cleaner?

You should keep in mind that such a machine requires regular and careful maintenance. This will allow you to extend its life and ensure its proper functioning in the long run. Unlike a conventional model, the central unit and its accessories should be cleaned 3 to 4 times a year. Since maintenance methods may vary from one model to another, we advise you to consult the user's manual before operating.

Sources

Note: Below are some of the sources we have consulted in writing this article. Links to other sites are not continuously updated. It is therefore possible that a link may not be found. Please use a search engine to find the desired information.
  1. How to choose your central vacuum cleaner, conseil.manomano.fr
  2. Choosing a central vacuum cleaner, travauxbricolage.fr
  3. Is it better to have a central vacuum cleaner with 1 or 2 motors?, drainvac.com
  4. How to choose your central vacuum cleaner?, atepac.com
  5. Benefits and operation of a central vacuum cleaner, renovationettravaux.fr
  6. 10 Best Central Vacuum in 2021, gadgetreview.com
  7. The Best Central Vacuum System for a Whole-House Clean in 2021, bobvila.com
  8. The Best Central Vacuum Systems of 2021, ohsospotless.com
  9. The 4 Best Central Vacuums, thevacuumexperts.com
  10. Best central vacuum cleaner, vacuumsguide.com
  11. Centralized vacuuming for your home: Aldes our solutions for ...., aldes.fr
  12. Comparative of the 10 best central vacuum cleaners of ..., lemeilleuravis.com
  13. Ranking & Buying Guide : Top Central Vacuum Cleaners ..., lajoliemaison.fr
  14. Comparative of the best central vacuum systems, kazaalite.com
  15. Central Vacuum Cleaner - ManoMano, manomano.fr
  16. Central Vacuum Cleaner : sale in kit central vacuum ..., france-aspiration.com
  17. Central vacuuming solutions, cyclovac.fr
  18. Central vacuuming Beam Electrolux - Integrated vacuum cleaner, beamfrance.com
  19. Official site Duovac - Central Vacuuming and Accessories, duovac.fr
  20. Central vacuuming at the best price - Econology, econology.fr
  21. Amazon.co.uk : central vacuuming, amazon.co.uk
  22. Central vacuum cleaners | Central vacuum Cyclo Vac, cyclovac.com
  23. Online sale of SACH central vacuuming for ..., aspiration-centralisee-sach.fr
  24. Central vacuuming - Husky, huskyfrance.com
  25. Central vacuuming - AMS Central Vacuuming, aspiration-web.fr
  26. Central vacuuming at mini prices, manomano.fr
  27. Central vacuuming flexible brushes and accessories ..., homexity.com
  28. Central vacuuming Verrie Maine et Loire (49) Domotic's, aspiration-centralisee-49-domotics.fr
  29. Central vacuuming Boutique, aspirateur-central.com
  30. Central vacuuming - Wikipedia, fr.wikipedia.org
  31. Central vacuuming spare parts all brands, homexity.com
See more

Updates

March 2022 : Translation of this buying guide from our partner meilleurtest.fr

See more
Our selection
Atepac HD800C
Atepac HD800C
Aenera 1801
Aenera 1801
Aldes 11071102 C.Power
Aldes 11071102 C.Power
AirFlow 2100
AirFlow 2100

Lecteurs

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