Where does the hose go?
The Hide-A-Hose Retractable Hose System harnesses the suction from the Power Unit (usually installed in the garage) to retract the hose back into the PVC tubing hidden within the walls, attic, and floor joists, of your home.
Is this only for new construction or can my home be retrofitted?
As long as there is access to an attic or crawl space, the system can be installed in most homes. Your local installer would need to visit your home to make sure it can be done.
Can you retrofit an existing central vacuum system?
The answer is yes, however, most of the plumbing used by your existing system will have to be replaced. The reason is, standard central vacuum systems are plumbed with standard 90s and fittings that prevent the hose from traveling through the tubing. Because the Retractable Hose System actually stores the hose in the PVC tubing, special sweep 90s and 45s are required which allow the hose to travel through the tubing.
How long are the Hoses?
A standard central vacuum system uses a 30′ hose. Anything bigger than that is just too big to carry and store. With the Hide-A-Hose System, a 30′, 40′, or 50′ hose can be used. The benefit is that with a longer hose the number of inlets needed is usually reduced by half. Fewer inlets will save time and makes vacuuming more convenient.
Can a Hose Sock be used?
The main benefit of a hose sock is so to prevent furniture and woodwork from getting scratched by the hose. Each hose comes standard with a hose sock.
Will the Hose Sock get dirty from being stored in the tubing?
The sock actually stays cleaner than a hose sock with a standard central vac system. Hose socks picks up dirt and dust from floors while vacuuming. Every time the power unit is turned on and the hose is in the wall the suction from the power unit is continually cleaning the hose. That doesn’t happen when the hose is sitting in a closet.
How do you turn the power unit on?
The system can be turned on by a low voltage switch at each inlet. The system can also be turned on and off by an optional remote control (rf) switch on the handle.
What kind of Power Brush can I use?
There are two types of brushes that can be used with the Hide A Hose system – Battery Powered Electric Brush, and an Air (turbine) Driven Brush. The Hide A Hose system is not equipped to use an electric brush.