Frequently Asked Questions about Built-in Vacuum Systems

• What kind of a track record do built-in systems have?
  In our experience (over 32 years in the built-in vacuum business), built-in systems installed by a reputable, experienced crew, provide excellent, trouble-free service and performance. Because Crown Company installations use only the highest-quality piping and fittings, and vacuum units chosen for their history of durability and ruggedness, our typical installation serves the customer trouble-free for 12-15 years. It is rare to experience a "bad" unit; however, when this happens, it usually occurs within the first year of service. (All products we sell have a minimum guarantee of one year or more.) The only maintenance required by the owner is to empty the canister or change the filter around twice a year.



• How expensive is it?
  There is a huge variety of built-in vacuum products on the market today. The choice of vacuum unit, the size of the home or business served, the quality of material used in the installation, the way the building is constructed, the number of inlets required, and a number of other factors influence the cost of a system. Most people are pleasantly surprised that the cost is usually less than the best, top-of-the line portables you can buy, that actually offer less power and convenience.



• What kind of business needs to install a built-in vacuum?
  Any business that values its customers is a candidate for a built-in vacuum system. The ability to provide a clean, dust-free environment, quietly (even during business hours) is a definite plus. Our commercial customers include restaurants, beauty salons, dentists, and manufacturing environments requiring a dust-free atmosphere.



• When is the best time to install a built-in vacuum system?
  The easiest time to install a built-in vacuum system is when a home or business is being built. For obvious reasons, it is much easier to install the piping that goes in the walls of a building (much like plumbing) at that time. The next easiest is during a remodeling project (or when re-fitting a business location for a new operation.)
  However, built-ins can be installed in pre-existing homes and businesses -- it just takes a little more effort, and as a result, it is slightly more expensive. Single story homes usually present no problems. Pre-existing multi-story homes, however, must have attic or crawl space available for an installation crew to be able to run the piping.



• I don't have enough money for a system -- I can't afford it now with all the extras I'm already spending on my new home!
  That's understandable. To save yourself money in the long run, consider installing the piping and an adjacent electrical outlet during construction (called the "rough-in") and wait awhile before you purchase the unit itself. Also, keep in mind that for certain home styles that have no attic crawl space or other unusual construction, if you do not rough-in the piping during initial construction, it might not even be possible to add a built-in system later.



• I have a tight budget with my remodeling project; what do you suggest?
  A popular option with the homeowner is to purchase one of our do-it-yourself kits. The standard kit includes all parts necessary to install the system piping and wall inlets yourself, in the "typical" home (e.g., three inlets). Along with the kit, Crown Company offers experienced advice in helping you plan your installation. You save on installation labor costs, yet receive the same quality parts and supplies our crews use; the choice of vacuum unit dictates the total cost of the system.



• Do you install the electrical outlet for the system?
  No; the buyer--either the homeowner or the home builder--is responsible for providing an electrical power source adjacent to the unit's installation site. We recommend 110 volt/20 amp with grounded circuit (separate breaker).