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QUESTION: I have a need/desire for a dust collector. I also have plumbing for a
central vacuum system and a need/desire to use this plumbing. I like
using multi-purpose tools where this doesn't completely compromise basic
functionality. Both of these devices seem to be relatively low volume items
unlikely to have real economies of scale in manufacturing/marketing. Thus
the stupid question:
Has anyone on the list successfully used a single system to serve
both dust collection and central vacuum requirements?
I realize that typical equipment sold for these two functions are
considerably different:
- Central vacuum's typically have 100in water lift and about 150CFM with
thin gauge 2"O.D. tubing.
- Limited dust collector spec's I've seen show lower 6-18" water lift and a
higher 600-1800CFM rating. Many use 4" or larger ducting.
Are dust collectors water lift measurements taken at rated CFM? If so,
what happens to water lift if you reduce the intake to the 5/8" opening
typical of household vacuum heads? Recent posts have suggested that
dust collectors can collapse rubber trash cans or thin-gauge duct-work
under certain circumstances(gates closed?). This suggests that the D.C.
impellers can, in fact generate significant water lift. Any thoughts,
information, or experience?
I have not inspected a central vacuum impeller system closely, so I don't
know how they compare/differ with D.C. impellers. To the extent that
they differ, could a larger scale central vacuum also serve as a D.C.?
If not, I could try proceeding with the D.C. and redeploying the ShopVac
as a central vac unit. ShopVac's have the benefit of economies of scale
(not to mention that I already own one). Come to think of it, not sure
why I haven't tried this already.
ANSWER: I tried using my DC on the central vac and it didn't work. It just didn't
have any suction at the business end in the house. I have Sears' largest
Shop Vac and it works great. You have to rig an outlet with a low voltage
relay activated by the CV outlets to plug the Vac into. Just leave the Vac
switch on if you want it to come on automatically when the central vac hose
is plugged in.
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