Approximately 10 percent of new homes built in the U.S. in 2003 were equipped with central vacuum systems. Industry experts say 50 percent or more of new homes could have complete systems or be pre-plumbed for central vacuum systems by 2010.

“Homeowners are becoming increasingly concerned about the indoor air quality of their homes and are looking for products that can make their homes healthier,” says John Coghlan, president of Beam Industries, the leading manufacturer of central vacuum systems. “Using a central vacuum system improves indoor air quality because it takes all captured dust, dirt and allergens completely out of the living area without blowing air into the room that stirs up dust.”

In fact, a recent clinical study by the Division of Allergy and Immunology at the University of California at Davis found that allergic rhinitis patients experienced a 46 percent to 61 percent improvement in their symptoms when they used a Beam Central Vacuum System instead of a conventional vacuum to clean their homes. Improvement as small as 5 percent is considered scientifically significant.

“In the past, consumers saw central vacuums as more of a convenience than as a product that would contribute to a healthier home,” adds Coghlan. “Since the study, consumers and builders are embracing central vacuums for both their indoor air quality and convenience benefits.”

The study results also have prompted the American Lung Association to require central vacuums in its Health House® National Demonstration Program sites. In addition some of the National Association of Homebuilders’ leading green building organizations now recommend their members include central vacuum systems as standard features. NAHB‘s Built Green Colorado program in Denver and EarthCraft Homes In Atlanta, award “green” certification points to builders whose homes include central vacuum systems.

Coghlan says acceptance of central vacuum systems in Canada makes him optimistic that the goal of 50 percent new home penetration in the U.S. will be achieved. Approximately 30 percent of all homes in Canada have built-in central vacuum systems and 90 percent of new homes either have complete systems or are pre-plumbed for central vacuums.

A complete system represents a relatively modest investment, starting at around $1,000, for a typical 2,000 square foot home. A real estate appraisal guide developed by the Iowa Department of Revenue estimates the installation of a central vacuum system adds a minimum of $1,300 of value to the home.
“With today’s attractive mortgage rates, a central vacuum system typically accounts for less than $10 of a monthly mortgage payment,” Coghlan adds.

For more information about the University of California, Davis, study or to locate a Beam Central Vacuum System Dealer, visit www.beamvac.com.