With the existing home market dominating the custom landscape, some CE pros have wondered if high-margin, high-customer-satisfaction categories like central vacuum installations are still viable.

It’s a category, like structured wiring or distributed audio, that is more often associated with new construction - but as the folks at M.D. Manufacturing emphasize to us, there is definitely room in retrofits for central vac, especially if your core clientele live in single-story homes.

M.D. Manufacturing’s Andrew Bransby runs through the Retrofit 101 of central vac.

Related: Anatomy of a Central Vacuum System: 5 Easy Pieces

10 Steps to Install a Basic Inlet
The backing plate and face plate of a basic connection create a sturdy anchor as they pinch firmly on the drywall. Here’s how to get it done:

• Determine the interior wall spot for coverage of a 30-foot hose 
• Probe the wall, and spin 90-degree vacuum connector 2 inches to be sure of clearance 
• Determine accessibility from below or above the wall (Note: can go in the wall or in back of closet or cabinet)
• Drill into the wall, verify the clearance and access 
• Cut the drywall from a trace of the backing plate
• Feed the low-voltage wire 
• Attach the wire to the cover, glue a 90-degree connector to the backing plate 
• Insert the backing plate into wall, attach the face plate 
• Feed the pipe into the 90-degree connector and continue to the main pipe/wire run 
• Hang the power unit and hose hanger

Photos: 4 Prime Spots to Put an Inlet

5 Benefits and Tips for Existing Home Installations

• Typically a one-day job, paid on the spot
• Creates instant customer satisfaction
• Start with single-story homes, with attic or basement 
• Start with non-electric inlets, using pigtail electric hose 
• Up-sell accessories on the spot (garage kit, petvac kit, special floor tools)