Worldwide 2026
Ducted Vacuuming Costs
A new 5-inlet ducted vacuum system typically costs $4,200–$6,800, a power unit replacement runs $800–$1,800, and annual servicing costs $150–$300 in Australia depending on brand, home size and access conditions.
Real pricing data for every ducted vacuuming service — new installations, retrofits, power unit replacements, servicing, repairs and accessories. Compare costs across Australia, UK, USA, Canada and New Zealand.
Headline answer
$80–$8,500/job
A pipe repair or inlet valve replacement is the most affordable entry point. Full 7-inlet new system installations sit at the premium end.
How we get these prices: we compare 120+ live ducted vacuuming price points across 12 service types, cross-check completed-job totals from installers in 20+ cities, and normalise system size, brand, access difficulty and retrofit complexity so the published range reflects like-for-like work.
Choose Your Country
Select a country to see detailed ducted vacuuming pricing by city
Australia
ducted vacuuming / central vacuum
From $80/job
12 service types · 25 cities with data
8 regions covered
View Australia prices →
United Kingdom
central vacuum system / built-in vacuum
From £55/job
12 service types · 15 cities with data
4 regions covered
View United Kingdom prices →
United States
central vacuum system / built-in vacuum
From $25/job
12 service types · 15 cities with data
12 regions covered
View United States prices →
Canada
central vacuum / central vac
From C$90/job
12 service types · 10 cities with data
6 regions covered
View Canada prices →
New Zealand
ducted vacuum system / central vacuum
From NZ$90/job
12 service types · 10 cities with data
5 regions covered
View New Zealand prices →
Ducted Vacuuming Prices by Service — Australia
National average prices including GST — standard residential installations
| Service | From | Average | Up to |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🏠New System Install (3-Inlet) Supply and install a complete ducted vacuum system with 3 inlet valves, power unit, pipework and exhaust — suits smaller homes and apartments | $2800/job | $3600/job | $4500/job |
| 🏡New System Install (5-Inlet) Supply and install a complete ducted vacuum system with 5 inlet valves, power unit, pipework and exhaust — suits average 3–4 bedroom homes | $4200/job | $5400/job | $6800/job |
| 🏘️New System Install (7-Inlet) Supply and install a complete ducted vacuum system with 7 inlet valves, power unit, pipework and exhaust — suits larger homes with 4+ bedrooms | $5500/job | $6800/job | $8500/job |
| 🔧Retrofit Existing Home (Per Inlet) Retrofit a ducted vacuum inlet point into an existing home including pipework routing through walls and ceiling — price per inlet, power unit extra | $500/inlet | $640/inlet | $800/inlet |
| ⚡Power Unit Replacement Remove old power unit and install new replacement motor unit — includes electrical connection, pipework coupling and system test | $800/job | $1250/job | $1800/job |
| 🛠️System Service / Maintenance Annual or periodic service of ducted vacuum system including motor check, filter clean/replace, inlet valve inspection and suction test across all points | $150/job | $220/job | $300/job |
| 🔌Inlet Valve Replacement Replace a faulty or damaged inlet valve assembly — includes removal of old valve, fitting new unit and suction test | $120/valve | $180/valve | $250/valve |
| 🔩Pipe Repair / Replacement (Per Metre) Repair or replace damaged ducted vacuum PVC pipework — price per metre including fittings, access may add to cost if concealed in walls or ceiling | $80/m | $110/m | $150/m |
| 🔍Full System Clean & Inspection Comprehensive clean and inspection of entire ducted vacuum system including pipe flush, blockage check, motor assessment and suction performance test | $200/job | $290/job | $400/job |
| 💨Ducted Vacuum to Exhaust Conversion Convert an existing ducted vacuum system to exhaust outside the home rather than recirculating — includes external vent installation and pipework modification | $400/job | $580/job | $800/job |
| 🧹Hose Kit Replacement Supply and fit a new hose kit including flexible hose, handle, floor tool and accessories — price varies by brand and hose length | $200/kit | $340/kit | $500/kit |
| 🔇Muffler / Silencer Installation Install an inline muffler or silencer to reduce operating noise from the ducted vacuum power unit — includes fitting and pipework modification if required | $150/job | $240/job | $350/job |
Prices include GST. Based on verified installer data. Last updated March 2026.
Common Ducted Vacuuming Jobs and What They Usually Cost
Real job costs for typical Australian homes — complete project pricing, not just service rates.
| Job | Typical scope | Typical price | On-site time |
|---|---|---|---|
| New 5-inlet system install | Supply and install complete ducted vacuum system with 5 inlets, power unit, all pipework and external exhaust | $4,200–$6,800 | 1–2 days |
| Retrofit 3-inlet system | Install 3 inlet points in existing home including pipework routing, power unit and exhaust — finished home | $3,500–$5,500 | 1–2 days |
| Power unit replacement | Remove old motor unit and install new replacement including electrical connection and full system test | $800–$1,800 | 1–2 hours |
| Annual system service | Service ducted vacuum including motor check, filter clean/replace, inlet valve inspection and suction test | $150–$300 | 1 hour |
| Hose kit replacement | Supply and fit new hose kit with flexible hose, handle, floor tool and standard accessories | $200–$500 | 30 minutes |
| Full system clean and inspection | Comprehensive pipe flush, blockage check, motor assessment and suction performance test across all points | $200–$400 | 1–2 hours |
What Affects Ducted Vacuuming Prices?
Six key variables that explain why two similar ducted vacuum installations can price very differently.
Pipe material, length and routing complexity
Ducted vacuum systems use rigid PVC pipework routed through walls, ceilings and floors. Shorter, straighter runs with easy access keep costs down. Long runs through multiple storeys, tight bends, or concealed routes through finished walls add significant labour and material cost. New builds with open wall cavities are far cheaper to pipe than finished retrofits.
Home size and number of inlet points
The number of inlets directly affects cost — each inlet requires a wall penetration, valve assembly and pipework connection back to the power unit. A 3-inlet system suits a small home or apartment while larger homes need 5–7+ inlets for full coverage. More inlets mean more pipe, more fittings and more installation time.
Access difficulty and property construction
Homes with accessible roof spaces, wall cavities or subfloor areas are straightforward to pipe. Slab-on-ground homes, double-brick construction, multi-storey properties and finished interiors all add complexity. Retrofit installations in finished homes typically cost 30–50% more than new-build rough-in installations.
Retrofit vs new build installation
Installing ducted vacuum during construction (new build rough-in) is dramatically cheaper than retrofitting an existing home. New build rough-in allows pipe installation before walls are closed, avoiding wall cutting, patching and repainting. Always consider ducted vacuum rough-in during any major renovation even if you plan to activate it later.
Power unit brand and quality
Entry-level power units start around $600–$800, mid-range units $900–$1,400, and premium European units $1,500–$2,500+. Higher-end units offer more suction power, longer motor life, quieter operation and better filtration. The power unit is the single most expensive component — brand choice significantly affects the total system cost.
Number of inlets and hose system type
Standard inlet systems with separate hose storage are the most affordable. Hide-a-hose retractable systems eliminate hose storage but cost 20–30% more per inlet. Automatic dustpan inlets (kick-sweep) for kitchens add a premium per point. The hose system choice affects both installation cost and long-term convenience.
Ducted Vacuum System Components Compared
Different components make up a ducted vacuum system — understanding them helps when reviewing quotes.
| Component | Application | Lifespan | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| PVC pipe (standard) | Main pipe runs between inlets and power unit | 50+ years | All ducted vacuum installations |
| Low-voltage wiring | Inlet valve activation switches | 30+ years | Standard inlet valve systems |
| Flexible hose (standard) | User hose for vacuuming | 8–12 years | Standard ducted vacuum use |
| Retractable hose (hide-a-hose) | Self-storing hose within the wall pipework | 10–15 years | Premium installations where hose storage is inconvenient |
| Inlet valve assemblies | Wall-mounted hose connection points | 15–20 years | All ducted vacuum installations |
What Is Included in a Ducted Vacuum Installation Quote?
Typically included
- ✓Power unit with motor, canister and filtration system installed in garage or utility area
- ✓All PVC pipework from power unit to each inlet point including fittings and supports
- ✓Inlet valve assemblies installed in walls at agreed locations with trim plates
- ✓External exhaust vent installed and connected to power unit for outside venting
- ✓Low-voltage wiring between all inlet points and power unit for automatic activation
- ✓Full system test including suction check at every inlet point on completion
Commonly quoted as extras
- +Hose kit (flexible hose, handle, floor tool and accessories) — sometimes included, sometimes quoted separately
- +Hide-a-hose retractable system upgrade — adds 20–30% to per-inlet cost compared to standard hose
- +Automatic dustpan (kick-sweep) inlet for kitchen — typically $200–$400 extra per point
- +Wall patching, repainting or plastering after retrofit pipe installation through finished walls
- +Electrical work if a new power point is required near the power unit location
How a Ducted Vacuum Installation Progresses
Understanding the five stages helps set clear expectations before work begins.
1. Site assessment and system design
The installer inspects the property, identifies optimal inlet locations for coverage, determines the power unit position (usually garage or laundry), plans the pipe routing path and recommends the appropriate power unit size for the total pipe run length.
2. Pipework installation
PVC pipe is routed from the power unit location to each inlet point through wall cavities, ceiling spaces or under floors. In new builds this happens before walls are closed. In retrofits, access holes are cut and patched after pipe installation.
3. Inlet valve fitting
Inlet valve assemblies are installed in walls at agreed locations. Low-voltage wiring is connected between each inlet and the power unit. Trim plates are fitted to match wall finishes.
4. Power unit installation
The power unit is mounted in the agreed location (typically garage wall), connected to the main pipework trunk, wired to the electrical supply and connected to the external exhaust vent.
5. External exhaust and commissioning
The external exhaust vent is installed through the wall to vent motor air and fine particles outside. The entire system is tested — suction is checked at every inlet point, the motor is verified and the customer is shown how to operate and maintain the system.
How to Get Better Value on Ducted Vacuuming
Install rough-in during construction or renovation
If you are building a new home or doing a major renovation with walls open, install ducted vacuum rough-in even if you plan to activate it later. The rough-in cost (pipe and inlets without power unit) is a fraction of a full retrofit price and saves thousands if you add the system later.
Right-size the number of inlets
Each inlet costs $500–$800 in a retrofit, so only install what you need. A well-positioned 5-inlet system covers most 3–4 bedroom homes effectively. Over-specifying inlets wastes money — under-specifying means dragging the hose further. Ask your installer for a coverage assessment.
Compare power unit brands on total cost of ownership
A cheaper power unit may save $300–$500 upfront but cost more in motor replacements over 10–15 years. Premium units with bypass motors last 15–20 years versus 8–12 for entry-level units. Calculate the 15-year cost including expected motor replacements before choosing on price alone.
Bundle with other trade work
If you have renovation work underway, adding ducted vacuum to the scope is far cheaper than a standalone retrofit. Electricians are already on site for power points, plasterers can patch pipe access holes alongside other patching, and the installer benefits from open wall access.
Service your system annually
An annual service ($150–$300) extends motor life, maintains suction performance and catches blockages before they cause damage. Skipping servicing leads to premature motor failure ($800–$1,800 replacement) and reduced system performance that makes the investment less worthwhile.
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Hi, I'm looking for a quote for Ducted Vacuuming in [your suburb]. I've seen typical prices around $2,800–$6,800 — please let me know if your quote is in that range. Please reply to this email or call me to discuss. Thanks, [your name]
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A ducted vacuum system in Australia costs $2,800–$4,500 for a 3-inlet system, $4,200–$6,800 for a 5-inlet system, and $5,500–$8,500 for a 7-inlet system. Retrofit installations cost $500–$800 per inlet point. Power unit replacement costs $800–$1,800. Prices vary by brand, home size and access difficulty.
A ducted vacuum system adds convenience, improves indoor air quality by exhausting fine particles outside, reduces noise in living areas, and adds value to your property. The system typically lasts 20+ years with proper maintenance. For allergy sufferers and larger homes, the benefits are significant. The upfront cost is higher than a portable vacuum but the long-term value is strong.
Yes. Ducted vacuum systems can be retrofitted into most existing homes. The process involves routing PVC pipework through wall cavities, ceiling spaces or under floors to connect inlet points to a central power unit. Retrofit costs are 30–50% higher than new-build installation due to the need to cut and patch access holes in finished walls and ceilings. Homes with accessible roof spaces, wall cavities or subfloor areas are the easiest to retrofit.
Most standard 3–4 bedroom homes need 4–5 inlet points for full coverage. Each inlet point covers approximately 50–60 square metres with a standard 9-metre hose. Smaller homes and apartments can work with 3 inlets. Larger homes with 4+ bedrooms typically need 6–7+ inlets. An installer can assess your floor plan and recommend the optimal number and placement of inlets.
The PVC pipework and inlet valves last 30–50+ years with virtually no maintenance. The power unit motor typically lasts 10–20 years depending on the brand and usage frequency. Premium bypass motors last longer than through-flow motors. Regular servicing ($150–$300 annually) extends motor life significantly. When the motor fails, you replace just the power unit — not the entire pipework system.
A ducted vacuum system is a permanent installation with pipework in walls, inlet points in each room, and a central power unit that exhausts outside. It offers far more suction power, handles all floor types and stairs, exhausts fine particles outside the home, and lasts 20+ years. A robot vacuum is a portable automated device that handles light daily cleaning on flat floors but cannot do stairs, deep cleaning, upholstery or above-floor surfaces. Many homeowners use both — a robot for daily maintenance and a ducted system for thorough cleaning.
The power unit is typically installed in the garage, laundry, basement or utility room. The ideal location minimises total pipe run length to all inlets while allowing external exhaust venting. The garage is the most common location in Australian homes — the motor noise is isolated from living areas and exhaust venting through the garage wall is straightforward.
Yes. Annual servicing ($150–$300) is recommended to maintain performance and extend motor life. A service includes checking the motor, cleaning or replacing filters, inspecting inlet valves, clearing any pipe blockages, and testing suction performance at each inlet. Skipping servicing reduces motor life and system performance. Most ducted vacuum installers offer annual service plans.
Ducted Vacuuming Providers and Comparisons
Compare ducted vacuum companies across Australia before requesting quotes.
Ducted Vacuuming Providers Australia
Compare price ranges, service areas, specialisations and system brands for ducted vacuum companies across Australia.
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Side-by-side comparisons of ducted vacuum options — brands, installation types, and which suits different property types.
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How We Get These Prices
Prices aggregated from 120+ verified quotes and published rate cards from ducted vacuum installers across Australia, the UK, USA, Canada, and New Zealand. Based on 180 data points across 40 providers in 25 cities, our figures reflect what homeowners actually pay for new system installations, retrofits, power unit replacements, servicing and repairs.
Methodology: We collect quoted rates from ducted vacuum installers, cross-reference with manufacturer recommended retail pricing and industry guidelines, and verify against completed project invoices. We account for system size, brand, access complexity, and retrofit difficulty. Data last verified March 2026. We refresh quarterly to capture material cost changes and installer rate updates.
All prices are indicative guides. Your actual cost depends on home size, number of inlets, brand choice, access difficulty and your location. We recommend getting at least three quotes from ducted vacuum installers before committing.