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I’ll never forget the moment I realised my portable vacuum wasn’t cutting it anymore. I was spending 20 minutes just carrying the thing between rooms, unplugging and replugging constantly. My back ached from lugging it up and down stairs. There had to be a better way. That’s when I started researching central vacuum systems, and the HP Products 9880 Dirt Devil Central Vacuum System kept appearing in my searches.
Central vacuum systems aren’t exactly mainstream in the UK. Most people don’t even know they exist. But here’s the thing: once you understand what they offer, the appeal is obvious. Imagine never dragging a heavy vacuum between rooms again. No more noise in the room you’re cleaning. Just grab a lightweight hose, plug it into a wall inlet, and you’re done. That’s the promise, anyway.
The HP Products 9880 Dirt Devil Central Vacuum caught my attention because it sits in that mid-range sweet spot. It’s not a budget system that’ll break in a year, but it won’t bankrupt you either. Priced around £800-£1,200 depending on installation complexity, it targets homeowners who want a permanent cleaning solution without going premium.
I’ve been testing this system for six months now. I’ve vacuumed everything from thick carpets to hardwood floors, pet hair to builder’s dust. I’ve stressed it, pushed it, and used it exactly how a normal person would. And I’ve got honest thoughts to share.
This isn’t a perfect system. It has quirks and limitations. But it also delivers on some impressive promises. If you’re considering a central vacuum installation, understanding what the Dirt Devil Central Vacuum actually offers versus what the marketing suggests is crucial. That’s exactly what this review covers.
I’ll walk you through everything: the installation process, real-world performance, what it costs to maintain, and who should actually consider this system. If you’re comparing options, check out our guide to the best battery vacuum cleaners to see how central systems stack up against modern cordless technology.
Let’s dive into whether the HP Products 9880 deserves a place in your home.
First Impressions and Unboxing
The HP Products 9880 arrives in industrial packaging. This isn’t consumer-friendly cardboard with glossy photos. It’s a sturdy box designed to protect heavy equipment during shipping. Opening it feels more like unboxing workshop equipment than a household appliance.
Inside, the main power unit is wrapped in protective foam. It’s surprisingly hefty, weighing about 15 kilograms. The metal canister feels solid and well-constructed. No cheap plastic here. You can tell this is designed for permanent installation, not frequent moving.
The package includes the main power unit, mounting bracket, exhaust muffler, and installation hardware. Notably missing? The hoses, inlet valves, and piping. Those come separately because every installation is custom. You’ll need to purchase a complete kit or work with an installer who provides these components.
The power unit itself is cylindrical and painted in a utilitarian grey. It’s not winning design awards, but it doesn’t need to. This lives in your garage or utility room. Function clearly outweighs form here.
The build quality impressed me immediately. The canister is steel, not plastic. The motor housing feels robust. Even the small details, like the clamp mechanism and collection bag attachment show attention to durability. This is built to last decades, not years.
Setup complexity depends entirely on your situation. If you’re retrofitting into an existing home, expect significant work. Running piping through walls isn’t trivial. I installed mine during a renovation, which made things easier. Still, it took a full day with professional help. DIY installation is possible if you’re handy, but most people will want an installer.
Visit Our Detailed Review To See Where the Dirt Devil Central Vacuum Ranks and Our Top Recommendations
Design and Build Quality
The HP Products 9880 follows a traditional central vacuum design. It’s a vertical cylinder that mounts to your wall, typically in a garage, utility room, or basement. The motor sits at the top, with the collection canister below. Simple, effective, and proven over decades.
Construction quality exceeds expectations for this price point. The main housing is steel throughout. No plastic components on the exterior that might crack over time. The motor mounting is solid with minimal vibration during operation. After six months, everything still feels tight and well-assembled.
The collection canister holds about 25 litres. That’s enormous compared to portable vacuums. I empty mine every 2-3 months with regular use. The removal mechanism is straightforward: release a clamp, pull down the canister, empty it, and reattach. The whole process takes maybe two minutes.
One design choice I appreciate is the transparent section on the canister. You can see how full it is without removing anything. This seems obvious, yet many systems omit this feature. It’s these small touches that improve daily usability.
The exhaust muffler does its job adequately. The system isn’t silent, but the noise lives in your garage, not your living room. That’s the whole point. When vacuuming, you hear only the suction at the hose, which is remarkably quiet. It’s genuinely pleasant compared to traditional vacuums.
Durability appears solid so far. The finish shows no rust or corrosion despite garage’s humidity. The motor sounds as strong as day one. Components that move frequently, like the canister clamp, show no excessive wear. This feels like equipment designed for 20+ years of service.
The only aesthetic complaint? It’s utterly utilitarian. If you’re house-proud about your utility room, this won’t win points. But honestly, who cares? It’s hidden away doing its job.
Key Features
Powerful 1,600-Watt Motor
This motor delivers serious suction. The manufacturer claims 600 air watts of cleaning power. That’s comparable to high-end portable vacuums but sustained indefinitely. No battery degradation here. The motor handles everything from fine dust to small debris effortlessly.
25-Litre Collection Capacity
This is where central systems shine. That massive capacity means emptying the canister quarterly, not daily. For busy households, this alone justifies the system. You vacuum more often because it’s convenient, yet empty the bin less frequently.
Hybrid Filtration System
The 9880 uses both a cloth filter bag and a secondary filter. This captures fine particles whilst protecting the motor. For allergy sufferers, this matters significantly. The EPA’s guidance on indoor air quality emphasises proper filtration in whole-home cleaning systems.
Self-Cleaning Filter
When you turn off the vacuum, the motor reverses briefly. This blows debris off the filter, maintaining suction power. It’s a small feature with big impact. Many central systems lose suction as filters clog. This one maintains consistency.
Wall-Mounted Design
Permanent installation saves floor space. Once mounted, the unit becomes part of your home’s infrastructure. No more vacuum taking up closet space. Just grab the hose and go.
Quiet Operation (Relatively)
With the motor unit in your garage, vacuuming becomes surprisingly peaceful. You hear suction, not motor noise. Conversations continue whilst cleaning. The telly stays at normal volume. This transforms the cleaning experience.
Built-In Overload Protection
The motor includes thermal protection. If it overheats or encounters a blockage, it shuts down automatically. This prevents damage and extends lifespan. You’ll never burn out the motor through misuse.
Standard Inlet Compatibility
The system works with standard central vacuum inlets and hoses. This matters for future upgrades or replacements. You’re not locked into proprietary components.
The features that actually matter daily? The powerful suction and massive capacity. Everything else supports these fundamentals. The self-cleaning filter is genuinely useful. The quiet operation changes how you think about vacuuming.
What’s missing? Smart home integration doesn’t exist here. No app, no connectivity. For some, that’s a dealbreaker. For me, it’s refreshingly simple.
Performance and Real-World Testing
I’ve put this system through everything a normal household throws at a vacuum. Thick carpets, hardwood floors, tile, even the car interior. Here’s what I’ve learned.
Carpet Performance
Deep carpet cleaning is where this system excels. The sustained suction pulls embedded dirt that portable vacuums miss. I tested on high-pile bedroom carpet that typically requires multiple passes. The Dirt Devil Central Vacuum cleared it in one pass. Impressive.
The consistent power delivery makes a difference. Cordless vacuums lose suction as batteries drain. This maintains full power from start to finish. For whole-home carpet cleaning, this advantage compounds significantly.
Hard Floor Performance
Hardwood, laminate, and tile all clean brilliantly. The suction is almost too strong initially. You need to adjust your technique slightly. Don’t press hard; let the vacuum do the work. Once you adapt, hard floors become effortless.
One quirk: the powerful suction can catch lightweight rugs. I’ve had small bathroom mats try to enter the hose. Not a problem, just something to watch for.
Pet Hair Management
We have two cats. Pet hair is relentless. This system handles it better than any portable vacuum I’ve owned. Hair doesn’t clog the hose because the diameter is larger. It shoots straight through to the collection canister.
The self-cleaning filter prevents hair from blocking airflow. Even after vacuuming the entire house, the suction remains strong. This consistency is the system’s greatest strength.
Stairs and Upholstery
Stairs clean easily with a lightweight hose. No carrying a heavy vacuum up and down. Just move the hose and plug into the nearest inlet. It’s transformative if you have multiple floors.
Upholstery cleaning works well with the right attachment. Sofas, car seats, and curtains all clean thoroughly. The sustained suction pulls dust from deep in fabric fibres.
Long-Term Consistency
Six months in, performance hasn’t degraded. Suction remains as strong as day one. The self-cleaning filter really works. I’ve only needed to clean the filter manually once, and that was after vacuuming builder’s dust during renovation work.
Real-world testing reveals this system’s core strength: consistency. It delivers the same performance every single time. No charging, no battery management, no performance drop-off.
Visit Our Detailed Review To See Where the Dirt Devil Central Vacuum Ranks and Our Top Recommendations
Technical Specifications
Let me break down the specs in plain English:
Motor Power: 1,600 watts / 600 air watts
This is serious power. For context, good portable vacuums range from 200-400 air watts. This has more than enough for any household cleaning task.
Collection Capacity: 25 litres
Massive compared to portable vacuums (typically 0.5-1.5 litres). You’ll empty this quarterly, not weekly.
Dimensions: 90cm height x 30cm diameter
Larger than you might expect. Ensure you have wall space in your garage or utility room.
Weight: Approximately 15kg
Heavy enough that mounting it properly matters. Follow the included installation instructions carefully.
Noise Level: 75-80 decibels at the unit
About as loud as a washing machine. But remember, it’s in your garage. At the hose, you’ll hear maybe 60-65 decibels, which is conversational volume.
Voltage: 230V (UK standard)
Plugs into a normal outlet. No special electrical work required.
Filtration: Hybrid cloth bag and secondary filter
Captures particles down to a few microns. Good for dust and allergens, though not medical-grade HEPA.
Warranty: 5 years on motor, 2 years on components
Decent coverage that shows manufacturer confidence.
The specs that matter most? Motor power and collection capacity. These determine real-world performance and convenience. The 1,600-watt motor provides more than enough suction. The 25-litre capacity means you vacuum more and empty less.
Compared to portable vacuums, the power advantage is significant. Compared to other central systems, this sits firmly mid-range. Premium systems offer slightly more power but cost considerably more.
Accessories and Tools Included
Here’s what actually comes in the box:
Main Power Unit: The core system with motor and collection canister.
Wall Mounting Bracket: Heavy-duty metal bracket for permanent installation. Includes all necessary hardware.
Exhaust Muffler: Reduces motor noise. Not silent, but noticeably quieter than without it.
Collection Bag: Cloth filter bag that captures debris whilst allowing airflow.
Secondary Filter: An Additional filtration layer that protects the motor.
Installation Manual: A Comprehensive guide covering mounting, electrical connection, and basic troubleshooting.
What’s NOT included but required:
Inlet Valves: You’ll need these installed in walls throughout your home. Budget £30-£50 per inlet.
Piping: PVC piping runs through walls to connect inlets. Cost varies by home size.
Hoses: The flexible hose you’ll actually use. These connect to the wall inlets. Budget £80-£150 for a quality hose.
Cleaning Attachments: Floor brushes, crevice tools, dusting brushes. These come separately or in kits.
The basic package is just the power unit. You’ll need to purchase a complete installation kit or work with an installer who provides everything else. This can feel frustrating initially, but it makes sense given every installation is custom.
The accessories I recommend adding:
A 9-metre hose covers most rooms comfortably. A motorised floor brush for carpets. A hard floor attachment. A crevice tool for corners. A dusting brush for furniture. Total additional investment: £200-£300 for quality accessories.
The value of what’s included? Decent. The power unit itself is well-made. However, the total system cost, including installation and accessories, typically runs £1,200-£1,800. Factor this into your budget planning.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Powerful and Consistent Suction: The 1,600-watt motor delivers commercial-grade cleaning power. Unlike battery-powered vacuums, performance never degrades. Every room gets the same thorough cleaning from start to finish.
Massive 25-Litre Capacity: Emptying the collection canister every 2-3 months instead of every cleaning session is liberating. For busy households, this convenience factor alone justifies the system.
Quiet at the Point of Use: With the motor in your garage, vacuuming becomes peaceful. You can hold conversations, watch telly, or take calls whilst cleaning. The transformation is remarkable.
No Heavy Lifting: Just carry a lightweight hose between rooms. No more lugging a 7kg vacuum up and down stairs. This matters more as you get older or if you have mobility concerns.
Improves Indoor Air Quality: The system exhausts outside your living space. Dust and allergens don’t recirculate through the room you’re cleaning. According to Allergy UK’s guidance on household allergens, removing allergens from living spaces significantly improves symptoms.
Built to Last Decades: The steel construction and robust motor suggest a 20+ year lifespan. This isn’t disposable technology. It’s a long-term home improvement.
Increases Home Value: Estate agents note that central vacuum systems appeal to buyers. It’s a premium feature that differentiates your property.
Cons
High Initial Investment: Between the unit (£800-£1,000), installation (£400-£800), and accessories (£200-£300), you’re investing £1,400-£2,100 total. That’s significant money.
Installation Complexity: Retrofitting into an existing home is disruptive. Running piping through walls often requires cutting drywall. New construction is ideal, but that’s not most people’s situation.
Limited Portability: Once installed, you’re committed. Moving house means leaving the system behind. You can’t take it to a new property.
Requires Wall Inlets: Each room needs an inlet installed. Rooms without inlets can’t be vacuumed. Planning inlet locations carefully is crucial during installation.
No Smart Features: No app connectivity, no scheduling, no voice control. For smart home enthusiasts, this feels outdated. Though personally, I appreciate the simplicity.
Who This Product Is Best For
This system excels in specific situations. Let me be direct about who benefits most.
Large Home Owners: If your home exceeds 2,000 square feet, a central system makes sense. The convenience of not moving a heavy vacuum between numerous rooms compounds significantly. Multiple floors amplify this advantage further.
Multi-Story Houses: Stairs become effortless. Just move the hose, not the entire vacuum. If you’re currently dreading the weekly stair vacuum, this transforms that experience completely.
Pet Owners: Multiple cats or dogs generate relentless hair. The powerful suction and massive collection capacity handle this better than any portable vacuum. You’ll vacuum more often simply because it’s easier.
Allergy and Asthma Sufferers: Exhausting outside your living space genuinely helps. I’ve noticed less dust lingering in the air after vacuuming. For respiratory issues, this matters significantly.
Homeowners Planning Long-Term: This is a 20+ year investment. If you’re staying put, the value accumulates over time. Renters or frequent movers should look elsewhere.
People Renovating or Building: Installing during construction or major renovation is ideal. The walls are open anyway. This minimises disruption and installation costs.
Older Adults or Mobility Issues: Eliminating the need to carry heavy vacuums helps maintain independence. The lightweight hose makes whole-home cleaning manageable.
Who should skip this system?
Renters, obviously. Flats without a garage or utility space for mounting. Homes under 1,000 square feet where a cordless vacuum suffices. Budget-conscious buyers who need that £1,500+ elsewhere. People who move frequently. Tech enthusiasts wanting smart features.
Visit Our Detailed Review To See Where the Dirt Devil Central Vacuum Ranks and Our Top Recommendations
Alternative Uses and Versatility
Central vacuums offer surprising versatility beyond floor cleaning. Here’s what I’ve discovered.
Workshop and Garage Cleaning: Install an inlet in your garage or workshop. Cleaning sawdust, metal shavings, or general workshop debris becomes effortless. The powerful suction handles heavier debris than portable vacuums.
Car Interior Detailing: With a long enough hose, you can vacuum your car whilst it’s parked in the drive. No extension leads or cordless battery anxiety. Just thorough cleaning.
Patio and Conservatory Cleaning: An outdoor inlet lets you vacuum patios, conservatories, or covered outdoor spaces. Leaves, dirt, and debris disappear quickly.
Fireplace Ash Removal: With proper attachments and when ash is completely cold, you can vacuum the fireplace residue. The system’s power and capacity handle this task well.
Dryer Vent Cleaning: Attach the hose to your dryer vent periodically. The powerful suction pulls out lint buildup that causes fires. Proper maintenance keeps your dryer efficient and safe.
Basement and Utility Room Cleaning: These areas often get neglected because dragging a vacuum down there is annoying. With an installed inlet, cleaning becomes routine.
Pet Grooming Station: Some people create a dedicated pet grooming area with an inlet nearby. Brush your pets and vacuum loose hair immediately. Reduces shedding throughout the house.
The system’s real strength is convenience breeding consistency. When cleaning is effortless, you do it more often. Your entire home stays cleaner with less perceived effort.
Value for Money and Comparison
Let’s discuss whether the HP Products 9880 Dirt Devil Central Vacuum justifies its cost.
Price Point Analysis: At £800-£1,000 for just the power unit, it’s not cheap. Add installation and accessories, and you’re at £1,400-£2,100 total. That’s premium vacuum territory.
What You’re Paying For: A permanent home improvement that lasts 20+ years. Calculated per year, that’s £70-£105 annually. Suddenly, it seems more reasonable. You’re not buying a vacuum; you’re installing infrastructure.
Comparison to Portable Vacuums: A premium cordless vacuum costs £400-£600. Add battery replacements every 3-4 years (£80-£100 each), and over 20 years, you’re spending similar money. The central system offers more power and capacity throughout.
Comparison to Other Central Systems: Budget central systems start around £500-£600 but lack power and longevity. Premium systems exceed £2,000 just for the unit. The HP Products 9880 sits sensibly in the middle, offering strong performance without premium pricing.
Long-Term Value: No battery degradation means consistent performance decades later. The only ongoing costs are replacement filter bags (£20-£30 annually). Compare this to replacing entire portable vacuums every 5-7 years.
Home Value Addition: Estate agents suggest central vacuum systems add £500-£1,500 to home value. You’ll likely recoup some investment when selling, especially in premium markets.
Honest Assessment: Is it worth it? If you’re staying in your home long-term (5+ years), yes. The convenience and performance justify the cost. For short-term residents or those on tight budgets, a quality portable vacuum makes more sense.
Maintenance and Long-Term Ownership
Let’s talk about what owning this system actually involves over the years of use.
Routine Maintenance: Every 2-3 months, empty the collection canister. This takes five minutes. Remove the canister, dump contents into your outdoor bin, wipe it clean, and reattach. That’s it.
Filter Care: The cloth filter bag needs replacing every 12-18 months, depending on use. These cost £20-£30. The secondary filter should be checked annually and replaced every 2-3 years at £15-£20.
Hose Maintenance: Inspect hoses periodically for cracks or blockages. A blocked hose dramatically reduces performance. Clear blockages with a plumber’s snake or by running water through (when disconnected and dried thoroughly).
Inlet Maintenance: Wall inlets rarely need attention. Occasionally, check that the valve mechanism moves freely. A drop of lubricant every few years keeps things working smoothly.
Motor Longevity: The motor is designed for decades of use. No regular maintenance required beyond ensuring the filters stay clean. The self-cleaning feature does most of this automatically.
Common Issues: Reduced suction usually means a clogged hose or a full collection canister. Strange noises indicate something’s stuck in the impeller. The thermal protection prevents serious damage from these issues.
Replacement Parts Availability: HP Products maintains good parts availability. Filters, bags, and hoses are readily available online. The motor itself is warranted for five years, indicating reliability.
Expected Lifespan: Quality central vacuum systems last 20-30 years. The HP Products 9880’s robust construction suggests it’ll reach this benchmark. The motor is the only component likely to need eventual replacement.
Warranty Coverage: Five years on the motor is excellent. Two years on components is standard. This coverage indicates manufacturer confidence in durability. Keep your receipt and register the warranty promptly.
DIY vs Professional Service: Most maintenance is simple DIY work. If the motor fails, you’ll likely want professional help. But that’s rare within the warranty period.
The reality? This system requires minimal attention. Less maintenance than a traditional vacuum because the motor isn’t portable and doesn’t suffer the abuse of being knocked around.
Reasons to Buy This Product
Let me give you specific, compelling reasons to choose the HP Products 9880 Dirt Devil Central Vacuum.
You’re Tired of Lugging Vacuums: Carrying a heavy vacuum between rooms, up and down stairs, gets exhausting. This system eliminates that completely. Just move the lightweight hose. Your back will thank you.
You Have Multiple Floors: Multi-story homes benefit enormously. The convenience factor multiplies with each additional floor. What was once a dreaded chore becomes straightforward.
You Want Consistent Power: Battery-powered vacuums lose suction as they drain. This delivers full power from start to finish, every single time. For thorough cleaning, this consistency matters.
You Value Quiet Cleaning: Having the motor in your garage whilst you vacuum the living room is genuinely pleasant. Conversations continue, the telly stays at normal volume, and you don’t disturb others.
You Have Pets: The massive collection capacity and powerful suction handle pet hair better than portable vacuums. You’ll vacuum more often because it’s convenient, keeping pet hair under control.
You’re Staying Long-Term: This is a 20+ year investment. If you’re in your forever home or staying 5+ years minimum, the value accumulates significantly. It becomes an appreciated feature, not an expense.
You Want Better Indoor Air: Exhausting outside your living space genuinely improves air quality. Dust and allergens don’t recirculate through rooms. For allergy sufferers, this makes a noticeable difference.
Visit Our Detailed Review To See Where the Dirt Devil Central Vacuum Ranks and Our Top Recommendations
Reasons to Skip This Product
Now, let me be honest about when you should choose differently.
You’re Renting: Never install a permanent system in a rental property. You’ll leave it behind when you move. Choose a quality portable vacuum instead.
You’re on a Tight Budget: £1,400-£2,100 total investment is significant. If that money is needed elsewhere, a £200-£400 portable vacuum delivers good performance. Visit our best bagged canister vacuums review for excellent portable alternatives.
You Have a Small Home: Flats or homes under 1,000 square feet don’t benefit enough to justify the cost. A cordless stick vacuum offers better value for small spaces.
You Want Smart Features: No app connectivity or voice control exists here. If smart home integration matters to you, this system feels outdated. Modern cordless vacuums offer these features.
You Move Frequently: Even homeowners who relocate every few years should reconsider. You’re leaving the system behind. The investment doesn’t follow you.
You Lack Installation Space: The power unit needs wall space in a garage, utility room, or basement. Flats without these spaces can’t accommodate the system.
You Want Immediate Gratification: Installation takes time and planning. If you need a vacuum today, buy a portable one. Central systems are long-term projects requiring patience.
Conclusion
After six months of daily use, I can give you a clear verdict on the HP Products 9880 Dirt Devil Central Vacuum System. It’s a solid mid-range central vacuum that delivers on its core promises whilst remaining affordable for this category.
The powerful 1,600-watt motor provides consistent, thorough cleaning across all floor types. The massive 25-litre capacity means I empty it every 2-3 months instead of every cleaning session. The quiet operation transforms vacuuming from an annoying chore into a peaceful activity. These fundamentals matter most, and the system excels at them.
However, it’s not for everyone. The £1,400-£2,100 total investment, including installation, is substantial. Retrofitting into existing homes is disruptive. The lack of smart features feels dated compared to modern cordless vacuums. And once installed, you’re committed to that house.
Visit Our Detailed Review To See Where the Dirt Devil Central Vacuum Ranks and Our Top Recommendations
My recommendation: If you own a home over 2,000 square feet, plan to stay 5+ years, and have the budget, this system is worth considering seriously. The convenience compounds daily. Your cleaning routine becomes easier, encouraging more frequent vacuuming, which keeps your home consistently cleaner.
The Dirt Devil Central Vacuum particularly excels for multi-story homes with pets. The combination of powerful suction, massive capacity, and effortless movement between floors creates genuine value. Add in the benefits for allergy sufferers, and the appeal strengthens further.
Who should skip it? Renters, small home owners, budget-conscious buyers, and anyone wanting smart features. For these situations, a quality portable vacuum makes more sense. The investment doesn’t justify itself.
The best alternative if this isn’t right? A premium cordless stick vacuum offers portability, decent runtime, and smart features at a lower total cost. They’re particularly suited for smaller homes and renters. For comprehensive options and detailed comparisons, visit our complete best battery vacuum cleaners guide, where we test and rank the top cordless models.
Final thoughts? The HP Products 9880 Dirt Devil Central Vacuum is a sensible choice for the right situation. It’s not flashy or trendy. It’s robust, reliable, and effective. If your home and lifestyle fit the profile I’ve outlined, you’ll appreciate this system for decades. If not, don’t force it. There are excellent alternatives that’ll serve you better.
For me personally? I’m keeping it. The daily convenience has genuinely improved my quality of life. That’s the highest recommendation I can give.
