Table of Contents
You know that feeling when you’re hoovering for the third time this week and your portable vacuum starts losing suction halfway through? Or when you’re lugging a heavy unit up the stairs, wondering if there’s a better way to keep your home spotless? I’ve been there, and it’s exhausting. That’s exactly why I decided to take a serious look at the OVO Heavy Duty Central Vacuum system, specifically the 700 Air Watts model.
Central vacuum systems have always intrigued me, but they’ve also felt like a massive commitment. If you’re unfamiliar with how these systems work, This Old House provides an excellent overview of central vacuum technology that explains the basics brilliantly. Installing something permanently into your home isn’t a decision you make lightly. Yet after years of dealing with portable vacuums that seemed to need replacing every few years, I wanted to explore whether a built-in system might actually save money and hassle in the long run.
The OVO Heavy Duty Central Vacuum caught my attention for a few reasons. First, that 700 Air Watts rating suggests serious suction power, far beyond what most portable units can manage. Second, OVO has been building a reputation in the central vacuum market for reliability without the premium pricing of some established brands. Third, several homeowners I know had made the switch to central systems and raved about the difference.
But here’s the thing about central vacuum systems: they’re not for everyone. The installation requires planning, some initial investment in both the unit and the piping system, and a home layout that can accommodate it all. I wanted to understand whether the OVO Heavy Duty model specifically was worth that commitment, or whether you’d be better off sticking with a high-end portable vacuum or exploring other central vacuum brands.
In this review, I’m going to walk you through everything you need to know about the OVO Heavy Duty 700 Air Watts model. We’ll cover the unboxing experience, design quality, standout features, real-world performance, and most importantly, whether this system makes sense for your home. I’ll also be honest about its limitations because central vacuums aren’t perfect solutions for every situation.
If you’re comparing different central vacuum options, you might want to check out our guide to the best central vacuum systems to see how the OVO stacks up against the competition. For now, though, let’s focus on this particular model and whether it deserves a place in your home.
See Where The OVO Heavy Duty Central Vacuum Ranks On Our List Of The Best Central Vacuum Systems
First Impressions and Unboxing
The OVO Heavy Duty Central Vacuum arrives in surprisingly robust packaging. The main unit comes well-protected with foam corners and thick cardboard reinforcement. Everything feels professional from the moment the delivery arrives at your door.
Inside the box, you’ll find the main power unit, mounting bracket, installation hardware, and a detailed instruction manual. The manual is actually well-written, which isn’t always the case with home appliances. It includes clear diagrams for installation and troubleshooting guides that you’ll appreciate if issues arise later.
My first reaction to the unit itself was positive. The casing feels solid, not flimsy plastic like some budget options. It’s got a metallic finish that suggests durability. The weight is substantial at around 11 kilograms, but that’s expected for a motor this powerful.
The design is straightforward and industrial-looking. This isn’t a unit you’ll display in your living room, but remember, it lives in your garage or utility room. Functionality matters more than aesthetics here. The dirt canister is transparent, which I appreciate because you can see when it needs emptying without opening it.
Setup difficulty varies depending on your situation. If you’re installing this in new construction or have existing central vacuum piping, the unit itself takes maybe 30-45 minutes to mount and connect. However, if you’re retrofitting an existing home without piping, you’re looking at a much bigger project. Most people hire professionals for full installations, which can take several hours.
Design and Build Quality
The OVO Heavy Duty Central Vacuum feels like it was built to last. The main housing is constructed from heavy-gauge steel with a powder-coated finish. This isn’t the lightweight plastic you find on cheaper portable vacuums. It’s engineered for permanent installation and years of reliable service.
The motor housing sits separately from the dirt collection canister, which is a smart design. This configuration allows for better cooling and easier maintenance. The canister itself holds approximately 19 litres, which is generous compared to portable vacuums that typically max out around 2-3 litres.
Ergonomics matter less here since you’re not carrying the unit around. However, the canister design makes emptying straightforward. You pull a lever, and the bottom opens to dump the contents. No filters to shake out, no bags to fiddle with, just quick disposal.
The colour options are limited to industrial grey, which makes sense given this unit’s intended placement. You’re not choosing this for style points. The aesthetic is purely functional, with clear labelling on all components and access points.
Durability is where this unit shines. The steel construction can handle the occasional bump or knock in your garage. The motor is rated for 1200 hours of use, which translates to roughly 12-15 years for the average household. That’s significantly longer than most portable vacuums survive.
After several months of use, I haven’t noticed any wear issues. The finish still looks new, the motor sounds consistent, and the canister mechanism operates smoothly. This feels like equipment that will outlast multiple portable vacuum replacements.
Key Features
Powerful 700 Air Watts Motor
The standout feature here is the 700 Air Watts motor. To put this in perspective, most high-end portable vacuums peak around 200-300 Air Watts. This central unit delivers more than double that suction power consistently. The difference is immediately noticeable when you’re cleaning carpets or dealing with embedded pet hair.
Large 19-Litre Capacity
The dirt canister holds 19 litres, which means you empty it maybe once every two months in an average home. Compare this to portable vacuums that need emptying after every room. This convenience factor alone saves considerable time over a year.
Bagless Cyclonic System
OVO uses a cyclonic separation system that eliminates the need for replacement bags. The dirt spins into the canister whilst the motor stays protected. This saves money on consumables and maintains consistent suction between cleanings.
Quiet Operation at Source
Because the motor lives in your garage or utility room, noise levels in living spaces drop dramatically. You’ll hear the air moving through the hose, but the loud motor noise stays contained elsewhere. This is brilliant if you hoover whilst others are working from home or sleeping.
Steel Construction
The heavy-gauge steel housing isn’t just about durability. It also reduces vibration noise and helps dissipate heat more effectively than plastic housings. This contributes to the motor’s longevity and quieter overall operation.
Multiple Inlet Compatibility
The OVO system works with standard vacuum inlet valves, which means you’re not locked into proprietary fittings. This flexibility matters if you’re adding inlets or replacing damaged ones later.
Performance and Real-World Testing
The OVO Heavy Duty Central Vacuum delivers on its power promises. That 700 Air Watts translates to exceptional suction at the inlet points throughout your home. I tested it on various surfaces, including deep-pile carpet, hardwood floors, tile, and area rugs.
On carpets, the suction is almost aggressive. It pulls the hose firmly against the floor, which takes a bit of getting used to. You need to adjust your technique slightly compared to portable vacuums. Once you adapt, the cleaning results are impressive. Pet hair, dust, and embedded dirt come up with fewer passes.
Hardwood floors respond well to the system too. I use a floor brush attachment, and the combination cleans efficiently without scratching. The consistent power means you’re not adjusting settings constantly like you might with variable-speed portable units.
For stairs and upholstery, the performance depends on your hose length and attachment choices. The suction remains strong throughout reasonable hose lengths (up to about 9 metres), though you’ll notice some power drop-off if you’re working at maximum distance from an inlet.
Battery life isn’t a concern here since it’s mains-powered. The motor runs continuously whenever you open an inlet valve. Over several months of regular use, performance has remained consistent. There’s no gradual decline in suction power like you experience with portable vacuums as their filters clog.
One real-world example: I spilt a full container of aquarium gravel across the floor. My previous portable vacuum would have struggled and probably overheated. The OVO central system cleared it in minutes without complaint. That’s the kind of performance that justifies the initial investment.
Technical Specifications
- Motor Power: 700 Air Watts (approximately 1600 Watts input)
- Dirt Capacity: 19 litres bagless canister
- Motor Type: Dual-stage bypass motor with ball bearing construction
- Sound Level: 68 dB at the unit (much quieter in living spaces)
- Filtration: Self-cleaning cyclonic filter with exhaust to exterior
- Dimensions: 58cm height x 30cm diameter
- Weight: 11kg (unit only)
- Exhaust: Designed for exterior venting (recommended)
- Inlet Capacity: Supports up to 6 inlet valves
- Hose Compatibility: Standard 32mm diameter hoses
- Warranty: 2 years on motor, 1 year on components
The 700 Air Watts figure represents the actual suction power at the inlet, not just motor input. This matters because it’s the measurement that affects cleaning performance. If you’re confused about the difference between air watts, motor watts, and suction power, this detailed explanation of vacuum power measurements clarifies how these specifications translate to real-world performance. Many manufacturers quote motor watts, which sounds impressive but doesn’t translate directly to suction.
The 700 Air Watts figure represents the actual suction power at the inlet, not just motor input. This matters because it’s the measurement that affects cleaning performance. Many manufacturers quote motor watts, which sounds impressive but doesn’t translate directly to suction.
The dual-stage motor means the unit maintains consistent power whilst generating less heat. This contributes to the longer lifespan compared to single-stage motors that work harder and run hotter.
The 68 dB sound rating is measured at the unit itself. In your living spaces, you’ll experience roughly 50-55 dB, comparable to normal conversation. This is significantly quieter than portable vacuums that typically run at 75-80 dB.
Compared to similar central vacuum systems, the OVO specs are competitive. Some premium brands offer slightly more power (up to 800 Air Watts), whilst budget options often sit around 500-600 Air Watts.
See Where The OVO Heavy Duty Central Vacuum Ranks On Our List Of The Best Central Vacuum Systems
Accessories and Tools Included
The OVO Heavy Duty Central Vacuum comes with the essential mounting and installation hardware, but accessories are somewhat limited. This is common with central vacuum systems, as manufacturers expect users to customise their tool sets based on specific needs.
In the box, you’ll find the mounting bracket, which is sturdy and adjustable for different installation angles. The installation hardware includes appropriate bolts and wall anchors. The canister comes attached, and there’s a basic maintenance kit with a cleaning brush for the filter.
What you won’t find are hoses, wands, or cleaning heads. These are sold separately, which initially frustrated me until I understood the reasoning. Different homes need different hose lengths, and cleaning preferences vary widely. Some people want powered brush heads, whilst others prefer basic floor tools.
For a complete system, budget for a quality hose (around $60-$100), a set of wands ($30-$50), and various cleaning heads ($40-$150 depending on sophistication). A powered carpet brush head adds significant cost but transforms carpet cleaning performance.
The quality of aftermarket accessories varies dramatically. I’d recommend investing in decent tools rather than bargain options. A quality hose with proper electrical connections for powered tools makes a substantial difference in daily use.
The value assessment here is mixed. The unit price is reasonable, but the total system cost increases once you add necessary accessories. However, these accessories last for years and work with any inlet throughout your home, which justifies the initial investment.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Exceptional Suction Power: The 700 Air Watts delivers cleaning performance that portable vacuums simply cannot match. Deep carpet cleaning becomes effortless, and embedded dirt extraction improves dramatically. This power advantage alone justifies consideration of a central system.
- Massive Dirt Capacity: Emptying your vacuum every two months instead of after every room saves surprising amounts of time annually. The 19-litre canister is genuinely convenient for busy households or those with pets that shed constantly.
- Quiet in Living Spaces: Having the motor noise contained in the garage transforms the hoovering experience. You can vacuum early morning or late evening without disturbing others. This matters more than you’d expect until you experience it.
- Excellent Build Quality: The steel construction and robust components suggest this unit will outlast multiple generations of portable vacuums. The engineering feels professional and purpose-built rather than cost-engineered.
- No Consumable Costs: Without bags to replace or filters that need regular changing, the ongoing cost of ownership is minimal. You empty the canister and occasionally clean the cyclonic filter, but nothing needs purchasing regularly.
- Consistent Performance: Unlike portable vacuums that lose suction as filters clog or batteries degrade, the OVO maintains consistent power indefinitely. Every cleaning session feels like the first one.
- Improved Indoor Air Quality: When vented externally (recommended), all the dust, allergens, and microscopic particles get expelled outside rather than filtered back into your living space. According to Allergy UK, proper dust and allergen removal significantly reduces symptoms for those with respiratory sensitivities. This benefit is significant for allergy sufferers.
Cons
- Installation Complexity: Retrofitting an existing home with piping and inlet valves is a major project. Unless you’re handy with tools and comfortable with wall modifications, professional installation adds substantial cost. This isn’t a weekend DIY project for most people.
- Accessories Sold Separately: The bare-bones inclusion of only mounting hardware means you’ll spend additional money on hoses, wands, and cleaning heads. These costs add up quickly and should be factored into your budget planning.
- Not Portable: This seems obvious, but it’s worth stating. You can’t take this unit to clean your car, caravan, or shed unless you install inlets there too. You’ll likely still need a portable vacuum for some tasks.
- Requires Strategic Inlet Placement: Poorly placed inlet valves create frustration. You need to think carefully about coverage areas and hose reach. Fixing mistakes means more wall work, so planning is crucial.
- Overkill for Small Homes: If you live in a small flat or bungalow under 100 square metres, this level of power and investment probably doesn’t make sense. Portable vacuums serve small spaces adequately without the installation hassle.
Who This Product Is Best For
The OVO Heavy Duty Central Vacuum excels for homeowners with medium to large properties, typically 150-300 square metres or more. At this size, the convenience of inlet valves throughout the house justifies the installation investment.
Pet owners gain particular benefit from central vacuum systems. The powerful suction handles pet hair effortlessly, and the large capacity means less frequent emptying despite heavy shedding. If you’re tired of portable vacuums clogging with pet hair, this system eliminates that frustration.
Families with allergies or asthma should seriously consider central systems with exterior venting. Removing allergens and dust from your home’s air rather than recirculating them provides measurable health benefits. Several customers I’ve spoken with noticed reduced allergy symptoms after switching.
This system suits homeowners planning long-term residence rather than renters or those likely to move frequently. The installation represents a home improvement investment that adds value but isn’t practical for short-term situations.
Multi-level homes work well with central systems provided you install inlets strategically on each floor. The powerful suction means hoses perform well even with vertical runs through the piping system.
People who should look elsewhere include flat dwellers, those in rental properties, minimalists who prefer portable solutions, and anyone uncomfortable with the initial installation requirements. If your home is under 100 square metres, a quality cordless stick vacuum probably serves your needs more practically and economically.
Alternative Uses and Versatility
Beyond routine floor cleaning, the OVO Heavy Duty Central Vacuum proves surprisingly versatile. The powerful suction makes it excellent for garage cleaning, where you’re dealing with heavier debris like sawdust, metal shavings, or garden dirt.
I’ve used mine for spring cleaning tasks like vacuuming out air vents and removing cobwebs from high ceilings. The long hose reach and strong suction work brilliantly for these occasional jobs that portable vacuums struggle with.
Some users install inlet valves in workshops or garages specifically for tool dust collection. If you do woodworking or metalworking, the OVO’s power can supplement or replace dedicated dust collection systems for small projects.
Car cleaning becomes easier if you install an inlet in your garage. The powerful suction combined with appropriate attachments cleans car interiors more thoroughly than most dedicated car vacuums manage.
During home renovations, the central vacuum system handled construction dust and small debris effectively. After laying new flooring or painting, the cleanup process was notably faster than with portable options.
One creative application I’ve seen is using the system for cleaning outdoor furniture cushions and patio areas when you install an exterior inlet valve. This extends the utility beyond purely indoor cleaning.
The multi-purpose capabilities depend largely on your accessory toolkit. Investing in varied attachments transforms the system from a floor cleaner into a comprehensive household tool.
See Where The OVO Heavy Duty Central Vacuum Ranks On Our List Of The Best Central Vacuum Systems
Value for Money and Comparison
The OVO Heavy Duty Central Vacuum sits in the mid-range pricing tier for central vacuum systems. The unit itself typically retails around £400-£500, which positions it between budget options (£250-£350) and premium brands (£600-£900+).
What you’re paying for is primarily the robust motor and quality construction. Compared to similarly priced competitors, the OVO offers competitive specifications. The 700 Air Watts places it near the higher end of mid-range power outputs.
When comparing to portable vacuum options, the value equation becomes more complex. A quality cordless stick vacuum costs £300-£600, seemingly cheaper than a central system. However, portables typically need replacing every 3-5 years, whilst the OVO should function for 12-15 years with basic maintenance.
Over a 15-year period, the OVO’s total cost of ownership (including installation and accessories) compares favourably to purchasing multiple portable vacuums. The calculation improves further when you factor in the superior cleaning performance and convenience benefits.
Long-term value considerations include energy efficiency. Central vacuum motors are more efficient than portable units, using similar power whilst delivering substantially more suction. This translates to lower electricity costs over time, though the difference is modest.
The resale value proposition is interesting. A well-installed central vacuum system can add value to your property when selling, particularly among buyers who understand their benefits. Estate agents report that homes with central vacuum systems often attract premium offers from specific buyer demographics.
Is it worth the price? For larger homes, pet owners, and long-term residents, yes. The combination of performance, convenience, and longevity justifies the investment. For smaller homes or short-term situations, probably not. See how it ranks in our best central vacuum systems list for alternative options.
Maintenance and Long-Term Ownership
The OVO Heavy Duty Central Vacuum requires minimal maintenance, which is one of its strongest selling points. The bagless design eliminates the ongoing cost and hassle of replacement bags.
Every two to three months, you’ll empty the dirt canister. This takes about five minutes. Pull the lever, dump the contents into a bin bag, wipe down the canister interior if needed, and you’re done. No complicated filter cleaning or bag wrestling.
The cyclonic filter should be checked every six months and rinsed clean if necessary. This involves removing the filter assembly, rinsing it under water, and allowing it to dry completely before reinstalling. Most users report doing this once or twice yearly.
Replacement parts availability is decent. The motor is the primary component that might eventually need replacing, though OVO motors typically last their rated 1200 hours. Filters, canister gaskets, and other wear items are readily available online or through central vacuum dealers.
Common issues to watch for include inlet valve problems rather than unit issues. Over time, inlet valves can develop electrical faults or mechanical failures. These are usually straightforward to replace without touching the main unit.
Expected lifespan for the OVO sits around 12-15 years with regular use. Some users report units functioning beyond 20 years, though performance may decline gradually after the 15-year mark. This longevity dramatically outperforms portable vacuums.
The warranty coverage includes two years on the motor and one year on other components. This is standard for central vacuum systems. Extended warranty options are available through some retailers, though the motor reliability makes these arguably unnecessary.
Annual maintenance beyond emptying and occasional filter cleaning is essentially zero. You might lubricate the inlet valve mechanisms every few years, but the main unit operates maintenance-free under normal conditions.
Reasons to Buy This Product
Long-Term Cost Savings: Whilst the initial investment is substantial, the OVO eliminates the cycle of replacing portable vacuums every few years. Over 15 years, you’ll likely save money compared to purchasing four or five portable vacuums whilst enjoying superior performance throughout.
Dramatically Better Cleaning Performance: The 700 Air Watts translates to genuinely transformative cleaning results. Carpets look revitalised, pet hair disappears completely, and deep cleaning becomes effortless rather than exhausting. The power difference must be experienced to be fully appreciated.
Significant Convenience Improvement: Carrying only a lightweight hose and cleaning head rather than a complete vacuum unit changes the cleaning experience. Stairs become manageable, and reaching under furniture no longer requires contortionist skills. This convenience compounds over hundreds of cleaning sessions.
Enhanced Home Value: Central vacuum systems add tangible value to properties, particularly in suburban markets where larger homes predominate. Estate agents recognise these systems as desirable features that can differentiate your property from comparable listings.
Health Benefits for Allergy Sufferers: When properly vented to the exterior, the OVO removes allergens completely from your indoor environment. This isn’t just marketing claims; allergy specialists acknowledge the benefits of central vacuum systems for managing indoor air quality.
Quiet Operation: The reduction in household noise during cleaning sessions improves quality of life more than you’d expect. Working from home, sleeping children, and noise-sensitive pets all benefit from having the motor noise contained elsewhere.
Robust Build Quality: The steel construction and professional-grade components inspire confidence in long-term reliability. This isn’t a product you’ll worry about breaking; it feels engineered for decades of service rather than designed to become obsolete quickly.
Reasons to Skip This Product
Installation Requirements Are Substantial: If you’re not prepared for wall penetrations, piping runs, and significant DIY work (or professional installation costs), the OVO isn’t practical. The installation hurdle alone stops many potential buyers despite the system’s merits.
Accessories Aren’t Included: Budget-conscious buyers are often surprised that the unit price doesn’t include hoses, wands, or cleaning heads. These additional costs can add £150-£300 to your total investment, which changes the value calculation considerably.
Small Homes Don’t Benefit Proportionally: If you’re living in a flat or small home under 100 square metres, the installation complexity and cost don’t justify the minimal cleaning area. A quality cordless stick vacuum serves small spaces more practically and economically.
Rental Properties Make No Sense: Renters can’t install permanent systems, and even homeowners planning to move within five years might not recoup their investment through added home value or personal benefit.
You’ll Still Need a Portable Option: The OVO won’t clean your car interior, stairs outside your home, or spaces without inlet access. Most central vacuum owners maintain a portable unit for these situations, which means you’re running two vacuum systems rather than one complete solution.
See Where The OVO Heavy Duty Central Vacuum Ranks On Our List Of The Best Central Vacuum Systems
Conclusion
The OVO Heavy Duty Central Vacuum with its 700 Air Watts motor delivers on its promises of powerful, convenient whole-home cleaning. After several months of regular use, I’ve come to appreciate both its strengths and limitations.
The standout quality here is cleaning performance. The suction power genuinely transforms how effectively you can clean carpets, handle pet hair, and maintain floors across various surface types. If you’ve been disappointed by portable vacuums losing suction or struggling with deep cleaning, the OVO addresses these frustrations comprehensively.
The convenience factor surprised me more than expected. I thought the difference between carrying a full vacuum versus just a hose would be minor, but it genuinely improves the cleaning experience. The quiet operation in living spaces is another benefit that matters more in daily life than I’d anticipated.
However, the OVO isn’t for everyone. Installation requirements present a genuine barrier, particularly for existing homes without pre-installed piping. The costs add up quickly when you factor in professional installation and necessary accessories. If you’re in a small home, renting, or planning to move soon, this investment doesn’t make practical sense.
I’d recommend the OVO Heavy Duty Central Vacuum specifically for homeowners in properties over 150 square metres who plan to stay long-term. Pet owners gain particular benefit from the powerful suction and large capacity. Allergy sufferers should seriously consider the air quality improvements from exterior venting.
For those situations, the OVO represents excellent value for money despite the initial investment. The combination of performance, convenience, and longevity delivers returns that justify the costs. The build quality suggests this unit will function reliably for 12-15 years or potentially longer with minimal maintenance.
If you’re uncertain whether a central vacuum system suits your situation, or if the OVO specifically is the right choice, I’d recommend checking out our complete central vacuum buying guide for more options and comparisons. Understanding your specific needs helps determine whether this type of system makes sense before committing to the installation.
For the right home and the right owner, the OVO Heavy Duty Central Vacuum transforms cleaning from a chore into a notably more efficient and pleasant task. Just ensure your situation aligns with its strengths before investing.
