Let’s talk about keeping your living space clean, especially when that space is constantly on the move, like an RV. The perpetual battle against tracked-in dirt, dust, and pet hair in a confined area is real. For a long time, dealing with this involved bulky vacuums that took up precious storage space or sacrificing cleaning power for portability. Finding an effective and convenient solution was a significant challenge that, had I known about a quality central vacuum system sooner, would have saved me a lot of frustration. Without the right tool, dirt accumulates, allergens build up, and the feeling of a truly clean space remains just out of reach.
Things to Consider Before Buying a Central Vacuum
Why opt for a central vacuum system in the first place? They fundamentally change how you clean by eliminating the need to lug a heavy machine around. This is particularly beneficial in smaller, unique spaces like RVs, where storage is limited and navigating tight corners is a constant struggle. The ideal customer for a central vacuum, especially a compact model, is someone living in an RV or a tiny home who prioritizes convenience, space-saving, and consistent cleaning power. If you live in a large conventional home, a standard upright or canister vacuum might be sufficient, or you might require a larger, more powerful central vacuum system designed for that scale.
Before investing in a central vacuum for an RV or small space, several factors warrant careful consideration. Firstly, assess your available mounting location – central vacuums require a permanent spot for the main unit and access to power. You also need to think about where to route the hose inlet. Suction power, typically measured in Air Watts or CFM (cubic feet per minute), is crucial for effective cleaning, especially on carpets and for picking up stubborn pet hair. The hose length needs to be sufficient to reach every corner of your space from the inlet point. Finally, consider the maintenance required, such as emptying the canister or changing filters, and the availability and quality of included attachments for different surfaces.
Presenting the Product
The HP Products 9880 Dirt Devil Central Vacuum System is designed specifically to address the cleaning challenges of RVs and small spaces. This built-in unit promises powerful suction in a compact, convenient package, freeing up valuable storage space. When you purchase the 9880 Dirt Devil, it typically includes the main power unit, an expandable hose (ranging from 7′ to 35′), several essential cleaning tools like a rug/floor tool, upholstery tool, dusting brush, and crevice tool, a Hepa filter, and a mesh tool bag for organization. While traditional household central vacuums might be larger and more powerful, the HP Products 9880 is tailored for the unique demands of mobile living, offering a built-in solution where portable vacuums fall short. It represents an upgrade over earlier, less powerful RV central vacuum models. This product is ideally suited for RV owners looking for a permanent, powerful, and space-saving cleaning solution. It might not be the best fit for those who only need occasional cleaning or prefer the flexibility of a standard plug-in vacuum they can use anywhere.
Pros:
* Excellent suction power for its size
* Built-in design saves significant storage space
* Expandable hose offers great reach
* Comes with useful attachments
* Bagless canister is convenient
Cons:
* Installation requires some DIY effort (cutting, mounting)
* Some users found the included carpet tool less effective without a powered brush roll
* Hose length can be a limitation in very large RVs if the unit isn’t centrally located
* The unit’s size, while compact for a central vac, still needs a dedicated mounting spot
Features & Benefits
Having used the HP Products 9880 Dirt Devil Central Vacuum for an extended period, I can attest to how its features translate into real-world benefits, especially in the context of RV living.
Powerful Suction (100 CFM Flow Rate)
One of the most impactful features of the 9880 Dirt Devil is its impressive suction power. The product description highlights a flow rate of 100 cubic feet per minute (CFM). While not the highest among residential central vacuums, this figure is quite robust for a compact unit designed for RVs. In practical terms, this means the vacuum creates a strong airflow capable of lifting debris efficiently. When I first used it, the sound of the air moving through the system was immediately noticeable, signaling that this wasn’t just a small, weak unit. This power is essential because RVs experience dirt accumulation from outside more frequently, and standard portable vacuums often struggle with embedded dirt and pet hair in carpeted areas. The strong suction ensures that dirt, crumbs, and even stubborn pet dander are pulled effectively from various surfaces, from hard floors to deeper pile carpets. This power directly contributes to a noticeably cleaner environment, reducing allergens and keeping the space feeling fresh.
Built-in & Space-Saving Design
The central vacuum concept itself is a major benefit in an RV, and the HP Products 9880 excels in offering this. Designed to be built-in, the main power unit can be permanently mounted in a hidden location – under a dinette seat, in a basement compartment, or under a bed. This eliminates the need for a closet or dedicated storage space for a bulky upright or canister vacuum. In an RV where every square inch counts, this space-saving aspect is invaluable. Not having to constantly retrieve, set up, and then find a place to stash a portable vacuum makes cleaning a less daunting task. It becomes integrated into the space, always ready to go. This convenience means I’m more likely to vacuum regularly, preventing dirt from building up in the first place. The compact nature of this central vacuum system truly enhances the livability of a smaller space.
Expandable Hose (7′ to 35′) & Versatile Attachments
The included expandable hose is a stroke of genius for RV applications. Storing a full-length vacuum hose is awkward and bulky. The 7′ to 35′ expandable design of the Dirt Devil 9880 hose means it’s manageable for storage (especially with an optional hose hanger) yet provides ample reach to cover a significant area from a single inlet point. This long reach means fewer inlets are needed, simplifying installation. I can easily reach from one end of my coach to the other. Paired with the included set of attachments – the rug/floor tool, upholstery tool, dusting brush, and crevice tool – the system becomes incredibly versatile. The rug/floor tool works well on hard surfaces and lower pile carpets. The upholstery tool is essential for furniture and curtains, while the crevice tool is perfect for tight spots and edges. The dusting brush handles delicate surfaces. This suite of tools ensures I can effectively clean virtually every surface in my RV, making the 9880 Dirt Devil a comprehensive cleaning solution. While the standard rug/floor tool is effective, users with significant carpeted areas might find that adding an optional powerhead (one with a spinning brush roll) further enhances deep cleaning capabilities, although some report mixed results with attachment compatibility or performance on very thick carpets.
Bagless Design & Hepa Filter
The HP Products 9880 Dirt Devil Central Vacuum System features a bagless design with a 1-gallon capacity canister. This is a welcome feature as it eliminates the ongoing cost and hassle of purchasing replacement bags. When the canister is full, you simply detach and empty it. While some might prefer bagged systems for less exposure to dust during emptying, the bagless design is generally more economical and environmentally friendly in the long run. Crucially, the unit includes a Hepa filter. Hepa filters are vital for trapping very fine particles, including allergens like dust mites, pet dander, and pollen. In a small, recirculating air environment like an RV, maintaining good indoor air quality is paramount. The Hepa filter ensures that the air exhausted by the vacuum is significantly cleaner, reducing allergens circulating in your living space. This is a major benefit for anyone with allergies or simply seeking a healthier environment. The combination of powerful suction, bagless collection, and Hepa filtration makes for a very effective and health-conscious cleaning system.
Installation Considerations
Installing a central vacuum requires more effort than plugging in a portable unit, and this is a point where users have varying experiences. If you’re replacing an older central vacuum, the installation of the 9880 can be relatively straightforward – essentially unmounting the old unit and mounting the new one in the same spot, connecting to existing power and inlet piping. However, a first-time installation involves planning the best location for the main unit (considering access for emptying and power), cutting a hole for the hose inlet valve, running low voltage wires to the inlet, and securing the unit itself. This requires some basic DIY skills and tools like drills, saws, and wrenches. While the unit comes with mounting hardware, some users have opted for different bolts or added bracing depending on their specific mounting surface. Planning is key to ensure you mount it in a convenient spot that allows access for maintenance and optimal hose reach, while avoiding existing wiring or plumbing. This initial installation effort is a disadvantage compared to a portable vacuum, but it’s a one-time task that enables the long-term convenience of a built-in system.
Social Proof
Looking at feedback from other users confirms many of my own positive experiences. People frequently praise the strong suction power of the HP Products 9880 Dirt Devil Central Vacuum System, often remarking on its effectiveness, especially for tackling pet hair that portable vacuums missed. Many highlight the convenience of having a built-in unit that saves space and is always ready for quick cleanups. Users appreciate the long reach of the expandable hose, allowing them to easily clean their entire RV. The system’s ability to deep clean carpets also receives positive mentions, significantly improving the cleanliness of their living space. The high average customer rating (4.7 out of 5 stars from over 300 reviews) further reinforces that this central vacuum system is a highly regarded product among its users.
Conclusion
Dealing with dirt, dust, and pet hair in a compact living space like an RV can be a persistent problem, impacting cleanliness and air quality. Ignoring it leads to accumulation, allergies, and an overall less comfortable environment. The HP Products 9880 Dirt Devil Central Vacuum System offers an excellent solution to this challenge. Its powerful suction ensures effective cleaning, its built-in, space-saving design eliminates clutter, and the expandable hose provides convenience and reach. If you’re ready to upgrade your cleaning routine and experience the benefits of a powerful, integrated vacuum system in your RV, you can learn more and check it out. Click here to check out the HP Products 9880 Dirt Devil Central Vacuum System .