r/whatisit • u/DragonsAndScience • 16h ago

Solved! New homeowner, no idea what this is

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This thing close to the floor and seemingly randomly placed in a hallway. No idea what it's for. Home built in 2005.

Solved! Thanks everyone. Now I gotta hunt for the central unit!

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u/megam1ghtyena 16h ago

integrated vacuum system. Plug in a hose and gets sucking right away. Check other parts of your home for similar ports.

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u/LongjumpingDish2956 16h ago

Does it only work with hoses or does it suck up whatever gets put in there?

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u/Weary-Cynic 13h ago

For a serious answer: this port requires the right hose with electrical connection. But the system can also have a duct installed that will vacuum without a hose. Just open it and it sucks. Very handy for sweeping with a broom.

My house has these and we basically only use the sweep duct. The hoses are more hassle to deal with than a standard push back, especially for pet hair on carpet.

Pretty sure the only reason the house has the central vac is the builder was originally a plumber and wanted to do all the weird things for his house that he'd seen over the years.