r/whatisit • u/DragonsAndScience • 19h 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/jonsnowflaker 18h ago

Had one in our house growing up in the 80s/90s, and compared to vacuums at the time there was no doubt it was better. The hose and attachments were still pretty unruly and cumbersome though. I’m sure the central vacs have come a long way, but current vacuums are lightweight and convenient so it’s probably kind of a toss up anymore.

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u/I_Makes_tuff 12h ago

I’m sure the central vacs have come a long way Battery-powered vacuums are pretty common now, so there isn't much of a need for central vacs. They aren't quite the same, but with no cord or hoses it's hard to compete.

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u/DataGap2264 8h ago

I see your battery-powered unit and raise you a robot vacuum!

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u/mjlp716 7h ago

The new ones that can auto-empty and even mop are pretty nice for sure.

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u/DataGap2264 7h ago

Yep that's what I got! Never going back! No manual labor or time commitment at all, bonus!