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MD -vs- Beam
Comparing the design:
The greatest product difference to note is the filtering system.
We are completely sold on our paper bag dirt separation filtration system, compared to the Beam's
inverted "self-cleaning" cloth filter. Beam installs a permanent 2 layer filter where: "The Front
side is made of static free Dacron while the back up filters made from napped back cotton sateen. . .
The self-cleaning feature is attained when the vacuum is turned off. At that time, the weighted filter
inverts and sheds any dirt that has accumulated on the filter." Two major problems exist here.
The Dacron allows dirt through which is caught by the sateen. How can this dirt be removed?
If you've ever serviced a Beam unit that is a few years old you know how you can physically feel
the globs of dirt caught between the 2 filters! This creates a permanent suction loss that the
homeowner cannot easily rectify.
If the vacuum unit is shut off to activate the "self-cleaning" action the bag must drop rather
slowly as the seal diminishes. Please see the attached diagram taken directly from their operation
manual that tells you once a year to clean the "self-cleaning" filter.
One simple larger paper bag makes more sense. You change it.... you're back to full power! Beam also
states "For best results empty the canister when it is only half full!" Why, even their sales brochure
for their Model 287c states, "Increased filter capacity also improves cleaning ability."
Beam units can contain anywhere from 3 to 8 gallon capacities, compared to MD having 8 or 12 gallon capacities.
Beam also has had problem with their canister gasket. While replacing the trash receptacle it is easy to
misalign and air can escape, decreasing the power of the system. The trouble shooting section of their
instruction manual states this as a possible reason for "partial loss of suction."
The intake stub for the Beam tank is made out of styrene, MD's intake stub is metal. Beam's intake stub is
located on only one side, which limits the installer, unlike MD with necks on both sides. Another difference
that separates the two brands is Beam hangs on one stud where MD is much firmer on two studs. Beam units are
typically installed much higher in the garage than MD's so that, along with the top-motor configuration, this
causes them to run hotter than MD units.
Comparing the mechanics:
Beam now uses a low voltage modular printed circuit board that MD has historically avoided. MD uses reliable
Honeywell and Basler components.
Beam does not offer all the motor configurations that MD offers, especially units for larger homes, such as
our (2) 7.2" motors. Beam's large units typically utilize small motors that are running at very high speeds.
Patented "Silent Master" technology, in which MD has limited the noise output, is not available from any other
manufacturers. Beam has produced a "Quite Beam," which is nowhere near as quiet as the Silent Master.
Beam uses a high performance acoustic motor to diminish noise, which is not ventable and is susceptible to
overheating giving it a much shorter life span.
Another major difference is evidenced in the warranty. Beam's "Limited Lifetime Warranty" is only to the original
consumer at the original installation site. Furthermore, "This warranty does not apply to loss or damage due, in
Beam's sole opinion, to normal wear and tear... or failure to provide proper maintenance." Compare this to MD's
6 year fully transferable warranty that does include wear and tear and it's easy to see MD believes in their product!
TOP MOUNTED MOTOR,
INVERTED CLOTH FILTER
Recommended outside-venting. Looses power as dust permanently builds up in filter.
Filter requires shaking in order to clean it, depositing dust on floor beneath.
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TOP MOUNTED MOTOR,
FILTERLESS
Requires outside venting. Deposits debris on outside walls, plants, etc. Screen
requires monthly cleaning. 5 to 7% of dust & lint enters fan chambers,
reducing motor life.
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BOTTOM MOUNTED MOTOR,
FILTERED
Exhausts clean air. No outside-venting necessary. Extended motor life. Disposable dust-free
filterbag.
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Arapahoe Central Vacuum
Phone 303.761.0729 | Fax 303.761.0728
5250 South Sherman Street
Littleton, CO 80121-1030
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