NuTone CV400 — Central Vacuum Power Unit Operating & Installation Manual

Homeowner's operating instructions for the NuTone/Broan-NuTone CV400 (Model No. SFDB-DC) household central vacuum power unit — installation, bag replacement, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Overview

The CV400 power unit is designed to be located away from everyday living areas of the home — typically in a garage, basement, or utility room. Through a network of lightweight tubing, the power unit connects to inlets placed strategically throughout the house. Attach the wand and cleaning tool to the hose, insert the hose end into any wall inlet, and vacuum. For non-switched hoses, inserting the hose automatically turns the power unit on; removing it shuts the unit off. A front-mounted rocker switch can also turn the unit on manually.

Safety Warnings

• Do not use on wet surfaces or outdoors; do not allow use as a toy
• Use only manufacturer-recommended attachments; do not block any openings
• Keep hair, loose clothing, fingers, and body parts away from openings and moving parts
• Never pick up anything burning or smoking (cigarettes, matches, hot ashes)
• Do not operate without the dustbag or secondary filter in place — running without the secondary filter voids the warranty
• Do not vacuum liquids, fine powders (e.g., drywall dust), or flammable/combustible liquids
• Do not install the unit horizontally; do not use the debris pail as a wash pail or stool
• Unplug by grasping the plug, not the cord; never handle the plug with wet hands
• Connect only to a properly grounded outlet — this appliance must be grounded
• Have the unit inspected by a specialized technician once a year

Bag Replacement

The disposable bag has a 6 U.S. gallon capacity and, under normal conditions, needs changing about twice a year. A complete loss of suction (not caused by a blockage) signals a full bag. To replace: release both side latches (pull out, then push up), remove the pail, grasp the bag collar and pull down to slide the old bag off. Unfold the new bag, grasp the collar at the marked point, and insert it over the bag adapter — position the collar between the taper ring and bag stopper. Replacement bags (3-pack, Model 391) are available from NuTone.

Secondary Filter

A secondary safety filter at the top of the inlet chamber protects the motor if the disposable bag tears. Check and clean it whenever a replacement bag is installed — brush clean, or wash in mild detergent and let dry completely before reinstalling if heavily soiled. Operating the unit without the secondary filter voids the warranty. To remove: take out the debris pail and bag, remove both locking sleeves from the retaining hooks, then carefully pull the filter down. Reverse the steps to reinstall. A replacement filter (part no. 10941310) is available from NuTone.

Power Unit Installation

Locating the Unit

• Away from general living areas, in an accessible spot for cleaning and maintenance
• Within 6 feet of a grounded 120 VAC electrical outlet
• Not near extreme heat sources (e.g., water heater) or high-ambient-temperature areas (attic, furnace room)
• If installed in a closet or small utility room, ensure adequate ventilation (e.g., door louvers)

Mounting

1. Assemble the wall mounting bracket with screws driven directly into a wall stud for a solid installation
2. Remove the debris pail, confirm the bag is properly installed, remove accessories/installation kit, then reinstall the pail securely
3. Press the 3-way elbow onto the back of the power unit (do not glue it to the unit); remove the plastic inlet cap only if both inlets will be used
4. Install the mounting bracket on a wall stud within 6 feet of a grounded outlet — minimum clearances: 14" min. side clearance, 12" minimum to ceiling, 18" minimum above floor
5. Use the bracket as a template to mark screw positions; drill upper and lower holes with a 3/16" bit
6. Secure the bracket to the wall with the included 2 no. 14 x 2" screws
7. Hang the power unit on the bracket's center opening by its back hook, then secure with the provided no. 6 x 3/8" screw and washer
8. Run the house vacuum line up to the 3-way elbow and glue it to the elbow opening (not to the power unit)
9. Connect an optional muffler and exhaust tubing to the top exhaust outlet — do not vent exhaust into a wall, ceiling, or concealed space; use model CI330 exhaust vent for exterior venting (recommended but not required)
10. Secure the piping near the elbow to the wall with the included PVC strap

Grounding Instructions

This appliance must be grounded to reduce risk of electric shock. It is equipped with a grounded 6-foot cord — plug directly into a properly grounded 120-volt outlet with no adapter. For low-voltage inlet wiring: using pliers, install the included crimp connectors on 18-gauge minimum 2-conductor low voltage wire (Model 376, not included), then connect the wire to the tabs on the outside of the power unit and to each wall inlet.

Troubleshooting Guide

Warranty

NuTone provides a one (1) year limited warranty from the original purchase date covering defects in materials or workmanship under normal use. Excludes consumables (e.g., belts), normal wear and maintenance, and damage from misuse, negligence, accident, improper maintenance/repair, or faulty installation. NuTone's sole obligation is repair or replacement at its option; incidental and consequential damages are excluded (subject to state law). For warranty service, contact NuTone at 1-888-336-6151 with model number, part identification, defect description, and proof of purchase date.

Manufacturer: Broan-NuTone LLC, Hartford, Wisconsin · 1-888-336-3948 · www.nutone.com