Over twenty years ago, Hide-A-Hose launched the first Retractable Hose Central Vacuum System. Since then, other retractable hose systems have hit the market. So what sets Hide-A-Hose apart?

In this article, we'll compare the Hide-A-Hose and Chameleon Retractable Hose Systems by highlighting a few key aspects of both systems to help you make an informed choice.

Lock & Seal at Any Length

Perhaps the biggest difference between Hide-A-Hose and Chameleon is the way you lock and seal the hose. With the Hide-A-Hose System you can lock and seal the hose at any length.

With the Chameleon you must pull the entire hose all the way out to lock and seal the hose. 

Why is this such a big deal? There are many times when you need to clean up a mess just a few feet away. You may not want to pull 50’ of hose out every time you vacuum.  With the Hide-A-Hose patented locking and sealing system, you have full suction at any length of hose, whether it is fifteen feet away, or 50. Not only does the Hide-A-Hose System seal at any length, it also locks at any length so that the hose will not retract while you are vacuuming.

With the Chameleon, the hose will start retracting on it’s own if the hose is not pulled all the way out.  The Chameleon representative might say this is not an issue, but if this is true, then why does the Chameleon now offer a clumsy locking clip to prevent hose retraction. 

Additionally, if you use the Chameleon system when the hose is not pulled all the way out, suction is reduced by as much as 33%.  With that kind of power loss, the Chameleon struggles to provide enough suction for certain accessories unless the hose is fully extended and locked. 

On/Off Switch

Another difference between the two systems is the on and off switch.  The Hide-A-Hose valve has an easily accessible and visible on and off switch. Users can operate the system with ease, thanks to the user-friendly design of the switch, which is conveniently placed for quick access.

On the other hand, the Chameleon's switch is positioned behind the hose, necessitating users to navigate by feel rather than sight. This arrangement can be less convenient when compared to the Hide-A-Hose's intuitive switch placement.

Smaller Size

If the actual size of the valve on your wall is important to you, then Hide-A-Hose has a clear advantage. The Hide-A-Hose valve is 26% smaller than the Chameleon. This reduction enhances aesthetics and blends more seamlessly with standard household designs.

The Chameleon valve remains larger in size, potentially presenting an industrial appearance that contrasts with the sleek and modern design of the Hide-A-Hose valve.

Affordable Alternative

An argument can be made for a valve that only gives you full cleaning power if it is pulled completely out. However, Hide-A-Hose believes this design should be for quick clean areas like laundry rooms or master bathrooms.

In fact, Hide-A-Hose has a valve that works exactly the way the Chameleon valve works. It’s used in quick clean areas only. It’s called the Mini, and it is about half the size and half the price.

It also looks identical to the Hide-A-Hose full featured valve except smaller, so both valves can be installed in a house for a completely integrated system.

Hide-A-Hose system offers several advantages over the Chameleon, primarily in its sealing and locking mechanism, convenient switch placement, reduced size, cost-effective installation approach, and the inclusion of a Mini Valve option. The focus on aesthetics and performance makes Hide-A-Hose a compelling choice for homeowners seeking a functional and visually appealing central vacuum system.

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