Abstract: The present invention relates to a connecting valve for connecting the hose of vacuum cleaning equipment into the suction duct of a built-in cleaning system. The connecting valve is positioned behind a flap cover for the suction duct opening and comprises a pair of complimentary valve elements which mate in closed position to close the duct opening, and which provide straight tubular passageway when open for accepting the tubular end of the hose of the vacuuming equipment. Each valve element is formed of a segment of a tubular pipe and is pivoted adjacent the duct opening so that it may be operated from closed position to open position by the insertion of the end of the vacuum hose into the opening. Each element is biased toward closed position so that withdrawal of the hose effects closing of the valve.