The quick answer is no, its not too late. Many installers of central vacuums have become very creative on where they run the tubing. They work around the house through the attic, basement and garage, then drop the tubing down behind the interior walls from the attic or push it up from the basement. In some instances they may use a cold air return to get the tubing to the proper location. After the central vacuum system is installed you will be amazed at where they can get the tubing without any visible signs of damage.

Tubing is run throughout your home with outlets spaced out approximately every 750sq.ft. of floor area. Some considerations when installing the outlet is the location of furniture, appliances and general convenience. Typically it is best to start the outlet installation at the farthest location away from the canister, and then work back towards the canister.

In many cases the canister is located in either the basement of the garage. Common sizes of canisters are 6 and 7 gallon. Most manufactures offer both bag and bag less canisters, both types work very well. Under normal use you may only empty the canister or take the bag out every 3 or 4 months.

There is a higher cost to installing central vacuums into a home that is completed as opposed to installing the system as the home is being built. Since the cost is substantially more than your traditional upright or canister style vacuum cleaner, it would be wise to ensure that it has a very good warranty service. I would recommend that you have a professional install the central vacuum system, as well get at least three quotes for the job.