My house was built in 1984 and the AC/heating unit has broken for good so I need a new one. The old unit is a 24000 BTU unit with no SEER rating, because it’s so old. Everyone I have talked to says replace the heat pump, central air, air handler, dehumidifier, etc. all at once.
I live on the Eastern Shore of MD, for climate reference.
My home was built in 1984 it is a split foryer that is 1600 sq ft. All of the windows and doors are original.
Could someone please give me some advice on;
1. How big should the new unit be (tons)?
2. What SEER rating I should get, value to cost ratio? I’m trying to save money here.
3. If I can install it myself ? I have an electrician friend and a plumber friend at my disposal.
4. About how much the whole system will cost? (Ballpark) I need to save up for it.
I guess I am luck that the old one lasted as long as it did 
Any help is greatly appreciated.
Thanks
BARRETT
Comments
In tonnage as opposed to BTU an industry standard in 1 ton for approximately every 700 - 750 sq. ft.
With decent insulation your unit should be probably 2.5 - 3 ton.
Any less will be dissatisfying, and less efficient; any more might be wasteful as well.
I’ve never bought one to self install; but have to believe $1000 per ton would be a fair estimate, plus labor.
Steven Wolf
Go to your electric company’s internet website… as per state/federal mandates they explain the whole seer/BTU, your options and the energy-efficient systems that qualify for rebates (and Federal tax break). No matter who you buy from, you need to try and find your local distributor (again search the internet)–their rep will look at your situation, give you the options, contract the installers (backing their warranty), and even payment plans. Replacing an existing AC is no big deal, but a whole FAU system is asking for brain damage and usually voids the warranty. In the long run, a heat pump system probably would be your best choice, as I know those cold air fronts can really run up the bill (heat uses more energy than AC). Good Luck!
Before you buy go to . Start with the page on air conditioners and it will take you through the whole process. As far as price for just the ac unit it would probably be around $2000.
