AC, furnaces, ducts, insulation, generators and solar. Price ranges with sources and dates, the rules in your state, and the tools to plan the job.
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A common rule of thumb is 20–30 BTU per sq ft depending on climate, adjusted for ceilings, insulation and sun; a Manual J load calculation gives the exact size. Try the AC size calculator.
Many US homeowners pay roughly $4,000–$10,500 to replace a central AC, depending on size, efficiency, ductwork and access. Before replacing an old unit, run repair or replace.
Essentials (fridge, furnace fan, sump pump, lights) usually fit 5,000–7,500 W; whole homes with central AC usually need 18–26 kW standby. The generator size calculator adds running and starting watts.
Divide yearly kWh by (peak sun hours × 365 × 0.8) for system kW, then by panel wattage. The 30% federal credit for homeowner-owned systems ended for systems installed after 2025. Size yours with the solar panel calculator.
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