Installing an HVAC System and Electrical Box

[Kent Harris]

I am renovating a 40 year old house and the HVAC system and electrical system are the original. Since my background is in Electronics and IT is this something I can tackle myself? I have a $20,000 budget and so far the replacement cost on the electrical box is $750 and they want $7,000 to replace the Compressor, Evaporator, and Furnace. I know that I would have to purchase a vacuum pump and a 40 gallon bottle to remove the old Freon. I have priced the unit and it runs about $3,000 to purchase all 3 pieces. I just can't justify paying $4,000 labor for two people working half a day.