I need a new central AC system for a one bedroom apartment 650SF.

The existing system is:

Inside handler

Rheem MODEL RBHC-14J06SFD SERIAL T M0402 03934

Outside Condenser

Rheem MODEL RAKA-024JAZ SERIAL 5882 M0602 12776


I believe installed in 2002.


With the hot and humid south Florida sun and we being in the middle of summer, I have the thermostat set to 79. However once or twice it wasn't cooling and it kept going and going never shutting off and temperature went up to 84.


Filter is fine and clean. There is no ice on the inside coil, condensate line is clear. If I turn it off and let it sit for 2 hours then restart it will cool fine again. Had an AC tech come look at it and said unit is old and it's working as efficient as it can but may die soon.


What would cause the system not to cool but then cool again after resting and restarting?


If I do put in a new system, the problem is I have a narrow AC closet. The clear space at the closet door is 15-1/2". The existing unit is 14" wide and fits.








Measurement of the closet door frame.





Even the depth is limited. See how they had to cut into the upper door frame for the pipes, and the condensate drain.








AC company says I need a new 1.5 Ton system and it will be 17" wide and therefore I need to widen my closet to 18". That is going to be exceedingly difficult.


Are there no 14" wide system at all?