Pros and Cons of Solar Air Conditioning

Going off grid? Looking to reduce your footprint or electricity bill?
You can power your air conditioner with solar panels. Besides the air conditioner itself, you will need solar panels, an inverter to convert the current, and optionally a battery for storage.
Today we explore whether solar can be used to power air conditioners effectively.

What Is Solar Air Conditioning

Solar air conditioning is available in two options. Both capture and transform the sun’s rays into usable energy to power the device without standard grid electricity. As long as the sun is shining its light and warmth, these air conditioners can function as independent AC units to keep you cool or warm you up, depending on the time of year.

Solar air conditioners help you save money by using less energy and minimising the demand on the electric grid. They also reduce carbon dioxide production and keep our planet cooler. Portable cooling models even let you take your cooling on the go.

How Does a Solar-Powered Air Conditioner Work?

Solar PV air conditioners are the most common option. They use the energy captured in photovoltaic panels to power an internal compressor and fan. The compressor and fan then circulate cooler air through the device and push it toward you.

Solar AC units can also connect to backup batteries for additional energy storage, allowing the air conditioner to operate at night even without sunshine.

The other kind is a solar thermal air conditioner, which uses the sun’s warmth to heat water and power the refrigerant. The hot water works similarly to a compressor, condensing the refrigerant and pushing it into evaporator coils, which vaporise the water while absorbing ambient heat.

These AC systems require some electricity to power the fans. However, if outlets aren’t available, you can still connect them to an alternative power source, like a portable power station.

How Much Does Solar Air Conditioning Cost?

While this kind of air conditioner is more convenient for unique off-the-grid circumstances, it usually comes at a significant price tag. The average cost is about R7500 before installation – some will be less; some will be more. You may also need a backup battery or additional panels, which will add to your total cost.

Solar-Powered Air Conditioner Pros and Cons

Only by weighing the pros and cons can you decide if investing in a solar-powered AC unit makes sense for you. Consider things like protection from grid outages and money saved on monthly electric bills against the cons of the limitations of sunlight and initial costs.

Pros

Load shedding Protection – When your AC system runs on the sun’s power, you won’t be subjected to outages experienced by the grid. Even if the rest of your power is out, you’ll still stay cool and comfortable indoors.
Integrate With Current System – Many solar systems can work with your current AC system, so you don’t have to replace what you already have entirely.

Save Money Every Month – Powering your air conditioner takes up a significant amount of power, and using the sun instead of the grid to keep it working, you’ll see significant monthly savings on your electricity bill.
Works Best When Sun Is Out—It works best when you need it the most—when the sun is shining its sunny warmth! You can feel at peace knowing you’ll get the most from your system at the day’s hottest points.

Cons

Doesn’t Work At Night – Since the system relies on the sun, it won’t work well at night unless you have a backup battery.
Expensive – These systems require a significant upfront investment
Won’t Last Forever – Nothing lasts forever, but these systems and their panels can still provide you with more than a decade of use.

Conclusion

Solar air conditioners can be highly effective for warm, sunny areas. They are especially effective when paired with a backup battery or portable power station so they can continue to run and keep you cool even at night or when the sun isn’t out.