We get asked often if we can use solar panels to power our ACs in florida. It depends on how large your solar system is and what you need.
It’s summer! Find out how your solar system can power your AC and help you save money on your energy bills.
These are some facts you need to know about air conditioners and solar power
AC units consume a lot more electricity than they need. Your solar panel system must produce a lot.
These factors can help you decide how many solar panels you will need.
- Sunlight
- Weather conditions
- Types and uses of solar panels
- Ratio for energy efficiency
- Energy storage capacity
- Performance
- Geographical position
- Grid-tied systems vs. off-grid
How many solar panels are needed to power an AC?
Your air conditioner is a major factor in your home’s electricity. If you notice an increase in summer electricity bills, it might be worth looking into solar energy options.
To determine how many solar panels you will need for your AC fan to run, first calculate the power consumption of your AC. You’ll need between 1 & 5 panels for 100 watts.
This may seem like a large range but it is actually a good idea to consider the power your panels can generate. You will need enough power to power 100 watts in your home.
Learn how much Watts your AC consumes
Watts is the power used by your AC per hour. Once you have determined your AC’s wattage, you can calculate the number of solar panels needed to power it.
This is the approximate wattage of different sizes of air conditioners.
- Small window AC units, 500 Watts
- AC units to power medium windows: 900 Watts
- Large window AC units: 1440
- Central AC: 3500 Watts
- Central AC fan: 750 Watts
These are just estimates. These are only estimates. You’ll need to calculate the wattage of your AC.
This will let you know how much your AC is consuming and how long it takes to run.
Take, for example:
Consider that your AC unit uses 500 watts per an hour. You will be charged $43.20 by your electric company for AC with solar panels.
This article was written by a solar expert at Solar Tech Elec. Solar Tech Elec is a premier solar installer in Florida with expanded services in North Charleston, South Carolina. They work with homeowners to install solar panels in Clearwater FL and provide them with a way to save money on their energy bills, protect themselves against rising electricity prices and be part of the solution for clean renewable energy.