DIY: Solar A/C

Determine the amount of solar power needed for the A/C unit. Check the A/C unit's power requirements. For example, some units may require 500 watts of continuous power. In that case, at least a 500 watt solar panel(s) should be purchased. To ensure uninterrupted operation, purchase solar panels with more capacity than needed.

Set up the solar panels in a location that receives the most amount of sunlight during the day. The roof is an excellent place for solar panels and does use up space on the property. Most consumer solar panels are ready to go out of the box and require little assembly. Solar panel stands can be purchased as well, the stands can be horizontal or vertical. Vertical stands allow the panels to be propped up right in the yard. While horizontal stands allow the panels to be laid down flat on a roof safely.

Connect the solar panels to the transformer/inverter using the power cable supplied with the panels; if the air conditioner runs on A/C or alternate current power. The cable connects into the transformer/inverter via a plug. Alternate current power is used in outlets and powers most of our home electronics. D/C or direct current power can power larger air conditioning units. Find out which type of power the unit needs. A transformer/inverter is only necessary for alternate current air conditioning units. The solar panels can be attached to any type of A/C unit; D/C or A/C.

Connect the transformer/inverter to a battery. In the case of D/C powered units, connect the solar panels directly to the battery. This is done using a D/C solar panel to battery cable that looks similar to the type of cable used to connect the battery in a car.

Plug in the alternate current air conditioner into the transformer/inverter. Connect the D/C air conditioner directly to the battery. Keep the air conditioner off for several hours while the solar panels have a chance to charge the battery.

Turn on and test the air conditioner.