Standard air conditioners use more electricity than any other appliance, so you may want to update yours to save money and reduce energy waste. In this case, look at a solar-powered air conditioner. Find out whether this cutting-edge solution is right for your home with these frequently asked questions.

Answers to Common Questions About Solar ACs

How do they work?

Cooling costs account for 47% of the average home’s annual energy usage, so solar ACs aim to lower this number by harvesting power from the sun. Units work the same as their electric counterparts. Warm outdoor air is cooled over an evaporator coil and blown through a condenser, which removes warm air and releases it through a vent. The cold air is then circulated through a duct system in your home.

What types of systems are there?

There are three types of systems: solar PV hybrid, absorption chillers, and solar thermal hybrid. The first charges internal batteries on sunny days. When these drain, it switches to an AC electric system to continue cooling your home.

An absorption chiller captures solar energy to power the system’s fan and motor. These then evaporate water in warm air to cool it.

A solar thermal hybrid AC uses the sun to power the compressor unit and electricity for the central system.

What are the benefits?

Your utility bills will start dropping the moment you turn your new system on. While it will use some electricity, solar energy powers most of the cooling components. The system drastically decreases your carbon footprint as well. Additionally, it will lower power grid demand, which prevents power outages during peak use and cuts down greenhouse gas emissions.

Is my home compatible?

You’ll need to install solar panels on your roof to power the system. Schedule an inspection to ensure your roof doesn’t need repairs and that the decking can support the weight of the panels.

Next, consider your cooling needs. A solar window unit may be enough to cool a small home, while larger homes will need central air systems. A professional can determine the best placement for the panels, so they receive the most sunlight. 

If you want to install a solar-powered air conditioner, contact Solar Help Hawaii. Based on Oahu, these professionals sell many convenient products to make homes more energy-efficient, including solar panels, pool heating systems, and water heaters. Learn more about their products on their website or by calling (808) 548-4357.