How To Make a Solar Powered Air Conditioner

Solar-powered air conditioners are an innovative solution to cool your home or office while reducing your carbon footprint and saving on energy costs. But how do you make one? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the process, including the materials needed, the steps to follow, and the cost implications. We’ll also look at the benefits of solar powered air conditioning and recommended brands for those who prefer to buy instead of build.

What is a Solar Powered Air Conditioner

A solar-powered air conditioner, also known as a solar AC, is an air conditioning system that uses solar power to cool your home or building. It operates similarly to a traditional air conditioner, but instead of relying on electricity from the grid, it uses energy generated from solar panels or solar water heaters. There are two primary ways that solar air conditioners collect and use energy: through solar photovoltaic (PV) systems and solar thermal systems.

Materials Required

To assemble a solar-powered air conditioner, you will need the following materials:

1. A large computer fan
2. A large heat sink (10 cm * 5 cm)
3. A 12V power supply or a solar panel
4. A Peltier
5. A small Fan
6. A small heatsink
7. Heat paste

Steps to Make a Solar Powered Air Conditioner

Step 1: The Attachment

First, connect the heat sink to the peltier, and stick the fans on either side. Use heat sink paste to stick the Peltier to the heat sink, and connect the bigger fan to the hotter side.

Step 2: The Connections

Next, connect the fan to the power supply. Connect them in parallel so that the voltage is distributed equally. You can also directly connect it to a 12-volt battery.

Step 3: Cool Off

Now connect a box or keep it in the open to create a cooling agent. The Peltier cools one side and the heat sink takes it and the fan blows it off.

Step 4: Add Solar

You can make it solar powered by using the circuit as illustrated in the picture.

Cost Implications

Setting up a solar-powered air conditioner involves several cost factors, including the air conditioning unit, solar panels, wiring, batteries, inverters, charge controllers, and installation fees. Solar-powered air conditioners are more expensive than conventional units, with prices ranging from $1,600 to $13,000. On average, homeowners spend around $3,400 on a solar air conditioner.

Maintenance Requirements and Costs

Solar-powered air conditioners require regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance and longevity. The maintenance requirements include regular cleaning of both the air conditioning unit and the solar panels to prevent dust buildup, which can affect the efficiency of the system and potentially become a fire hazard. Solar panels typically require an annual inspection, which costs around $150 a year.

Recommended Brands

If you prefer to buy instead of build, there are several recommended solar-powered air conditioner brands and models available in the market. Some of the top options include SolAir World, GREE, LEZETi Hybrid Solar AC, Lennox, and HotSpot Energy.

In conclusion, making a solar-powered air conditioner can be a bit complex, especially for someone without technical know-how. However, with the right guidance, it’s an achievable DIY project. Not only can a solar-powered air conditioner help you save on your energy bills, but it also reduces your carbon footprint, making it a win-win solution for you and the environment.