What is a solar air conditioner?

Australia is known for its scorching summers, which is why air conditioning has become a common feature in homes across the country. While these cooling systems provide much-needed relief from the heat, they can also lead to hefty electricity bills, especially during peak summer months.

As a result, many homeowners are searching for ways to reduce these ongoing costs while still keeping their homes comfortable.

One promising solution is solar air conditioning, which harnesses the power of the sun to help power your cooling system. By using renewable energy, solar air conditioning can significantly lower electricity expenses and reduce your carbon footprint.

In this article, we’ll explore how solar air conditioners operate, the various types available on the market, and the potential benefits of making the switch to this eco-friendly alternative. Read on to discover if solar air conditioning is the right choice for your home.

How do solar air conditioners work?

Solar air conditioners are systems designed to heat and cool your home using solar power instead of conventional electricity. They come equipped with their own solar panels, like solar hot water systems, which harness sunlight and convert it into energy for the air conditioner.

Although the initial installation cost can be high - largely due to the solar panels - solar air conditioners tend to be more affordable to operate over time. This is because they rely on the sun's abundant energy, which is essentially free.

Using solar energy can significantly lower your electricity bills and reduce your carbon footprint.

Types of solar air conditioning

There are two main types of solar air conditioners for homes: off-grid and hybrid systems.

Off-grid

Off-grid solar air conditioners can operate independently without needing to connect to the electricity grid. These systems usually come with a backup power source, like a solar battery, which helps maintain energy production during the evening or on cloudy days.

With an off-grid system, the air conditioner primarily uses solar energy during the day and switches to the backup supply at night. The backup power source can recharge during daylight using the solar panels.

Hybrid

Hybrid solar air conditioning systems, on the other hand, still require a connection to the electricity grid. They use grid power during the night or when the weather is overcast.

These systems typically do not support energy storage connections, so they pull additional power from the grid when solar energy isn’t available. However, a hybrid solar air conditioner will always try to use solar energy whenever possible.

Pros and cons of solar air conditioning

How to get solar air conditioning

To install solar air conditioning in Australia, you need to find a qualified solar installer who can set up the system in your home. Keep in mind that solar air conditioning requires its own solar panels and inverter. If you already have solar panels on your roof, you'll need to install an additional set that works with the air conditioner to provide power.

Since solar air conditioning is still a relatively new option, your choices for installers might be limited. It's a good idea to compare quotes from at least three installers, if you can, before making your final decision.

Is solar air conditioning worth it?

Solar air conditioners can be a smart choice for households wanting to lower their long-term cooling costs. By using energy mainly from the sun, these systems help reduce reliance on the electrical grid, which can lead to lower electricity bills and a smaller carbon footprint.

However, the high initial installation costs can be a barrier. Before investing, it’s important for households to consider whether the savings will justify the upfront expense, especially if they are installing a small system or cooling a limited space. In cooler or less sunny areas, it's also worth thinking about whether the system can reach its full savings potential.

For those with backup power sources, the savings might be realised faster than for those connected to the grid. Yet, if the system doesn’t get enough sunlight, the advantages of solar air conditioning might not be realised.

Already have solar panels?

Did you know you could be benefitting from a better plan for your solar energy? If you want to supercharge your solar air conditioning, why not call the team at Compare Energy on 1300 790 106? Our team can talk you through the benefits of upgrading your current solar energy plan to something that makes a difference to your home and budget.