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Air Conditioners and Solar Power: An effective solution

Few duos complement each other quite like solar energy and air conditioning. Think about it: when the sun is blazing and it's scorching outside, that's when cooling units require most electricity. And when does a solar PV system produce the most electricity?? Bingo - on those sunny days!

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No More Sky High Electricity Bills

It's a no-brainer to run your air conditioning on the solar power produced from your panels, right when you need it most for keeping cool. Plus, the kilowatt-hour from your rooftop setup costs a fraction of what you'd pay for regular electricity. Stay cool, both literally and financially, when it comes to your electricity bill.

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Plan your solar PV system with air conditioning in mind

To benefit as much as possible from pairing your PV system with air conditioning, it's smart to factor in the cooling unit right from the get-go when sizing and planning your solar setup. This way you ensure that your PV system is large enough to handle the electricity needs of your air conditioning.

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Consider both cooling and heating

Air-to-air heat pumps are basically the same product as an air conditioning unit, except they can generate heat as well. They’re a common sight in many office buildings in the UK, and there’s growing residential interest in them.

You may not need central heating with radiators or underfloor heating because your place is energy-efficient and open-plan, or you may just want to heat a specific area. Air-to-Air Heat Pumps are a perfect fit for: small, open-plan homes; extensions, conservatories, and orangeries or small office spaces.

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Air-to-air heat pumps can circulate cool air during the summer and cosy warmth in the winter making them perfect for year-round comfort. Just keep in mind they don’t heat water, so they won’t help with your shower or running hot water needs.

Good to know: if you have a unit installed that also handles heating, you can benefit from zero VAT, so it’s well worth considering.

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Expert Advice goes a long way

Don’t go it alone - It is best to seek the support of experts in the planning process, because the power requirements of an air conditioning system depend heavily on your personal needs. If you would like advice, please complete our short webform at the end of the page.

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Go Big or Go Home

It is worth planning the PV system generously, especially as the prices for solar panels are significantly cheaper today compared to a few years ago. This way, you can produce enough solar power for cooling on particularly hot days.

Even if you want to invest in an air conditioner in the future, you should plan the solar PV system large enough from the beginning. This saves effort and unnecessary costs and allows an uncomplicated installation of the air conditioning unit at a later date. It's all about keeping things simple and saving yourself some hassle down the road.

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Don’t forget the battery

Don't overlook the importance of a battery! It's like your own personal energy bank, storing up any extra solar power you generate during the day. Then, when you need it most—like during peak times or even at night for cooling—you can tap into that stored energy, saving you from relying on expensive grid electricity.

Pairing a battery with your solar setup not only boosts your system's independence but also makes financial sense. When everything is optimised to work together seamlessly, you're not just saving on energy bills; you're ensuring a comfortable indoor climate, powered by the sun, without any manual fuss.

 

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