Your result
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Enter your values, then click Calculate result.How this calculator helps
Estimate the array capacity needed to supply an air conditioner's daily energy use. The calculation combines AC electrical input, expected runtime and peak-sun-hours, then applies a system-loss allowance and converts capacity into panel count.
How to use it
- 1
Find AC electrical input watts on the label or measure typical input.
- 2
Estimate daily cooling hours and representative peak-sun-hours.
- 3
Use the result for energy planning, then size inverter, battery and surge capacity separately.
Formula and methodology
Required solar kW = AC input kW × daily runtime ÷ peak-sun-hours ÷ system efficiency. Panel count uses a 580 W reference panel.
Uses editable energy demand, sunlight, equipment and loss assumptions. It is a planning model rather than a site survey or electrical design.
Worked calculation example
A 1,500 W AC running six hours uses 9 kWh daily. At 5.2 peak-sun-hours and 80% efficiency, the starting array estimate is about 2.2 kW or four 580 W panels.
How to interpret your result
Estimate solar capacity and panel count required to run an air conditioner for selected daily hours. Read the main result together with the supporting values rather than treating one number as a guarantee. The disclosed method is: Required solar kW = AC input kW × daily runtime ÷ peak-sun-hours ÷ system efficiency. Panel count uses a 580 W reference panel.
Input guide
Find AC electrical input watts on the label or measure typical input.
Estimate daily cooling hours and representative peak-sun-hours.
Use the result for energy planning, then size inverter, battery and surge capacity separately.
Scenario comparison
| Scenario | What it demonstrates |
|---|---|
| Worked baseline | A 1,500 W AC running six hours uses 9 kWh daily. At 5.2 peak-sun-hours and 80% efficiency, the starting array estimate is about 2.2 kW or four 580 W panels. |
| Compressor cycling check | Inverter AC input changes with room heat and temperature setting. |
| Day versus night stress test | Evening use requires stored or grid energy rather than same-day direct solar alone. |
Common mistakes to avoid
- Ignoring compressor cycling: Inverter AC input changes with room heat and temperature setting.
- Overlooking day versus night: Evening use requires stored or grid energy rather than same-day direct solar alone.
- Failing to test system losses: Heat, dust, wiring and inverter conversion reduce delivered solar energy.
Check the result against equipment datasheets, a site survey and a written design from a qualified solar professional.
What can affect the result?
Compressor cycling
Inverter AC input changes with room heat and temperature setting.
Day versus night
Evening use requires stored or grid energy rather than same-day direct solar alone.
System losses
Heat, dust, wiring and inverter conversion reduce delivered solar energy.
Limits of this estimate
This energy-balance estimate uses 80% system efficiency and 580 W panels; it does not size batteries, inverter surge, roof layout or electrical protection.
Sources and review information
Frequently asked questions
Is the solar AC calculator free?＋
Yes. SolvePilot tools are free, work in your browser, and require no account.
Does SolvePilot store my values?＋
No. Calculations run locally in your browser and the values you enter are not sent to a server.
Should I treat the result as an exact bill or quotation?＋
No. Results are informed estimates. Final charges can vary because of taxes, tariffs, lender terms, usage patterns, or provider rules.
How can I improve the accuracy?＋
Use recent values from your own bill, statement or institution, review every assumption, and confirm important results with the relevant official source.
Does this include night-time battery operation?＋
No. The array estimate covers energy production; night use requires separate battery and inverter sizing.