How Many Air Conditioners Can Run on a 5kW Solar System?
How Many Air Conditioners Can Run on a 5kW Solar System? | Riisun Solar Kenya
A 5kW solar system is one of the most popular setups for homes and small businesses in Kenya. But how much can it really handle—especially when it comes to high-energy appliances like air conditioners (AC units)? In this blog, we break down what you need to know to determine how many ACs you can run on a 5kW solar power system, with real-world examples, energy calculations, and expert advice.
Understanding the Capacity of a 5kW Solar System.
A 5kW solar system typically includes:
- 5,000 watts of solar panels (e.g. 8–10 panels at 500–600W each)
- A compatible 5kW inverter
- One or more batteries for energy storage (if off-grid or hybrid)
- MPPT charge controllers and wiring
In good sunlight (averaging 5–6 hours of peak solar per day in Kenya), a 5kW system can generate:
5kW × 5 hours = 25kWh/day (approximate usable energy)
How Much Power Does an Air Conditioner Use?
AC power consumption varies based on size, model, and usage. Here’s a quick guide:
| AC Size | Power Rating (Approx.) | Daily Use (8 hrs) | Daily Energy (kWh) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1-Ton (12,000 BTU) | 1.2 kW | 8 hrs | ~9.6 kWh |
| 1.5-Ton (18,000 BTU) | 1.8 kW | 8 hrs | ~14.4 kWh |
| 2-Ton (24,000 BTU) | 2.4 kW | 8 hrs | ~19.2 kWh |
These numbers may vary slightly depending on whether the unit is inverter-based (more efficient) or non-inverter.
🔍 So, How Many ACs Can a 5kW Solar System Run?
If you are using grid-tied solar (no battery):
You can run 2 x 1-Ton ACs simultaneously for 6–8 hours during daylight, assuming the system is producing full power and you aren’t using many other devices.
If you are off-grid or using battery backup:
You must consider your daily solar generation + battery storage. For example:
- 25kWh/day generation
- Assume you use 10kWh for lighting, fridge, TV, Wi-Fi, etc.
- That leaves about 15kWh for air conditioning
Using 1-Ton AC (~1.2kW/hour), you can run:
- 1 AC for 12–13 hours/day, or
- 2 ACs for 6 hours/day, or
- 3 ACs for ~4 hours/day
With efficient inverter ACs, you might squeeze in more runtime per day.
Important Considerations.
- Battery Capacity:
A typical 5kW system should have 2–3 lithium batteries (e.g., 4.8kWh each) to support AC use at night. - Panel Orientation and Shading:
Poor installation will lower power output, reducing AC runtime. - Other Loads:
If you’re also powering lights, TV, fridge, or water pump, this reduces how many ACs you can support. - Peak Sunlight Availability:
In Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, and most parts of Kenya, you’ll get about 5.5 hours of full sun daily — which favors solar setups.
Expert Tip: Use Inverter ACs with Solar.
Modern inverter air conditioners use up to 30–50% less power than conventional models. This means you can run more cooling on the same solar setup.
Example:
- 1.5-Ton inverter AC may use 1.2kW instead of 1.8kW
- You save nearly 3kWh per day per unit
Recommended Setup for 2–3 AC Units.
To run 2 small ACs or 1 large AC reliably, we recommend:
- 5kW Solar Panels (10 × 500W)
- 5kW Hybrid Inverter (Deye, Growatt, etc.)
- 2× 4.8kWh Lithium Batteries (Dyness, Felicity, Pylontech)
- High-quality MPPT Charge Controller
- Proper installation and protection accessories
Conclusion: Is a 5kW Solar System Enough for ACs?
✅ Yes, a 5kW system can comfortably run 1 to 2 air conditioners—especially inverter models—alongside basic household or office appliances.
However, actual performance depends on:
- Usage hours
- Efficiency of your AC units
- Battery storage capacity (if off-grid)
- Local sunlight conditions
For homes or businesses planning to power multiple ACs, consider upgrading to 6kW or 10kW systems.
Need Help With Solar in Kenya?
At Riisun Solar Energy Experts, we design, supply, and install solar systems tailored for air conditioning, homes, offices, and commercial setups.
📍 Based in Nairobi, we serve clients across Kenya.
📧 support@riisunsolarenergy.co.ke
📞 0791-303-866
🌐 www.riisunsolarenergy.co.ke
