What size of inverter do I need to run an air-conditioner?

The inverter size in watts that you need to power an air-conditioner depends on the a/c’s power consumption.

Air conditioners with a larger cooling capacity need inverters with more capacity (watts).

To reliably run the air-conditioner, the inverter should be able to supply both the air-conditioner’s continuous and surge power rating (W).

Should the air-conditioner’s surge power rating or continuous power rating exceed that of the inverter then the inverter will not be able to run the air-conditioner.

Using an air conditioner’s continuous power rating to choose an inverter

From experience, you want your inverter’s continuous power rating to be at least 50% more than that of the air-conditioner.

This is because the air-conditioner may occasionally slightly draw more than its rated power depending on the settings selected such as fan-speed selected.

Take, for example, a Pioneer wall-mounted air-conditioner with a cooling capacity of 9000 BTU/h with a rated power of 6,65W has continuous power that ranges from 279 -901W!

Where to find  an air-conditioner surge power rating (W)

The air-conditioner’s surge power rating consumed momentarily at startup can be anywhere from 2- 5 times its continuous power rating.

To confirm your air-conditioner’s power rating, consult your technical manual or your air-conditioner’s manufacturer.

You may be able to reduce the surge power by choosing a split air-conditioner or using a smart start which reduces the surge power draw of the air conditioner.

Using an air-conditioner supply voltage to select an inverter

In addition to meeting the air-conditioner’s power consumption requirements, the inverter’s AC voltage should match that of the air conditioner.

Air conditioners with a cooling capacity larger than 10,000 BTU are generally supplied with 208-230V AC to run to keep the current draw low.

While you may have either a 110-115 V or a 208-230V AC version for those with a cooling capacity of less than 10,000 BTU.

Make sure that your inverter can supply the air-conditioner’s rated voltage for it to work properly.

The table below shows selected air-conditioner sizes (BTU) and the estimated inverter capacity (watts) you can use to power them.

Note: This is a guide, always confirm the technical specifications section for your air-conditioner and inverter to confirm both the actual power requirements and power supply capability of the inverter.

NoAir conditioner size (BTU)AC Voltage rating (V)Indicative Inverter size W and volts AC
15,0001152000W, 115VAC
26,0001152000W, 115VAC
38,0001153000W, 115VAC
49,0001153000W, 115VAC
510,0001153000W. 115VAC

Related questions

# 1. Will a 2000 watt inverter run an air conditioner?

Yes, a good quality 2,000 watt inverter should in general be able to run an air conditioner with a cooling capacity of 5,000 or 6,000 BTU.

This inverter should preferably be a pure sine wave inverter.

Make sure that the air conditioner’s voltage requirements match the inverter’s output.

It is important though to confirm the manufacturer specifications for the power draw of the air conditioner against the supply capabilities.

This is because differences in design and efficiency of the air conditioners by the manufacturers may result in some consuming more power hence need larger capacity inverters.

# 2. Will a 3,000 watt inverter run a 5,000 (0.4 Ton) BTU air conditioner?

Yes, a good quality 3000 watt inverter should in general be able to run an air conditioner with a cooling capacity of 5000 BTU.

Make sure that the air conditioner’s voltage requirements match the inverter’s output.

This inverter should preferably be a pure sine wave inverter as the inbuilt compressors may not run efficiently with a modified sine wave inverter.

# 3. What size of inverter will run an 8000 (0.7 Ton) BTU air conditioner?

A good quality 3000 W inverter should be able to run an 8000 BTU air conditioner.

This inverter should preferably be a pure sine wave inverter.

Check the air-conditioner’s voltage requirements whether 110 or 208 -230V and make sure the inverter can supply accordingly.

Related Topics

Leave a Comment