How to Convert a Car Air Conditioner into a Home Air Conditioner?
2 Answers
The compressor of a car air conditioner is powered by the engine, not an electric motor, so it cannot be converted for home use. Below are the specific details: 1. Air Conditioner Compressor: Remove the compressor and fan from the air conditioner. The compressor can be used for home refrigerators. The air conditioner's circuit breaker can be used on the home power main switch or branch circuits. The fan can be used as a household fan, typically operating on AC 220V. 2. Points to Note: The power supply voltage of a car air conditioner is usually provided by the battery, with a standard voltage of 12 volts. Therefore, a 12V rectifier power supply must be configured. When setting up a 12V rectifier power supply, in addition to the 12V voltage, the current should be controlled to be above 2A.
As a car enthusiast, the first step after removing the car air conditioning components is to address the power supply issue. The compressor operates on 12V DC, while household electricity is 220V AC. I recommend using a power-matched inverter for conversion to ensure stable output without tripping. Next, install ventilation ducts to allow the evaporator and condenser to dissipate heat effectively, adding a fan for auxiliary cooling. The refrigerant type must match the original vehicle system. From my experience, it's essential to check for any leakage risks and use a voltmeter to test each component systematically. However, the overall efficiency is not high, as it consumes more electricity than household appliances and produces significant noise, making it less effective than a professional home unit. If you're doing it purely for DIY fun, you can save some money; but if you're after cooling performance, it's better to buy a used window unit. Safety is paramount—ensure all wiring is insulated to avoid electric shock accidents when working on it yourself.
