I'm curious if anyone here has ever tried to make a small air conditioner like those personal heaters that range from 500 to 1100 watts. The idea is to use the compressor from a 12V fridge, create a custom case for it, and attach a fan or motor. Do you think this setup might work? I'm looking for something compact and portable.
6 Answers
Honestly, trying this is a bad idea. The energy efficiency loss would be huge compared to a real heat pump. It's just not worth the effort for the output you'd get.
Those small fridges usually use peltier cooling instead of a traditional AC compressor, which isn’t efficient and really can’t cool down a room effectively. You have to vent the heat too, or you'll just heat up the space you're trying to cool. If you use a larger fridge compressor, you're basically building a DIY window AC, which is complicated because AC systems need to be sealed and serviced with special tools. Honestly, just buying a $125 window AC unit would be way easier and cheaper than this project.
Totally agree, 12V compressor fridges are super common and not too expensive. Just get a proper AC unit instead.
Do you have the necessary vacuum equipment to manage this setup? You’d need it to properly service the system if you attempt it.
A fridge compressor just won't cut it; it takes way too long to cool down a fridge from room temperature. You'd hardly feel any cooling from just blowing air over the coils.
Interesting idea! I was actually considering something similar but with parts from a semi-truck. I want to help someone in a very hot region with solar power. However, I think a mini split AC might be easier, especially since some models work on DC.
You could also look into building a swamp cooler; they might be more effective for your needs.
I think you might be onto something—sounds like that lightbulb went on for you at 4:25! ?