I recently came across a discussion about solar panels, but I have a specific question regarding their use. I'm not just talking about using solar for grow lights; I'm interested in whether I can use one of those solar battery kits to power my humidifiers, dehumidifiers, heater, and AC unit in my cannabis grow room. Would that be too much of a strain on the system, similar to the lighting setups?
2 Answers
You can definitely use solar power, but it’s all about having the right setup. Start by calculating the total watts you need for everything, multiply that by 24 hours to see your system's needs. Generally, you'll want panels to provide about half of that, with batteries to store 2-3 times the wattage. Keep in mind things like inverter size too, since that can make a huge difference. It may seem complex, but starting with those numbers can help you get a clearer picture on costs!
It really depends on the size of your grow room and the types of lights you’re using. If you’re going with LEDs, a small AC unit might work for cooling, but managing everything with solar can get tricky. My 5,000 BTU AC runs off a 600AH battery bank for around 14 hours, but those batteries can be pricey. Lighting is usually your biggest energy drain, so consider that before going solar for everything else too. Can I ask if this setup is for personal use? That'll help gauge costs better!
Great point! Just remember to factor in things like sunlight exposure and potential efficiency losses, so your system can truly meet those needs!