There can be a few reasons why your split 240V air conditioner compressor may not start when powered by solar energy. Here are some potential causes:
Insufficient power capacity: Solar power systems have a specific capacity in terms of the amount of power they can generate. If your solar power system does not provide enough power to meet the starting requirements of your air conditioner compressor, it may fail to start. Air conditioner compressors require a significant surge of power during startup, known as the inrush current. If your solar system's capacity is not sufficient to handle this initial surge, the compressor may not start.
Voltage fluctuations: Solar power systems are subject to voltage fluctuations, especially if there are intermittent cloud cover or shading issues. These fluctuations can affect the stability of the voltage supplied to the air conditioner compressor. If the voltage drops below the required level for the compressor to start, it may fail to initiate.
Incompatible inverter or wiring: The inverter used in your solar power system may not be compatible with the starting requirements of the air conditioner compressor. In some cases, the wiring or electrical components between the solar power system and the air conditioner may not be properly sized or configured to handle the compressor's startup demands. This can result in the compressor not starting or experiencing issues.
System settings or configuration: Some air conditioning systems have settings or configurations that may need to be adjusted when using solar power. For example, certain models may have specific startup delay settings that need to be optimized for solar power sources. Consult the manufacturer's instructions or contact a professional to ensure your air conditioner is properly configured for solar power operation.
Battery storage limitations: If you have a solar power system with battery storage, the batteries may not have enough charge capacity to handle the startup requirements of the air conditioner compressor. If the battery bank is depleted or unable to deliver the necessary power, the compressor may not start.
It is advisable to consult with a qualified solar power system installer or an HVAC technician who is experienced with solar-powered air conditioning systems. They can evaluate your system, assess the capacity and compatibility, and provide guidance or necessary adjustments to ensure proper operation of your air conditioner with solar power.