Central AC 2-ton: how much battery you need
Central AC 2-ton draws about 2250 W (2000–2500 W range), runs 50% of the time and uses 9000 Wh per day. Start-up surge: 4500 W.
A central AC runs on 240 V and starts with a heavy compressor surge; it needs a 240 V generator or a whole-home battery with a soft starter. Champion lists 2000–2500 W running; we use the middle for energy and the top starting figure (4500 W) for the peak.
Battery needed
| Hours | Wh | Battery (Wh) | Inverter (W) |
|---|---|---|---|
| For 8 hours | 3000 | 4546 | 2475 / 4500 |
| For 24 hours | 9000 | 13637 | 2475 / 4500 |
| For 72 hours | 27000 | 40910 | 2475 / 4500 |
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Stations that fit (24 h)
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FAQ
How many watts does a Central AC 2-ton use?
Typically 2250 W while running, with a range of 2000–2500 W depending on model and age. Start-up surge can reach 4500 W.
How long will a 1000 Wh power station run a Central AC 2-ton?
About 0.6 hours on the clock, allowing for the 50% duty cycle, inverter losses and a 20% reserve.
What size power station do I need for a Central AC 2-ton overnight (8 h)?
About 4546 Wh of battery and an inverter rated at least 2475 W continuous with 4500 W surge.
Can I run a Central AC 2-ton on solar during an outage?
You need roughly 6000 W of panels in winter to replace a day's use (9000 Wh), charging through a station with a big enough MPPT input.
Other sizes
Other appliances
1 Approximate values: estimated from motor or heater power and typical figures published online, not from a manufacturer chart. Check your appliance label.
Inverter efficiency 88%, usable depth of discharge 90%, reserve 20%. Full method: How we calculate. source