Repurpose Auto AC for shipping container?

ToddT · 10-31-17, 02:25 PM

I'm building an office into half of a 40' high cube shipping container. I already have a couple of solar panels and a pair of 6v golf cart batteries. Being in Louisiana, air conditioning is a must. But, rather than run a small generator to drive a 5,000btu window unit, I've wondered about repurposing an AC out of a car.

I'm already planning on using a small engine to spin an alternator to maintain the batteries. Why not have a belt drive an AC compressor, too?

I understand car AC's put out between 25,000btu and 50,000btu. I'll already have other 12v devices in use.

Suggestions? Warnings?

10-31-17, 02:25 PM	#1
ToddT Lurking Renovator Join Date: Jan 2014 Location: Arkansas Posts: 9 Thanks: 9 Thanked 0 Times in 0 Posts	Repurpose Auto AC for shipping container? I'm building an office into half of a 40' high cube shipping container. I already have a couple of solar panels and a pair of 6v golf cart batteries. Being in Louisiana, air conditioning is a must. But, rather than run a small generator to drive a 5,000btu window unit, I've wondered about repurposing an AC out of a car. I'm already planning on using a small engine to spin an alternator to maintain the batteries. Why not have a belt drive an AC compressor, too? I understand car AC's put out between 25,000btu and 50,000btu. I'll already have other 12v devices in use. Suggestions? Warnings?