Disclosure: FMB Home Picks is committed to delivering independent advice and reviews on home products and services. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more Contact us.
A solar inverter is an integral part of a solar PV system. This guide covers everything you need to know about them, from their purpose to their cost
A solar panel inverter is a key component of any of the best solar systems. This device bridges the gap between raw sunshine and usable power for your home or business.
This guide looks at different types of solar panel inverters and offers tips for choosing the one that’s right for you.
You could save up to £1,014 every year with solar panels!
Solar panels are composed of photovoltaic (PV) cells. The photons in sunlight hit the PV cells and knock electrons loose, which creates DC electricity.
However, most homes and appliances operate on AC electricity. DC flows in one constant direction, while AC periodically reverses direction in a wave-like pattern.
Solar panel inverters use a process called inversion to convert steady DC into oscillating AC, which is suitable to use at home and to feed into the power grid.
Inverters also handle other tasks, such as exchanging energy with battery systems.
All solar inverters perform the same basic function of converting DC power from solar panels into AC electricity for consumers.
However, there are different types of inverters to consider depending on your solar system components, budget and needs.
String inverters are a popular choice among owners of residential and small commercial solar power systems.
A string inverter converts the combined DC output from a series or “string” of solar panels into AC power. One reason the string inverter is popular is that it’s cost-effective. A single inverter is all you need to convert an entire solar array’s DC output into AC.
But there is a major drawback to using a string inverter: the performance of the entire string is contingent on every panel operating optimally. A single poorly performing panel negatively impacts the whole string’s efficiency.
Reasons for subpar performance may include the presence of shade or debris, which prevents sunlight from reaching the panel.
Best suited for:
Considerations:
Microinverters are installed beneath individual solar panels. There is a separate microinverter for each panel. Each microinverter turns just one panel’s DC into AC.
This setup ensures that problems with one panel don’t affect the energy output of others. For example, if shadows fall on a panel and lower its power output, the rest of the array continues operating at peak efficiency.
Microinverters are more expensive than string inverters and aren’t always necessary for simple or compact solar arrays.
Best suited for:
Considerations:
Like other types of solar panel inverters, hybrid inverters convert DC from solar panels into AC.
Hybrid inverters also connect to battery systems that store DC electricity and convert it to AC as needed. The batteries preserve surplus energy that the solar panels produce during peak sunlight hours.
Hybrid inverters moderate the flow of electricity between solar panels, batteries, appliances and the power grid.
You don’t need a hybrid inverter unless you wish to store excess solar energy in batteries for later use.
Best suited for:
Considerations:
Your inverter plays a significant role in determining how reliable and efficient your solar energy system is and whether you get a good return on investment. So, consider these three factors before choosing an inverter:
Inverter efficiency is a measure of how much of the energy your solar panels generate is usable in your home. For instance, an inverter that is 95% efficient loses 5% of the electricity it converts from DC to AC.
Most modern inverters are more than 95% efficient.
So, when you choose an inverter, it’s important to decide whether greater efficiency is worth the higher price you will pay for it.
An inverter’s power rating indicates its maximum capacity. While there are various approaches to sizing inverters, the best way to proceed in most situations is to match your inverter’s capacity to your solar panels’ output.
For instance, if your solar array produces 3kW at peak, the inverter you choose should have a similar rating at the very least.
To choose an inverter that’s unlikely to become obsolete, look for features such as mobile apps, dashboards and easy integration with smart home technology.
Your inverter’s size and compatibility with your array can significantly impact your solar energy system’s overall performance.
If your inverter’s capacity is too small, you won’t be able to harness your solar energy system’s full power. But if your inverter’s capacity is too large, you risk inefficiencies and accelerated wear and tear.
Here’s how to proceed:
Installing and maintaining inverters requires you to deal with electrical components, which must be handled with care.
You should always follow the manufacturer’s safety guidelines for installation, but here are some general guidelines for keeping safe:
Monitoring and data connectivity allow homeowners to keep track of their solar installation’s performance.
Modern inverters often come with built-in monitoring systems. Look for models with wifi or Ethernet connectivity so you can use dashboards and apps. For instance, the MySolarEdge app provides real-time data about inverters and solar panel arrays.
You might have to purchase a separate communication module that collects data from your solar energy system and makes it available over wifi.
Your dashboard tracks metrics such as peak output and daily yield that you should familiarise yourself with. These metrics will reveal inefficiencies in your solar energy system, which you can then address in a timely manner.
Most platforms allow you to customise your notifications. For example, you can get text messages or email alerts if energy production drops below a certain threshold or there is a system fault.
You should regularly check your solar energy system’s performance metrics. Sharp drops in efficiency or consistent underperformance could mean it’s time to clean your solar panels or do other types of maintenance.
Also, the data will reveal your energy consumption habits and help you figure out how to change them. For instance, you could determine what times of day your solar system produces the greatest amounts of electricity and run your heavy appliances at those times.
Solar panel inverters transform the DC that’s generated by your solar panels into usable AC.
Consider the merits and drawbacks of different types of inverters to determine which one is the best fit for your solar energy system.
For the most part, it’s advisable to match your inverter’s maximum capacity and your solar array’s output. But in some circumstances, professional installers recommend the use of undersized inverters to trigger inverter clipping.
Most modern solar panel inverters have wifi or Ethernet connectivity, which simplifies the process of monitoring your system’s performance and your energy-consumption habits.
You might be able to install an inverter. But it’s a job that requires you to handle electrical components, and it can be complex. So, it’s best to hire a professional to do it.
Popular inverter brands for residential use include SMA, Fronius and SolarEdge. The choice that’s best for you depends on your needs, your budget and your solar energy system’s configuration.
An inverter’s lifespan varies based on its make and model and how well it’s maintained. On average, most inverters are designed to last from 10 to 15 years if they’re properly maintained.
To get quotes for inverters, contact local solar panel providers. They can offer tailored advice that meets your needs. It’s also worth checking if you are eligible for a government grant for solar panels to help lower the cost of your solar system.