Solar Inverters Explained: What They Are and How They Work

When going through materials about solar panel systems, you’re bound to encounter the term “solar inverter”. And you should, considering it plays a crucial role in how a solar panel works to provide sustainable energy. So, what is a solar inverter? 

What is a Solar Inverter?

A solar inverter performs your solar panel system’s most important job: to provide your home with usable electricity that comes from solar energy. A solar PV system harnesses electricity from the sun in the form of direct current electricity. 

However, DC electricity suffers power loss during transmission when used for residential purposes, which means it needs to be converted into another form that’s more efficient for people to use – the alternating current electricity (AC electricity). 

This is where your system’s solar inverter comes in; it takes on the task of changing the (DC) electricity into alternating current (AC). 

What are the Types of Solar Inverters?

There are four types of solar inverters, each serving a different purpose and featuring unique characteristics and benefits. 

String Inverters

String inverters are typically used in residential homes with every solar installation equipped with one. As per its name, there’s a string of solar panels attached to a single inverter. This setup works well for most solar installations, making it a common solar PV system design. They work by having all panels in the string feed DC electricity into the inverter, which then converts it into AC.

However, since each panel is wired together, they function as a single unit. So, even if just one panel underperforms, the entire string of panels are also affected, compromising your whole system. To avoid this, pay attention to possible problems like shading issues on your rooftop. Solar panel maintenance also helps keep your system in check. 

Microinverters

With microinverters, the efficiency of one panel won’t affect the rest. This type of inverter is designed to convert DC electricity to AC electricity on all the individual panels, meaning each solar panel has its own microinverter. Hence, choosing the microinverter installation is the more expensive route to AC power conversion. Maintaining the system is also bound to be complex because of the multiple components involved. 

It is, however, worth noting that opting for microinverters makes a great deal of sense for two reasons: your system constantly suffers from shading issues and you’re considering expanding your solar panel system in the near future. 

Power Optimisers

Power optimisers bring back string inverters to the picture, only this time they go with power optimisers attached to each panel. By opting power optimiser systems, you’re combining the cost-effectiveness of string inverters and the efficiency of microinverters, though a system comprising power optimisers still relies on a central inverter. 

A power optimiser system costs less compared with microinverters but since string inverters are its foundation, you’ll find it hard to expand your system later on. 

Hybrid Inverters

A hybrid inverter is the one you want if you’re looking to integrate your solar panels with a home energy storage or a solar battery, such as the Tesla Powerwall or the more affordable Sungrow. While uncommon, hybrid inverters are designed to read and analyse current levels. 

From this data, they can determine the proper course of action in terms of energy usage like converting power for household use, sending it back to the grid, or charging your home’s backup system so it’s ready to use during a power outage. 

While more expensive than a string inverter, it is ideal if you’re considering adding battery storage into your solar power system. Compatibility can be tricky so make sure that your battery and inverter match. 

How to Choose the Right Solar Inverter For Your Home?

Choosing the right solar inverter for your home or business involves understanding your energy needs, system configuration, and budget. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you make an informed decision:

Get the right solar inverter size 

Match your inverter capacity (in kW) to the size of your solar panel system. Remember, inverters are usually slightly smaller than the solar array to optimise efficiency. For example, a 6.6 kW solar system is typically paired with a 5 kW inverter.

Consider warranty

For a substantial investment, it’s only right to consider the offered warranty before making a decision. Warranties for inverters are usually between 5 to 12 years, depending on the manufacturer. If needed, some can include the option to extend the warranty for an extra fee. 

Ensure it’s solar expansion-ready

Flexibility is always a convenient aspect, so consider the possibility of expanding your existing solar panel system when choosing an inverter. Do you think it will happen sometime in the future? Do you have the space should you deem it necessary to enlarge your system? If so, you will need a solar inverter that will allow such an expansion.

Solar monitoring functions

Keeping an eye on your solar data is crucial. It’s one of the ways you’re making the most of your investment by simply being informed about your system’s performance. You can also detect problems early on by checking and utilising the data that comes from your system’s solar monitoring features. 

Best Solar Inverters to Consider

Leading brands in the solar inverter arena are Fronius, Goodwe, and Sungrow. Fronius is Austrian-made, bringing with it the flawless European tech that only translates to efficiency, performance, and durability. Consisting of four series — Fronius Symo, Fronius Eco, Fronius Primo, and Fronius Galvo — Fronius is worth the hefty price tag. 

China-based Goodwe is popular in Australia because it offers cost-effective solar inverters while retaining their premium feel thanks to its constantly evolving innovative solar technology. Then there’s the Sungrow inverter, also a strong contender in the solar battery market. It’s China-made as well with a strong customer service presence in Australia. Just like Fronius and Goodwe, Sungrow inverters offer a high efficiency rating with a lengthy 10-year warranty. 

Solar Inverters Installation 

Finding out what a solar inverter is and how it works is key to fully understanding your solar PV system, which helps you discover all the ways possible to maximise its efficiency. If you need a professional recommendation on which of the solar inverter types is best for your energy needs, contact us at 1300 865 832. Volteam Electric offers solar services to several parts of South East Queensland, from Capalaba to Burleigh Heads. 

It’s also worth noting that by choosing a particular solar system size, for instance, our affordable 6.6 kW solar panels, you’ll also know which solar inverter size you’ll get, 5kW in this case and included as part of our solar packages.