Solar inverters are an integral part of a solar installation system. Its job is to properly convert the DC electricity generated from the photovoltaic panels into AC electricity, which is what appliances in your house require.
It is critical to note that the efficiency of your inverter has a direct impact on the amount of energy you will receive from your panels. Even a 2% gap in inverter performance means a notable difference in energy output.
To put it another way, the performance of your inverter is frequently far more essential than the effectiveness of your panels. As a result, it is common for less powerful solar panels to provide the same amount of electricity as more effective photovoltaic arrays.
Another thing to keep in mind is that there are two types of inverters used in solar energy systems: micro and string inverters. Let us now look at the distinctions between the two.
Solar Panel Micro-Inverters
The advantage of micro-inverters is that if one breaks, the rest of the network will continue to function. This means that if you have ten panels and one micro-inverter fails, the other nine will continue to function normally. Therefore, you’ll just lose ten percent of your output until the malfunctioning micro-inverter gets repaired.
Some solar panels include mini inverters for easier and faster installation. And the system can be readily expanded with different panels and micro-inverters.
However, keep in mind that the AC output of individual micro-inverters is limited. Thus, the micro-inverter will only supply its peak value regardless of the solar panels’ full output.
Solar Panel String Inverters
String inverters have the advantage of being compatible with practically all solar panels. When working with high-wattage panels, people frequently use multiple string inverters. These panels are especially popular because servicing them does not involve going up to the roof.
Unfortunately, string inverters overheat frequently, and this is the most prevalent cause of solar power system failure in the first few years of operation. Even well-known low-cost brands have high death rates in the first three years.
People typically use a power optimizer to avoid such problems with string inverters. This device converts the direct current from the solar panels into an optimum direct current output, which is then fed into a string inverter.
Choosing Solar Inverters
In the first ten years, the inverter is the most likely element to break. This is because they operate intensely all day and get overwhelmed. That’s why, if you’re on a strict budget, it is wise to select a quality inverter above expensive panels.
Yes, it is true that the budget inverter is about half the value of a premium model. But what if it only fails after the first three years? Nevertheless, you will lose energy output while it is repaired, and the installer’s work will cost approximately $200.
In the end, a high-quality solar inverter is the better option. If you cannot afford the premium alternatives, it is strongly advised that you save some money and never risk a low-quality brand.
