With fossil fuels becoming increasingly scarce and utility bills becoming exceedingly expensive, more and more people are considering solar energy. Although solar energy systems are a significant investment, you can make your money back quickly by saving on energy bills, applying for tax credits, and selling energy back to the grid. However, it can be confusing when attempting to set up a solar energy system. Inverter.com is here to tell you more about solar inverters and how to choose the right one for your needs.
Why Are Solar Inverters Important?
The solar power process starts with sunshine. Photovoltaic cells in solar panels harness the energy from the sunlight, creating an electrical charge. The charge produced is a direct current or DC energy. However, DC is not suitable for use in your home. A solar inverter converts (or inverts) the DC energy into alternating current (AC), a form of energy that is safe and useable by your home appliances and electronics.
Aside from converting electricity to a practical form, solar inverters also help to flatten abnormal spikes or dips in your current and protect your sensitive appliances from damage. Solar inverters help to maximize the energy produced by your system by determining the ideal voltage for your modules to function at their best. Inverters that record production and consumption are a great way to monitor your power usage as well.
The Main Types of Solar Inverters
There are several different types of solar inverters. Here are the four main types available on Inverter.com.
On-grid inverters or grid-tied inverters are solar inverters that connect directly to the utility grid. They convert DC into AC directly to allow users to power their appliances. Users can also send surplus energy to the grid.
Off-grid inverters or stand-alone inverters are designed to work with batteries. They are capable of powering residences or commercial projects by converting DC from the solar panels into AC in storage batteries.
Micro inverters are small inverters attached to individual solar panels. Instead of having a central inverter on a solar array, the DC to AC energy conversion occurs at the panel level.
Hybrid inverters or multi-mode inverters combine the features of on-grid and off-grid inverters. They can draw and convert energy from both the solar array and the battery system.
How to Choose the Right Inverter
1. Choose Your System
Do you want the independence of an off-grid system or prefer to have the security of an on-grid system? If the power grid in your area is unreliable, a hybrid inverter may be better suited to your needs. The hybrid inverters available on Inverter.com can automatically switch between off-grid and on-grid modes to achieve the best energy outcomes. If you plan to have several modules that experience different levels of shading, micro inverters may be the best option to maximize power output.
2. Compare the Efficiencies
Conversion efficiency determines how much current is lost when DC is turned into AC. Small inefficiencies can add up over time to cost you a fair sum in electricity loss. Thus, you should aim for an efficiency of 96% or higher. The maximum efficiency of an inverter could be as high as 98.6% in some on-grid models with MPPT efficiency of up to 99.5%. MPPT stands for maximum power point tracking and it is the process of optimizing the match between system components to maximize energy extraction.
3. Check Key Parameters
Many features determine how well your solar inverter works. Some of these critical parameters are rated output voltage, output power, and overload capacity. The single-phase voltage level for most countries is between 220V and 240V. However, in the US, the standard voltage level is 120V for most everyday electronics and 240V for appliances such as washing machines and ovens. Your output voltage should be in the safe operating range for your electronics.
4. Look for Quality Construction
Since solar inverters are often installed outdoors, invest in models made of quality materials that can withstand the elements. For instance, the micro inverters on Inverter.com are designed to be waterproof. They avoid deterioration by preventing rainwater from pooling on the inverter surface. Your inverter should also feature an efficient cooling system to prevent overheating due to continued operation or strong sunlight. Look for units with a good working temperature and humidity range.
5. Consider Additional Features
Solar inverters can come with additional features or accessories that add value to your solar energy system. For example, certain hybrid inverters have built-in timers that can switch your inverters on during the day and off during the night. Inverters can come with digital LCD panels that display detailed operational information or be fitted with Wi-Fi data collector devices that enable you to monitor and track your energy data.
Most solar inverters have a minimum warranty of 12 months. That said, it is best to do your research to find the right system for your needs before purchasing your inverter. Inverter.com specializes in reliable power inverter products with competitive prices. If you need professional recommendations on how to set up your solar energy system, visit Inverter.com for the latest in solar technology and expert advice.