Understand the difference between them and find out which one is best for your home
Homeowners with solar-powered houses see the benefit of having the technology installed every day. From a more sustainable way of living to reduced electricity costs, having solar power at home comes with a lot of advantages.
The technology involves using solar panels on the roof that convert the sunlight into electricity. This electrical energy is then used to power all house appliances.
However, their composition can be a bit more complex than just having solar panels do all the work.
Want to know more about solar power installations? Watch this quick video.
For the direct electrical current (DC) to be converted into alternating current (AC) it is necessary to install a good solar panel inverter. These are the real heroes of solar power energy.
What are solar panel inverters and how do they work?
Solar inverters are the ones responsible for transforming the direct electrical current absorbed from sunlight into the alternating current that can be used to power the house.
In other words, their main function is to act as a bridge between the electricity produced by the solar panels and the current needed to feed house appliances.
There are two main types of inverters that can be used to convert energy:
- String inverters
- Microinverters
Their applications come with their own set of pros and cons and the installation will depend on the needs of the house and the homeowner’s preferences.
String inverters
String inverters convert the electrical current by being directly connected to the solar panels on the roof by strings. Each installation only needs one string inverter typically positioned close to the main service panel.
Once connected, the string inverter can then convert the energy from the panels for use in the house. They can also be paired with DC power optimizers to maximize energy production.
Installations on simple unshaded roofs are best suited to string inverters.
Pros
- Lower installation cost
- Easy to troubleshoot
- Proven efficiency
Cons
- Difficult system expansion
- Short lifespan
- Less detailed monitoring
Microinverters
Unlike string inverters, microinverters need to be attached to each individual solar panel. This means more than one inverter is needed per solar installation, which can make the process of putting them in place a bit more complex.
They are responsible for converting the DC power produced by the specific solar panel they’re attached to into AC power. The current is then sent from each solar panel directly to the home’s electrical grid or circuit.
Microinverters are best suited for complex roof installations or for solar systems that will experience shading.
Pros
- Easier system expansion
- Longer lifespan
- Shade tolerance
Cons
- Higher installation cost
- Difficult to repair
- More maintenance
Which solution is best for you?
Besides acting as a crucial component of solar powered homes, string inverters and microinverters can also maximize the solar energy production and monitor the system output.
They communicate with the utility grid and can detect any occurring faults in the system.
Now, when choosing between these two options, you need to consider what type of installation will be placed. For more complex systems, microinverters are the go-to option, as they will help make the most out of the solar performance.
If the installation seems straightforward, string inverters are the best fit. They’re easier to install and can be paired with DC optimizers to maximize the panels’ performance.
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Recommended reading
- Solar savings calculator
- Why aren’t your solar panels working?
- Do solar panels work during a blackout?
- Do solar panels work on cloudy days?
- Does hail damage solar panels?
- Bird-proofing your solar panels.
- Is it worth getting a heat pump water heater?
- How often do you need solar system inspections?
- Does solar hot water increase your property value?