Types of Solar Inverters
While solar inverters are the most common type of inverter used for residential solar, they are just one of several inverter options available for solar and energy storage systems. Below, we describe the four main inverter types used for on-grid and off-grid solar systems. Learn more about the different types of solar systems and how they work.
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This review focuses on common 'string' solar inverters, the most popular type. These inverters use one or more strings (groups) of solar panels connected in series. String solar inverters are the most common type used in the UK, Europe, Australia, and Asia. They are also growing in popularity in the US, where microinverters are extremely popular.
Hybrid inverters, sometimes called battery-ready inverters, are similar to string solar inverters but enable the direct connection of a battery storage system to allow greater self-sufficiency using solar. Most hybrid inverters also provide basic backup power in the event of a blackout but are generally not designed for continuous off-grid use. While more expensive, hybrid inverters are becoming more cost-competitive against solar inverters as hybrid inverter technology advances and batteries become cheaper and more appealing. For more information, see our best hybrid inverters review.
Off-grid power systems generally require much more powerful battery inverters with built-in chargers, which can be set up as either AC or DC-coupled solar systems. Modern, off-grid inverters, or multi-mode inverters, can also be used to build advanced hybrid grid-connected energy storage systems. Many off-grid systems also use MPPT solar charge controllers, which are connected between the solar panels and battery to regulate the charging process and ensure the battery is not over-charged.
Are you going solar and wondering how to choose the best solar inverters for your installation? This comprehensive guide will help you navigate the top inverter brands to find an ideal match for your residential or commercial solar project.
What is a Solar Inverter?
Simply put, a solar inverter is the brains of a solar energy system that converts the DC electricity produced by your solar panels into usable AC power for your home or business. But inverters play other key roles beyond just inversion:
- Implementing maximum power point tracking (MPPT) to optimize energy harvest from panels
- Monitoring system and panel-level performance data
- In "hybrid" models, the ability to convert AC to DC for battery charging
Types of Solar Inverters
There are three main solar inverter designs on the market today:
- String Inverters - The classic central inverter model with a single inverter box installed at ground level to invert DC to AC power for the full solar array.
- Microinverters - Advanced panel-level inverters that perform DC to AC inversion for each module, increasing system monitoring granularity.
- Power Optimizers - Small optimizers under each panel condition DC power before sending to a string inverter, combining panel-level MPPT with a central string inverter.
How to Choose the Best Solar Inverter for Your Installation
Factors to Consider When Selecting an Inverter
Choosing the optimal solar inverter is a decision that hinges on various factors unique to each project. Whether you're outfitting a residential or commercial setup, there are essential considerations to keep in mind when selecting the ideal solar inverters for your installation:
Goals & Priorities - What are your top goals, such as maximizing energy production vs. minimizing upfront costs? Do you need panel-level monitoring?
System Requirements - Does your area have rapid shutdown rules? What are the electrical requirements for your specific project?
Ideal Use Case - Microinverters and optimizers are great for residential rooftops, while string inverters may be more cost-effective for commercial ground mounts.
It's also wise to compare solar inverter costs, quality, monitoring capabilities, and warranty coverage between brands.
Work closely with an experienced solar installer to weigh the pros and cons for your unique situation. They can guide you toward the best solar inverters for your needs.
Our Process for Evaluating Solar Inverter Brands
Our Process for Vetting Solar Inverter Brands At Paradise Energy, we have a thorough vetting process for evaluating solar inverter suppliers. We consider factors like:
- Company track record and financial stability
- Manufacturing quality standards
- Depth of product offerings and flexibility
- Efficiency and performance benchmarks
- Warranty terms and customer support
Based on our decades of experience, here's our take on some of the top solar inverter brands we use and install:
Top Solar Inverter Brands Review & Comparison
Now let's take a closer look at some of the leading solar inverter manufacturers, their product offerings, and key pros and cons:
Enphase Energy
Headquartered in California, Enphase was founded in and has grown to become what many consider the industry's number-one microinverter company. They have experienced some quality issues over the years, but they appear to have resolved the problems.
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- U.S. company manufacturing microinverters in Texas - Here's a tour of their Arlington, Texas, manufacturing facility.
- Known for its strong monitoring platform and 25-year warranty
- Best for residential rooftop solar
Pros:
- Top quality
- Great monitoring
- Leading warranty
Cons:
- Higher upfront cost than some alternatives
- Past customer service issues
SolarEdge
SolarEdge is an Israel-based company founded in . They have quickly gained a positive reputation for their unique power optimizer design, which allows for individual panel-level monitoring that enhances efficiency. As with all the inverter brands we offer, SolarEdge is touted for their quality.
- Israeli company with some U.S. manufacturing
- Offers power optimizers and inverters
- Ideal for residential/commercial rooftops and shaded array
Pros:
- Cost-effective
- Flexible system design
- Good warranty
Cons:
- More complex than microinverters
- Past quality issues
SMA
Based in Germany, SMA has been producing and manufacturing solar inverters since . They are widely considered the most reliable inverter on the market and enjoy a reputation for high-quality inverters.
- Long-standing German inverter company
- Specializes in string inverters
- Best for commercial ground-mount projects
Pros:
- Cost-effective commercial products
- Stable company
Cons:
- Expensive new residential line
Growatt
Established in , Growatt is a prominent Chinese company known for being the leading residential solar inverter globally and holding the fourth position overall.
- Chinese manufacturer of string inverters
- Cost-effective and efficient inverters
- Good option for residential ground-mounts
Pros:
- Low cost
- Flexible design
- Built-in monitoring
Cons:
- Some perceive Chinese products as a downside
Selecting the Best Solar Inverter
As you can see, there are some outstanding solar inverter options on the market, but also some trade-offs with each brand and product line in terms of cost, complexity, and capabilities.
That's where our Paradise Energy design team comes in. When picking a solar installation, our team will conduct an in-depth consultation to understand your goals, priorities, and project requirements. Our designers use those insights to specify an inverter model and monitoring package that is optimal for your needs. Request your free custom quote to get started.
Contact us to discuss your requirements of Balcony Power Plant. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.