Solar Panel Inverters: Choosing the Right One for Your Home
Solar energy is becoming a popular and sustainable choice for homeowners looking to reduce their energy bills and carbon footprint. If you’re considering installing solar panels, understanding the role of solar panel inverters is crucial. These devices play an essential role in converting the energy generated by your panels into usable electricity for your home. But with various types of solar panel inverters available, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. This guide breaks down the main types of solar inverters, their pros and cons, and the scenarios where each type is most beneficial.
What Does a Solar Panel Inverter Do?
Solar panels generate direct current (DC) electricity when exposed to sunlight. However, your home appliances run on alternating current (AC) electricity. A solar panel inverter converts the DC electricity into AC, making it usable for your home. It ensures the safe and efficient flow of electricity, optimising energy output and enabling you to monitor your system’s performance.
The Main Types of Solar Panel Inverters
There are four primary types of solar panel inverter:
Each type of solar panel inverter serves different needs, offering unique benefits for various setups and energy goals. Choosing the right inverter is crucial for optimising the performance of your solar system. Here’s a deeper look at the main types of solar panel inverter and what you need to know about each.
Hybrid Solar Inverters
A hybrid solar inverter combines a traditional solar inverter with a battery inverter. This means it can handle both solar panel electricity and stored energy from a battery system. These inverters are ideal for homeowners who want to store excess energy for later use, such as during the evening or a power outage.
Hybrid Solar Inverter-Pros:
- Seamlessly integrates with compatible battery storage systems.
- Can oversize solar panel array to drive additional power into battery without compromising existing electrical infrastructure.
- Allows energy independence and backup during grid outages when installed with emergency power supply features
Hybrid Solar Inverter-Cons:
- Typically more expensive than other types.
- Requires a compatible battery system, which adds to the overall cost.
- Not recommended to replace string inverters on feed in tariff contracts
Best for: Homeowners interested in energy independence or those living in areas with frequent power outages.
Hybrid Solar Inverters- what customers are saying:
“Since installing a hybrid inverter, we’ve seen a dramatic reduction in our reliance on the grid. Even during outages, we’ve had power stored up in the battery!” – Emma, Brighton. Google
String Solar Inverters
A string inverter is one of the most common types of inverters used in residential systems. It connects multiple panels in a series (or “string”) to create a single electric current that is then converted into AC power.
Pro’s: String Solar Inverter:
- Cost effective solution for systems without battery storage .
- Can be grouped together to enhance overall generation capacity on larger roof spaces
- Ideal for commercial business use with peak electrical demand between 09:00 – 17:00
Cons: String Solar Inverter:
- Cannot be connected direct to battery storage system
- Less suitable for homeowners or business who utilise more electricity during the evening or night
Best for: Homes with simple, unshaded roofs and homeowners looking for cost-effective solutions.
String Solar Inverters- what customers are saying:
“The string inverter was the most budget-friendly option for us, and it works perfectly since our roof gets full sun all day.” – Andrew, Leeds. Google
Micro Solar Inverters
Microinverters are installed directly onto each solar panel, allowing each panel to operate independently. This setup ensures optimal performance even if one panel is shaded or underperforming.
Micro Solar Inverter-Pros:
- Maximises energy production for each individual panel.
- Ideal for roofs with shading or multiple directions (e.g., east and west facing).
- Easier to monitor the performance of individual panels.
Micro Solar Inverter-Cons:
- Higher upfront cost compared to string inverters.
- More components may require additional maintenance over time.
Best for: Homes with shading issues, irregularly shaped roofs, or panels installed on multiple planes.
Micro Solar Inverters- what customers are saying:
“Our roof has some shading from nearby trees, so microinverters were the perfect choice. We get maximum energy output without worrying about shaded panels reducing efficiency.” – Sarah, Manchester. Google
AC Coupled Inverters
AC coupled or battery inverters are used to enable battery storage systems to be retro-fitted to existing Solar Panels which are connected via string inverter configuration. This is an ideal way to upgrade your existing system without removing components or invalidating warranties.
Pro’s: AC Coupled Inverter:
- Upgrade your existing Solar Panel system to capture surplus generation previously sent to grid
- Can be installed alongside F.I.T schemes without compromising existing system
- Can be used for battery storage only without any Solar Panels
Cons: AC Coupled Inverter:
- Typically Smaller inverter capacities 3.6kW
- Need to monitor both existing Solar Panel load and main incoming supply so may not be suitable for outbuildings.
- Requires a further DNO application as adding another inverter with additional load capacity
Best for: Retro fitting battery storage onto existing Solar PV systems
AC Coupled Solar Inverters- what customers are saying:
“We started with just solar panels, but adding a battery and upgrading with an AC coupled inverter made so much sense. Now we can store excess energy and plan further expansions in the future.” — Caroline R., Brighton. Google
What Are Solar Panel Optimisers?
Solar panel optimisers are an additional technology that works with inverters to increase the efficiency of your system. They are installed on each panel, ensuring maximum energy extraction, even if part of the array is shaded or dirty. Optimisers are often used in systems that rely on string inverters.
How They Work:
Optimisers adjust the DC voltage from each panel, ensuring the string inverter receives optimal input power. They enhance performance and provide monitoring capabilities for each panel. Optimisers boost energy production in partially shaded systems and allows panel-level monitoring. Additionally they are more cost-effective than microinverters for improving shade tolerance. However they require compatibility with the chosen string inverter.
Best for: Homeowners using string inverters who experience occasional shading or want to monitor individual panel performance.
How to Choose the Right Solar Panel Inverter
A solar panel inverter may seem like a small part of your solar system, but they have a huge impact on its performance. When comparing solar panel inverters, take into account the following:
By considering your needs and weighing the pros and cons, you’ll be able to choose a solar panel inverter tailored to your unique solar setup. Here’s a quick summary to help you decide:
A solar panel inverter is the heart of your solar energy system, ensuring reliable and efficient energy conversion. By understanding the differences and benefits of each—as well as panel optimisers—you can make an informed decision that suits your home’s unique needs.
How Can E-Verve Energy Help?
At E-Verve Energy we pride ourselves on helping customers choose the right solar solutions. We are officially The Most Trusted Solar Panel Installers of 2024 and with over 10 years in the Industry your in safe hands! We are fully OZEV and MCS accredited TrustMark approved and proud members of both RECC and CPA This means that all projects are fully protected and completed by our accredited tradesmen. With over 10 years in the industry and with over 20,000+ UK installations undertaken we can help you find the perfect solution for you and your home!
Our interactive solar design tool provides initial transparent pricing allowing you to draw out your own roof to find relevant solar panel packages. Additionally you can also add options for battery storage solutions. We offer a Live Solar Design with full visibility of our industry benchmarked, transparent pricing. Our Quote Builder allows you to see how different options and products will effect your free no obligation quote! We also provide a free home survey and assessment of your roof condition before installation. This ensures that everything runs smoothly on the day. Interested in exploring further? just click on the button below or get in touch with the team!
Get Your Custom Solar Quote Today
Select your ideal setup and receive a tailored quote in minutes.
90+ Google Reviews