Solar Inverters
In your solar power setup, it’s not just about the Solar Panels. Your solar inverter is responsible for converting all that solar energy into usable electricity. This means that the efficiency and reliability of your solar system largely depends on your choice of inverter. We’re here to help you make the right decision.
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What are solar inverters?
Simply put, a solar inverter is an essential component of your solar power system, serving as the link between your solar panels and the electrical appliances in your home.
Solar Inverters transform the direct current (DC) electricity generated by your solar panels into the alternating current (AC) electricity required to power your lights, appliances and electronics. Since many people aren’t aware of this critical process, Stinson Air & Solar will guide you every step of the way when selecting the perfect solar inverter for your home.
Benefits of choosing the right Solar Inverter
If you’re in the process of researching the right solar inverter for your home our team can help. We will give you an unbiased approach below to help you make an informed decision.
Advanced Inverter technology now enables monitoring of power consumption down to each individual solar panel. Whether assessing system health or panel performance, premium inverters often come equipped with smart monitoring systems and user-friendly apps that allow you to track your energy production and consumption in real-time.
String inverters work best when used on roofs with direct sunlight and no shaded areas.
Achieving the ideal balance involves sizing the inverter correctly to match the maximum power output of your solar panels. Inverters that are either over or undersized in comparison to your panels’ maximum output could potentially damage your system.
Considering an electric vehicle (EV) or planning to do renovations to expand your home? Every situation is unique, but selecting the right inverter can adapt to life’s changes. Hybrid inverters or battery inverters can future-proof your home. Stinson Air & Solar offers consultations to review your current usage and future plans to ensure you get the perfect inverter for your needs.
Different Types of Solar Inverters
There are three main types of solar inverters – string inverters, micro inverters and hybrid inverts.
These are the most common type and are suitable for residential and small commercial installations. This low-cost and durable option connects multiple solar panels in one or more “strings” and converts the DC electricity generated by the panels into AC electricity.
String inverters work best when used on roofs with direct sunlight and no shaded areas.
Microinverters are small, modular inverters installed on each solar panel. Unlike string inverters, which convert power from multiple panels at a central location, microinverters optimise each panel individually. The main benefit of microinverters is that they optimise power at the panel level, so the performance of one panel does not affect the others i.e. if one panel receives less sun, it won’t reduce the output of the rest of the system. For these reasons, we recommend them for homes with partly shaded or complex roof layouts. Their modular design also makes them a great choice if you have plans for future home extensions.
Microinverters are generally more costly so we only recommend them if they fit your situation; however, its worth noting that microinverters will last far longer than string inverters as they handle less power individually and therefore generate less heat.
Hybrid Inverters get their name from the hybrid functionalities of being a solar inverter that is completely battery ready. Much like your typical string solar inverters, but with an added bonus – they come with built-in battery connections for energy storage. This means you can store excess energy generated during the day for use later on. Consider hybrid inverters if you plan to add battery storage in the future.
Standard (non-hybrid) inverters can have batteries added, but this will require additional components and labor, consequently increasing the cost. Hybrid Inverters come fully equipped for battery connection straight out of the box!
Our recommended Solar Inverter manufacturers
Inverters are the most complex and failure-prone components in your solar system. That’s why, out of the hundreds of manufacturers producing solar inverters globally, we only recommend brands we trust. These brands manufacture efficient inverters designed to last a fair lifespan (typically around 10-15 years for string inverters, and up to 20 years for micro inverters). All of these brands also offer solid warranties and exceptional customer service and support.
SolarEdge
SolarEdge sets itself apart from traditional inverters with its innovative approach, employing individual power optimisers for each panel, making it particularly effective in areas that gets shading from trees or other buildings. While this unique method may not be ideal for every household, SolarEdge truly shines in situations with complex installation needs. Founded in both Germany and the US, SolarEdge’s innovative technology represents expertise from across the globe. If your house or business has a unique roofing situation, SolarEdge could be the perfect solution.
Sungrow
Sungrow inverters in our opinion are the best Chinese inverters on the market. With over 30 years in the solar industry, we have found Sungrow systems to be exceptionally reliable, causing us no issues, which is why we love them!
In recent years, Sungrow has shipped more inverters worldwide than any other competitor and we’ve seen a big up tick of Sungrow systems in Perth homes. They also offer a 10-year warranty, adding to their appeal. You won’t regret going with Sungrow!
SMA
SMA inverters are top-tier solar inverters, renowned worldwide for their efficiency and reliability. At Stinson Air & Solar, we prioritise providing the best solar solutions and SMA inverters are the leaders for delivering clean, usable power to your home. Their innovative technology optimises energy use even in shady conditions, ensuring maximum efficiency.
Built with German engineering excellence, SMA inverters are designed to endure Australia’s harsh climate, from scorching summers to windy winters. With extended warranties available, you can trust in the long-term performance and durability of your solar system.
Goodwe
GoodWe inverters take a refreshingly different approach by being budget-friendly while still prioritising exceptional quality. They combine innovative features and a user-friendly design, ensuring you get the best value without compromising on performance.
If you’re looking for more than just a solar system and want a way to control your energy consumption, GoodWe is an excellent choice. Renowned for its user-friendly apps, GoodWe goes beyond simply converting sunlight into electricity; it helps you manage your whole home’s energy usage effectively.
Fronius
The team at Stinson Air & Solar are big fans of Fronius. We highly recommend their inverters, even our boss even has a Fronius solar system in his own home! Recently celebrating their 75th anniversary, this Austrian company represents the pinnacle of solar power technology. Their products are designed to withstand the harshest summers to the windiest winters.
Fronius inverters were among the first and top choices on the Australian market to offer compatibility with the Tesla Powerwall and they continue to be highly recommended today.
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