Choosing the right Inverter for your solar

Inverters are critical components of any solar energy system and are frequently referred to as the project’s “brains.”

The basic function of an inverter is to “modify” direct current (DC) output from the solar panels into alternating current (AC) which can be used in the premises. Because alternating current (AC) is the benchmark used by all commercial equipment, many people consider inverters to be the “gateway” between the solar system and the grid and home consumption.

Inverter technologies have developed over the past 20 years significantly to the point where, in addition to transforming DC to AC, they now offer a variety of other functionality and services to ensure that the inverter operates at full capacities, such as detailed system monitoring, advanced utility controls, software, and systems engineering. Inverters also now can send SMS or emails giving warnings and fault info, should the system not perform as expected.

For commercial solar installations, inverter manufacturers offer post-installation services critical to sustaining energy generation and ensuring the ongoing high-level performance of the installation.

Overall, inverters have a much greater purpose than just inverting the electrical currents of a solar energy system. To drive more PV penetration, high-quality inverter manufacturers such as SMA, Fronius and Sungrow must continue to innovate and reduce costs while maintaining key attributes for a solar energy system. At SolarWide we only use the best of class inverters. Why not come past the SolarWide showroom in Warana on the sunshine coast and check them out.

Choosing the right location for the inverter is a critical step in a solar system installation process. Today’s quality solar systems are expected to last more than twenty years, and therefore the inverter position is critical.

Although many inverter warranties are not void if installed in direct sunlight, the best practice is to install them in an area that provides the cleanest, coolest environment possible. Inverters are electronic devices that heat up due to the power conversion.

They perform much better by not derating on hot days, and their elements last longer in the shade.

When we choose the install position we also pick a location that allows easy access for future maintenance. The most ideal spot is a garage that stays reasonably cool in summer. The 2nd best spot is a southern wall if close to the switchboard. East is a possibility too, but in some homes, West or North are the only options. In such cases, it is advisable to install a shade structure above the inverter to provide some protection from direct sunlight, especially in high summer during the middle of the day.

Overall, the most important aspect is that the inverter is located in a shaded area. To reduce voltage drops, the installer should also try to place the inverter as close to the metre board as possible. SolarWide provides free site inspections and advice on inverter positions. Contact us today.

Quality Inverters in residential installations expect to have a lifespan of more than ten years. On average, the inverter should be replaced once during the lifetime of solar panels. An inverter’s life expectancy is affected by its surroundings. A high temperature installs position, for example on a western or Northern wall can have a negative impact on the inverters overall lifetime. It is recommended to install the inverter in a relatively cool and well-ventilated location, if possible.

Furthermore, depending on the type, make, or model, the lifespan of many budget solar inverters can be much shorter than that of quality solar panels themselves. The reason is that solar inverters have more electrical components than solar panels, which are required to convert DC energy from solar panels to AC energy. These components are more heat-sensitive than any other component of the PV system, making them more prone to equipment failure. At SolarWide we make sure our inverter installation location is appropriate for the equipment to ensure long-life performance. Talk to us today.

There are 3 to 4 major reasons that inverters may fail. The electro-mechanical wear on capacitors is the first cause of inverter failure. Capacitors are used by inverters to provide a smooth power output at varying current levels. However, electrolytic capacitors have a limited lifespan and age faster than dry components. This is a particular weakness in cheaper budget inverters, which have failed in as little as 2 years.

The second most common reason for failure is using inverters beyond their operating limits, whether by choice or due to oversight or lack of knowledge. Using any component at a higher rating than its operating limit will reduce its lifespan and lead to failure. Please avoid this issue, by making sure your installation company conducts a proper system design so the inverter is running properly.  Relay failure within the inverter is also a common reason for failure.

Overcurrent and overvoltage are the next two issues that can cause inverter failure. If the current or voltage exceeds what the inverter is rated for, it can damage the device’s components, most commonly the inverter bridge.

This damage is frequently caused by the excess heat generated by the voltage or current spike. Overcurrent can be avoided with fuses or circuit breakers, but overvoltage can be difficult to avoid.

Voltage spikes are sometimes caused by humans, but they can also be caused by lightning or solar flares, which are difficult to avoid. Therefore, as long as you are looking out and aware of these issues with inverters, your inverter should be stable and proceed to convert your energy for many years. Find out more – talk to us today.

Solar power is great for cutting emissions and therefore a great contribution to combating climate change but the key driver for people considering solar are the financial benefits that solar can bring and the compelling returns. On the Sunshine coast a high-quality solar system can have a return of investment period as low as 4 years, and with the right support and maintenance can last decades, creating a financial benefit for many, many years.