More homeowners choose solar energy in Calgary each year. As you explore your options, you’ll want to focus on the type of panels to buy and where to place them. However, more goes into the design of a successful solar system than the generating hardware. You need solutions for harvesting and harnessing the power your panels make, too. That’s where solar power inverters enter the picture.
This electrical hardware is an essential part of any solar panel system for a home. Today, it often comes in two styles: the string- and the micro-inverter. What do they do, and which is suitable for your home? Here’s what to know.
All About the Basics of Solar Inverters
When a solar panel collects light and generates electricity, it creates Direct Current (DC). Today’s homes and appliances don’t use DC; instead, we change this power to Alternating Current (AC). An inverter is the hardware required to change the phase of electricity from DC to AC. After energy flows through the inverter, it can enter your home and power up appliances from refrigerators to TVs.
However, not all inverters function in the same way. Modern homeowners face a choice between two main types: string and micro-inverters. Let’s consider each of them.
The Pros and Cons of String Inverters
A string inverter is a single unit. Every solar panel connects to this inverter in series via one wire or several wires (the string or strings). From there, the conversion occurs, and you can use the power.
String inverters are a popular choice partly because of their lower cost and uncomplicated installation. They are ideal for solar panels facing the same direction or occupying the same area of the roof. Spaces with continuous full sun exposure are good candidates for this hardware. Homeowners also choose string inverters when they want an elementary system that’s kinder to the budget.
However, there can be some drawbacks. There is only one point of failure, meaning a fault anywhere in the series might stop power production. More importantly, string systems are affected by the lowest-producing panel. These systems aren’t ideal for panels that receive varying degrees of shade.
Pluses and Minuses for Micro-inverters
With micro-inverters, each solar panel functions independently. Micro-inverters attach directly to each panel individually, immediately converting the power. This feature is a strength and a weakness. The individual inverters ensure that one failure doesn’t take out your system. Unfortunately, more hardware is necessary, which increases the installation cost.
However, there is a caveat to that cost. Your system may be more efficient. The production of each panel is independent from the other panels in the system. Also, you can capture the energy output of all panels at high and low levels. If you need to add more panels in the future, you won’t need to rewire the system as with a string inverter.
Which System Is Right for You?
The right approach depends on your home and your preferences. In general, though, some circumstances point to a clear solution. We recommend homeowners choose string inverters for systems that:
- Will not add new panels soon.
- Receive full sunlight throughout most of the year.
- Does not have roof areas facing many different directions.
- Meet budget requirements.
Alternatively, we recommend micro-inverters for homes that:
- Will place panels in multiple locations or at different angles.
- Have more challenging shading issues across panels.
- Plan to expand their solar systems in the future.
Professional help is advisable to make the right choice.
Find Help Setting up Smart Solar Systems for Your Home or Business
As you explore adding a solar panel system for your home, explore your inverter options in detail. No one solution is perfect for everyone. The specific circumstances of your installation and the conditions around your property will play a key role in determining which inverter is best for your needs.
At Tenet Power, our experienced and trusted installers can help you find suitable options for harnessing solar energy in Calgary. Explore with us whether the centralization of string inverters or the power production of micro-inverters is ideal for your needs. Connect with our team today to learn more about assessing your property’s requirements.
