What is a Solar Power Inverter?

Solar panels aren’t the only thing you need in order to get solar power. You’ll need a solar inverter device attached to the system. So, what exactly is an inverter anyway? 

A solar inverter does what it sounds like—it “inverts’ the power that comes through the solar panel before it enters your home. Why does the energy from the sun need to be inverted? It’s because of the power that is absorbed by the panels. 

Think of solar power from the sun as a book written in a foreign language. The sun speaks one language, but your appliances speak another. A solar power inverter serves as a translator between the two. Once your appliances can understand the energy, they can function. 

Solar power enters your panels as DC, or direct current, power. Your inverter changes this DC power into AC, or alternating current, power. AC power can be used to power your electronics and appliances. 

4 Types of Solar Power Inverters

There are 4 primary types of solar power inverters, each one with its own unique features: 

• A string inverter connects your panels in a series, connecting them all in one path. Unfortunately, if one panel is in the shade or not functioning well, it can negatively affect the entire power flow. A string inverter system can only operate as well as its weakest link. 
• An optimized string inverter is a better version of the string model. The difference is that this system has power optimizers under each solar panel. This maximizes the performance of the whole system by monitoring the system and letting you know when there’s an issue.  
• A microinverter is another option for your solar panel system. Rather than installing one large inverter, each panel gets its own small inverter. This provides endless flexibility when it comes to installing a solar panel grid. 
• Finally, a hybrid inverter combines a battery inverter with a photovoltaic (PV) inverter. These systems can work with a string or optimized string setup. The big advantage here is the ability to store power inside ab battery for later use. 

A good electrical company can go over these inverter options with you to determine the best system for your home or business. With the right setup, you can enjoy a constant flow of solar energy throughout your entire home or business. 

Discuss your solar panel and inverter options in southern Massachusetts with BD Electrical today. We can help you find a solar panel and inverter system that will work for you. 

508-617-0800 | https://bdelectrical.services/