What is a Solar Inverter?
Solar inverters are one of the most important elements for a Solar electric power system. It is how the energy which is picked up by your Solar Panels can then be fed back into your home and used as energy.
The energy that comes from your PV Solar Panels (Photovoltaic Solar Panels) is in direct current or (DC.) This needs to be transferred into AC electricity which is used to operate your household.
Whats the difference between AC and DC?
Alternating current and direct current refer to the current or flow of electrons , also referred to as electric charge. A way to visualise this is direct current is constant and in one direction, while AC is more of a wave like pattern.
This becomes important as Batteries and Solar panels use DC as the flow of electrons is in the same direct. You will find however, your fridge, washing machine and even TV will use AC. Some devices have an inverter of their own built in.
Do I need an inverter?
An inverter is a must – it is essential to use your Solar power system.
What should I look for in an inverter?
These may change with your Solar goals.
It’s important to make sure the inverter is approved in Australia, with the relevant Australian standard (AS4777) this can be checked here.
Pricing falls under the category of “you get what you pay for.” Going with a top of the line inverter will get you superior quality. These brands will be along the lines of Fronius, SMA, Solar Edge and more. A Solar installer will recommend brands based on their experience.
The capacity of your inverter will be dependent on your Solar goals. Talk to a Solar installer on what they recommend. Inverter capacity can be tricky, and is not as straight forward as 6kW system = 6kW inverter. A larger inverter can account for more panels being added in the future, while a smaller one will be effective now and keep costs lower.
What types do Tesla Electrical & Solar use?
There a number of brands in the Solar Inverter space, where Tesla Electrical & Solar choose premium brands, such as Fronius. Fronius are considered the top quality in Inverters, from Austria and being established in 1945 they have the pedigree of a premium brand. They are also known for their longstanding quality, with a 5 year warranty plus, 5 additional years in extended warranty. A higher quality inverter and you will see efficiency and reliability which are both very important when considering a solar power system.
