Which Solar Inverter Is Right for Your Home?
If you plan to generate electricity on your own with solar power, you need to install a solar power system at home.
In the system the solar inverter plays the key role because it converts direct current generated by solar panels into alternating current, which is the current form provided by the utility grid to an average family and is suitable for home use. Solar inverters can be generally divided into three kinds: standalone, gird-tie and backup battery inverters.
Which one is the most suitable one for your home?
1.
Standalone inverters
These inverters are used in off-grid solar power systems. In each system solar panels generate direct current, which is then stored in rechargeable batteries. When energy is needed, the direct current stored in these batteries are then taken out and sent to a device which will turn it into alternating current.
The device is the standalone inverter. This converted current will power your whole family. The advantage of installing this device is your power system will never be affected by the power outrages from the utility grid. You will be able to consume electricity whenever you wish as long as your batteries are charged or your solar panels keep generating direct current.
2. Grid-tie inverters
These current converting products are used in systems which are connected to the utility grid, and this is totally different from the standalone system. In this system solar panels generate direct current, which are then fed to the grid-tie solar inverter for conversion. Finally, your family will be powered by the generated alternating current.
If you cannot use up the electricity, it will be sent back to the local utility grid. You can get payment from this by using a power meter to receive credit. Its most important advantage is it is cheaper compared with the standalone system because it doesn't need any batteries.
Therefore, these inverters are widely favored by customers.
3. Backup battery inverters
A backup battery inverter is installed in a multi-functional solar power system.
It is the solar panels that generate direct current, which are then sent to a battery. If electricity is demanded, direct current stored in the battery will be taken out and sent to an inverter for conversion. As soon as it is converted into alternating current, the electricity will be transmitted to your family's grid.
The difference is once the battery is fully charged, the current generated by solar panels will be directly sent to the inverter, and the converted electricity will be fed to the local utility grid. The system combines the advantages of the former two power systems and is highly favored by customers.
Its disadvantage is much more obvious: it is more expensive than either of the two former systems. Surely, you can enjoy more of its benefits than the other two as well.
Since the three kinds of home solar power inverters have been clearly listed and explained, you, as a house owner, must have your own choice in terms of your concern on budget, geographic condition and personal favor.