The Difference Between String and Micro-Inverters
Filed under: Solar Installation
Before installing solar, you will need to choose which solar equipment would work best for your family’s energy need. One of the main components in a solar system is the inverter. The inverter’s main job is to convert DC power produced by the solar array into usable AC power for your home. Which inverter would be best for you?
What is a String Inverter?
String inverters have been around for a long time. They are used for solar installations without shading issues. These inverters also work for solar panels installed on a single plane that don’t face different directions. If a solar installation uses string inverters and even one panel is shaded for a portion of the day reducing its performance, the output of every panel on the string is reduced to that shaded solar panels’ level. Though string inverters aren’t good for solar systems with shading issues, the technology is trusted and proven. These inverters are less expensive than systems with microinverters, but are considered to be older technology. The string inverter is typically installed on the wall close to your home’s main service panel or electrical meter. Depending on how many solar panels you have installed, you may have one or two inverters hanging on your wall.
Some installers stick with string inverters because they can trust the long-standing manufacturing track record, but with the changes in the National Energy Code, a rapid shutdown unit has to be included in the installation, which adds to the cost of the system. Plus string inverters normally come with a 10 year manufacturer warranty, compared to a 25 year manufacturer warranty for micro-inverters.
What is a Micro-Inverter?
A micro-inverter system is a small inverter installed right under the solar panel. There is one micro-inverter for each solar panel you have installed.
The advantage of using micro-inverters-
- While a string inverter is limited to capping its energy collection at the lowest producing panel, micro-inverters can take in each panel’s energy at its optimal production. The main advantage of micro inverters in that each panel is monitored and optimized individually to generate maximum power.
- Micro-inverters are a newer technology that accommodate several angles and can include placing panels on the east, west, and south sides of your home. They also are the optimal option if you have shade from a large tree or chimney.
- Of course, the 25 year manufacturer warranty is a big plus for choosing the micro-inverters.
When it comes to solar, modern technology is the way to go. If you want to optimize the energy produced by each solar panel, then micro-inverters would be the best choice for you. This technology also comes with smart monitoring so you can see your solar energy production at your finger tips.
If you are thinking about having solar installed at your home, be sure to call our team at New Day Solar. We have been installing solar systems since 1988 and install the best solar technology for our customers. We offer a free, no obligation consultations and will answer all of your solar questions honesty. Call us today at: (855) 444-6329 or visit us online at: www.newdaysolar.com
