String inverters: advantages and disadvantages explained

String Inverters: Advantages and Disadvantages Explained

String Inverters and Microinverters

An inverter is an indispensable component of your solar power system. It converts the electricity produced by solar panels (Direct Current) into a form used by many household appliances (Alternating Current). A high-quality inverter is crucial as it enhances the reliability and efficiency of your solar power system. The two types of inverters you can choose from are:

1. String Inverter
2. Microinverter

String Inverters Explained

A string inverter connects to a string of solar panels, forming a solar array. Multiple connection methods exist for linking a string of solar panels. Typically, a solar array can include around 15 solar panels, each generating 250Wp. Each solar panel is connected in series to the string inverters, which aggregate all the direct current from each panel and convert it into alternating current simultaneously. The number of solar panels that can connect to a string inverter depends on the inverter's input voltage rating.

Advantages of Using String Inverters

String inverters are the most common type of solar inverter, known for their robustness and longevity. They have been popular for decades due to their simplicity and effectiveness. Here are some of the key benefits:

Ease of Maintenance and Troubleshooting

Most string inverters are installed in a common area, typically mounted on the wall, making maintenance easier. This setup eliminates the need to traverse the field back and forth for troubleshooting, offering significant advantages in extreme climates.

Trusted Technology

String inverters have been around for a long time. Consequently, they are reliable, and electricians are well-acquainted with this technology.

Lower Costs

String inverters are generally less expensive than microinverters. You only need one string inverter per installation, whereas microinverters require one inverter per panel.

Disadvantages of String Inverters

Single Point of Failure

If the string inverter fails, the entire solar array becomes inoperative, leading to a substantial loss of electricity production.

Expandability

Unless you purchase an oversized string inverter, future expandability is limited. Once installed for a particular rating, its capacity can't be altered. You would need to acquire an additional inverter for expansion.

System Monitoring Challenges

String inverters lack the ability to monitor individual panels, making it harder to diagnose specific panel issues. This limitation means you can only monitor the overall energy production without recognizing individual panel performance discrepancies.

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String Inverters vs. Microinverters: Pros and Cons

Solar panels generate direct current (DC) electricity, which must be converted into alternating current (AC) electricity for home or business use. Solar inverters accomplish this conversion. Innovations in inverter technology have advanced alongside the growing popularity of solar panels, enabling homeowners and businesses to maximize their solar panel systems' power. String inverters and microinverters are the two primary types of solar inverters. Continue reading to learn about the benefits, drawbacks, and differences to help you choose the best option for your needs.

What Are String Inverters?

A string inverter connects to a series circuit, typically linking to a string of individual solar panels called a solar array. The string inverter is generally a standalone unit installed near your electricity meter and primary service panel. These systems usually involve one or two inverters, depending on the solar panel system's size.

String inverters are ideal for solar panel systems exposed to full sunlight. They operate using the lowest-performing panel for energy conversion, so ensuring all panels have similar output is vital for maximizing energy production.

Pros of String Inverters

• Reduced Costs: String inverters are among the most affordable inverters available, requiring fewer labor hours for installation and costing less than microinverters.
• Easier Troubleshooting: Typically, only one string inverter is needed to convert DC electricity to AC, simplifying troubleshooting.
• Lower Risk of Wiring Problems: With fewer connections, string inverters are less prone to wiring issues, reducing the need for repairs due to incorrect installation.

Cons of String Inverters

• Shorter Lifespans: String inverters generally last between eight to 12 years, compared to microinverters' longer lifespans.
• Challenging System Expansion: String inverters perform best at near-peak capacity. Expanding your system requires routing new panels to another string inverter, adding complexity and cost.
• Reduced Efficiency in Partial Shade: If one panel in the series has reduced output, all panels will be similarly affected, lowering overall efficiency.
• Limited System Monitoring: String inverters don't allow for monitoring individual panels, hampering diagnostics for specific performance issues.

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Which Inverter Is Best for Your Solar System?

Choosing between string inverters and microinverters depends on your project's specific constraints. If your solar panels can consistently receive full sun, string inverters may be the better choice. However, if parts of your solar system will be shaded at various times during the day, microinverters could be more suitable.

You should also consider your plans for future expansion, as microinverters simplify the process of adding more panels. Budget constraints will likely influence your decision, so weigh the benefits and disadvantages to determine which system affords you the most energy savings while fitting your financial plans.

Your solar installer can guide you in selecting the best solar inverter for your home or business, offering recommendations based on your budget, solar panel orientation, and specific needs.

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