What Are Solar Inverters?
Every grid-tied system requires solar inverters. Since the days of Thomas Edison, electric grids run on Alternating Current (AC). Inverters change the Direct Current (DC) generated from the sunlight on solar panels into AC so that your excess electricity can be stored on the grid. To learn more about this process and net-metering, check out our blog, video section, or give us a call at (210) 401-9030. Listed below are the two dominating types that together make up 95% of the global inverter market share.
Side-By-Side Comparison
Founded in 2006, Enphase specializes in microinverters allowing each solar panel to have its own inverter. This makes it easier to scale compared to SolarEdge. Additionally, if an issue occurs with one of your microinverters, all other solar panels will still be able to provide electricity. However, the Enphase IQ microinverters are not compatible with older models, so if you wanted to add more panels to your system using a newer type of microinverter, you’ll need to get a new one for every solar panel. Enphase can handle complex roof’s better as well as shaded areas, thanks to the microinverter technology. Each microinverter comes with a 25-year warranty.
Founded in 2006, SolarEdge specializes in central solar inverters. This means every solar panel is connected to the same inverter. Sharing an inverter makes the system a bit safer in sending power back to the grid. A downside is if an issue occurs with your central inverter, none of your panels will power your home. Another issue with SolarEdge inverters is a limit to the amount of panels you can connect to a central inverter, whereas with Enphase there is no limit. SolarEdge inverters require a central inverter (12 year warranty) and a power optimizer (25 year warranty). The power optimizer makes SolarEdge about 2% more efficient in converting DC to AC than Enphase. The two are difficult to compare in terms of electrical production, because Enphase microinverters can produce more power in shaded areas.
How Enphase Works
How SolarEdge Works
Which Do We Prefer?
At Solar Edge Pros, we have installed both types of inverters. In 2020, we had more homeowners specifically request Enphase microinverters making it our inverter of choice. Understandably so. Their warranty covers all equipment for 25 years and won’t stop producing power if one inverter stops working. Not to mention the Enphase IQ Batteries are optimized for the microinverters.
Decisions, Decisions, Decisions
It’s a tough call – let the Pros help. Schedule a property evaluation for free consultation and a quote. The process is simple and easy. Click the button below, find a time that works for both of us, answer a few questions, and we’ll take care of the rest.