In a solar system, if the solar panel can be considered the body of the entire system, then solar inverters should be regarded as the system’s brain. If both the instruments work together in harmony, then only you will be able to get the maximum amount of electricity from your solar system.
Although most people already know about solar panels and worry about their price tag before purchasing a solar system, they don’t put much emphasis when it comes to solar inverters cost. This is mainly due to the fact that solar panels are the most popular and visible part of the system, whereas solar inverters are not so famous. However, this particular part of the system is responsible for converting solar energy into electricity.
In this article, we will discuss the solar inverters cost and find out how much you will have to spend on them so that you can create a proper estimate before purchasing and installing a solar system.
How does a solar inverter function?
The entire functioning of the solar inverters can be summarized as the conversion of DC electrical energy to AC electricity. In direct current or DC electrical energy, the flow of energy is unidirectional, which means that the current moves in a single direction. However, in alternating currents, the movement of the electricity changes its direction very frequently.
In a country like the United States, the electrical grid utilizes 60Hz AC indicating that the electricity changes its direction 60 times every second. The solar panels use photovoltaics to produce DC electricity, and the solar inverter converts this DC electricity to AC so that your household appliances can use the energy and function properly.
Different types of solar inverters and their costs
Although the type of solar inverter you will use depends on the type of system you want to install, its size or volume, your budget, along with your personal preferences. Since these systems require a long-term investment, you should consider using the best solar inverters regardless of the solar inverter costs.
To help you out in the selection process, we have discussed the different types of solar inverters and their costs below.
| Type of inverter | Average lifespan | Maximum number of supporting panels | Total cost |
| Hybrid inverters | 25 years or more | 20 panels | $1000 to $3000 |
| String inverters | 10 to 15 years | 10 panels | $1000 to $2000 |
| Micro inverters | Up to 25 years | 1 panel | $1000 or more |
Hybrid inverters
Most domestic or residential solar systems use hybrid systems. In this type of system, there is a voltage converter as well as a string inverter attached to the system. String inverters convert DC power from your panels to AC, while converters keep the battery charged by feeding it DC electricity. The cost of a hybrid inverter can remain between $1000 to $3000.
String inverters
Since string inverters are the most cost-efficient solar inverter with an average lifespan of 10 to 15 years, they are the most popular type of solar inverter. Although the functionalities of this type of solar panel cannot be compared with others, it is definitely a reliable one. You can easily install 5 to 10 solar panels with the string inverters, and they are easily replaceable because they are cheap.
The performance of string inverters is dependent on the performance of the solar panels. Therefore, if your solar panels are full of dust, debris, etc., then you are able to receive the maximum performance from your inverter. The price of string inverters ranges between $1000 to $2000.
Micro inverters
In terms of efficiency, microinverters are the ideal option for a solar system, and for the same reason, they are an equally expensive option for anyone who wants to opt for the same. Although it can conveniently transform DC electricity into AC electricity, every individual solar panel will require its own micro inverter to offer you the best energy efficiency. This way, if a solar panel does not function properly, it will not negatively affect the power output of the entire system.
Using micro inverters can be a great option if the number of solar panels you are using is less than 20. After that, the cost of installation can become exponentially high.
The best part about installing a solar inverter with your solar system is that they don’t require much maintenance. They generally come with a monitoring system that helps you keep an eye on the entire system.
A lot of companies also keep track of the performance of their inverters, and they will get in touch with you if they come across any abnormalities with your system. In these circumstances, these companies can remotely access the system and fix it without even visiting your residence.
Final words
Solar inverters are one of the major components of a solar system, and they can offer you multiple benefits depending on the type of solar system you have installed. Therefore, while you are concerned about the solar inverter cost, you need to consider the qualitative aspect of the inverter because it will ultimately determine the benefits you will receive from your solar system.
Frequently asked questions
How many solar panels are required for 3kW?
Normally, the solar panel ratings remain between 330 watts and 400 watts; therefore, if you want to install a 3kW solar system, then you will have to use at least 7 to 10 solar panels to generate enough power to support the system.
Can I run a 1.5-ton AC on solar?
Yes, it is entirely possible to run a 1.5-ton AC while relying on solar energy, and you also won’t require batteries to run the same. However, you also need to keep in mind the overall energy production capacity of the solar panels because running a 1.5-ton can consume around 1.6 kW of electricity.
Is 1 kW enough to run a house?
Yes, if you have a 2 to 3-BHK house with limited appliances, then your 1kW solar system will be enough to support the energy requirement of your home. Within this system, you will be easily able to utilize one TV, a single refrigerator, a laptop, three fans, and four to five lights every single day. All of the above-mentioned appliances will need around 800 watts of electricity.
How many ACs can run in 5kW?
If you have a medium-sized, 2 to 3 BHK house, then you can easily run 2 to 3 ACs with the help of a 5kW solar system. A 5kW solar system is considered a medium-capacity system with the ability to produce around 20kWh (units) of electricity.
How many solar panels can run AC?
If you are using a 1.5-ton AC, then it generally requires 3000 watts of electricity to function properly. If you are using solar panels of 540 watts, then a total of 6 solar panels would be enough to effectively support your AC.
In this article, we have discussed what are the different types of solar panels available and their average costs. Moreover, we have discussed what kind of system would be suitable and efficient for solar panel inverters. The FAQ’s have been taken from the ‘People also ask’ section of Google.
