Hello there, solar enthusiasts! Today, I’m excited to dig into a topic that I know garners quite a bit of interest from homeowners considering solar panels for their home – the essential aspect of our solar array for home, the solar inverter. Solar panels often come to mind when individuals think about transitioning to solar energy, but the inverter plays an equally critical role!
Simply put, your solar inverter is the marvellous gadget that converts the DC power, created by your solar panels, into AC power. This AC power is what your home uses to energize your appliances and gadgets. But not all inverters are the same, and there’s more to consider than just the solar company you choose.
There are two core types of inverters used in residential applications: string inverters and microinverters. For rooftops with sub-optimal positioning or shading problems, most solar companies usually install microinverters or string inverters equipped with DC optimizers. But if your rooftop has an optimal orientation towards the sun with minimal shading issues, string inverters can work very well.
While deciding on the type of inverter, keep the cost factor in mind. Inverters account for around 10-20% of the total installation cost, making them a key consideration in your solar budget.
Here comes the question on top of most minds – how long will the solar inverters last? As a solar expert, I can tell you that while the productive lifespan of solar panels can eclipse 25 to 30 years, inverters typically have a shorter life. A central residential string inverter will generally serve you for about 10-15 years, whereas microinverters have been seen to last for 25 years, almost as long as the solar panels themselves.
However, let’s remember that microinverters are still a nascent technology, a baby in the world of solar, to be exact, considering that they’ve been around only for the past decade or so. It remains to be seen whether they will live up to their 20+ year promise.
Warranty coverage also matters! String inverters generally come with standard warranties ranging from 5-10 years, with an option to extend to 20 years. Microinverters typically hold a standard 20 to 25-year warranty. Choosing a solar company that offers a significant warranty period would be a wise decision, just to be on the safe side.
Where failures are concerned, a prevalent finding has been that around 80% of solar array failures happen at the inverter level. Causes could range from grid faults, issues with power optimizers, or improper installation. Therefore, it’s vital that you choose experienced and competent solar companies for your solar panel installation to limit these risks.
Lastly, proper maintenance is key for an efficient and durable inverter. Consider installing your device in a dry, cool place with ample fresh air circulation. Avoid exposure to direct sunlight, and ensure each inverter in multi-inverter installations has proper clearance to avoid heat transfer.
Regular checks are highly recommended – a physical inspection of the inverter quarterly and a professional inspection every five years. Some solar contracts provide free maintenance, which would be a plus!
That’s it for now! I hope this has been helpful. If you’re considering a solar array for your home, remember, the devil is indeed in the detail. Choose the right inverter, select reliable solar companies for installation, and maintain the system properly. Stay tuned for more enlightening blog posts on the world of solar panels for your home. Until next time, shine on!
Original Articlehttps://pv-magazine-usa.com/2024/07/24/how-long-do-residential-solar-inverters-last-4/
