When it comes to solar and other renewable energy systems, one of the most essential components is the inverter. Inverters are responsible for converting direct current from solar panels into alternating current that standard household appliances use. An inverter also works in reverse to supply power back to the grid when surplus energy is produced. There are many types of inverters, and each has its own pros and cons. In this post I will explain the two primary types of inverter, how they work as well as their pros and cons over each another.
DC to AC Inverters
Direct Current to Alternating Current inverters are the most common types of inverters used in residential solar installations. They take unprocessed DC power from the solar panels and convert it into AC power so that household appliances that requires direct current can conveniently use it. This type of inverter can be used for off grid solar installations and grid tied solar energy systems. DC to AC inverters have internal safety features that help prevent damage from lightning strikes and other power surges. These inverters are energy efficient and easy to install, making them a good choice for a residential solar system. The most common drawbacks of DC to AC inverters are high installation costs and low efficiency compared to other types of inverters.
AC to DC Inverters
AC to DC inverters take AC power from the grid or another source and generate DC power. They are particularly useful for powering sensitive equipment or appliances connected to computers that require direct current to operate properly. An AC to DC inverter may also be used for an off grid solar system if the system has a battery that can store the energy collected from the solar panels. AC to DC inverters are more expensive than DC to AC inverters, but they are more energy efficient and produce less noise.
Off Grid Inverters
Off grid solar power systems are designed to operate without access to the grid. Off grid inverters usually produce a higher voltage of power than grid tied inverters, which helps to offset the increase in power losses caused by long DC wiring runs. In addition to long wiring runs, DC also loses energy through resistance. Most off grid inverters produces direct current, but there are some AC to DC off grid inverters that can be used in renewable energy systems with battery backup.
Pros And Cons Of DC to AC Inverters
Pros
- DC to AC inverters are more affordable than AC to DC inverters.
- High quality DC to AC inverters can increase the lifespan of solar systems.
Cons
- DC to AC inverters are less efficient than AC to DC inverters.
- Larger and heavier than AC to DC inverters.
- May be harder to find someone to repair a damaged DC to AC inverter.
Pros And Cons of AC to DC Inverters
Pros
- AC to DC inverters are more efficient than DC to AC inverters.
- Smaller and lighter than DC to AC inverters.
- It is easier to find someone to repair a damaged AC to DC inverter.
Cons
- AC to DC inverters cost more than DC to AC inverters.
- Different types of AC to DC inverters have different voltage and current ratings, so you must make sure to use an inverter that can handle the equipment you plan to connect to it.
Which Type Of Solar Inverter Should You Choose?
If you have a solar energy system that is connected to the grid, then you should consider going with an DC to AC inverter. This way, you will not have to worry about overloading the grid if you need to tap into it in an emergency situation. If you have an off grid solar energy system, then you should go with a AC to DC inverter. This will ensure that the inverter is not damaging the grid if you accidentally tap into it. If you want to go off grid with a solar energy system that has its own battery backup, then you can go with either an AC to DC inverter or a DC to AC inverter.
Conclusion
Inverters are essential to any solar energy system. It is important to choose the right type of inverter for your system so that it will last for a longer period. There are different types of inverters to choose from, and each has its own pros and cons. An AC to DC inverter is better for off grid systems than DC to AC inverters because it produces less voltage and uses less energy. A DC to AC inverter is better for a solar energy system that is connected to the grid because it produces less current and uses less energy than AC to DC inverters.
