Besides the solar panels and the sun, the solar inverter is arguably the most important part of your solar array. To understand this, we’ll explain the basic principles that allow you to gather solar energy to power your home. Then, we’ll explain the factors you must consider determining the right size power inverter, whether it’s a Fronius grid tie solar inverter or another trusted solar brand.

Fronius Solar Inverter

Solar Energy Explained

Human skin creates vitamin D from cholesterol using the energy from the sun’s ultraviolet rays. Similarly, solar panels convert sunlight into energy. Light particles called photons jostle electrons free from atoms, which creates electricity.

Here’s where the solar inverter comes in. Solar cells in your panels generate direct current (DC) electricity, which the inverter transforms into alternating current (AC) electricity. This is what allows you to use solar energy to power your home or deliver energy to the grid.

To determine inverter size, you need to know such as how much DC electricity your solar array will produce. This is dependent on several important factors including the size of your solar power setup, where you live, and other details related to your specific location.

Sunny Boy Solar Inverter

Solar Inverter Size Factors

Geography

Solar inverter is measured in watts. Generally, your inverter’s size should mirror your array’s DC rating. A 6-kilowatt system needs an inverter that’s around 6000 watts, give or take. But the same 6-kilowatt system will produce much more power in the southwest than in New England.

Temperate, sunny areas need inverter sizes more closely matched to the array’s wattage so the system can handle maximum energy output any time. In areas of low solar radiation or diminished panel efficiency, you won’t get the maximum output and you should choose an undersized inverter.

Location

The design, installation site, and placement of your solar array all play a part. Even elements like shade can affect your solar system, your energy output and ultimately, your power inverter.

Ratings and Ratios

You also must know how much AC electricity your prospective inverter can output: its power rating. The ratio of your array’s DC capacity to the inverter’s AC power rating is called the DC-to-AC ratio. Some people enlarge their solar array the ratio is greater than one, and they can gather more solar energy when production falls below the power rating.

There are ways to calculate your solar inverter size. There are many methods for gleaning peak performance from your array. But balancing the relationship between array and inverter, making complicated calculations, and dealing with panel placement concerns, orientation considerations, and array modification details can cause a headache for the homeowner.

Fortunately, solar experts can help you determine Fronius grid tie inverter size and make sure your array and inverter are appropriately paired, so you can enjoy optimal energy production and stay within warranty. They’ll also ensure ideal panel placement and tilt for your geographical and specific site locations.

If you’re looking for Fronius grid tie inverters and other Fronius solar products, look no further than The PowerStore.com. They have nearly a decade of experience as distributors of premium solar power solutions from a variety of industries, offering everything you need as well as planning and design services for grid-tie, off-grid, and hybrid solar installations. On their website, you can find everything you need for your solar power system, whether it’s a Fronius solar inverter or working out the logistics of your new array.