A solar inverter changes DC voltage from batteries or solar panels into standard AC voltage. Without an inverter on your photovoltaic system, you will only have access to direct current voltage. There are three basic types of inverters. They are synchronous inverter, multi-function inverters and stand-alone inverters.

Synchronous Inverters are used with grid-tie photovoltaic systems. Just as any other inverter, this inverter converts direct current to alternating current. The synchrony of this inverter works to ensure your electrical needs and your excess electricity is correctly monitored and put to use. When the sun is shining the electricity you use comes from your solar panels. If your PV system is making more electricity than you are using the excess is sold to your local utility company via a second meter. If your electrical use is more than your PV system is producing, the utility makes up the difference. This type of solar inverter makes sense if you have utility power. There are no batteries to maintain or replace. The payback period is long on a synchronous inverter, so the cost effectiveness tat current electric rates may be questionable.

Just as the name implies a multi-function inverter provides a synchronous function as well as a stand-alone function that can both be operable at the same time. This allows the use of batteries as well a grid ties to the utility company. If the batteries are in a charged condition AC power is supplied by the batteries. If the batteries are discharged, electrical current is supplied by the utility. If the batteries become full charged, excess supply may be sold back to the utility

Stand-alone inverters convert DC power stored in batteries to AC power. Selecting a solar inverter for you power system should be based upon the maximum load you’ll power, the maximum surge you’ll need, and the input and output voltage you will require;

There is no “best” inverter for all purposes. The best way to decide on the best inverter for your purposes is to work backwards. First, consider what you use the inverter will serve. Next, find one that fits those requirements. Some Inverters have built in chargers, which maybe needed in some systems.

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