How to determine the installation of solar inverters. For some beginners or hobbyists, this can be quite difficult. The principle of an inverter is to convert the direct current (DC) of a solar panel into alternating current (AC) that can be used by electrical appliances. In this tutorial, we will guide you through the entire process of installing a solar inverter and provide practical advice along the way.
Types of solar inverters
It is very important to choose the correct type of inverter that is suitable for your system before setting up a solar inverter. There are three main types of inverters:
Series inverter: Series inverters are the most common inverters used in residential and commercial solar installations. A string inverter connects a series (or “string”) of sun panels and transforms the combined output of all panels at the same time. This type of inverter is generally less expensive and is highly suitable for units where all solar panels receive equal sunlight exposure. But if a solar panel is not performing well due to shading, its performance may affect the entire string’s performance.
Micro inverter: Micro inverters are mounted individually on each solar panel and are therefore an ideal choice if some of the panels may be shaded or oriented differently. Since each solar panel is independent, the shaded panels will not affect other panels’ output. This setup can maximize the overall efficiency of the system in complicated environments.
Centralized inverter: low cost, high power quality, comprehensive protection function, supports low voltage ride through and grid regulation
Distributed inverter: 2% -5% higher power generation than centralized, better cost than string type, supports complex lighting conditions
How to choose a suitable inverter
For customers or users who have already understood the types of solar inverters, I will now talk about their practical applications in daily life
- For typical residential facilities with continuous sunlight exposure, string inverters are usually sufficient and cost-effective.
- If your installation involves shading or facing panels in different directions, micro inverters can provide better efficiency and performance
- Centralized inverters are suitable for large ground power stations, where multiple photovoltaic arrays converge and are converted into AC power by a single inverter, typically ranging from 500kW to megawatts.
- Distributed inverters combine the advantages of centralized and string type, with multiple MPPT optimizers in front and centralized inverters after convergence. Suitable for application in medium to large mountain power stations
Power selection
- Small inverter: power<1kW, suitable for home or portable devices
- Medium sized inverter: 1-5kW, used for small and medium-sized industrial and commercial systems
- Large inverters: 5kW, used for centralized power stations or industrial scenarios
Select the installation location of the inverter
The correct installation location of solar inverters is necessary for performance and safety. If not installed in the correct position, the inverter may overheat, thereby reducing efficiency and causing damage in the long run. Therefore, it is extremely necessary to place the inverter in an open space without direct sunlight, less dust, and no moisture.
- Avoid direct sunlight
Direct sunlight will make the internal temperature of the inverter very high. It is recommended to choose a shaded location or add a sunshade. For example, in wall mounting, it should be mounted in a north direction, and in roof mounting, it should be installed below the shadow of the components. If the inverter is used outside, it needs to be fitted into a weatherproof housing so that it does not get wet, exposed to moisture, or extreme temperature conditions. Using an outdoor casing for the inverter is recommended. - Ventilation and heat dissipation
The inverter needs to be installed in a vented location, and forced air cooling units need to leave room for heat dissipation. Especially if the inverter is wall-mounted. Don’t install in cramped locations and provide space around to maximize airflow. Installing the inverter in a vented location will ensure it doesn’t overheat. - temperature and humidity control
Environmental temperature range: -25 °C~50 °C (extreme temperature effects component life), humidity ≤ 95%, no condensation.
By being careful to select the location of the inverter, you can ensure its effective operation and longer lifespan, hence minimizing the likelihood of overheating and damage.
Connect the charging controller to the battery
The charging controller is among the most critical elements in solar power systems since it can regulate the current from the solar panel to the battery. Its main function is to avoid overcharging the battery, as this may result in overheating, damage, or even dangerous conditions. The process of connecting the charging controller to the battery is as follows:
Preparation before connection
- Power off operation: Ensure that all devices are in a power-off state and disconnect the solar panel from the controller and battery
- Check equipment: Confirm that the battery and controller voltage match, check that the wiring harness is not damaged, and that the plug is dry and clean
- Tool preparation: equipped with insulated gloves, multimeter, crimping tools, and copper core cables of appropriate specifications
Distribution steps of wiring
- Connect the battery to the controller
Positive pole wiring: Connect the positive pole (+) of the battery to the “BAT+” or “+” terminal of the controller through a cable
Negative wiring: Connect the negative terminal (-) of the battery to the “BAT -” or “-” terminal of the controller - Install fuses/circuit breakers
Connect a fuse in series in the positive pole circuit of the battery, with a rated current of 1.5 times the maximum current of the battery. If supported by the controller, an air circuit breaker can be installed as the main switch for maintenance and emergency power-off
Connect the battery to the inverter
Connect the positive and negative pole wires
Inverter grounding
Cable diameter
How to test a solar inverter system
After connecting all components of the solar energy system, it is crucial to thoroughly test the system to ensure that everything is functioning properly. Testing before placing the system at full load can help you detect any potential issues early and prevent component damage.
Check battery voltage
Before opening the system, please use a multimeter to check the battery voltage. This ensures that the battery is charged and that the voltage is at the expected level. Voltage that is too low can indicate poor battery charging, which leads to issues in operation.
Check the manufacturer’s specifications to know what the correct voltage range should be. For example, for a 12V system, the battery voltage should typically be between 12.4V and 12.7V when fully charged.
Switch on the inverter
After verifying that the battery is fully charged, switch on the inverter. Observe the inverter’s display screen (if any) to make sure it accepts the proper DC voltage from the battery and transforms electrical energy into AC power properly.
Most inverters have indicator lights or display screens to show whether the system is operating well. If the inverter has warning lights or errors, please consult the troubleshooting section of the inverter manual for faults diagnosis.
Test the load
To complete the test, put a small appliance or device (such as a light bulb, fan, or phone charger) into the inverter to verify whether it supplies stable AC power. Observe electrical devices to ensure their unbroken smooth working without any pause or oscillation.
This step verifies that the inverter safely converts the DC power of the battery into AC power for domestic or commercial usage.
The future development trend of solar inverters
As the solar energy sector continues to grow, so does inverter technology. From intelligent inverters to integration with energy storage systems, the future of solar inverters is looking bright with possibilities and innovation.
Smart inverter
Smart inverters can be incorporated easily into smart home systems to enable remote monitoring and control. Smart inverters enable users to understand the working status and power output of inverters anytime and anywhere using smart devices, and realize a smarter energy management experience.
Inverter and energy storage system integration
In the future, it will be a trend to integrate solar inverters and energy storage systems. If solar inverters are integrated with energy storage systems, users not only can use the solar power during daytime, but also use electricity stored at night or during cloudy weather, thereby improving the efficiency of energy.
Conclusion
The installation of solar energy systems and inverter configuration is a serious process that requires careful planning and precise implementation. From selecting the appropriate inverter for your setup to ensuring the connection and grounding of all devices, following the correct sequence of operations will improve system efficiency and maximize lifespan.
Do you need assistance with solar installation or help finding a suitable inverter for your project? Call ONESTO immediately and let us power your business with clean and reliable energy solutions!
FAQ
How long does a solar inverter last?
Inverters are generally able to last for 10-15 years depending on the brand and operating environment of the inverter.
How to choose the rated power of the inverter?
Select the proper power depending on the capacity and load requirement of the solar system so that the inverter is able to perform the solar panel’s maximum power output.
What is the cost of installing a solar inverter?
The installation cost of the inverters depends on equipment type, system size, and geographical variations. In general, the installation cost of micro inverters is higher, while that of the standard inverters is comparatively lesser.
Read the following article for more information:
What You Need to Know About Three-Phase Solar Inverters
Choosing Between Single-Phase and Three-Phase Solar Inverters
How three-phase solar inverters work in conjunction with batteries
