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How to Choose Between String Inverters and Microinverters?
If you're considering going solar to power your home, you're in luck—there are plenty of options available to convert sunlight into usable electricity. Two popular choices are string inverters and microinverters. Choosing the right one for your needs can be confusing, but don’t worry—we’ve got you covered with everything you need to know.
**String Inverters**
A string inverter works by connecting 6–12 solar panels in a series. It's typically a standalone unit installed near your electrical meter and main service panel. For most residential systems, only one or two inverters are needed, depending on the size of your installation.
**Also Read: A Simple Guide to Smart Inverter Technology**
**Advantages of String Inverters**
- **Minimal Wiring Issues**: With just one inverter, the wiring is simpler, reducing the chances of faults.
- **Cost-Effective**: Installation costs are generally lower compared to other types of inverters.
- **Easy Troubleshooting**: Since there’s only one unit, it’s easier to identify and fix problems when they arise.
**Drawbacks of a String Inverter**
- **Compliance Challenges**: They may have trouble shutting down quickly, which can cause issues with local electrical codes.
- **Less Efficient in Shade**: Performance drops significantly if any panel is shaded.
- **Harder to Expand**: Adding more capacity often requires another inverter, which can be expensive.
- **Shorter Warranty**: Typically 8–12 years, compared to the 25-year warranty of microinverters.
- **No Panel-Level Monitoring**: You can't track performance at the individual panel level.
**Also Read: Best Ways to Charge Inverter Battery When You Don’t Have Power**
**Microinverters**
Microinverters function similarly to string inverters but are much smaller—about the size of a router—and are installed under each solar panel on your roof. They operate in parallel, meaning the performance of one panel doesn’t affect the others.
**Advantages of a Microinverter**
- **Quick Shutdown Capability**: They can shut down rapidly to meet safety standards in many regions.
- **Panel-Level Monitoring**: You can monitor the performance of each panel individually, making it easier to spot and fix issues early.
- **Better Performance in Shade**: Each panel has its own inverter, so shading on one panel doesn’t impact the rest.
**Also Read: How Shade Affects Solar Panel Efficiency?**
**Drawbacks of a Microinverter**
- **Harder to Maintain**: With multiple units, maintenance becomes more complex.
- **More Expensive**: Especially for standard residential setups like a 5kW system.
- **Not Ideal for Stormy Areas**: They can sometimes act as mini lightning rods in extreme weather.
**Microinverters vs. String Inverters: Which is Better?**
String inverters are often the better choice due to their simplicity and reliability. As the most complex component of a solar system, having fewer units reduces the chance of failure. Managing 20 microinverters and checking each one regularly can be quite cumbersome. Plus, panel-level monitoring usually comes at an extra cost. However, microinverters shine in situations with heavy shading, strict shutdown requirements, or when panels face different directions.
If you’re still unsure which option is right for you, feel free to reach out to **Genus**. We offer a wide range of solar inverters and would be happy to help you choose the best one for your home.