Inverter

Inverters convert power from DC (Direct Current) to AC (Alternating Current). DC comes from power generators such as solar, wind, and hydro. The electrical grid and most electronics use AC power. This means power generating systems must convert the generated DC power to AC before it is usable.

Several different kinds of inverters exist. System inverters receive all DC power from an entire solar array, and string inverters receive all DC power from a set of connected solar panels. Both are ideal for monitoring and controlling an entire energy system and require little maintenance as a single inverter manages multiple solar panels.

Microinverters are small and connect to individual solar panels to convert DC to AC as power leaves the panel. Some microinverters, such as the Aptos MAC-400 (1:1 Trunk Version) Microinverter, also monitor and optimize solar production at the module level. All module information is sent to an app or other monitoring device, giving the consumer complete control over the solar system.

Since system and string inverters monitor a set of solar panels, the lowest producing panel defines power production for the entire system. This means a single shaded or damaged panel reduces the power production of the entire system. Since microinverters are installed at the module level, they optimize solar production for each individual panel.

This means that while system and string inverters are often cheaper and require less maintenance, microinverters increase power production across the entire system.

As the alternative energy field has developed, inverters have also developed. Products such as Victron’s low frequency MultiPlus II 3kVA not only convert from DC to AC, but also manage power surges and adjust incoming and outgoing power to match power needs.

Alternative energy systems generally use low frequency inverters as they last longer and are able to handle high surges produced by motors, pumps, or similar items. Current Connected sells many of these, and they are great inverters for RVs, off-grid systems, grid-tied systems, hybrid systems, and more.

Check out our inverters below, and feel free to contact us with any questions. We can’t wait to help you with your energy needs.