String Inverter Solar Vs. Microinverters vs. Optimizers

The average solar panel can produce around 300 watts of electricity per hour. Such energy can significantly reduce your energy bill. However, the DC electricity it produces isn't safe to use with your appliances if you're connected to the electrical grid. That's where inverters, like solar string inverters, come into play.

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The inverter is a critical part of a grid-tie solar system. It converts the direct current (DC) power produced by your solar panels into alternating current (AC) that can power your building and earn net metering credits.

There are several types of solar inverters capable of converting DC to AC. Choosing the best one for your needs involves weighing the pros and cons of the traditional string inverter vs. microinverters vs. optimizers.

How String Inverter Solar Systems Work

A solar string inverter system is the most common type of inverter. It achieves DC to AC conversion by wiring multiple panels in series and connecting them to a centralized inverter. Depending on the unit's specifications, solar string inverters can manage a solar array with up to 24 panels.

Some string inverter systems also include an optional battery storage component that can be used as a backup power source during grid outages. String inverter configurations are typically considered mono-inverters or multi-inverters, depending on whether you have one or multiple units per system.

String inverters have some drawbacks that aren't as common in newer systems. Because panels operate as a unit, they can only produce energy at the lowest operating unit. If shade or debris blocks sunlight to one panel, the whole system suffers. String inverters aren't recommended for installations where panels will consistently get different light levels.

They also don't provide panel-level monitoring, and it's challenging to make additions to your array without purchasing a new inverter. That's why more people are considering the benefits of microinverters vs. power optimizers for their installations.

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What Are Microinverters?

Solar installations with a microinverter system use a single inverter for each individual panel. With microinverters, the conversion to AC electricity is done at every panel, so the efficiency of one won’t affect any others.

With microinverters, you can easily add more panels in the future without adding an additional device for stringing them together. Over its lifetime, a microinverter system can harvest 5-20% more energy than a string system, allowing for a faster return on investment.

What Are Power Optimizers?

Power optimizers, like microinverters, are connected to each panel. They help string inverters improve solar panel performance to optimize solar production. By converting DC power to AC electricity before it reaches the central unit, they essentially create their own microinverter system.

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So how do you decide between a microinverter vs. an optimizer? There are key differences you should know before deciding whether a string inverter with an optimizer or microinverters is the right choice for you.

Power Optimizer Vs. Microinverter

For an end-user, there’s no difference in the experience offered by microinverters and power optimizers. Both provide individual panel-level efficiency readings. Panel-level monitoring lets you know when it’s time for maintenance so you can get the best energy savings from your system.

When considering the longevity between microinverters and DC optimizers, microinverters often win out. Some manufacturers produce solar panels with built-in microinverters to save time and money on installation, and these panels offer a much longer warranty, up to 25 years.

When comparing microinverters and optimizers, price can be a major factor. Power optimizers are generally cheaper, relying on the tried-and-true technology of string inverters. They can also directly power a backup battery, allowing you to power your appliances during an outage.

When it comes to power efficiency, the better choice between microinverter and power optimizer will depend on the setup. While power optimizers are more efficient than string inverters, they still fall slightly short of microinverters. The exception is when you’re regularly using a backup battery system to supplement your solar power.

String Inverter Vs. Microinverter Vs. Optimizer: Which Is Right for You?

Here’s a quick breakdown to help you compare string inverters, optimizers, and microinverters:

• String Inverters: Traditional solar inverters are the most cost-effective option when you have consistent sun exposure. However, you'll need to consider future power needs before you invest, as they offer the best efficiency for large-scale installations.
• Microinverters: Each panel works independently, so you can install them in any orientation without worrying about efficiency. They can be more expensive but offer greater efficiency more of the time. They also let you easily increase the size of your system later.
• Power Optimizers: These systems combine many benefits of string inverters and microinverters, making them an excellent choice for solar power systems with battery backups. The only drawback is the shorter warranty and slightly lower efficacy compared to microinverters.

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Confused between string inverters, microinverters, and optimizers? Ensure you work with an experienced team for your solar power system. At Airis Energy, we’ll explain which systems are best suited for your premises and how to choose between a DC optimizer and a microinverter system.

We plan, install, monitor, and maintain residential and commercial solar systems. This means you can reduce your carbon footprint and energy bills while we take care of everything else.

Find out how much you could be saving right now by booking a free on-site energy audit.

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