If you’ve read any of Uprise’s other blog posts, you may have seen us mention microinverters, aka micros, once or twice or three times! So why do we love microinverters so much? Let’s explore the ins and out of micros and why Uprise prefers them to string inverters.
What Are Microinverters?
First of all, what are microinverters? These devices attach to each solar panel on your roof, and convert the direct current electricity generated by your panels to the alternating current electricity used by appliances and tools in your home. The power from your panels wouldn’t be usable without micros.
When our team installs your solar array, we build a framework with what are called rails to keep the panels secure on your roof. We then bolt microinverters to the rails. Check it out in the picture from one of our recent installations below! That silver and black device is the microinverter.
But converting electricity from one type to another isn’t all microinverters accomplish. Enphase, a company that manufactures microinverters, describes them as the “brains behind the panel.” Micros track the performance of the panel they’re connected to, allowing you to see how your panels are doing in your app. We also use the micros to monitor your solar array and make sure everything’s working as it should.
Another way to think about micros? If your solar system was a car, the panels would be the wheels and the microinverters would be the engine.
What Are String Inverters?
String inverters are another method of converting the direct current electricity generated by solar panels into alternating current electricity. With a string inverter system, all the panels are wired together in what’s called a string, and connect to a single inverter, which installers may place on the side of your house, or near a meter or your main service panel. This single inverter converts the electricity from the solar panels.
Why Are Microinverters Better Than String Inverters?
So why do we prefer microinverters over string inverters? There are several reasons. A single inverter means a single point of failure. But if one microinverter fails, it doesn’t cause the rest of the system to go down.
Safety is another element where micros have an edge. They come with built-in rapid shutdown capabilities, improving safety for electrical workers and first responders if there’s ever an emergency. Plus, string inverters typically have warranties of 10 to 12 years, whereas micros have warranties of 25 years.
Another benefit of micros? If your solar project will be complex, like if you have a roof with multiple sides (usually a pitched roof, not a flat one), micros are definitely the way to go. String inverters can handle simple installs, but microinverters offer way more flexibility for trickier projects. For example, Humans of Uprise customer Mark had one such solar project, with 28 panels spread across his garage and three sides of his roof, and he was impressed with the work our team performed. Micros made his project possible! Check out part of Mark’s array in the picture below.
Put this way: there are some installations where it would be difficult to use a string inverter, but micros will work for just about any residential install. And if you ever wanted to expand your solar array, it’s possible to do with micros.
From a solar design standpoint, string inverters are trickier as well. Since all the solar panels are wired together, solar designers have to be careful about how many they connect so the inverter isn’t damaged by too much power coursing through it. Solar designs with string inverters require calculations considering the coldest expected temperature the solar array will face (since solar panels generate the most power on cold, sunny days), as well as panel voltage and how much voltage the inverter can handle.
And, as mentioned above, since each micro attaches to its own panel, troubleshooting becomes easier, since they allow us to identify which panel has an issue.
At Uprise, we consider string inverters to be technology of the past. They’re part of solar power history. We think microinverters are the best choice for a modern solar installation, and use micros on all our installs.
Do Microinverters Have Any Disadvantages?
We may sing their praises, but micros aren’t perfect, of course. Cost is one disadvantage; microinverters do tend to be more expensive than string inverters. One could also argue that maintenance can be easier with a string inverter since it sits on the side of a house. No ladder required! Whereas if a micro fails, the construction crew has to get up on a roof to swap it out. If you have a three-story rowhome and no roof access through an attic, for example, that means a crew has to set up a tall ladder to get up there and make the switch.
Even with these potential downsides, we think the benefits of microinverters outweigh any costs.
Ready To Go Solar?
If you’ve been considering solar, now’s the time so you can take advantage of the federal solar tax credit. If you have a complex roof or think your install may be tricky, we’re happy to take a look! We have experience with installations in historic districts as well. Reach out to our team for a conversation or call us at (202) 750-5718.