An inverter is a device used to stabilize and convert direct current (DC) to alternating current (AC). Additionally the circuit of an inverter consists of a battery and hence is also an additional power source. Nowadays inverters are found in every house. Because of the constant demand of electricity, every company or factory or industry use inverters. These inverters, for obvious reasons, have high battery power. Due to the constant use of depleting fuel, new and improved inverters have been made. Such power inverters use various other renewable sources as their energy source, having various mechanical parts for conversion of energy. A solar inverter is one such inverter which converts solar energy to electricity and stores it for future use.

Why is it needed to convert DC to AC?

Direct current is the flow of electricity where electrons flow from the negative pole of a battery to the positive pole of the battery. This is a simple way of producing electricity in a generator but most electronic appliances used in the modern world run on high voltage alternating current. Therefore DC is converted to AC so that it can be stepped up to a much higher voltage and transferred over long distances. This is what everyone receives in their homes. Therefore in areas, for example, villages or developing rural areas far from a proper power source, it is mandatory that one own an inverter to convert DC to AC. Also in case of power blackouts, simple generators are used to power one’s home or offices. Since every electronic appliance runs on alternating current, it becomes necessary to use an inverter to convert DC to AC.

Why is it needed to use solar powered inverters?

An inverter consists of a circuitry which may be comprised of mechanical parts or it may be completely electrical. Most of these inverters convert electricity which originated from simple generators run on fuel. But fuel like gas or diesel, being non-renewable, exists finitely on the earth. Moreover it grows expensive every day and also causes various forms of pollution. Also in areas, especially in the mountains it is extremely difficult and expensive to provide electricity through conventional means. In these situations solar panels are used to convert solar energy to electricity. This electricity being DC needs to be converted to AC. Therefore a solar power inverter is used.

Various solar inverters and how to choose one:

A solar inverter need not just be a singular device. For various situations specific devices are used. There are mainly three types of solar inverters. Firstly, there are stand-alone inverters. In case of isolated systems, these are used. Stand-alone inverters consist of a backup battery for the AC source also. Secondly, there are grid-tie inverters whose sole purpose is to convert from DC to AC. They shut down automatically when there is no power source. Thirdly, there are battery backup inverters. As the name suggests they mainly work as a battery. There are also other types like the hybrid solar inverter. Also inverters can be classified according to the output voltage and the output frequency. Mostly the frequency of the alternating current supplied to one’s home is around 50-60 Hz. So a person must choose an inverter considering what he needs. It is important to calculate and analyze their appliances, circuit, the required voltage and frequency and their budget. Considering all of these and consulting an expert electrician is the best way to choose a solar inverter or any inverter in general.