Sizing rule
Match continuous output to peak panel array DC × 0.8. Oversize the array 110–130% of inverter rating to maximise yield (clipping a few sunny midday hours costs less than oversizing the inverter).
String, micro, hybrid, and off-grid inverters. Convert DC to AC for panels and battery systems.




















An inverter converts DC from panels or batteries into AC for your home or grid. The four classes are string (one inverter for many panels in series), microinverter (one per panel), hybrid (with battery port) and off-grid (with no grid connection at all).
For most new residential installs in 2026 the choice is between a hybrid string inverter (best efficiency, lower cost) and microinverters (better partial shading and per-panel monitoring). Pure string inverters without battery ports are being phased out as homeowners default to battery-ready installs.
Match continuous output to peak panel array DC × 0.8. Oversize the array 110–130% of inverter rating to maximise yield (clipping a few sunny midday hours costs less than oversizing the inverter).
Independent MPPTs let you mix string lengths or orientations without yield loss. Two MPPTs is the minimum for any roof with multiple facets.
Modified-sine inverters (cheap RVs, generators) damage motors, fridges, and modern electronics. For home use, only buy pure sine wave.
Peak efficiency (97%+) only happens at 30–60% load. CEC-weighted efficiency is a better real-world number — look for 96%+ for premium, 94%+ for budget.
If you might add a battery in the next 5 years, buy a hybrid now. Retrofitting a battery to a non-hybrid system requires a second inverter and is rarely cost-effective.
Must match your country: UL 1741-SA / IEEE 1547 (US), VDE 4105 / VDE 4110 (Germany/EU), AS/NZS 4777.2 (Australia), G98/G99 (UK). Uncertified inverters cannot be grid-tied legally.
Microinverters cost 20–40% more but eliminate string-level shade losses and give per-panel monitoring. Worth it if any part of your roof gets partial shade or if your roof has 3+ orientations. String inverters are the better deal for clean, single-orientation roofs.
Sum your simultaneous AC loads in watts. For a typical home running fridge + AC + electronics simultaneously, 5–8 kW is standard. For off-grid living with electric water heating, 10–15 kW. Always match continuous output, not surge.
String inverters typically need replacement at 10–15 years; microinverters at 20–25 years (matching panel lifetime). Capacitor electrolyte degradation is the main wear-out mechanism. Budget for one replacement over a 25-year system life.
Battery-side wiring is DIY-permissible in most jurisdictions. Grid-tied AC connection requires a licensed electrician and utility approval almost everywhere. The hybrid inverter itself can be wall-mounted by a competent DIYer.
Peak efficiency happens at one specific load point (usually 30–60% of rated power). At low load (<10%), self-consumption dominates. At full load, switching losses rise. Real-world weighted efficiency is what counts — look at CEC or EU efficiency, not peak.