What is a Solar Inverter? Ensuring Safety and Reliability for Your Family

You’ve no doubt noticed your energy bills creeping up recently because of rising wholesale electricity prices. 

But you can take control of your energy bills thanks to the wonder of solar. By using the sun’s energy to power your home, you can cut electricity costs and help the planet at the same time! 

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You know about solar panels, but have you heard of a solar inverter? This less-talked-about but equally vital piece of technology is the heart of every solar system, turning sunshine into usable electricity and keeping the system running smoothly. 

At iStore, we know you need a product you can trust to provide reliable power, real savings, and protection for your family. That’s why our competitively priced solar inverters perform at the highest level with cutting-edge safety features. With an iStore solar inverter, you can enjoy the benefits of solar power without any hassle or worry.

What is a solar inverter, and how does it work? Keep reading!

What is a Solar Inverter and How Does It Work?

A solar inverter takes the energy solar panels collect from the sun and turns it into electricity you can use at home. 

1. Solar Panels Capture Sunlight. The solar panels installed on your roof or on ground-mounted frames soak up sunlight and convert it into DC electricity (direct current). But there’s a slight problem—your home appliances can’t use this electricity!
2. The Inverter Steps In. The solar inverter takes that DC electricity and converts it into AC electricity (alternating current), which is the type of power your home runs on. It does this by rapidly switching the direction of the current using electronic circuits and components like transistors and capacitors. This process mimics the natural oscillation of AC power, making it compatible with your home’s electrical system. Your solar inverter will be installed near the main switchboard of your home, either on a shaded and well-ventilated exterior wall or inside a garage to protect it from extreme weather. 
3. Electricity Flows to Your Home. Once converted, the AC electricity flows to your power outlets for lights, appliances, and anything else that needs power.
4. Extra Energy Is Redirected or Stored. If your solar panels produce more energy than your home uses, the extra electricity can either go back into the grid, which may earn you credits on your power bill (depending on your energy provider), or be stored in a solar battery (if you have one), so you can use it later when the sun isn’t shining.
5. The Inverter Monitors Solar Output. A good solar inverter should also monitor how much electricity your panels generate and how much your home consumes using built-in sensors and software. This data is usually accessible via a display screen or a mobile app.
6. The Inverter Keeps the Solar System Running Safely. If there’s a fault—like an electrical surge, overheating, or a wiring issue—the inverter has protective circuits that detect the problem and automatically shut down the system.

Types of Solar Inverters

String Inverters

A string inverter is the most common type of solar inverter used in home solar systems. It connects multiple solar panels in a series (or “string”), meaning all panels feed their electricity into a single inverter.

Since all panels connect in a single string, performance depends on the weakest panel. If one panel is shaded or dirty, it can reduce the output of the entire string. So string inverters are ideal for homes and small to medium-sized businesses with uniform conditions: consistent sun exposure and simple roof layouts. 

What makes string inverters unique?

• Centralised Conversion: Instead of each panel having its own inverter, all the panels in a string send DC electricity to one central inverter for conversion.
• Cost-Effectiveness: Since there’s only one inverter for the entire system, string inverters are generally more affordable than other inverter types.
• Simple Installation and Maintenance: With fewer components, these inverters are easier to install and maintain.

Microinverters

A microinverter is a small inverter installed on the back of each solar panel instead of having one central inverter for the whole system. Each panel operates independently, converting DC electricity to AC directly at each panel.

Microinverters are ideal for homes and businesses with shading issues, as unaffected panels can continue operating at full capacity even if trees or nearby buildings shade other panels. They also work well for complex roof designs where panels face different directions or receive partial shading at various times of the day.

What makes microinverters unique?

• Panel-Level Optimisation: They maximise energy output from each panel, so shading or panel mismatches don’t reduce power.
• Improved Monitoring: Many microinverters feature panel-level monitoring so you can track the performance of each panel to detect issues, keep the system running efficiently, and prevent energy loss.
• Longer Lifespan: These inverters typically last longer than string inverters, often matching the 25-year lifespan of solar panels.

Power Optimisers

A power optimiser is a small device installed on the back of each solar panel that optimises the DC electricity before sending it to a central string inverter for conversion into AC power. Unlike microinverters, power optimisers do not convert DC to AC at the panel level. 

Power optimisers are best for residential and commercial solar systems that use string inverters and need improved performance for panels installed in partially shaded areas or at different angles. 

What makes power optimisers unique?

• Works with a String Inverter: Unlike microinverters, power optimisers don’t replace the main inverter but enhance its performance by improving DC output before conversion.
• More Affordable: Since conversion still happens at a central inverter, power optimisers cost less than installing individual microinverters on each panel.
• Better Monitoring and Fault Detection: Individual panel monitoring and quick troubleshooting are possible, but complete data access requires a compatible inverter.

Hybrid Inverters

A hybrid solar inverter does the work of a standard string inverter with the bonus of managing battery storage. Instead of sending excess solar energy to the grid, a hybrid inverter can store that energy in a battery for later use when the sun isn’t shining, reducing reliance on the grid and providing backup power during blackouts.

Hybrid inverters are ideal in areas with unstable grid supplies and for households wanting to maximise their solar energy usage. While they cost more upfront than standard inverters, they offer greater solar power flexibility and long-term electricity savings.

What makes hybrid inverters unique?

• Built-in Battery Management: Controls both solar energy and battery storage in one system.
• Smart Energy Use: Automatically switches between solar, battery, and grid power based on demand.
• Future Scalability: You can start with a basic solar system and add a battery later, making it easy to upgrade as your energy needs change.

3-Phase Inverters

A 3-phase inverter connects to a 3-phase power supply. Unlike standard single-phase inverters, which send all solar energy through one power line, a 3-phase inverter evenly distributes electricity across three power lines.

3-phase inverters are ideal for larger homes, commercial buildings, and industrial facilities that require higher power loads due to many occupants, heavy machinery, large air conditioning systems, and other high-energy equipment.

What makes 3-phase inverters unique?

• Even Power Distribution: Provides a more balanced and efficient energy flow and reduces the risk of power drops when multiple high-energy appliances run simultaneously.
• Grid Stability: Helps maintain a more stable voltage, reducing strain on the electricity grid and minimising the risk of overvoltage issues that can occur with high solar output.

Why Safety and Reliability Are Critical in Solar Inverters

A solar inverter constantly converts energy, manages power flow, and handles high-voltage electricity. If your inverter is not well-protected and reliable, your system could experience performance issues, electrical faults, and safety risks.

Look for the following safety features in advanced, top-of-the-range inverters.

• Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter (AFCI): Detects and shuts down dangerous electrical arcs, which can cause fires due to faulty wiring, aging components, or loose connections. 
• Natural Cooling Systems: Overheating is a major cause of inverter failures. High-quality inverters use heat sinks—metal components that absorb and dissipate heat without fans or moving parts—and passive cooling, which relies on natural airflow. This design reduces operating noise and system wear. 
• Surge Protection: Shields the inverter from sudden voltage spikes caused by lightning strikes or grid fluctuations.
• Ground Fault Detection: Identifies leaks in the electrical circuit and shuts the system down to prevent electric shocks or fires.
• IP-Rated Enclosures: A weatherproof casing rated IP65 or higher protects the system from dust, rain, and extreme temperatures to extend its lifespan. 

Choosing the Right Solar Inverter for Your Solar Panel System

Picking the right solar inverter is just as important as choosing your solar panels. The inverter controls how efficiently your system runs, how long it lasts, and how well it integrates with your home’s power needs. 

Here’s what to consider.

1. Compatibility

Choose an inverter that matches your solar panel capacity to avoid energy loss.

If you plan to add battery storage, choose a hybrid inverter to handle both solar and battery power. 

If your home uses 3-phase power, choose a 3-phase inverter for even energy distribution, provided it meets local grid regulations. 

2. Performance

Consider efficiency ratings. Higher efficiency means less energy wasted during conversion.

If your roof has shading or different panel orientations, microinverters or power optimisers can prevent one shaded panel from reducing the entire system’s output.

3. Safety

Make sure that the inverter has safety features like an AFCI (Arc-Fault Circuit Interrupter), surge protection, and ground fault detection.

4. Durability

Look for an inverter with strong weather protection (IP65 or higher) if it will be installed outdoors.

Also, look for passive cooling systems (with heat sinks instead of fans), as these tend to last longer and operate quietly.

Check the warranty. A quality inverter should have at least a 5-year warranty.

5. The Advice of a Reputable Solar Company

The best way to find the right inverter for your needs is to speak with a trusted solar provider. 

Ask them:

• What type of inverter is best for my home and energy usage?
• Does this inverter work with battery storage if I want to add one later?
• What safety features does it have?
• What warranty and support options are available?

A provider that knows their stuff—like iStore!—will be able to answer these questions and guide you to the right inverter.

iStore’s Solar Inverter Range

Single-Phase Hybrid Inverter

The 5000/6000 1 PH hybrid inverter connects to a single-phase power grid commonly used in most homes.

Its features include

1. 2 x Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT): A technology that tracks and adjusts solar panels to operate at their maximum power point for optimal energy efficiency.
2. Battery Readiness: Prepared to connect to an iStore battery so you can store excess solar energy for later use, like during grid outages or peak demand periods. 
3. IP65 Protection Rating: With the highest rating for ingress protection, this inverter stays safe from dust and water. 

3-Phase Hybrid Inverters

The 5000/6000 3 PH hybrid inverter is suitable for larger homes, commercial buildings, and industrial facilities with a 3-phase grid connection. It handles more power and distributes it evenly throughout the house/facility to reduce strain on the solar system. 

In addition to the same features as the 1 PH model, this inverter can connect to high-voltage batteries. Such batteries require a lower current to move the same amount of power, reducing energy loss. This setup is ideal for larger solar systems, as it can handle more energy and charge faster than lower-voltage systems. 

Our other 3-phase inverter is the 29900/40000 3 PH inverter for commercial solar applications. 

Along with 4 x MPPT and a 3-phase grid connection, it features

1. 8-Strings Intelligent Monitoring: Tracking up to eight separate groups of solar panels, checking each group is working at its best.
2. Power Line Communication (PLC): Allowing the inverter to send data over existing power lines, so no extra wiring is needed to monitor and control the system remotely.
3. Smart I-V Curve Diagnosis Support: Automatically checks the performance of your solar panels to detect any issues early and keep the system running smoothly.

Key Features of iStore’s Solar Inverters

Why choose an iStore solar inverter?

• Battery-ready design for seamless integration with solar batteries.
• Modular designs for easy upgrades and scalability.
• WiFi capabilities for real-time monitoring of energy production and usage.
• High efficiency to maximise energy output.
• Natural cooling systems for quiet operation and durability.
• AI-powered fault detection and built-in protection against power surges, overheating, and grid issues.

The Benefits of Choosing iStore for Your Solar Inverter Needs

• High-Quality Products: Cutting-edge technology and robust designs.
• Competitive Pricing: Affordable solutions for every budget.
• Lower Energy Bills: Reduces reliance on grid electricity, helping you save on electricity costs.
• Expert Support: Guidance through every step of the purchase and installation process.
• Extended Warranties: All iStore inverters installed from August 1, 2023, to July 1, 2025, are eligible for a promotional 2-year warranty extension in addition to the usual 10-year warranty. 
• Customisable Solutions: Products tailored to meet your energy requirements.
• Eco-Friendliness: Contributing to a sustainable future by utilising renewable solar energy.

FAQs

What Is a Solar Inverter?

A solar inverter converts DC electricity from solar panels into AC electricity, which powers a home or business. It optimises energy use, protects the solar system from faults, and manages grid interaction.

What Is a Solar Hybrid Inverter?

Like a standard solar inverter, a hybrid inverter converts DC electricity from solar panels into AC electricity for use while also managing battery storage. Storing excess solar power for later use provides greater energy independence and savings, as well as backup power during outages.

What Is a 3-Phase Solar Inverter?

A 3-phase solar inverter distributes converted AC electricity from solar panels evenly across a 3-phase power supply. It’s ideal for larger homes, commercial buildings, and industrial sites that require balanced and safe high-power energy distribution.

What Is a Microinverter for Solar Panels?

A microinverter is a small inverter installed on each solar panel that converts DC electricity to AC electricity directly at each panel. Unlike string inverters, microinverters allow solar panels to operate independently, improving efficiency and performance, especially in shaded or multi-angle installations.

How Reliable Are Solar Inverters?

Solar inverters are highly reliable when properly installed, monitored, and maintained. Most quality inverters last 10–15 years, with some premium models lasting even longer. 

Factors like cooling systems, weather resistance, and brand reputation affect durability and the inverter’s lifespan.

Is It Safe To Sleep Near a Solar Inverter?

There is no proven evidence that exposure to electric and magnetic fields from solar inverters causes health effects, so sleeping near a solar inverter is generally considered safe. Modern inverters are designed to meet strict safety standards and emit low levels of electromagnetic fields (EMFs). 

However, installing inverters in well-ventilated areas away from living spaces is advisable to minimise potential noise and heat. Proper installation and adherence to manufacturer guidelines are essential for safety. 

How Much Does a Solar Inverter Cost?

Power Your Home Safely and Reliably with iStore’s Solar Inverters

What is a solar inverter?

It’s the key to turning renewable and abundant sunlight into usable power for your home. Without it, your solar panels are just fancy roof decorations!

For solar reliability, safety, and affordability, you can’t go past an iStore solar inverter.

Are you ready to make the most of the Aussie sun to save yourself money and help save our planet? 

Explore our solar inverter range online now. Then call 1300 515 640 or fill out this online form for a quote and expert advice.