What is a Solar Inverter?

It converts the DC from your panels into safe 230V AC, optimises output, and powers your monitoring.
The GivEnergy Hybrid Inverter
There are 4 main sub-types of inverter that you need to be aware of. String inverter. The standard inverter used in domestic settings. Your Solar Panels are probably arranged in a “string” or “series” and the String Inverter converts all the DC electricity generated by the “string” and converts it into AC. Alternating Current (AC) is what is used in your home and your appliances. Battery Inverter. This will also be referred to as an “AC” inverter, or an “AC-coupled” inverter. In this case, the inverter will take AC electricity from the grid or from the AC power created by the string inverters, and convert it into Direct Current (DC) electricity that can be stored in a battery. All batteries (even your standard AA battery) use DC electricity. When the battery needs to discharge the DC electricity for use around the home, it needs to be converted back to AC. This is all done by the AC-Coupled battery inverter. Hybrid Inverter. Instead of having one inverter for the solar panels and one for the batteries, you can have a single “hybrid” inverter. The majority of inverters now on the market are hybrid inverters. Micro Inverters. A micro inverter is literally a small inverter, that is attached to each solar panel. Each type of inverter has its own advantages and disadvantages. At Brimstone Energy we’ll provide you with advice and guidance as to which option best suits you and your budget.
For further information about each type of inverter click the relevant image below:

The array of different options can be confusing.
Our job is to arm you with the right information to allow you to make a sensible decision.
And if you’d rather that we make the decision for you, we can do that too.
At Brimstone Energy, our values are Trust, integrity and quality.

Where will my inverter go?

Most people have their inverter placed in the attic. This is for practical reasons. It might be the only available indoor space that is suitable, especially if the property is relatively small.

Ideally the attic would not be used, since inverters, like all electronic items prefer not to be exposed to extreme heat or cold. However most inverters are rated to work in a temperature range of -25°C to +60°C. So although they may lose some efficiency at higher temperatures, having the equipment in the attic won’t invalidate your warranty.

As we know, the UK doesn’t suffer from extremes of heat. So if Inverters can function in Australia or Arizona, they can handle the occasional hot day in a UK summer. So this needn’t be of great concern.

If your property benefits from a plant room or a suitable garage, then we’ll aim to put the equipment in there. All this will be confirmed during the site survey.

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