Understanding the Rated Value of the Solar Power Inverter

In the context of renewable energy, a hybrid solar power inverter, or power inverter, is a device that converts the voltage from DC batteries/solar panels into AC electricity that can be used in your home or business.

The rated values of a solar power inverter

When purchasing a solar power inverter, the ratings (depending on the type) to look out for are:

Continuous rated value: 

This is the amount of power you can expect to use continuously without the solar power inverter overheating or shutting down.

Half-hour rated value: 

This value is useful because the continuous rated value may be too low to run high-energy power tools or equipment. However, if the equipment is only used occasionally, the half-hour rated value may be sufficient.

Surge rating: 

Starting some equipment requires a high surge, while they may require relatively little power to keep running. The solar power inverter must be able to maintain its surge rating for at least 5 seconds. Examples of items that require high surge to start but relatively low power to run afterward include televisions and refrigerators.

IP rating: 

Defines the solar power inverter's ability to seal out water and dust. Although some solar power inverter and solar panel lights manufacturers manufacturers claim high IP ratings suitable for outdoor installation, the quality and location of sealing and ventilation will greatly affect its ability to work beyond the expected life of the solar device for years to come.

Peak efficiency: 

Represents the highest efficiency that the solar power inverter can achieve.

Whether a on grid solar power inverter is truly or modified sine wave

If you have a modified sine wave inverter and suspect you need a true sine wave inverter, note that there are no "filters" or "modifications" that can be applied to clean up the output of the modified sine wave inverter or turn it into a true sine wave.

All on grid solar power inverters, such as those used in systems connected to the grid, are true sine wave units. Although all grid-connected power inverters sold in Australia must meet minimum standards and be approved for use with the grid, not all solar power inverters are created equal, as this video clearly demonstrates. A high-quality on grid solar power inverter can withstand high and fluctuating voltages, extreme temperature ranges, moisture, and dust. It is the key to the safety, efficiency, reliability, and availability of solar power systems.