Solar Inverters

All solar powered systems require a solar inverter to operate AC powered equipment and appliances. A solar inverter is a device that converts direct current (DC) generated by solar panels or other alternative sources, into alternating current (AC) for use in industrial, commercial and residential use. Remember too that you need to differentiate between pure and modified Sinewave Inverters – Anything that has a screen e.g. TV, PC etc. needs to be run on a pure Sinewave inverter; modified inverters are simply used for lights, kitchen appliances etc.

Types of solar inverters

There are two types of solar inverters: pure sine wave inverters and modified sine wave inverters.

Pure Sine Wave Inverters

Pure sine wave solar inverters provide a purer form of power than modified sine wave inverters. The power from a pure sine wave solar inverter is similar to that supplied by Eskom and enables devices such as microwave ovens, game consoles, fans, fluorescent lights and answering machines to run quietly without distortion or disturbance. Pure sine wave solar inverters also ensure that computers run smoothly and without overheating.

They are also safe and stable and operate in a number of unfavourable conditions, such as excessively high or low temperatures and over and under-voltage.

Modified Sine Wave Inverters

Modified sine wave solar inverters have higher efficiencies at lower cost per watt, but do not necessarily work for all applications. For instance, laser printers and certain types of fluorescent lights don’t function as well as they would with pure sine wave inverters, as do certain power tools and battery chargers for cordless power tools.

Modified sine wave solar inverters can also interfere with the proper functioning of televisions sets and digital clock radios, as well as important medical equipment. In addition, a modified sine wave solar inverter isn’t as robust as a pure sine wave solar inverter and so doesn’t guarantee uninterrupted power.

For the best performance across a wide range of applications and devices, pure sine wave solar inverters are best and teamed with quality solar panels from Sustainable.co.za will see you well on your way to sustainable living. View our product range of solar inverters or contact us if you have any queries or require more information about which solar inverter is best for you.