Learn About Solar Energy Inverters

By Author: Randy Hough
Total Articles: 9
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What Is A Solar Energy Inverter?
To use solar energy for your home you must change the power into a usable form, which is the function of a solar energy inverter.

Because the solar energy is DC, or direct current, you must convert it to AC, or alternating current. AC is what your home uses, and what the power company supplies you with.

You must invert the DC power to AC before you can sell it back to the grid. It won't do you much good to try and sell it back if they cannot accept it! A solar energy inverter can help you live off the grid.

Using your solar power in your home appliances requires that you use an inverter to transform the electricity from DC to AC.

Please explain what a solar energy inverter is
Basically, a solar energy inverter is an electrical device that changes the DC current from your photovoltaic cells (solar panel) into AC current so you can use the power in your home. An inverter requires its own power source, in fact, it uses quite a bit. Solar energy can power it, or it can run on the AC power supplied by the utility.

There are numerous sizes and types ...
... of solar energy inverters. Portable solar panels for your home generally use stand alone inverters. You would need this type for a pleasure boat, a cottage, or an RV.

Grid-tie inverters are for interfacing with the electric grid. They are able to fulfill the requirements of your utility company. For safety reason, they will shut down in the event of a power outage.

An inverter is capable of using batteries for power, converting AC from DC, and interfacing with the grid. This single device actually performs an amazing amount of work.

Solar inverters for home use
Generally, you should use a true sine wave inverter for general home use. Because choosing a solar inverter is so important, there are many things to consider. For example: what are you going to power? The inverter is the heart of your solar energy system, supplying power to more appliances than you might expect.

First, think about how much electricity you will need at peak load, continuous load, what kind of surge requirements you will need. You may get away with using a cheaper type of inverter, though it is not the best idea.

How to decide on a solar inverter?
Deciding which inverter to use is a rather bewildering problem. In order to ask the right questions, you need to educate yourself. The solar kits available today have good information that is specifically tailored for do it your self solar energy. Generally, the kits provide all you need to know to pick an inverter.

There are also many excellent online resources that are a great help in learning about inverters. You also can visit a solar panel supplier, if you have one in your area.
Randy Hough, Jon Arnett and company have been involved with energy saving programs for many years in such places as Alaska, Wisconsin, Norway and Croatia. Recently they constructed a passive and active solar heated villa in Croatia, which is beautiful and efficient at the same time (plus it is right on the Adriadic Sea). Check out their website: http://www.SolarOnYourOwn.com to help you in your quest for reducing your energy dependence. Find out how you can save money, save energy, and save the earth!