What is a microinverter and how is it different from a traditional inverter?

Overview of Microinverter: A Short Review Microinverter is one of the smallest devices used ever in solar photovoltaic systems. Microinverters, however, are located on each solar panel and differ from traditional centralized inverters. Their primary role is to convert direct current (DC) into alternating current(AC), which can either be stored in home battery storage, or uploaded onto the grid.

  Key Points

     1.What is a microinverter and how is it different from a traditional inverter?

     2.Advantages of Microinverter in residential use

     3.Technical features of Microinverter in residential use

     4.Installation and maintenance guide for Microinverter in residential use

Microinverter basic principle and function

The basic principle of microinverter is relatively simple but very efficient. Each solar panel has an independent microinverter, which converts the DC power generated by the solar panel into usable AC power. This design has several key functions and advantages:

Independent Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT): Each microinverter can independently track and optimize the power output of the solar panel it is connected to. This means that even if one panel is shaded or fails, other panels can still operate at optimal efficiency.

Improved system reliability: Because each solar panel has an independent inverter, the reliability of the entire system is improved. The failure of one inverter will not cause the entire system to shut down.

Higher energy output: Because each panel can operate under optimal conditions, the overall system energy output will be higher.

Simplified installation and expansion: Microinverter systems are simpler to install and easy to expand, suitable for solar projects of different sizes.

Differences between traditional inverters and Microinverters

Comparing traditional inverters and Microinverters, we can discuss in detail from the following aspects:

System architecture

Traditional inverters: Usually one or more solar panels are connected in series to a centralized inverter. The entire system relies on this single inverter to convert DC to AC.

Microinverter: Each solar panel has an independent microinverter that converts DC to AC directly on the panel.

Performance and efficiency

Traditional inverters: If a panel is shaded or fails, the performance of the entire series circuit will be affected.

Microinverter: Each panel operates independently, and the problem of one panel will not affect the performance of other panels.

Installation and maintenance

Traditional inverters: The entire system needs to be designed and wired during installation, and maintenance is also more complicated, requiring professional technicians.

Microinverter: Installation is easier because each panel and its inverter are independent. Maintenance is relatively simple, and a component can be replaced or inspected individually.

Scalability

Traditional inverter: Expanding the system requires considering the capacity of the existing inverter and the system configuration, and adding new panels may require redesigning part of the system.

Microinverter: Expanding the system is very convenient, just add new panels and corresponding microinverters.

Microinverters provide higher efficiency, reliability and flexibility in solar photovoltaic systems. Their independent operation and optimization capabilities allow each solar panel to work at its best, avoiding many limitations of traditional centralized inverters. For modern solar installation projects, especially for rooftop installations and partial shading, microinverters are undoubtedly a better choice.

Advantages of Microinverter in residential use

Improve energy efficiency: maximize the output of solar panels

Independent optimization: Each Microinverter is directly connected to a single or multiple solar panels to independently optimize the power output of each solar panel. Even if the performance of one solar panel is affected by shadows, dust or direction angles, resulting in power decline, other solar panels can still work at their best, thereby maximizing the energy output of the entire system.

Reduce losses: In traditional string inverter systems, the output of all solar panels is limited by the worst performing panel, which will result in a barrel effect, and the output power is the same as the lowest solar panel. The Microinverter system avoids this limitation and improves overall energy efficiency.

Scalability: Easily expand the system according to needs

Flexible expansion: The Microinverter system supports gradual expansion. Users can gradually add solar panels according to actual needs and budgets without replacing or upgrading the existing inverter system. And TSUN’ s hand-in-hand design, if you want to improve home energy, you can directly connect a new Microinverter to the original Microinverter, so that you can directly improve home energy efficiency without making changes to the original system.

No compatibility issues: Since each Microinverter works independently, adding new panels and Microinverters will not affect the performance of the existing system, ensuring the compatibility and stability of system expansion.

Safety: Reduce the use of high-voltage DC and improve system safety

Low-voltage AC: The Microinverter system converts DC to low-voltage AC, reducing the transmission path of high-voltage DC, reducing the risk of arcing and fire, and improving the safety of the overall system.

Direct conversion: The Microinverter can be installed directly under each panel to directly convert DC to AC, further reducing the risk of high-voltage DC being exposed to the outside.

The Microinverter system has significant advantages in improving energy efficiency, providing flexible scalability, and enhancing system safety, making it an ideal choice for modern residential solar power generation systems. These advantages not only improve the reliability and performance of the system, but also provide users with a safer and cost-effective solar solution.

Technical features of Microinverter in residential use

Core technology and innovation points

Each solar panel is independently optimized: Microinverter connects directly to each solar panel to convert direct current (DC) to alternating current (AC). This means that each panel can work independently, avoiding the obstruction or failure of one panel in traditional series systems that affects the performance of the entire system, and reduces the voltage in the line to avoid arcing.

Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT): Each Microinverter has an independent MPPT function that optimizes the output of each panel in real time. This greatly improves the efficiency of the entire system. Especially in the case of partial shadows or uneven lighting, it is possible to accurately detect which solar panel has problems, quickly identify the problem, and solve it in time.

Modular design: The Microinverter system is highly modular. Users can flexibly add or remove solar panels according to needs without making major adjustments to the entire system.

Improved system reliability: Compared with centralized inverters, the failure of any unit in the Microinverter system will not cause the entire system to shut down, significantly improving the reliability and stability of the system.

Latest technological developments and future trends

Higher efficiency conversion technology: Microinverter efficiency continues to improve, and the conversion efficiency of modern products has exceeded 97%. Future technological developments will continue to focus on reducing energy conversion losses and improving overall system efficiency.

Integrated energy storage and smart grid: The new generation of Microinverter is integrating energy storage management functions, allowing households to better manage and utilize solar energy, while seamlessly connecting with the smart grid to optimize energy use and storage.

Remote monitoring and management: Through the Internet of Things (IoT) technology, the Microinverter system can achieve remote monitoring and management. Users can view system status and performance data in real time to facilitate remote diagnosis and maintenance. The Microinverter provided by TUNS can already be connected through WiFi.

More compact and lightweight design: With the advancement of technology, the size and weight of Microinverter will be further reduced, making installation easier, while its durability in high temperatures and harsh environments will also be improved.

The Microinverter launched by TSUN not only covers the power of 300~6000w but also supports partial power regulation, which can be adjusted to the appropriate power according to local regulations. Our Microinverter has built-in WIFI and Bluetooth, and the standard has been increased from 85 degrees to 105 degrees, making monitoring more stable and reliable. We are also the first brand to pass the latest EMC62920 certification of VDE in Offenbach, Germany. The product adopts the latest topology design, with a peak efficiency of 97.1%, ensuring optimal energy conversion. With extremely strong durability, the die-casting design and glue-filling technology help to better dissipate heat and extend the service life of the microinverter.

We offer two types of household Microinverter, balcony and standard

Installation and Maintenance Guide for Microinverter in Residential Use

Detailed Installation Steps and Precautions

Prepare the necessary tools and protective equipment

Install Brackets and Solar Panels

Install Brackets: Install brackets according to design drawings and ensure that they are firmly fixed to the roof or other supporting structures.

Fix Solar Panels: Install solar panels on brackets, ensuring that the angle and position of each panel are correct.

Install Microinverter

Connect Microinverter: Install Microinverter on the back of each solar panel, usually by bolting.

Electrical Connection: Connect the DC output cable of the solar panel to the input of the Microinverter. Make sure all connections are firm and not loose.

Connect AC Cable

Series Connection: Connect the Microinverter in series through AC cables according to Microinverter specifications. Pay attention to distinguishing and correctly connecting phase, neutral, and ground wires.

Connect to the grid: Connect the AC output of the Microinverter system to the home distribution panel and ensure that there is appropriate circuit breaker protection.

System debugging

Check the line connection: Before plugging the system in, be sure to check all circuit connections to ensure that there are no short circuits or incorrect connections.

How to make the system run efficiently for a long time

Regular cleaning: Clean the solar panels and Microinverter to remove dust and other debris

Regular inspection: Check the circuit connection to ensure that there is no looseness and corrosion. Monitor the operating status of each Microinverter online through the provided software to ensure that there are no abnormalities during operation.

Firmware update

Timely update: If the Microinverter manufacturer provides firmware updates, upgrade them in time to obtain the latest performance optimization and security patches.

If you want to get more information about microinverter or you need us to get professional solutions for your usage scenario, you can directly click here to contact us. We will send professional engineers to reply you and give you professional solutions.

FAQ

The system does not generate electricity or generates low electricity

1.Check the solar panels: Confirm whether the solar panels are blocked or damaged.

2.Check the connections: Ensure that all electrical connections are not loose or disconnected.

The monitoring system cannot connect

1.Check the network connection: Confirm that the network connection of the monitoring system is normal, and check the router and Wi-Fi settings.

2.Restart the device: Try to restart the monitoring system and related network devices.

3.Firmware problem: Check and update the firmware version of the monitoring system and Microinverter.