How Does Sizing A Solar Inverter Work?

Solar inverters come in various sizes, both large and small, and are rated in watts (W). When determining the correct size for a solar inverter, there are three primary considerations: the size of your solar array, geographical location, and specific site conditions.

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Size of Your Solar Array

The size of your solar array is crucial in deciding the appropriate size for your inverter. Since the inverter converts DC electricity from the array, it must handle all the power produced.

Generally, the inverter's size should match the DC rating of your solar panel system. For instance, a 6 kilowatt (kW) system will typically need an inverter around 6000 W, with a small margin of error.

Inverter manufacturers often provide guidelines on the array capacity their inverters can support. Using an array size outside these guidelines may void the inverter's warranty.

Geography

Geography significantly impacts solar inverter sizing due to its effect on solar panel system output. For example, properties in Arizona receive more solar radiation than those in Vermont. Therefore, a 6 kW system in Arizona would produce more power than a similarly sized system further north.

In areas with more sunshine and moderate temperatures, inverters are usually sized closer to the solar array's total wattage to handle the maximum power output. Conversely, in areas with less solar radiation or high temperatures that reduce panel efficiency, a smaller inverter might suffice.

Site-Specific Factors

Site-specific factors, such as the tilt and azimuth angle of your solar array and environmen