Differences between high voltage and low voltage inverter
The function of inverter in solar system is to convert DC current to AC current. But did you know that there are different types of solar inverters, and that they have different voltage ranges, power ratings, efficiency levels, and applications? In this blog post, I will compare and contrast two of the most common types of solar inverters: high voltage inverters and low voltage inverters.
What is a High Voltage Inverter and a Low Voltage Inverter?
A high voltage inverter (or high voltage dc to ac inverter) is a device that converts the direct current (DC) electricity from solar panels or batteries into high voltage alternating current (AC) electricity that can be used by appliances and devices, or fed into the grid. A high voltage inverter typically has an input voltage range of more than 100V and an output voltage range of 220V to 480V. A high voltage inverter can handle higher power output and quality, and can reduce the power losses and distortions that occur during the conversion and transmission of electricity.
A low voltage inverter typically has an input voltage range of less than 100V and an output voltage range of 110V to 240V. A low voltage inverter can handle lower power output and quality, and can increase the power losses and distortions that occur during the conversion and transmission of electricity. A low voltage inverter is suitable for smaller and simpler solar installations, such as residential and small commercial applications.
High Voltage Inverters vs Low Voltage Inverters
The choice of a high voltage inverter or a low voltage inverter depends on several factors, such as your energy needs, your solar system size, your location, your budget, and your goals. Here are some reasons and benefits of choosing a high voltage inverter or a low voltage inverter for your solar power system:
A high voltage inverter is suitable for larger and more complex solar installations, such as industrial, agricultural, or utility-scale projects, where the electricity demand is higher and more variable, or where the connection to a three phase grid is required. A high voltage inverter can offer you several benefits, such as:Reducing your electricity bills and increasing your grid independence, by allowing you to use more of your own solar power and less of the grid power, or by selling your excess solar power to the grid at a higher rate, or by storing it in batteries for later use.Improving your solar power system efficiency and reliability, by reducing the power losses and distortions that occur during the conversion and transmission of electricity from DC to AC, and by preventing overloading, overheating, short-circuiting, and other potential issues.Increasing the compatibility and flexibility of your solar power system, by allowing you to connect to different types of loads and grids, or to use different types of solar panels and batteries.
A low voltage inverter is suitable for smaller and simpler solar installations, such as residential and small commercial applications, where the electricity demand is lower and more stable, or where the connection to a single phase grid is sufficient. A low voltage inverter can offer you several benefits, such as:
Lowering your initial and operational costs, by minimizing the number and size of the wires and cables, and the losses and faults in the power transmission and distribution process.Easing your installation and upgrade process, by simplifying the wiring and configuration of your solar power system, and by allowing you to connect multiple batteries together in parallel or series.Reducing your physical footprint and environmental impact, by using less materials and resources, and by generating less waste heat and noise.