I'm new here, and I see a few other threads with people looking for advice on their specific situations, I hope it's not out of line for me to do the same. I don't see a recent thread with a matching list of requirements and considerations.
I have a house with 200A service, 5.1kW grid-tie solar PV (with sell back) on roof, and an 8.5kW standby generator. Primary and secondary panels, with almost everything on the secondary. Automatic transfer switch that kicks on the generator when the grid goes out. The typical draw is less than 2kW, and have never overloaded the generator, but there are three loads that are on the main panel which I'd like to be able to selectively choose to run during an outage. They aren't on the main panel because they would likely be too much for the generator, and the secondary panel is full!
So my current issues and wish list are:
- Generator is much too noisy at night
- Generator burns too much propane when lightly loaded (peak efficiency is at about 8kW)
- Want instant switch to backup for a few reasons ' the 10 seconds for the generator to start is really disruptive
- Don't get benefit of solar when grid is down
- Would like to be able to run three of the heavier loads and have some sort of load shedding scheme
- Provide generator support functionality (ie supplement generator output based on current load)
- This would just leave two 240v breakers on the main panel which definitely don't need to be backed up, so would ideally like to replace the big empty main panel with something more space effective
- Want potential to add more PV, but can't increase the amount of sell back I am currently allowed
- Power company just introduced time of use billing option, so want to use a battery to leverage this
- Strong surge and imbalance capability because a power reset event would be a serious marital issue
- Control interface with which I can programmatically control the system, preferably Ethernet
Solutions I've been looking at (all with 15-30 kW LiFePo):
- Schneider 6.8kW XW pro ' when I started looking into this over a year ago, this looked like the device to beat. Capacity a bit on the low side, but really strong surge & imbalance capacity. Looks like it is at or near end of life now though? And the firmware is less than ideal. But very robust hardware.
- Midnite Solar 10kW AIO ' looks like a really strong contender. Has a couple of smart loads, but not enough and they wouldn't work if inverter fails.
- EG4 GridBoss/Flexboss21 ' has become my leading candidate since I became aware of it. Only system that directly solves the main panel issue and the smart loads. GridBoss looks like it'll keep working even if inverter fails, plus it has a bypass that will power most from the grid although I think we lose generator if GB itself is put into bypass. Looks like some approvals still pending, but I'm at least six months away yet. This one looks like the simplest wiring job.
Any other systems that I've missed? There are quite a few products on the market which look close, but are ruled out when examining the details. Does the GridBoss have any competing products that fill the same niche? Seems pretty unique thus far.
Welcome to the forums!
Want potential to add more PV, but can't increase the amount of sell back I am currently allowed
I'm not current enough to know what manufacturers allow you to limit exports to a specific value.
But, what happens if you do export past the limit? The utility can curtail your power output through frequency shifting and that started going into effect in the U.S. back in , so all grid-tied inverters support it now. Canada probably has something similar, so I'm not sure why they want you to regulate it.
GXMnow reports the export limit is pretty big in California, your Canadian utility might have similar high amounts and if so it might be something you never have to worry about. Might be worth checking your exports per month, and if you never come close it's something you safely can ignore. Even if you do, if it's a $5 fine and you do it once every July might not be worth it. ; -)
If throttling export at a limit isn't a standard feature yet, an inverter with an API would let you setup a program to monitor your export and turn export off/on. Even if you can't set it, it you're handy at programming you could set a watchdog program to monitor exports and alert you to manually change it if you coming close to the limit.
You're the second person I've seen asking about it, so any manufacturers that don't have it are probably working on it. Any manufacturer that already support zero-export would see this as a software upgrade.
...my current issues and wish list are...
Sounds like you want a battery sized to meet your wallet that reduces generator run time by having the generator only come on if the grid is down and battery is low?
I know you're looking for a new inverter recommendation, but what's you're existing grid-tied inverter? For example if you have Enphase microinverters and their 200 amp Enpower switch then it might be least expensive/trouble to buy their battery. I know Enphase can zero-out for net metering, but I'm not sure if they can set a monthly export limit.
If you have an EV (or been thinking about getting one) you might want to look into a bidirectional charger that uses the car as a battery for the house. Just did a post on that here that might get you started. They're new and expensive right now, prices are offset by incentive programs here (30%-50% off depending on local incentives, not sure what it'll be tomorrow when Trump takes office ; -), not sure if Canada has any similar programs.
Out of curiosity, when the grid goes out and the generator comes on, how do you prevent the solar PV from back-feeding the generator? A generator relay to disconnect the PV?
Yes, sell back may well increase in the future, especially since our power utility seems to be starting to wake up to the reality that distributed generation is good for them. Nonetheless, I want to ensure whatever solution I go with can limit it. The ones I listed seem to be able to. I've got APC systems microinverters. They don't have an appealing solution that meets my requirements.
Pretty sure the grid can't frequency shift though.
I do have an EV, but drawing from its battery and reducing my mobility has never made sense to me.
The solar is currently on the main panel while the generator supplies the secondary panel via the transfer switch, so they are never electrically connected. An inverter based system like the three I listed would disconnect the AC coupled PV before connecting the generator to avoid back feeding the generator. It's a bit unfortunate to not be able to run both at the same time, but I haven't seen a system that can use them both while keeping them isolated. In practice though I expect the generator would run after the sun has passed out of view of the panels, if not completely gone down. The majority of outages occur when the days are relatively short, and running the generator in the evening to charge the batteries to make it through the night is entirely reasonable. 3-4 hours of runtime would put 15+ kWh into the battery, which should last until morning without difficulty as the house is quite efficient and well insulated. If I do add more PV, it would be dc coupled and able to supply power to the inverter while the generator is running' although this reminds me to add 'generator support' functionality (ie supplement the generator output based on current load) to my list of requirements.
I do have an EV, but drawing from its battery and reducing my mobility has never made sense to me.
For a lot of people it doesn't make sense.
For me, I typically drive less than 40 miles a day and I charge at home so the battery is generally always near full. You can set the maximum depth of discharge to ensure you always have enough power to drive somewhere. Same thing about using an EV to export power to the grid (VPP) for area like Massachusetts where utilities would rather buy power from consumers for less$ than pay big$ to fire up peaker plants, it's good money for battery owners (better than net-metering, people have reported earnings > $/yr), and good for other consumers (See connected solutions).
I think of it like this. A model S has a ~400 mile range and ~100 kWh battery. If a house consumes 20 kWh/d, than you could power the house for 3 days, and still drive 160 miles to a charging station (assuming all the local ones are down), to fill up, and drive back. Or, at 40 miles to/from work I'd get 3 days of driving and powering the house and hopefully they have the power up by then (if not, I can still hit a recharger on the way home). If your business is closed due to the storm impact, then the car's recharging via excess solar is stretching out the number of days it can provide power.
Plus I'm cheap. Buying a stand alone battery is expensive. Reusing the EV's battery? That's frugal! ; -)
The solar is currently on the main panel while the generator supplies the secondary panel via the transfer switch, so they are never electrically connected.
Nice! A simple elegant solution.
It's a bit unfortunate to not be able to run both at the same time, but I haven't seen a system that can use them both while keeping them isolated.
Enphase's can, they make use of their high efficiency neutral-forming transformer built into the Enpower. But I suspect they still want either a very big generator, or an inverter based generator. I haven't tried my generator on it, I've got a crappy gas generator with shoddy power (But I can theoretically blackstart my system with it, so never upgraded. I'm ditching that noisy piece of junk as soon as Enphase's bidirectional chargers are out ; -).
I've got APC systems microinverters. They don't have an appealing solution that meets my requirements.
I've heard they're good units, didn't I hear something about them having a storage solution... let's see... here it is: https://usa.apsystems.com/apstorage
No clue if it'll work with your setup. Good luck!
The GB doesn't do anything that couldn't be replicated with multiple discrete boxes like transfer switches, smart relays, etc. The innovation is not in function but in integration into a convenient package.
Mike C.
Agreed, but space and convenience are significant factors. Still, that might be a reason to *not* go GB and instead use a more conventional wiring setup. I already have a setup that has a bunch of load control relays, and I could extend that approach.
What I would really like to do is have about 4-5 DPDT contactors which either connect their loads to the primary panel, or to a secondary panel. They would default to the primary but software could choose to switch them over if the power was out or perhaps some other reason to want it directly connected to the inverter. Other than that I guess it would just be replacing a couple of wiring runs with longer ones, and adding a bypass connection that skips the inverter and falls back to the generator transfer switch. I would probably need direct control over the generator as well so I could program it as I see fit.
I think I need to draw out my scheme.
The more I read and plan a potential system, the more convinced I am that (for me) the killer feature of any inverter is it having a software control interface.
Fully documented and open interface? Good luck with that.
But many inverters have "Wifi dongles" connected to RS485, CANbus, etc, so there is an opportunity to intercept whatever control the inverter native app does and use that yourself. So it could be a bit of reverse engineering. That also doesn't assure the level of control you want is exposed even to the dongle.
My suggestion is to try and find an inverter which has the adjustments you want in its native app, and has great Solar Assistant support. That means the ability to control it remotely is there, and someone has figured it out mostly. You may need to snoop on those communications to figure out how it works.
There are some automations that SA can do which could help. For example, on my inverter, I have SA reducing battery charge current to 1 amp (basically zero, but zero is not an option) when SoC is 97% or higher. This keeps my battery from constantly being pushed to high voltage per cell, which should increase its life. SA handles this for me:
So maybe SA does enough, or maybe yo have to reverse engineer the protocol and do it yourself, but open and documented API out of the box seems rare, perhaps non existent for these types of devices.
Mike C.
Table of Contents
Having a power supply at home is crucial in the era of living life to the fullest! The vast array of options for home inverters can be overwhelming for people; however, this comprehensive guide simplifies the process by providing assistance whether you are venturing into the realm of solar energy for the very time, or looking to enhance your existing system.
Goto Sunplus to know more.
This guide covers the basics of home inverters and their types. It also talks about their role in solar energy systems. You will learn how to select and maintain the home inverter, for your requirements and use it effectively to meet your needs.
If you want to learn about more information, please visit AFORE.
What Is a Home Inverter?
Understanding what a home inverter is key for those wanting to get the most from their solar energy. It changes direct current (DC) power from solar panels into alternating current (AC) power. This AC power is what most home appliances and systems use.
Definition and Function
A home inverter acts as a link between solar panels and home electrical systems; it takes DC power from solar panels and turns it into AC power. This is important because most home electrical systems and appliances need AC power to work.
Types of Home Inverters
There are different types of inverters for homes, like string inverters, microinverters, and hybrid inverters. String inverters are common and work well for big installations. Microinverters are on each panel, offering better performance and monitoring. Hybrid inverters can store energy in batteries, making them flexible and reliable. In the following parts, these types of inverters will be introduced in detail.
Importance in a Solar Energy System
The role of a home solar inverter is vital. It converts DC power to AC power, making it usable for homes. This enhances the effectiveness and dependability of the system in operation today; modern inverters give you the ability to manage your energy consumption by synchronizing with the grid or utilizing battery backup power well.
How Does a Photovoltaic Panel Inverter Work?
To fully appreciate the role of a home inverter, it's essential to understand how a photovoltaic panel inverter functions within a solar energy system. A photovoltaic panel inverter is key to using solar energy well at home. It makes sure the energy from your solar panels is used right in your home or sent to the grid.
Overview of Photovoltaic Panel Inverter
A photovoltaic panel inverter, also known as a solar inverter or photovoltaic inverter connects solar panels to the electrical grid or home devices. It changes the direct current (DC) from solar panels into alternating current (AC). This AC is what homes use.
Conversion of DC to AC Power
The main job of a photovoltaic panel inverter is to change DC to AC power. Solar panels generate DC electricity that cannot be directly utilized; however, the inverter converts this DC electricity to AC power suitable for household consumption. Modern inverters, like the Solar Inverter from AFORE, are very efficient. They use most of the energy, losing very little.
Synchronization with the Grid
A photovoltaic panel inverter also works with the electricity grid. It lets extra energy go back to the grid, so nothing is wasted. An integrated home inverter can save this extra power for later. This makes the system more efficient and reliable. It ensures a steady power supply for your home.
Photovoltaic Panel Inverter Vs Other Types of Inverters
Choosing the right home inverter for your home is crucial. Understanding the variances, between panel inverters and other varieties is key as each type offers advantages tailored to various energy requirements.
Advantages of Photovoltaic Panel Inverters
Photovoltaic panel inverters turn solar energy into power for your home. They are made to work with solar panels, making sure you get the most power. A good inverter can make your home's energy system more efficient and reliable.
Photovoltaic panel inverters offer several advantages over other types of inverters: first of all, they are crafted with panels, in mind, for performance and efficiency; secondly, as for efficiency, they maximize the efficiency of conversions to reduce energy consumption; moreover, many models can synchronize with the grid, allowing for net metering and energy sales back to the utility company.
Integrated Systems
Photovoltaic panel inverters also work well with systems that store extra power; harnessing this stored energy allows you to tap into power on cloudy days offering a sustainable solution to boost your usage of renewable energy and increase your homes energy self-reliance.
Comparison to Grid-Tied Inverters
Grid-tied inverters just send solar power back to the grid. But photovoltaic panel inverters with battery storage let you store and use power whenever you need it. While grid-tied systems can lower your bills, they rely on the grid. Photovoltaic panel inverters with battery storage are better for those wanting more independence.
Common Types of Home Inverters
Choosing the right home inverter for your solar system is key to getting the most out of it; knowing the different types of home inverters can help you pick the best one for your needs.
String Inverters
String inverters are common in homes with solar panels. They connect several panels to one inverter. There are advantages of string inverters.
String inverters are cost-effective. They generally less expensive than other types of inverters; this makes them an attractive option for budget-conscious homeowners and businesses looking to install solar energy systems.
The centralized design of string inverters simplifies the installation process and reduces the number of components required; this can lead to faster installation times and lower labor costs.
String inverters have a proven track record of reliability and durability; many models come with warranties of 10 years or more, which providing peace of mind, and ensuring that the system continues to operate efficiently for years to come.
However, there are some considerations to think about. First, the size of your solar energy system will determine the capacity of the inverter you need; make sure to select an inverter that can handle the total DC power output of your panels.
Second, consider finding an inverter with a conversion rate to reduce energy waste effectively. Grade solar photovoltaic inverters typically can reach an efficiency level, above 96% although the power output may impact this efficiency.
Third, ensure that the inverter you choose is compatible with your solar panels, any battery storage system you may have, and the grid connection requirements in your area; at last, consider the warranty period and terms when selecting an inverter; a longer warranty can provide added peace of mind and protection against potential issues.
Microinverters
Microinverters are attached to each solar panel. They track power at the panel level, making the most of energy even with shading or damage. They're pricier than string inverters but boost energy output and system reliability. They're a top choice for many homes looking to get the most from their solar panels.
They also minimized the effect of shading by having each panel function separately; if one panel is shaded it won't disrupt the others performance. This ensures that your system can still generate energy even if certain panels are partially shaded.
Microinverters often come with module-level monitoring capabilities. They allow you to track the performance of each panel individually; this can help identify problems early and facilitate easier troubleshooting.
Microinverters operate at lower voltages than centralized inverters, reducing the risk of electrical hazards; many microinverter models are designed for a lifespan of 25 years or more, matching the warranty period of most solar panels.
However, there are some considerations for choosing a microinverter. Installing microinverters requires more labor and time compared to centralized inverters, as each panel needs to be individually wired to its corresponding microinverter. They are typically more suitable for smaller to medium-sized solar energy systems; for very large systems, centralized inverters may still be the more cost-effective option.
For more three phase hybrid inverterinformation, please contact us. We will provide professional answers.
Hybrid Inverters
Hybrid inverters are gaining fans for combining solar and battery storage in one unit. They make adding battery storage easy, helping manage energy and provide backup during outages. Here are the key features and benefits of hybrid inverters.
Hybrid inverters can operate in both on-grid and off-grid modes; they can provide power to your home even during grid outages, which ensures uninterrupted electricity supply.
They possess better battery charging and management. These inverters come with advanced battery charging algorithms that optimize the charging process; they can extend the battery's lifespan and maximizing its energy storage capacity.
They have high efficiency. Hybrid inverters are designed to minimize energy loss during the conversion process; they typically have high conversion efficiencies and ensure that the maximum amount of energy generated by solar panels is utilized. Here are the key features and benefits of them.
When connected to the grid, hybrid inverters can synchronize with the grid's AC power, allowing excess energy to be fed back into the grid when your home's energy needs are met. This can help you earn credits or rebates from your utility company through net metering programs. Moreover, many hybrid inverters are modular and scalable, allowing you to expand your system as your energy needs grow. This makes them a future-proof investment for your home.
Interface of the hybrid inverter is designed to be easy to use and understand; hybrid inverters frequently feature interfaces that're user friendly. They include monitoring functions to help you monitor your systems performance effortlessly and make well informed choices regarding energy consumption.
Hybrid Solar Inverter from brands like AFORE offer durable and high-performance. They're perfect for those wanting to get the most from their solar investment, making them a top pick.
Benefits of Using a Home Inverter
Homeowners looking to live sustainably find many advantages in using a home inverter. These advantages simplify life; they help cut costs both immediately and, over time.
Maximizing Energy Efficiency
Using an energy-saving home inverter boosts energy efficiency. It turns solar energy into electricity with little loss. Brands like AFORE make sure these inverters work at their best.
Long-Term Savings
Invest in a high quality home inverter to enjoy savings in the term by reducing reliance on grid power and cutting down on electricity bills ' making the initial investment worthwhile, over time.
By utilizing energy and decreasing your dependency on the power grid system you can decrease your expenses and possibly even generate income by participating in net metering initiatives.
Reliability and Durability
Choosing a home inverter requires prioritizing reliability and durability as factors to consider these days as modern inverters are designed to withstand conditions, with companies, like AFORE, emphasizing the production of long lasting and dependable inverters that offer various advantages when integrated into your solar system to help you achieve both financial and environmental objectives effectively.
Choosing the Right Home Inverter for Your Solar System
Choosing the home inverter for your system can be challenging at times; However, you can make a decision by understanding aspects for example, pricing compatibility, with your solar panels and assessing your energy requirements carefully to ensure you select a cost efficient and effective inverter that meets your needs perfectly.
Factors to Consider When Selecting a Home Inverter
When buying a home inverter, don't just look at the price. Consider the expenses involved such as installation costs and ongoing maintenance, alongside energy savings when making your decision on purchasing an inverter for solar panels in order to ensure compatibility, with your energy requirements and longevity.
Sizing the Inverter
Getting the home inverter size right is key for top performance. Ensure that the inverter aligns, with the energy output of your panels to optimize performance and efficiency. A smaller inverter may struggle with loads and a larger one could be costly. Understanding your energy consumption and peak usage periods is crucial, for selecting the size of the inverter to maximize the value of your investment.
Choosing Between Centralized inverters and Microinverters
Choosing between centralized and microinverters is a decision to make when setting up your system. Centralized inverters are often favored for their affordability and ease of installation by individuals. On the hand, microinverters are known for providing performance, especially in setups where shading or varying panel angles are present. Consider your requirements and budget carefully when selecting the suitable inverter, for your solar power setup.
How to Maintain Your Home Inverter?
Ensuring your home inverter remains well maintained is crucial, for its performance and durability are some guidelines, for looking after your inverter.
Regular Maintenance Practices
For a reliable home inverter, regular maintenance is a must. Remember to clean the inverter and the area around it, to prevent dust accumulation as it could affect its efficiency negatively; Additionally, inspect all connections and wires, for any signs of damage. Keep an eye on how your system is doing. Use its display panel or software to spot problems early.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even if you're diligent with maintenance tasks on your inverter system at home or work site, you may still encounter issues from time to time. Be sure to review the user manual for your inverter to familiarize yourself with error codes and simple troubleshooting steps. The manual can be particularly useful for addressing glitches or connectivity hiccups. But, always follow the best maintenance advice. Don't try to fix things if you're not sure what you're doing.
Professional Servicing
While DIY maintenance is good, don't forget about professional servicing. Technicians can find issues you might miss; regular checks by pros keep your system running smoothly and last longer. Getting professional help can prevent expensive repairs. It ensures your inverter works reliably.
Conclusion
Choosing the right home inverter is key to getting the most out of your solar energy system. We've discussed the function of a home inverter and its various types alongside an explanation of its operation while drawing comparisons to types of inverters well.
This guide is here to assist you in grasping the aspects and various functionalities of household inverters aiding you in making a decision.
Choosing a reliable brand like AFORE is crucial; they offer energy-efficient inverters that save money in the long run. Reviews show that quality and durability are vital for your solar system's sustainability.
When selecting a home inverter, the solar system setup and home requirements are factors to take into account, to ensure efficiency and cost effectiveness; this comprehensive guide assists you in making a decision that results in a budget-friendly energy solution for your household.
FAQ
What is a home inverter?
A home inverter changes direct current (DC) from solar panels into alternating current (AC). This AC power is what your home appliances use. It's key for a smooth-running home solar system.
What types of home inverters are there?
There are three kinds of inverters used, in panel systems'string inverters, microinverters and hybrid inverters, each of them with their own advantages that cater to your homes energy requirements and solar panel configuration.
How does a photovoltaic panel inverter work?
Photovoltaic panel inverters turn DC power from solar panels into AC power. This AC power works with your home appliances. They also connect with the grid to manage extra energy.
What are the advantages of photovoltaic panel inverters?
Photovoltaic panel inverters are very efficient. They work well with battery storage and help get the most from your solar panels. They also manage energy well and are reliable.
How do I choose the right home inverter for my solar system?
When choosing an inverter for your home setup, consider your energy requirements at home and budget constraints as how compatible it is with your solar panels setup; also weigh the benefits of centralized, versus microinverters depending on your efficiency objectives.
Are you interested in learning more about single phase solar inverter? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!
Comments
All Comments ( 0 )