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Solar Inverters: Single-Phase vs 3-Phase

Electrical conversion dates back to the late 19th century with Charles S. Bradley’s rotary converter, which converted alternating current (AC) electricity into direct current (DC) electricity. An engineer named David C. Prince is credited with first using the term inverter when he described reversing the conversion process in a 1925 GE Review article. 

Over the years, exponential advancements have made inverters more sophisticated and integral to solar energy. 

Let’s examine single-phase solar inverters and 3-phase solar inverters to better understand their uses and differences, and to determine which is right for your solar panel system.

What is a Solar Inverter?

As a key component of a solar panel system, the main function of a single-phase solar inverter or 3-phase solar inverter is to convert DC electricity generated by the solar panels into AC electricity for conventional use. 

They are also capable of advanced tasks like system monitoring and network communication to optimize efficiency and the overall function of your solar panel system.

solar inverter

Single-Phase Solar Inverters

Commonly used in homes and small businesses, single-phase inverters transport electricity through a live wire and neutral wire.

What is the load limit of a single-phase solar inverter?

7500 Watts is typically where a single-phase solar inverter will max out. If your total power requirements are in excess of 7.5kW, you might want to consider a 3-phase inverter.

What are some advantages of single-phase solar inverters?

Single-phase solar inverters are relatively inexpensive. The lower electrical current optimizes the efficiency of operation, and you will save money over the lifespan of your unit.

What are some disadvantages of single-phase solar inverters?

A lower power output means that power is not always constant or evenly distributed among electrical items, and a single-phase solar inverter may not be able to power things that require a lot of electricity.

Three-Phase Solar Inverters

Commonly used in commercial and industrial facilities, 3-phase inverters consist of three live wires that distribute electricity evenly and a neutral wire.

What are some disadvantages of single-phase solar inverters?

3-phase solar inverters are desirable for their higher output and are becoming increasingly popular for residential systems to handle things that require a large electrical load. Some residential features that will require a 3-phase system include: 

  • Electric car charger
  • Sauna
  • Hot tub 
  • Pool
  • Pool heater
  • Large AC unit 

With 3-phase solar inverters, power is constant and easily distributed. A 3-phase inverter will also allow for more surplus energy to be sent back to the grid for later use during non-productive periods or credited through a net metering billing mechanism. 

 

What are the disadvantages of 3-phase solar inverters?

3-phase solar inverters tend to be more expensive and higher-maintenance than single-phase inverters. This is due to the complexity of their electrical components.

Solar panel technician with drill installing solar panels

The Verdict

It is hard to come to a definitive ruling in this case as the best option is dependent on your electrical requirements. If your home has single-phase power, then you will need to install a single-phase inverter. If your home has 3-phase power, you could install a 3-phase inverter or three single-phase inverters. It really depends on what you need to power. 

For further information, contact Gurr Brothers Energy, and let their team of experts help you find the right solar solution!

June 1, 2023

Author: Hunter S.

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