Find out what to look for when buying an MPPT solar PCU.

Find out what to look for when buying an MPPT solar PCU.

Here are some key things to check before buying an MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking) solar inverter:

1. Size and Power Output

• The inverter’s capacity (in watts or kilowatts) and the battery capacity, battery type and Solar panel wattage all are related parameters, and one should know these parameters before designing any off-grid or Solar PCU system. The installer should have the specifications of all the types of equipment and study them carefully before planning the solar installation. You can find this information on the back of the solar panel or in the manufacturer’s specifications. A mismatch can lead to inefficiency or clipping (wasting excess power).

• Look for an inverter with a continuous power rating that is at least equal to the total wattage of your solar panels, and ideally slightly larger to account for future expansion or derating due to high temperatures.

Solar panels array for 10KVA Solar PCU

2. Efficiency:- Choose an inverter with a power output rating that is appropriate for the size of your solar panel array. The inverter’s efficiency rating will tell you how much of the DC power from your solar panels is converted into usable AC power. Higher-efficiency inverters will waste less energy.

• Look for an MPPT inverter with a high-efficiency rating, ideally above 95%. This means the inverter will convert more of the DC power from your solar panels into usable AC power for your home.

3. Compatibility:- Make sure the inverter is compatible with your solar panels and other equipment in your system, such as the battery bank (if you have one) and the grid connection. This includes checking the voltage and current ratings of all the components. An incompatible inverter can reduce the efficiency and performance of your entire solar system.

• Ensure the inverter is compatible with your solar panels’ voltage and current ratings. A mismatched voltage or current can damage the inverter or panels.

• Also, check if the inverter is compatible with any other equipment in your solar system, such as batteries and charge controllers.

4. Inverter type: There are two main types of solar inverters: string inverters and microinverters. String inverters are the most common type, and they connect all of your solar panels in a series. Microinverters are connected to each solar panel individually. String inverters are generally less expensive than microinverters, but microinverters offer some advantages, such as increased efficiency and better shade tolerance.

5. Safety Certifications:- Look for an inverter with safety features such as over-current protection, over-voltage protection, and ground fault protection. These features will help to protect your system from damage.

• Look for an inverter that has been certified by a reputable safety organization, such as UL (Underwriters Laboratories) or CEC (California Energy Commission). This ensures that the inverter meets safety standards.

6. Warranty and After-Sales Service:- Make sure the inverter comes with a good warranty and that the manufacturer offers good customer support. You want to be sure that you will be able to get help if you have any problems with the inverter.

• Choose an inverter with a long warranty period (preferably 10 years or more) and a reputable brand that offers good after-sales service. This will give you peace of mind knowing that you’re covered in case of any problems.

7. Monitoring capabilities: Some inverters offer monitoring capabilities that allow you to track your solar system’s performance. This can be a helpful tool for troubleshooting problems and optimizing the performance of your system.

8. Additional Features

• Some MPPT inverters offer additional features, such as data logging and monitoring, which can help you track your solar system’s performance.

• Consider if these features are important to you and factor them into your decision.

By considering these factors, you can choose the best MPPT solar inverter for your needs and ensure that your solar system operates efficiently and safely.