Best Solar Inverters

Choosing the right solar inverter is just as crucial as selecting the panels themselves. It’s the brains of your solar power system, tirelessly converting the DC electricity generated by your panels into AC electricity to power your home. With the harsh Australian climate and our love for harnessing the sun's power, picking a robust and efficient inverter is paramount. This guide will walk you through the best solar inverters in Australia available Down Under and point you to where you can get your hands on them.

What Makes a Great Solar Inverter for Aussie Homes?

Before we dive into the top brands, let's have a squiz at what you should be looking for in a solar inverter:

• Efficiency: A higher efficiency rating means more of the sun's energy hitting your panels makes it into your home as usable electricity. Look for peak efficiencies of 97% and above.
• Durability and IP Rating: Australia's weather can be a bit of a mixed bag, from scorching heat to torrential rain. A good inverter should have a high IP (Ingress Protection) rating, like IP65 or IP66, to protect it from dust and water.
• Warranty and Aussie Support: A solid warranty of at least 10 years is a good sign of a manufacturer's confidence in their product. Just as important is the availability of local technical support in Australia, so you're not left in the lurch if something goes wrong.
• Monitoring Capabilities: Most modern inverters come with Wi-Fi connectivity and a user-friendly app, allowing you to monitor your solar system's performance from your smartphone or computer.
• Battery Ready: With energy storage becoming increasingly popular, opting for a hybrid inverter that is "battery ready" gives you the flexibility to add a home battery in the future.

The Top Tiers: Best Solar Inverters in Australia

When it comes to the best solar inverters on the Australian market, a few names consistently pop up in installer and homeowner reviews.

The Premium Choice: Fronius

Hailing from Austria, Fronius inverters have a stellar reputation for quality, reliability, and excellent performance, even in high temperatures. Their GEN24 Plus hybrid inverter range is a popular choice for Aussies looking for a future-proof solution that can easily integrate with a battery. With a strong Australian presence, their after-sales support is top-notch.

The People's Favourite: Sungrow

Sungrow has become a dominant force in the Australian solar market, offering a fantastic balance of performance, features, and affordability. They provide a wide range of inverters, from string inverters for standard residential setups to sophisticated hybrid inverters for battery storage. Their products are known for their high efficiency and reliability, making them a smart choice for many homeowners.

The Reliable Workhorse: GoodWe

GoodWe inverters are another excellent option that delivers on both quality and value. They are well-regarded for their ease of installation and dependable performance. With a comprehensive range of residential inverters, including battery-ready hybrid models, GoodWe is a brand that consistently receives positive feedback from Aussie installers and users alike.

The German Powerhouse: SMA

SMA Solar Technology is a German company with a long-standing history of producing high-quality inverters. Their "Sunny Boy" residential inverters are renowned for their durability and efficiency. While often at a premium price point, their engineering excellence and proven track record make them a worthy investment for your solar system.

Exploring Your Options: String, Micro, and Hybrid Inverters

You'll come across a few different types of inverters on your solar journey:

• String Inverters: The most common and cost-effective option, where a "string" of solar panels is connected to a single inverter.
• Microinverters: A smaller inverter is attached to each individual solar panel. This can be beneficial for roofs with shading issues or complex layouts, as the performance of one panel won't affect the others.
• Hybrid Inverters: These inverters have the capability to not only convert DC to AC but also to charge and discharge a battery, making them the go-to choice for solar and storage systems.

Sourcing Your Solar Inverter from Schnap

For those in the trade or embarking on a DIY project with the help of a qualified electrician, sourcing quality components is key. Schnap is an Australian-based supplier that stocks a range of the top-tier solar inverters mentioned above.

On their website, you'll find a selection of products from leading brands like Fronius, Sungrow, and the popular microinverter manufacturer, Enphase. They cater to various needs, offering everything from single-phase and three-phase string inverters to advanced hybrid models for those looking to pair their solar with a battery.

Schnap provides detailed product specifications and clear pricing, making it easier for you to compare models and find the perfect fit for your solar project. Their commitment to stocking reputable brands means you can be confident you're investing in a quality product that's built to last in the Australian climate.

Ultimately, the best solar inverter for you will depend on your budget, your energy needs, and the specifics of your roof. By choosing a reputable brand and a trusted supplier like Schnap.com.au, you'll be well on your way to enjoying the benefits of solar power for many years to come.