Single-phase inverters - Efficient and cost-effective solution for your solar system

Single-phase inverters are a proven solution for converting direct current into alternating current for smaller solar systems. They offer reliable performance and are particularly suitable for households or smaller commercial applications. Thanks to their high efficiency, they provide a stable energy supply and are easy to install. In systems with lower energy requirements, they are a cost-effective alternative to more complex solutions.

Leading brands for 1-phase inverters

Huawei offers single-phase inverters that impress with their advanced technology and user-friendliness. They offer excellent efficiency and integrated monitoring solutions for easy performance monitoring. Fronius impresses with reliable 1-phase inverters that are characterized by high performance and robustness. Fronius devices also offer high flexibility and a long service life. SolarEdge also manufactures single-phase inverters that impress with their innovative strength and efficiency. They offer advanced functions for optimizing solar system performance and a user-friendly monitoring platform.

Single-phase inverters are an ideal choice for smaller solar installations and offer a cost-effective, reliable power conversion solution.
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What are 1-phase inverters?

 Single-phase inverters are devices that convert the direct current (DC) generated by the solar modules into alternating current (AC). These inverters are particularly suitable for smaller solar systems in private households or small commercial applications. They offer a simple and cost-effective solution for energy conversion and are ideal for moderate energy requirements. A single-phase inverter is typically used for systems where the power requirement is in the range of up to 10 kW.

How do 1-phase inverters work?

 Single-phase inverters convert the direct current generated by the solar modules directly into alternating current, which is then fed into the power grid or used on site. They are easy to install and are characterized by stable performance with moderate power consumption. The conversion is efficient, maximizing the overall energy yield of the solar system.

Advantages of 1-phase inverters

Single-phase inverters offer numerous advantages, especially for smaller solar systems and private applications. Here are some of the most important advantages:

Cost-effective:
  •  1-phase inverters are typically less expensive than 3-phase inverters, making them an attractive option for smaller solar installations. They offer a cost-effective solution for converting direct current to alternating current without incurring unnecessary expenses.

Easy installation:
  •  Because 1-phase inverters are a less complex technology compared to 3-phase inverters, they are easier and quicker to handle during installation. This can lead to lower installation costs and faster commissioning.

Ideal solution for smaller systems:
  •  1-phase inverters are particularly suitable for smaller solar systems, such as those found in private households or smaller commercial applications. They offer an efficient and simple way to feed the generated electricity into the grid when the energy demand is moderate.

Low maintenance costs:
  •  1-phase inverters generally require less maintenance and have less risk of failure compared to more complex 3-phase inverters due to their simpler technology.

Flexibility in residential buildings:
  •  For private homes or smaller buildings, which generally only have a single-phase power supply, 1-phase inverters offer perfect integration without the need to upgrade to a 3-phase infrastructure. They enable uncomplicated adaptation to existing power systems.

Energy efficiency with lower demand:
  •  For households with moderate energy consumption, 1-phase inverters offer high efficiency. They reliably convert the energy generated without wasting resources on unneeded capacity.

Disadvantages of 1-phase inverters

Single-phase inverters offer an efficient solution for smaller solar systems, but they also have some limitations that should be considered in certain applications:

Limited power for larger systems:
  •  1-phase inverters are limited in their power capacity and are therefore only suitable for smaller solar systems, usually with an energy requirement of up to 10 kW. For larger systems that need to generate more energy, 3-phase inverters are the better choice.

Unsuitable for larger commercial systems:
  •  In commercial applications with high energy demands, such as industrial facilities or large offices, 1-phase inverters may not provide enough power or efficiency as they cannot distribute the load as evenly as 3-phase inverters.

Less efficient power distribution:
  •  Compared to 3-phase inverters, which provide a more even distribution of generated power, 1-phase inverters may operate more inefficiently when load demand is greater. Performance losses can occur, particularly with larger load peaks or high energy requirements.

Less flexibility with grid connections:
  •  In regions where the power grid is more oriented towards 3-phase power supply, 1-phase inverters can lead to problems, especially with grid connection capacity and stability. 3-phase inverters offer better integration into these systems.

Less suitable for expansions:
  •  If a solar system is to be expanded in the future, 1-phase inverters offer less flexibility than 3-phase systems. An expansion with 3-phase inverters is often easier and more efficient.

Leading suppliers of 1-phase inverters on SolarTraders

Huawei offers innovative 1-phase inverters with high efficiency and advanced performance monitoring features. These devices are characterized by their reliability and user-friendly integration.
Fronius supplies reliable 1-phase inverters with advanced technology and long service life. Fronius inverters offer very good performance and are particularly robust.
SolarEdge convinces with 1-phase inverters that offer high efficiency and sophisticated functions to optimize system performance. SolarEdge is known for its flexible and scalable solution that is ideally equipped for the future.
SMA offers 1-phase inverters that are known for their high reliability and performance. SMA inverters offer advanced technology and a user-friendly system performance monitoring platform, ideal for small to medium sized solar installations.
Goodwe offers cost-effective but powerful single-phase inverters that are characterized by their ease of installation and excellent energy efficiency. Goodwe is known for its user-friendly solutions that offer high system stability.

Areas of application for 1-phase inverters

Single-phase inverters are ideal for smaller solar systems, especially in private households. They are ideal for:

  • Private households: Particularly in single-family homes or small apartments where energy requirements are moderate, 1-phase inverters offer a perfect solution.
  • Small commercial applications: They are also useful in small commercial operations or office buildings where energy requirements are manageable.
  • Self-consumption: For systems that mainly consume the generated solar power themselves, 1-phase inverters offer a cost-effective and efficient solution.

Learn more about and 3-phase inverters 

3-phase inverters, on the other hand, are designed for larger solar systems and commercial applications. They ensure a more even power distribution and are the preferred choice for systems with high energy requirements, as they work more efficiently and offer a higher output.


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