How much does a solar inverter cost?

A solar inverter costs $1,500 to $3,000 total on average for a medium-sized solar-panel system installation. Solar inverter prices depend on the size and whether it's a string inverter, microinverter, or hybrid model. String inverter systems cost less up front, but systems using microinverters last longer.

What factors affect solar inverter costs?

Factors that affect solar inverter costs include: System size – Your inverter's input-wattage rating should be close to your solar panel system's output rating. U.S. residential solar panel systems typically fall in the 5 kilowatt range. Efficiency – The industry standard for peak efficiency is 97%. More efficient models often cost more.

Should you install a solar inverter yourself?

Government incentives – Homeowners can save up to 30% with the federal residential solar energy tax credit when installing the inverter with a solar photovoltaic (PV) system. DIY vs. professional install – Installing an inverter yourself saves on installation labor.

How long do solar inverters last?

String solar inverters last 10 to 15 years on average, and you'll likely need to replace the inverter much sooner than the solar panels themselves. Most microinverters last 15 to 25 years. Be sure to check the warranty time frame and coverage when choosing an inverter for your solar system.

Do solar inverters need to be replaced?

Odds are that sooner or later your inverter will need to be replaced. If you lease your installation or finance it through a power purchase agreement (PPA), just call up your solar installer and they’ll come out and replace the inverter at no cost to you (since technically they own the installation).

What is a PV energy estimate?

Estimates the energy production and cost of energy of grid-connected photovoltaic (PV) energy systems throughout the world. It allows homeowners, small building owners, installers and manufacturers to easily develop estimates of the performance of potential PV installations