Where do you recommend I put the solar inverter?

Where should I install my Solar Inverter?

By the way, if you choose microinverters such as Enphase, then the position of the inverter is not an issue, as they are located on the underside of the panel.

The ideal location for installing a solar string inverter needs to consider many factors such as available spots, exposure of that area to sunlight, electrical cable run and visual impact. Here are some hints to help you find the best available spot.

Closeness to the meter board

Ideally, the inverter is not too far from the meter board, as long cable runs cost more money in copper wire and conduits and installation time. Also, one will lose generated electricity if the cable run is very long. So ideally, being close to the meter board should be one consideration.

Closeness to solar panels

For the same reasons, the string inverter should be installed as close as possible to the solar panels. This minimises power losses due to long DC cable runs.  Also, if the cable has to be too long, a thicker copper cable will be required eg from 4mm upsized to 6 mm or from 6 mm upsized to 10 mm diameter. Thicker copper wire cables add significantly to the cost of materials.

Shielded from rain and sun

If you have a garage near the meter box, one of the garage walls would be perfect for the inverter. We recommend protecting the inverter from exposure to extreme weather conditions, such as rain, direct sunlight or a very dusty area.  Consider installing the inverter in a sheltered space or even a weatherproof enclosure with a sunshade roof to ensure a longer life.  We have seen inverters below broken gutters, getting a decent direct shower every time it rains. While inverters are often IP 54 or better, having water flow directly on the inverter will lead to issues and is definitely not safe.

Sufficient surrounding free space

String inverters convert DC electricity to AC electricity, and this conversion process generates heat. That’s why string inverters by design, have a heat sink or cooling fans So it is not advisable to cram an inverter right between two air-conditioning units with little chance for airflow. It’s essential to allow inverter ventilation and cooling, so choose a location with good airflow. Built-up heat can shorten the working life of an inverter.

Not too low and not too high

The Australian Standards prescribe certain minimum and maximum heights an inverter needs to be installed.  In Victoria, per ESV.vic.gov.au, the minimum height from the ground to the bottom of the inverter has to be 500 mm or 50 cm. This is to, for example, protect the equipment from minor flooding. The maximum height to the top of the inverter is 2 meters above ground – and this is simply for reasons of future access.

Being able to get to it easily in the future

While quality inverters should last a long time (Crappy ones have died in as little as 3 months), one will still have to be able to access it for maintenance or future repairs. So the best location is one, where access will not be restricted in future years. For example, do not install it right behind a small bushy tree, as in future years the tree growth could become an issue.

Does not stare you in the face

I have seen bright red, blue or yellow inverters sitting near the driveway or close to the entrance door. In one instance, an installer even felt above the gas meter was a good spot for this electric equipment. In general, many people seek not to show off their PV inverter, so a less visually prominent spot, on the side of the house is possibly the better option.

The best four locations for an inverter, in summary, are:

1. Inside a garage or basement
2. Under an awning or overhang
3. On a southern-facing wall with good ventilation
4. On a covered porch

Keep in mind that the above info is general tips, and it’s always advisable to consult with a professional solar installer as to the pros and cons of various options.