Should your inverter size match your solar panel size?

Match your inverter to your lifestyle, not just your roof. If you’re running a fridge, home office, and PS5 all day, size accordingly. If you’re barely home, go leaner. Here’s the cheat code: your inverter size should usually match your solar panel system’s size in kilowatts.

How do you size a solar inverter?

Below, we’ll walk through the three essential steps for sizing your solar inverter properly. Your first step is understanding how much power your solar panels will produce—this is known as your solar array size. It’s typically measured in kilowatts (kW) and calculated by summing up the wattage of all your solar panels.

How do I choose a solar inverter?

Knowing your array size allows you to choose an inverter that can handle that production efficiently—without over- or under-investing in capacity. The second step is understanding your system’s DC-to-AC ratio, one of the most important metrics when sizing a solar inverter.

What size inverter do I Need?

Inverters come in different sizes starting from as little as 125 watts. The typical inverter sizes used for residential and commercial applications are between 1 and 10kW with 3 and 5kW sizes being the most common. With such an array of options, how do you find the right size for you? An inverter works best when close to its capacity.

Why should you choose a solar inverter size?

Inverters play a vital role in converting the direct current (DC) generated by your solar panels into usable alternating current (AC) for your home. Selecting the proper inverter size ensures that your solar system operates at its full potential, ultimately impacting energy savings and system longevity.

How much power does a solar inverter need?

First up—your solar panel output. If your panels produce 6kW, your inverter should match that or come close. You don’t need a perfect 1:1 ratio, but don’t underpower it either. That’s like putting cheap tyres on a Ferrari.