How big should the solar inverter be

How big should a solar inverter be?

To account for power losses assume an 80 percent efficiency. Your solar inverter should have a similar or slightly higher wattage rating than the DC output of your solar panels (which in this case is 4.5 kW). You can size it between 1.15 and 1.5 times larger. The rule of thumb is to size your inverter 1.25 bigger than your solar array.

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.

Why is inverter size important?

Inverter size also plays a key role in the DC-to-AC ratio—a critical design metric in any solar system. This ratio compares the total power rating of your solar panels (in DC) to the maximum output of your inverter (in AC).

How long does a solar inverter last?

The inverter handles this crucial conversion, and its size directly impacts your system's efficiency and safety. A properly sized solar inverter typically lasts 10‑15 years, though premium or microinverter units can reach 20‑25 years with good maintenance. Think of inverter sizing like choosing the right-sized engine for your car.