# Solar Inverter Guide: String vs Micro vs Hybrid

> What a solar inverter does, the difference between string, micro and hybrid inverters, how to size one, and what to look for on the datasheet — for Indore homes and businesses.

Canonical: https://geniussolarservices.com/learn/solar-inverter-guide

A solar inverter converts DC power from the panels into AC for your home and the grid, tracks the array's maximum power point (MPPT) and shuts down during grid outages for safety. String inverters are the standard for Indian rooftops: one inverter handles a string of panels, offering the best cost and simple service. Microinverters sit under each panel and help on heavily shaded or multi-direction roofs but cost more. Hybrid inverters add a battery for backup. Inverters typically last 10–15 years with 5–10 year warranties.

- **Standard choice:** String inverter
- **Typical life:** 10–15 years
- **Warranty:** 5–10 years
- **Efficiency:** ≈97–98.5%


## What the inverter does

1. **Converts** DC to grid-quality AC.
2. **Tracks** the maximum power point (MPPT) as sunlight changes.
3. **Synchronises** with the grid's voltage and frequency.
4. **Protects**: shuts down during outages (anti-islanding) and on faults.
5. **Reports**: most models log generation and send it to a phone app.

## String vs micro vs hybrid

| | String inverter | Microinverters | Hybrid inverter |
|---|---|---|---|
| Where | Wall-mounted, one per system | One behind each panel (or pair) | Wall-mounted with battery |
| Cost | Lowest | Highest | Medium–high |
| Shading tolerance | Good with multiple MPPTs | Best | Good |
| Backup in outage | No | No | Yes (with battery) |
| Service access | Easy, at eye level | On the roof | Easy |
| Best for | Most homes and businesses | Complex, shaded, multi-angle roofs | Outage-prone sites |

## Sizing the inverter

The inverter is normally rated close to the array size — a 3 kW array with a 3 kW inverter. A **DC:AC ratio** slightly above 1 (e.g. 3.3 kWp of panels on a 3 kW inverter) is common and improves morning and evening output with minimal clipping at noon. If you plan to expand, an inverter one size larger saves replacing it later.

## Single-phase or three-phase

Your inverter must match your connection. Homes up to about 5 kW are often single-phase; larger homes and businesses are usually three-phase. We check your sanctioned load and phase during the survey.

## Datasheet checklist

- Max efficiency and European/weighted efficiency (≥97%)
- Number of MPPT inputs (two helps split roofs)
- IP65 or better for outdoor/semi-outdoor mounting
- Built-in DC switch, surge protection (SPD) and anti-islanding
- Wi-Fi monitoring and a local service network
- Warranty length and how claims are handled

## Where it goes

We mount inverters at eye level, in shade where possible, with ventilation around them — inverters derate when hot. In the photos on our [projects page](/projects) you'll see them on stair-headroom walls with the AC and DC distribution boxes beside them.


Updated: 2026-09-29

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**Genius Solar Services** · G-1, Swarna Palace, Plot No. 1108, Scheme No. 114, Part 1, Vijay Nagar, Near MP Gramin Bank, Indore, Madhya Pradesh 452010 · Phone +91 98267 12299, +91 78288 12299, 0731 400 4499 · geniussolarservices@gmail.com · Mon – Sat · 10:00 am – 7:00 pm
Source: https://geniussolarservices.com