Microinverters vs String Inverter - Which is best?

Microinverters vs string inverters. Are microinverters better than string inverters? Are string inverters better than microinverters? Why did I choose to install microinverters on my solar system. How you can get micro inverters cheaper than string inverters. I discuss 9 reasons why I choose Enphase microinverters over sol-ark string inverters.
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Timeline:
00:00 Introduction
00:29 What is a String Inverter
00:51 What are microinverters
01:49 #1
02:18 #2
02:31 #3
02:47 #4
03:28 #5
04:00 #6
04:25 #7
04:53 #8
05:08 #9
05:54 Conclusion
#solar #solarsystem #DIY #enphase #microinverters #stringinverters

[@SSMLivingPictures]

Please accept this small token Justin. It is but a fraction of my gratitude for your videos. I watched many of them several times and I was able to find answers I couldn't find anywhere else. The timing of you making these was perfect 😅

[@JustinsProject]

Much appreciated 🙏 I was honestly glad that I could help. Amazing job installing your own system. Feels great doesn't it 👍🏻 Appreciate the support!

[@SSMLivingPictures]

@@JustinsProject I feel like a million bucks. I've already had one neighbour come over asking questions because they have a friend who wants to go solar. The community keeps growing 😁

[@SSMLivingPictures]

Hey Justin, I just passed my electrical inspection! Your videos, and all your kind answers to my questions, were extremely helpful and MUCH appreciated! Can't thank you enough!

[@JustinsProject]

That is awesome! CONGRATULATIONS!!! Now that the hard work is over, you get to enjoy the benefits for many years to come. Soon you will have your net meter installed and you can power it on full time.

[@sheilaashley]

Awesome video Justin. I am liking the new format! Keep up the good work! 🎉

[@JustinsProject]

Thanks! Much appreciated 🙏 Trying to mix it up a tad. Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻

[@Stoutluvr]

Justin, great video once again. I have finally gotten my ground mount system up and running for a few months now. Where I am located, with the utility that I am tied to, Entergy, I have my array located at my farm. I have a condo in town and it is also served by the same utility. They allow me to associate multiple meters with one net metering location. So I am producing enough kWh at my farm to cover my farm and the leftover is covering my condo. So far, it is exceeding my expectations. I used Enphase IQ8M. They were supper easy to connect. I enjoy watching my app daily to see what I am producing every day.

[@JustinsProject]

That is awesome! I regret not doing solar 10 years ago. I'm with you on checking the Enlighten app daily 🤣 It sorta addictive don't ya think? Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻

[@Stoutluvr]

@@JustinsProject I also regret not doing it earlier myself. I’m 73 years old hoping I will live long enough to see it pay for itself. I had a good friend help me with mine. After we did mine, he decided to put panels on his roof. We did that about a month ago. His system is exactly twice as large as mine, but since it’s on his roof and not exactly facing due south, his output is about 1/3 more than mine. I’ve tried to talk some of my friends into them but haven’t had any luck. I seriously think it’s one of the best home improvement projects you can perform.

[@colinocarroll]

Nice job justin this is information that is not readily available on KZbin or anywhere else I can find on the internet. this is a basic question when wanting to build in 2023

[@JustinsProject]

Thanks. I have a solar playlist you may find helpful. Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻

[@rushyboy]

Great research and clear explanation, much appreciated.

[@JustinsProject]

Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻

[@ricoma6037]

Your logic is perfect! Thank you!!!

[@JustinsProject]

Appreciate it. Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻

[@savagecub]

Outstanding video man ! You gave an excellent “regular guy” type explanation.

[@JustinsProject]

Much appreciated 🙏 Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻

[@Superduty_59]

Thanks for the video!

[@JustinsProject]

Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻

[@sarfarash1]

Thanks for your efforts in educating the PV community! Subbed and liked! I used string a SMA sunny boy inverter with module level APsmart rapid shutdown devices to meet the code. I think you might be a bit biased about the comparison and the enphase, but 100% agree that it depends on situation. I used high power modules that no microinverter could support, so had to use string inverter. Anyway when I did the math, it didn’t make any sense to use microinverter at ~$250 each piece and use smaller modules. Those who are watching must consider the fact that microinverters cannot be paired with modules 350watts and higher! This means you are limited to use smaller modules, therefore you must use a larger number of modules and components and racking. It certainly makes your system much more expensive. I did DIY and I certainly would have considered module level monitoring but it made no sense to add up to 35% to my cost just to have module level monitoring. Shading and string inverter? Not an issue at all. That was for old technology modules. Bottom line, string inverters are still less expensive compared to microinverters in many many cases almost all cases. Simple math: Microinverters system: 10x 350w modules (say $200 ea)+ 10x IQ7 microinverters at $250 each = 10x$450= $4500 only for modules and inverters. +combiner box ~$350= $4850. Lets compare: String inverter system: 10x 350w modules (say $200 ea)+ 10x rapid shutdown device at $30 each = 10x$230= $2300 +$1500 string inverter=2300+1500=$3800. Microinverters are at least $1000 more expensive in this simple case. If your system calls for 20 modules, it will be even more expensive: (20x$450) + (2x$350)= ~$9700. But the string inverter will nit be that much expensive: (20x$230) + (~$2000 for a larger inverter)= $6600. Micro inverter system is $3000 more expensive for a 7kw system. And generally the larger the system is, the more expensive it gets to use microinverters than string inverter. I appreciate your informative videos. Please keep up the good work!

[@JustinsProject]

I appreciate this discussion. In the examples provided on 350watt panels, you would pair those with IQ7+ or IQ8+. Since the 350watt is an STC rating, I will assume the PTC rating is right at 300 to 315 watt max. On a very sunny day with no clouds. Pairing with the IQ plus model would be the correct choice. I will not use the IQ7 version for comparison, but they are the cheaper option in this equation. The IQ8+ is just at $166 ( powerstore.com/catalog/product/view/id/591?PMax_Shopping-AllStates&+adwords&{ad}&gclid=CjwKCAjwxr2iBhBJEiwAdXECw5EkIO94PcSNuSZddD8cIyCBTfl6ornw3L0TMzyUvSPl7fgk__dASRoCAqAQAvD_BwE). Using all the same numbers that were provided but pairing it with the correct version of Enphase microinverters, it brings the $4850 down to $4,010. A difference of only $210 vs the $3800. I personally bought 27 IQ7+'s for $2700. Just at $100ea. I like to shop around and find good deals though. I like string inverters also. For off grid applications, it is the only way to go. Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻

[@sarfarash1]

@@JustinsProject I am certainly not fully aware and up to date with the micro inverter pricing so your scenario/ example makes sense. Again, it varies based on the situation. Also, the dollar amount is not the button line all the time! I’d definitely pay a bit more to not deal with a huge string inverter and also to benefit from module level monitoring and longer warranty! I used 455w modules and right from the get go I realized that micro inverter don’t work with my system. Not sure how efficient they are but my string inverter is only about 75% efficient, meaning i get 3.2kw from 4kw system although today was a cloudy day. Anyways, thanks for your content and information!

[@ridemfast7625]

@@sarfarash1 I agree about cost differences. I am self installing 455w panels right now with an SMA inverter. Also, string inverters can handle large panels sizes in terms of watts. Installing 350watt panels today is silly unless you get them very cheap and have a lot of roof space. Larger panels reduce the amount of roof space required, less racking, attachments to the rafters, roof penetrations, less labor costs... Also something that is rarely mentioned is the reliability of solar panels. 5 in 10,000 fail, only .05%.

[@williambudiardjo2067]

Will get this system next month.. great video! Im going with microinverters then.. financially it will cost me a bit more than string, but Im gonna do research for the next week or 2, and then decide which provider is best. Great job man! Wish ya good progress with the channel ✊🏽

[@JustinsProject]

Awesome! Let us know what you decided to go with. Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻

[@SSMLivingPictures]

Chapters, nice. Youve upgraded your YT game man, nice work 😎

[@JustinsProject]

Thanks! Did you get your system activated? Thanks for the continued support by watching and commenting 👍🏻

[@SSMLivingPictures]

@@JustinsProject All hooked up, waiting for inspection from electrical inspector. He only does my area once a week and I had some delays (there always had to be some delays right? 😅) I'll let you know how it goes.

[@JustinsProject]

@@SSMLivingPictures We have moved from digital age to the "delayed age" 🤣 There are always delays now. Goodluck

[@Just_An_Idea_For_Consideration]

Understanding Micro Inverter Ecosystem I have been wanting to understand micro inverters for a long time. Unfortunately no one explains in detail this type of inverter ecosystem. Your explanation is great, but: Here are my QUESTIONS, for your future videos, or to answer in a reply: 1) when you daisy chain multiple micro inverters onto the backbone wire, how do they stay in phase with one another? 2) when you have multiple runs (backbone runs) how does each run stay in phase with the other runs? 3) how do you wire multiple runs into an AC breaker box, to then be distributed for use to the house or building? 4) How do you store energy from these micro inverters which output 240V AC into a DC battery bank? 5) how do you get energy out of the battery bank and into the AC Breaker Panel, and keep it in phase with the input from the micro inverter runs? 6) How do you get Split Phase out of each run and maintain sync across multiple runs, and how to wire split phase into the breaker panel from multiple runs? I have more questions, but if you could answer those in depth, it would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.

[@JustinsProject]

Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻 I will put out videos in the future that help answer those questions.

[@MohammadAhmad-vd7ww]

Thanks, such a very helpful information

[@JustinsProject]

Glad it was helpful! Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻

[@MrGhostsword]

I am in South Africa and we are having serious issues with power.. but the whole shebang of string inverters is a big outcome.. One should be able to use one panel, and one inverter.. sometimes we just need 100w of power.. to charge phones, etc.. or even to charge a power bank.. so I am super happy that micro inverters exist.. the next step is to get enphase to south africa, but will bring a few to try out. Did not know about the enphase university, so will take some courses so I at least be able to setup my home. thanks for the video.

[@JustinsProject]

Hello 👋🏻 from across the globe! Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻

[@Desertphile]

Thank you.

[@JustinsProject]

You're welcome! Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻

[@scrapyardwars]

Cheers reviewing. I have shade although south facing and was going to do an sma sunny boy system woth 3 string inverters on sperate roofs. with no storage and add later. This puts my whole idea into question and I need to look at microinverters now thanks.

[@JustinsProject]

I am glad it was helpful. Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻

[@cjbiron77]

Im reluctant to go with microinverters, because the batteries are two to three times the price compared to batteries that are compatible with string inverters. Plus with string inverters you have dozens more options for batteries.

[@JustinsProject]

Thanks for watching and commenting

[@mas11ful]

One disadvantage that you do not address is that if there is no 120vac present, the inverter will not work. It needs AC signal to sync to the system. The reason I know is that when Edison had a power outage, the panels worked but no AC was present at the output. So with out AC present, no output to your system.

[@JustinsProject]

I agree. I should have pointed that out. I will try to make a new video on this topic in the near future. There are so many new options now that I would love to discuss with everyone. Thanks for watching and commenting

[@Booh833]

Good advice.One disadvantage and it's significant is that,should one or more microinverters fail on a roof,you may have to take into account the cost of scaffolding to replace.

[@JustinsProject]

Definitely. However, if you have a ground mounted system that would not be an issue.

[@danielbass6991]

Thanks for the video. I am looking at installing a small 10 panel system on a 30 ft trailer. I had planned on a string system but have recently become concerned that shading could be a serious issues for me as it is mobile. My systems is an off grid so there will be some additional complexities.

[@JustinsProject]

If you haven’t looked into solaredge or tigo optimizers, take a look at those. If I were building an off-grid system, I would go that route. Hope that helps. Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻

[@Electronzap]

Sounds good.

[@JustinsProject]

Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻

[@grahamwhite7611]

Hi Justin - thanks for all your videos about your Solar setup. Really useful to us, just learning the basics. I seem to be a bit confused about one aspect of the Enphase IQ7+ and hope you may be able to clarify for me please. The IQ7+ is described as compatible with 60/72 cell panels, but when I look for panels, most of the 400(ish) Watt ones seem to be 124 or 144 Cell. Am I misunderstanding something? Thanking you in anticipation of response. Keep up the good work ;-)

[@JustinsProject]

Here is a blog post I put out on the Enphase IQ7/IQ8 www.justinsproject.com/enphase-iq8-vs-iq7-microinverters-which-one-should-you-buy/ You will find a chart in there on what they are capable with. Also there is a link to Enphase compatibility checker so you can ensure the microinverter are compatible with the panels you are looking at. Hope that helps. Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻

[@grahamwhite7611]

@@JustinsProject Thanks for taking the trouble to send the link Justin. Really appreciated

[@solarmandave]

Great video. I’m planning my system using micro inverters. My question is where can I purchase the panels. I’m a dyier

[@JustinsProject]

Awesome stuff! Depending on your goal of ROI really. I bought mine at surplussolar.com/ - Delivered to my door. Another option would be SanTan Solar depending on what you are looking for. Hope that helps. Thanks for watching and commenting. 👍

[@MikeGrayM70]

I'm still learning about PV systems, and I know little about micro inverters or optimizers. I did make a list of string inverters and compared about 10 features of each. I have to say, Sol-Ark seems to be way overpriced for what you get. I'm not sure comparing micro inverter costs to a Sol-Ark is quite fair. But you make some great points, and I'm interested in learning more about micro inverters.

[@JustinsProject]

Even compared to Solaredge inverters and adding optimizers, the microinverters come in cheaper and provide a longer standard warranty. If no optimizers are selected, then it's not a fair comparison in that scenario. However, if you're going 100% off grid, Enphase microinverters will not work for you. They must be connected to the grid. Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻

[@L4M858]

Just wonder, in a hot area like Phoenix, can micro inverters cause hot spots on the solar panel its mounted to and cause problems?

[@JustinsProject]

Honestly, I have no experience with that type of heat 😀 I think I would melt in that Phoenix summer sun. I am not sure how anything handles it. I visited Scottsdale once in late Feb and it was 95f during the day. Not sure if that was a one-off but at the time back home it was 15f outside 😂 Thanks for watching and commenting!

[@mert_ergun_]

Thanks for a very informative video! I'm curious what's your take on why a string inverter over microinverters could be a good idea.

[@JustinsProject]

If you are thinking of going 100% off the grid, then the Enphase system is not for you. Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻

[@MrThejackal99]

Justin, take a look at APSystems DS3 microinverters, they do 2 panels per microinverter. They cost about $300 CAD (30% more than USD) new but I paid $245 with some price digging. you can pay a bit to get 25yr but I think 15yr default is good enough warranty. The bird poop thing is actually not that big of an issue anymore as new panels have these diodes (3-6) to split out the panel but it still applies to shading. My system is 38 * 535w bifacial and enphase didn't even have an inverter that could handle them.

[@JustinsProject]

Now that's a situation where Enphase would not be considered. 535w panels are pretty powerful. I don't have any knowledge on the APSystem DS3 microinverters but I will look into them especially if one inverter can handle 2 535w panels. That is pretty interesting. Are the capable of building an off grid system with them also? Thanks for watching and sharing that information.

[@crixus1032]

Appreciate the video. But wondering if you included the other necessary components required for Enphase like IQ Combiner, etc. in your cost analysis? As you mention it does depend on your needs, size, and situation and there is no black and white answer IMO as to what is better AC vs DC coupled. I would say though that if you want to add a battery I would highly recommend another video showing that comparison. But not necessarily microinverter to string but more of DC coupled vs AC coupled. From my research Enphase batteries and additional components raise the price tag quite a bit and considering 3 power conversion to go from DC to AC (panel) - then AC to DC (to battery) and then DC to AC (battery back to home) may tilt the scale in the hybrid or dc coupled solutions. And as you also mention single point of failure for a single inverter is yet another angle that I actually look at the opposite approach in that the more pieces of equipment you have, especially electronics that get hot, the more points of failure and the more chance of failure. And Enphase batteries have more inverters inside them (6 to 8 if I recall - and more potential equipment failure). Again, two sides of a coin and point of view. Enphase is definitely the big dog in the market but there are good alternatives depending on your needs. Great video and would love to see more on this topic. thanks

[@JustinsProject]

I agree with you. It really depends on the owners needs. I do plan on adding battery backup to my system and will share that process with everyone. Batteries blow any budget lol they are stupid expensive. Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻

[@godisnowhere4u]

question can microinverters be mixed and matched .. what i mean is .. if in a couple or more years .. your version 7 units .. say 3 of them fail .. but version 7 are no longer available .. all that is now being sold is .. version 8 or version 9 .. can 3 be added or the whole string need be upgraded thanx

[@JustinsProject]

That is a very good question. Short answer is no. 7's, 6's and older are not compatible with the 8's. To future proof yourself a little better - 8's are recommended. However, Enphase will have capabilities of producing replacements on the 7's or 6's for their 25yr warranty promise. Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻

[@sibiramanan7215]

Hi I have one question in micro system there is no spds on the DC side only AC side spds are there where as in string system spds are provided on both sides of inverter. Isn't that unsafe for the micro system.

[@JustinsProject]

Micro Inverters (especially Enphase) are very safe. Each one is equipped with their own rapid shut down and surge protection.

[@lindaferguson593]

Looking to build a system. Leaning towards microinverters. Did you say these protect against emp? Elaborate please. Looking at 18 panels of blue sun 460W Half-Cell Bifacial Solar Panels (silver) Up to 575W with Bifacial gain. Paired with 6-EG4 Lithium Ion Phosphate server rack batteries. Life Power 4. With a total of 30.72kwh power.

[@JustinsProject]

Those are some high output panels. Even though those are probably the STC ratings, it will be tough pairing the Enphase microinverters with something that high of an output. Even with IQ8H, the max output would be 384w per panel. Might be ok with regular 460w panels, but if the up to rating is 575w, you may be wasting energy at the panel because the microinverter can't keep up at peak sunlight. Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻

[@jeremycrisp4488]

I'm going to be doing the enphase university so I can get the warranty on my inverters. Was it pretty easy? Was there anything that was difficult?

[@JustinsProject]

I was very informative and easy to follow. You can do it at your own pace. It was not difficult at all. Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻

[@MarijanAdam]

Just wanted to point out that you used a "hybrid" inverter (Sol-Ark) for your price comparison argument and that is not an apples to apples comparison.... a top of the line 7.5kW-8kW string(aka grid-tie) inverter like Fronius costs only about $2k. So if you price out such an inverter with Tigo optimizers and compare it to Enphase IQ8+ micro inverters, string inverter solution will be cheaper. Based on AltE Store pricing there is about 20% savings by going the string inverter route. I myself use Enphase micro inverters as well, but price was definitely not one of the factors in its favor 😅

[@JustinsProject]

Fair enough, I picked the premiums in each category. Maybe I should have compared it to Solaredge over Sol-Ark. Because Solaredge builds the inverters and optimizers as a system like Enphase does with it's components top to bottom. Still, on a system like mine 27 panels. The Solaredge inverter & optimizers would be right at $4700. I can get 27 Enphase IQ8M's for just at $4700 also. I went with 27 IQ7+'s and I have around $2700 in mine. I will admit, in some scenarios string inverters are superior. That's a whole other video though. What makes this all very interesting is that every system is different and each owner has their own set of goals. Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻

[@yinyang8496]

Can they be used ongrid or off-grid? What are the setup options?

[@JustinsProject]

Microinverters are used in grid connected systems. If you are looking for an off-grid system I would recommend string inverters or an all in one system like the Bluetti EP800 - I just installed one at my place. Very impressive. I made a couple videos on that so far.

[@booyoou21]

I'm planning to do a ground micro inverter solar system

[@JustinsProject]

Awesome. Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻

[@sainath71]

I would like micro inverter. thank you

[@JustinsProject]

Thanks for watching and commenting! 👍

[@fb510m]

Nice reasons f the micro inverters

[@JustinsProject]

Thx for watching and commenting

[@manorenjreghunathan4304]

It seems newer version of micro inverter is not compatible with older versions? In 25 yrs so much will change... Just for one micro inverter failure will I have to replace all micro inverter due to compatibility issues?

[@JustinsProject]

True, but that goes for all solar equipment. Thanks for watching and commenting!

[@snorttroll4379]

how does one tell if ones panel has diodes that make shade no problem?

[@JustinsProject]

The easiest way is to check the manufacturers data sheets. If not listed there, reach out to them. Check out how good their customer service is. Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻

[@muyaad]

What defeats all the features you are talking about is if grid goes down your all system goes down with it as well as your Microinverters are useless at night. In other hand, the string inverters are useful day and night because they’re dependent on solar panels, grid and batteries for the backups. Sun goes down it doesn’t cripple the system. Grid stops working no issue.

[@JustinsProject]

You can connect microinverters to batteries. The Enphase IQ8 microinverters do offer some backup even when the grid is down during sunlight hours. I agree that string inverters are the right choice if someone is going completely off-grid though. Thanks for watching and commenting. 👍

[@carlosreyes6448]

Are micro inverters, only used for grid tied? Im doing off grid. With no shading in my area.

[@JustinsProject]

If you are not connecting to the grid, you would want to explore string inverters for sure. Microinverters are designed to be connected to the grid. Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻

[@carlosreyes6448]

@@JustinsProject yes, I have a victron energy pure sine wave inverter, that I plan on using. I appreciate your help.

[@crcurran]

I think they are great and Enphase the best especially their latest IQ8+. Its a great way to go, for now. The biggest problem with microinverters is conversion loss. All your solar is converted to AC from DC losing some of it to heat. Then if you want to store it in stationary batteries you have to convert to DC again. That's a lot of loss. It gets worse if DC Chargers for EVs with V2H/V2G become available. You'll want all that DC solar to go to your EVs DC battery without conversions. It's problematic to go solar DC to AC to DC again to arrive at it's destination. I think now microinverters are a good way to go but keep an eye on your goals within the next five years to optimize your solar energy use. Selling excess power to the grod and buying it later can go away so prepare for optimizing later.

[@JustinsProject]

Appreciate the insight. Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻

[@byz9434]

Except for Enphase, what brands do you recommend to buy in terms of price and quality?

[@JustinsProject]

Good question, and it's like you read my mind. I'm actually working on a video on that very subject. I hope to have that out in a couple of days. Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻

[@cgutowski471]

Wanted to do an enphase setup but my utility in North Carolina is a buy all/sell all for grid tie. They buy from me at $0.01 KW and sell to me at $0.12 KW. Doesn’t make sense financially. Off grid (critical loads panel) with string inverter is the only way to go.

[@JustinsProject]

$0.01 for your hard work and efforts versus $0.12 for theirs. Those are the scenarios where I can't understand where the local government claim to support alternative energy but their actions don't support their actions. I agree when it comes to off-grid I would be looking at string inverters and optimizers 😁 Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻

[@5stardave]

I have found it easier to change an inverter on the wall in the garage than micro inverters on the roof. Seeing that my led lighting, mini-split, ham radio and fridge freezers are all DC, it doesn't make sense for me to have panels produce DC power and be inverted to AC on the roof then be converted back to DC to be stored in the batteries and used by the system when I can just use an indoor inverter the few times I need it. If my panels were a ground mount, maintenance wouldn't be an issue.

[@JustinsProject]

I agree. Depending on one's goals would really dictate which would be best to go with. I like both string inverters, microinverters, and now the newer ESS modular systems.

[@medavis]

You missed one big benefit of microinverters - adding capacity. If, down the road, you need to add capacity (which is fairly likely to happen for most owners as solar panels degrade and energy requirements increase), it's a lot easier to add an additional panel + microinverter to a PV system than it is to add another panel in serial to a string inverter system.

[@JustinsProject]

Very good point. Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻

[@EL-bw3xe]

the only problem with the enphase micro inverter and battery is it connects to an app you download on your phone. they need to make a monitor or device you can connect to laptop to monitor your enphase battery. they make an enphase thermostat but i dont see enphase making a remote monitor display. i like the single string inverter because you dont need internet or an app on your phone to monitor and use the equiptment.

[@JustinsProject]

You can monitor Enphase on a website. enlighten.enphaseenergy.com on any device you would like. I like both string and micro-inverters. Thanks for watching and commenting! 👍

[@UK-Expat-in-USA]

I have 8KW LG panels and Enphase micro-inverters and a Tesla power wall, just hit the 3 year mark and had 0 "Zero" issues with the system, a family friend went with a whole house inverter and did not realize for 2 months during summer their inverter had died. I will never go with a system with a single point of failure, if we should sell and put solar on a new home it will be Enphase !!!

[@JustinsProject]

Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻

[@YesImhymn]

Does it matter how large a project is for micro inverters? My solar guy is saying that 64 panels is too much for microinverters to be efficient

[@JustinsProject]

I have seen 200kw systems using microinverters. 64 would not be a problem if the correct protocols were followed. Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻

[@randymoberg897]

You should compare standard string inverters like SMA, Fronius, etc, to enphase not a Hybrid like Sol-Ark.

[@JustinsProject]

Maybe in the next one I will. Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻

[@ridemfast7625]

One BIG reason to go with a string inverter is they can support large panels sizes. While also reducing the number of panels on the roof, weight on roof, reducing the amount of roof space required, less labor for installation, less racking... And its rarely mentioned that solar panela failures a 5 in 10,000, .05%. Panels are very reliable minimizing any requirement to manage and monitor them.

[@JustinsProject]

Awesome! Thanks for watching and commenting! 👍

[@Ibian666]

How about using a regular controller per panel?

[@JustinsProject]

I'm not sure about that. I have not tried or researched doing that.

[@sarfarash1]

You can use apsmart or Tigo or Solar edge optimizers per module. It is still less expensive than the micro inverters and you meet the code as well.

[@SpencerLAPower]

You do not have to add optimizers to a string inverter if it's on the ground mount which would be way cheaper with the string inverter

[@JustinsProject]

Optimizers are not required for a regular string inverter. However, if you are looking to have similar monitoring capabilities, then the optimizers will be required.

[@nielsdaemen]

If you read the *LIMITED* warranty conditions of Enphase, you'l see they can give you back *"market value,"* if the product is no longer in production. So if it dies after 10 years you might get back 10 $

[@JustinsProject]

On the other side of that is that most warranties for string inverters is just 10 years. So you would get zero from that. I like both string inverters and micro inverter. Each have their purpose.

[@redrockdesign966]

SolArk is supposedly hardened to EMP. Would the Enphase microinverters get fried in an EMP event?

[@JustinsProject]

From my research, they are supposedly protected.

[@ScoopDogy]

I use a Sol-Ark 12k at my home. Don't know the capabilities of your setup but I can add any battery chemistry, pretty much, to my inverter AND a generator. Therefore, I'm good after dark and during power outages. A major plus toward my goal of energy independence.

[@JustinsProject]

Good work! Congrats 👏 I have found there are pros and cons to no matter what setup anyone has. I am glad to see people enjoying solar. Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻

[@Pleiadian-lq9vm]

Sir, Sol-ark isn't just an inverter though. It's also a charge controller. and some have 2 or 3 charge controllers. so that price is for the inverter plus multiple charge controllers.... You don't need a Sol-ark if you have no batteries...

[@JustinsProject]

Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻

[@SmedleyButler1]

What about batteries? You have to $5k device to wire in batteries or whats a better value?

[@JustinsProject]

What is the $5k device you are referring to, to wire batteries? Thanks for watching and commenting.

[@eduali23en]

Me I what to make a 14k system but company what to charge hell to much

[@JustinsProject]

Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻

[@jessematchey4802]

With the rate at which solar tech advances, a 25 year warranty isn’t worth much… for example…look at panels from even 10 years ago versus today’s

[@JustinsProject]

Definitely, things are advancing super quick. Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻

[@twosawyers]

Enphase is sounding more like the Apple of micro inverters..

[@JustinsProject]

That can be a good thing or a bad thing depending on one's opinion of Apple. Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻

[@rickybosephus2036]

Warranties are for the life of the company not the product.

[@JustinsProject]

Actually, Enphase warranty is for the product.

[@Zorlig]

You don't need optimizers on a string inverter. That's just false.

[@JustinsProject]

They are not required and you don't need them BUT to achieve panel-level optimization and similar reporting to what Enphase offers through their Enlighted App, you do. I did not state that they were absolutely necessary to run a string inverter. I was simply referring to having the same capabilities as a microinverter then pairing a string inverter with optimizers is necessary. If I am wrong on that please point me in the right direction on what string inverter and model can report on individual panels without having an optimizer paired with it. Thanks for watching and commenting.

[@Zorlig]

@@JustinsProject the benefits of panel level optimization aren't what people think, and are pretty minimal. It's a lie the micro inverter sales people tell. You can find real testing showing a minimal impact. As far as getting panel level statistics... Why? The downside of optimizers is that when they fail you have to replace them in less than convenient places. And they will fail, warranty doesn't stop that or pay for the install. A string inverter inside is less likely to fail due to not getting so hot, and much easier to fix if it actually did.

[@JustinsProject]

@@Zorlig What I stated is true, and you called me a liar. Something that I am not. I am not trying to sell anyone on one or the other. I am just highlighting the reasons I choose to use microinverters. I personally like a Solar system whether it has microinverters or string inverters. Each has PROS and CONS. It's an easy debut no matter what side of the fence one stands on. I don't trust the solar sales reps for a second. Whether they are selling me string inverters or microinverters. So many lies they told me it is not funny. From a user point of view, the data I can see about my system ( I have the installer toolkit access) is even more than the average user can see (but available to DIY installers) there is a lot to learn about a system analyzing that data. If a panel fails (hopefully it doesn't) I can easily locate that issue. If a panel is underperforming I can locate and remedy that issue really easy. With a string inverter, you can get that type of insight but only if you pair them with optimizers. Again, If I am wrong please provide me with the string inverter model that can provide that type of insight without additional hardware.

[@dickthompson8018]

Some codes require something at each panel on roof mounts for rapid disconnect with string inverters.

[@BullCheatFR]

You are comparing apples to oranges. You can throw any 48V battery at the sol-ark and go off-grid, or export your power at a different time of the day, or save on demand charges...

[@JustinsProject]

It's very nice to have those options, but realistically, most system owners will never change a system format after the initial installation. For us who like to test things out, that's a different story. I like both hybrid inverters and micro inverters. Of course, for different reasons. Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻

[@BullCheatFR]

@@JustinsProject that's correct, but the sol-ark inverter is a lot more capable, which is partially why it's more expensive...

[@JustinsProject]

@BullCheatFR It really depends on the functions that are important to the end user. With all the new technologies and companies releasing some new great products, I do need to revisit this topic sometime soon.

[@cammasuda544]

Why did you compare to solark. They are military grade and are inherently more expensive and will almost never make sense to install on your average residential home. You also leave out the fact about how much extra time you had to spend jeopardizing your life or at least limbs doing Enphase. Plus the 27 conversions gives you less output power bc of MATH 😂! If anything you should have used ap systems for Micro inverters which brings me to my biggest issue a micro inverter is not always a one panel to one inverter ratio. As soon as you didn’t actually know what a micro inverter actually is , I checked out. 😂But congrats on your own install personally it’s not an investment I’d want to do without actual field knowledge so congrats and good luck

[@JustinsProject]

I appreciate your opinion. I do have a question on your comment. How did I jeopardize my life by using Enphase?

[@glee21012]

1. You do not need optomizers with a string inverter, it is OPTIONAL (just because you get bird shit doesn't mean we all do) 2. MC cable is allowed for DC, you don't know the NEC 690 very well (690.31 in 2017 and 2020), no EMT required 3. Micro inverters require you to get AC coupled batteries, Enphase requires it be compatible with THEIR system Explain that to your listeners instead of pushing Enphase propaganda.

[@JustinsProject]

To answer your statements: Yes, optimizers are optional and not a requirement. But if you want monitoring capabilities and system optimization that is equal to micro inverters then the system owner will want optimizers. Using MC would make no economic sense in damp or wet conditions because the NEC states the following for MC to be allowed: NEC 330.10A (11) in damp or wet locations where a corrosion-resistant jacket is provided over the metallic covering. I agree that if a system owner was installing batteries then microinverters would not be my choice either. I would be looking into high-quality all-in-one string inverters. Like Sol-Ark and EG4 18k Just to be clear, I am not pushing any Enphase propaganda. I do think they make a great product and provide exceptional service though. It is the right choice for everyone? No, I don't think it is. Thanks for watching and commenting.

[@adairjanney7109]

you didnt need the optimizers whatever the hell those are

[@JustinsProject]

They are not required, but to have the similar functionality of a microinverter, optimizers are required. However, if the system owner does not want those they can save some money. Solaredge or Tigo optimizers are some good choices if someone wants to install them to a string inverter system. Thanks for watching and commenting.

[@WesternIronwoks]

This list is obviously a biased list,you talk about warranty and only compare 1 brand and then you use examples for what is best for your skills instead of what would be best for people watching this video. Maybe rethink your videos before you post them and someone gets bad information for their system they are building. At least you are a small channel and have time to correct how you produce videos.

[@JustinsProject]

Sorry you feel that way. My whole channel is to help people save but still have high-quality equipment. There aren't many of us out there trying to share this information openly and freely. Maybe you have checked out my other solar videos since posting, and you will see that I am all about helping people.

[@torahislife]

solar SALESMAN... never interested in whats good for the customer. Why not give the positives of string inverters for the homeowners doing their own systems?

[@JustinsProject]

Haha, I have videos on string inverters also. Thanks for watching and commenting

[@torahislife]

@@JustinsProject OK, fair enough. But you present as a salesman, not as a consumer looking to avoid the solar scammers

[@JustinsProject]

@torahislife That's unfortunate, I have videos showing people how to install this system to avoid solar scammers and save 10's of thousands of $$$. I also have videos discussing what I would do differently and how to save money by building everything as a DIY and where to buy from. Hopefully, you will check out some of those out and find that I do my very best to be as transparent as possible with my viewers. There are a lot of good options out there for grid tied or off grid systems... microinverters, hybrid inverters, optimizers, and so on. I think all of them.

[@georgechevalier6658]

You lost me at DIY

[@JustinsProject]

🤣 Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻

[@fvrrljr]

*photovoltaic / solar thermal technician* here: i approve this message

[@JustinsProject]

It is that time of year 😁 Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻