Choosing the right solar inverter is the most important decision when building your load shedding backup system. The inverter is the brain of your solar setup, converting DC power from batteries and solar panels into AC power for your home. This guide will help you select the perfect inverter for your needs.
Understanding Inverter Types
Off-Grid Inverters
Off-grid inverters work independently from the municipal grid, using only batteries and solar panels for power.
Best for:
- Complete energy independence
- Areas with unreliable grid power
- Homes wanting to disconnect from Eskom entirely
- Simpler, more affordable systems
Popular models: Deye 5kW-20kW, Esener 1kW-5.2kW, Growtech Axpert GT series
Hybrid Inverters
Hybrid inverters can use grid power, solar panels, and batteries simultaneously, automatically switching between sources for optimal efficiency.
Best for:
- Homes staying connected to the grid
- Maximum flexibility and efficiency
- Reducing electricity bills while maintaining grid backup
Popular models: Solis 5kW-15kW Hybrid series
Deye vs Solis vs Esener vs Growtech: Brand Comparison
Deye Inverters (Best Value)
Range: 5kW - 20kW (single and three-phase)
Strengths:
- Excellent price-to-performance ratio
- Proven reliability in SA conditions
- Wide power range for any home size
- Strong local support network
Best for: Budget-conscious buyers wanting reliable off-grid power
Pricing: R12,000 - R45,000 (inverter only)
Solis Inverters (Premium Choice)
Range: 5kW - 15kW hybrid and off-grid
Strengths:
- Advanced hybrid functionality
- Excellent monitoring and smart features
- High efficiency (97%+)
- Premium build quality
Best for: Homeowners wanting the best technology and staying grid-connected
Pricing: R18,000 - R55,000 (inverter only)
Esener Inverters (Budget-Friendly)
Range: 1kW - 5.2kW
Strengths:
- Most affordable option
- Perfect for small to medium homes
- Good local support
Best for: First-time solar buyers, small homes, tight budgets
Pricing: R6,000 - R16,000 (inverter only)
Growtech Axpert GT (High Power)
Range: 3.6kW - 11kW
Strengths:
- High power output for larger homes
- Advanced features and monitoring
- Excellent build quality
Best for: Larger homes needing 6kW+ power
Pricing: R15,000 - R38,000 (inverter only)
How to Calculate Required Inverter Size
Your inverter must handle your peak power demand plus a safety margin.
Step 1: Calculate Peak Load
List all appliances you might run simultaneously during load shedding:
Example household:
- Fridge: 150W running, 600W startup
- Lights (10 LED bulbs): 100W
- TV: 100W
- WiFi router: 20W
- Laptop chargers (2): 120W
- Security system: 50W
Peak simultaneous load: 600W (fridge startup) + 100W + 100W + 20W + 120W + 50W = 990W
Add 30% safety margin: 990W × 1.3 = 1,287W
Recommended inverter: 2kW minimum
Common Inverter Sizes for Different Homes
1kW - 2kW: Small apartments, essential loads only
3kW - 5kW: Average 3-bedroom home (most appliances except geyser and stove)
6kW - 8kW: Large homes, multiple appliances, small businesses
10kW+: Very large homes, geyser on timer, complete home backup
Key Features to Look For
Must-Have Features:
- MPPT Solar Charge Controller: Maximizes solar panel efficiency
- Pure Sine Wave Output: Essential for sensitive electronics
- Battery Compatibility: Works with both lithium and lead-acid batteries
- Overload Protection: Prevents damage from power surges
Making Your Decision
Choose Deye if: You want proven reliability at the best price point
Choose Solis if: You want premium features, hybrid capability, and the best monitoring
Choose Esener if: You're on a tight budget and have a small home
Choose Growtech if: You need high power (6kW+) with advanced features
Ready to choose your inverter? Browse our complete range of Deye, Solis, Esener, and Growtech inverters.
Disclaimer: All pricing, specifications, and product information mentioned in this guide are for illustration purposes only. Actual costs may vary based on current market pricing, availability, installation requirements, and specific system configurations. Product specifications are subject to change by manufacturers. Please contact Keiconnect for accurate quotes, current product availability, and personalized inverter recommendations based on your specific power requirements and budget.