Inverters play an essential part in converting green energy into a stable usable current for appliances, Inverters come in different shapes sizes, and different current input and output, ranging from a low 100 watts up to 12 000 watts high amp output. Invertest are also built for different applications off-grid inverters, home inverters, and inverters used for outdoor camping and traveling.
Here we are going to look at the 10 best home inverters you can buy in 2021.
- 1. Voltronic Power – Axpert VM III 1.5kVA / 3kVA / 5 kVA
- 2. KODAK 5kW Off-Grid Inverter VMIII
- 3. Goodwe ES Series 3.6-6kVA – 100A Charger – Storage Inverter
- 4. Growatt 5kVA Off-Grid Inverter – Solar MTTP Charger Controller
- 5. Victron EasySolar 48/5000/70 MPPT 150/100 Color
- 6. Devel off-grid inverter SPE Hybrid Series
- 7. MECER Axpert MKS Hybrid off-grid inverter 5kVA/5kW 4000W MPPT 48V PF1
- 8. SUN SYNK 5kVA Hybrid Inverter (Ellies Brand)
- 9. Axpert 5Kva VP 5kVA Solar Hybrid Inverter
- 10. MLT Oasis Charger Inverter 6kVA/48V
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1. Voltronic Power - Axpert VM III 1.5kVA / 3kVA / 5 kVA
Axpert VM III is a new generation Inverter with some cool new features like a detachable screen and Bluetooth making connectivity a breeze to keep an eye on your power consumption, running in Hybrid mode, or Off-grid mode when connected to your PV array. This specific Inverter is available in three variants ranging from 1.5kVA to 5kVA.
Home Inverter Features:
- Detachable LCD screen with multiple connection ports can be mounted away from the Inverter up to 20 meters in an accessible area, for instance, you can install the inverter in your garage and run a network cable to your living areas like your kitchen or front home lobby for easy communication and keep an eye on your power consumption. The LCD will enable you to see current charging capacity from PV or usage from grid and battery
- Integrated Bluetooth that can interface with the Android app, the Watch power app is available on Google Play Store, this will enable monitoring, viewing of logs and changing of settings like charging currents and battery types, also enables to adjust the priority of source power like the Grid, PV and battery.
- USB On-The-Go Function enables easy data imports and exports, consists of Log file data and the easy saving and deployment of inverter settings.
- Replaceable Fan Design quick and easy fan replacement.
- Battery Independency inverter can supply power from PV or Grid even when battery power is not available.
- Battery equalization this function will help remove sulfation and opttemize battery lifecycle.
Conclusion:
What makes the Axper VM III a good option is when the inverter is running in Off-Grid mode, and your batteries are fully charged up it will divert PV power directly to your consumption, for instance, your home will run directly from the solar power, giving you the freedom to run the pool pump for 3 hours in the afternoon or make use of more power during the day time like doing the washing, or vacuuming carpets and all your household activities consisting of increased power consumption.
Pros and cons of the Axper VM III
Pros:
- Comes in a Small Package that packs a big punch for an Inverter
- Looks Good on the wall
- Well Priced
- Well developed
- MPPT Charger integrated 80AMP
- Compatible with a various Li-Ion battery types.
Cons:
- Fans can be noisy when under load or when charging from the solar.
- Need an electrician to install
- Need a clear understanding of how energy consumption works to configure for optimal battery life and best energy performance
If you are interested in buying this inverter you can find more info at Voltronic Power
2. KODAK 5kW Off-Grid Inverter VMIII
The KODAK Home Inverter has been updated to a new version, a tried and tested Voltronic system it’s one among the hottest and affordable inverters on the market.
It is basically an Voltronic clone and does have the same features as thr VMIII above.
The VMIII has some new improved features you’ll be able to monitor and configure your solar energy or load Shedding system the same way as the Axpert VMIII with minor changes, the menu options and app options are similar.
Conclusion
The Kodak is a Voltronic clone, with some improved parts and similar parts than the VMIII and is also an excellent inverter of choice, the only difference is the DC charging current is lower than the VMIII.
Pros and cons of the Axper VM III / KODAK
Pros:
- Comes in a Small Package at 17KG bit bigger than the VMIII
- Looks Good on the wall
- Affordable
- Well developed
- MPPT Charger integrated at 40AMP
- Compatible with a various Li-Ion battery types.
- This Inverter can parallel up 9 units.
Cons:
- Fans can be noisy when under load or when charging from the solar similar to the VMIII.
- Need an electrician to install
- Need a clear understanding of how energy consumption works to configure for optimal battery life and best energy performance
3. Goodwe ES Series 3.6-6kVA - 100A Charger - Storage Inverter
The GoodWe ES series bi-directional energy storage inverter is also a hybrid type inverter applicable with both on-grid and off-grid PV systems. It can control the flow of energy intelligently.
During the day, the PV plant generates electricity that may be provided to the hundreds, fed into the grid, or charge the battery.
The electricity stored is often released when the hundreds require it during the night. Additionally, the facility grid also can charge the storage devices via the inverter.
Home Inverter Features:
- High Charging / Discharging Capacity
- UPS Mode 0.01 Switching Over Delay. When switching over from grid to battery consumption, the delay is so short that you can’t even notice that the power went out, delivering an uninterrupted power supply.
- IP 65 Water Resistant Perfect for outdoor installation.
- Export control Easy to set up to the grid, and push power back to the grid.
Pros:
- Small Package – Packs a Punch for a residential Inverter
- Looks Good on the wall
- IP 65 Rated
- Well developed
- Fast Power Source Switching
- Intelligently control the power flow
- MPPT Charger Integrated 100AMP
- LOW Noise design (fan-less)
Cons:
- Price in South Africa is on the steep side
- Need an electrician to install
- Need a clear understanding of how energy consumption works to configure for optimal battery life and best energy performance.
4. Growatt 5kVA Off-Grid Inverter - Solar MTTP Charger Controller
The Growatt SPF 3000-5000TL HVM series Off-Grid Solar Inverter with AC input is integrated with an MPPT solar charge controller with a transformerless design that provides reliable power conversion via a small form factor design.
The Growatt is a great off-grid inverter the Growatt has all the functions you would need to withstand load shedding.
If you are looking for reliability, efficiency, and at a cost-effective price the Growatt 5kVA is ideal, with a 5-year warranty that the majority off-grid inverters do not have during this range makes the Growatt a far better choice.
The sleek modern design you’ll see and feel the build quality, it’s compatible with most of the Lithium and AGM batteries on the shelf and is straightforward to put in and straightforward to work.
Main Inverter Features:
- Integrated MPPT charge controller
- Configurable grid or solar input priority
- Optional WIFI/ GPRS remote monitoring
- Parallel for scalability
- AC input available
- Robust
- Compatible with a wide range of AGM and Lithium-ion
Pros:
- Small Design
- Looks Good on the wall
- Well developed
- Fast Power Source Switching
- Intelligently control the power flow
- MPPT Charger Integrated 60AMP
- Cost Effective
Cons:
- Need an electrician to install
- Need a professional to help you design your setup for your needs, need a clear understanding on energy consumption what you need and use.
5. Victron EasySolar 48/5000/70 MPPT 150/100 Color
The EasySolar combines a MPPT Solar Charge Controller, an inverter/charger and AC distribution in one enclosure, the inverter is straightforward to put in , with a minimum of wiring to be done. The Victron EasySolar is available in in two versions a 3000kVA and 5000kVA.
The color LCD instrument panel features two outstanding functions:
1. Prioritizes battery charging by the MPPT charge controller capable of recharging at 70AMP.
2. Connects to the web , enabling remote monitoring (VRM website).
AC distribution
The AC distribution consists of a RCD (30mA / 63A) and 4 AC outputs protected by two 10A and two 16A circuit breakers. a further 16A output is controlled by the AC input: it’ll turn on only AC is out there .
PowerAssist
Unique PowerAssist technology protects the utility or generator supply from being overloaded by adding extra inverter power when needed.
Unique solar application software
Several software programs (Assistants) are available to configure the system for various grid interactive or stand-alone application.
Home Inverter Features:
- All-in-one solar power solution including circuit breakers
- LCD Color Display for monitoring and configuration.
- PowerAssist overload protection for AC and Generators.
- Compatible with various Victron software applications.
Pros
- Well developed
- Fast Power Source Switching
- Intelligently control the power flow
- MPPT Charger Integrated 70AMP
- Low noise levels
- Easy to install
Cons:
- Be safe and get an electrician to install
- Need a professional to help you design your setup for your needs, need a clear understanding on energy consumption what you need and use.
- A bit on the large form factor.
- Also heave weighing at 48kg
- Expensive but quality is good.
6. Devel off-grid inverter SPE Hybrid Series
SPE-S series is a inverter combined with solar charge controller and AC charger, it is the professional hybrid solution for the off-grid solar system.
With the pure sine wave output you can count on the output no matter what type of coffee machine, microwave, TV, satellite, printer or other appliance you may run the power will be stable.
SPE-S series inverter charger gives the perfect performance of running loads from household appliances to office devices.
This multi-function inverter, combining functions of the inverter, battery charger and auto transfer switch to offer uninterruptible power support with portable size.
Its comprehensive LCD display offers user-configurable and easy-accessible button operation such as battery charging current, acceptable input voltage based on different applications.
Home Inverter Features:
- Pure sine wave output for sensitive and motor loads
- Built-in 80A MPPT solar charger, MAX. 4000 watt PV input
- Smart LCD for setting
- Auto switch between Utility AC and Battery with minimum 10 milliseconds as UPS
- Programmable AC Under-Voltage
- Gen starter gives boost signal to start backup generator for emergency
- Optimize battery by equalization function
- Support USB, RS485 monitoring function with specific software
Pros
- Well developed
- Fast Power Source Switching
- Intelligently control the power flow
- MPPT Charger Integrated 80AMP
- Can be Used in a array setup
Cons:
- Be safe and get an electrician to install
- Need a professional to help you design your setup for your needs, need a clear understanding on energy consumption what you need and use.
- Expensive but quality is good.
7. MECER Axpert MKS Hybrid off-grid inverter 5kVA/5kW 4000W MPPT 48V PF1
MECER Axpert MKS is provided with a 4,000 MPPT solar charge controller to maximize and regulate DC power from the PV array for charging the battery bank.
Transformer-less design provides reliable and stable power conversion in a compact size. With out a doubt, it’s worry-free to start out up motor-type loads like refrigerators, motors, pumps, compressors and laser printers also as electronic loads like TVs, Desktop Computers and battery chargers.
Home Inverter Features:
- Pure sine wave output for sensitive and motor loads
- Built-in 80A MPPT solar charger, MAX. 4000 watt PV input, 140A AC Charging Input
- Smart LCD for setting
- Auto switch between Utility AC and Battery with minimum 10 milliseconds as UPS
- Programmable AC Under-Voltage
- Battery equalization for optimized battery performance and life-cycle
- Cold start function
- Parallel operation with up to 9 units
- Parallel card and parallel cables are included
Pros
- Well developed
- Fast Power Source Switching
- Intelligently control the power flow
- MPPT Charger Integrated 80AMP
- Can be Used in a array setup
- Well Priced
Cons:
- Be safe and get an electrician to install
- Need a professional to help you design your setup for your needs, need a clear understanding on energy consumption what you need and use.
- Warranty conditions very specific
8. SUN SYNK 5kVA Hybrid Inverter (Ellies Brand)
The Sun Synk function is to effectively manage the way you power your home and is also an extremely good hybrid inverter.
Home Inverter Features and Specifications :
- Inputs:
- PV solar
- AC grid power
- Batteries
- Generator
- Output voltage – 230V AC
- Continuous power – 5000W
- Backup power – 5000W
- DC – 48V
- Battery charger – 120A
- Transfer time <= 10ms
- Battery charger adjustable for battery bank size and type
- Can charge Lead Acid and Li-ion batteries
- Li-ion battery charging self-adapts to BMS
- Solar Input
- Max power input – 5500W
- Max V DC input – 500V DC
- Max current input – 10A + 10A
- MPPTs – 2
- Multi-core processor design and advanced MPPT control
- High reliability and response speed
- Multiple operating modes:
- Battery only
- Grid-tie only
- Hybrid
- Off-grid
- Additional features
- AC couple
- 6 stages time of use settings
- IP65
- Protections
- PV input lightning protection
- Anti-islanding
- Insulation resistance detection
- Residual current
- Output short circuit
- Output overvoltage
- Arc detection
- Certifications
- NRS 097-2-1:2017, Edition 2
- Grid Regulation: UL1741, IEEE1547, VDE-ARN4105
- Safety Regulation: IEC62109-1&2, IEC62040-1
- EMC: EN61000-6-1, EN61000-6-3, FCC 15 class B
Pros
- Well developed
- Fast Power Source Switching
- Intelligently control the power flow
- MPPT Charger Integrated 120AMP
- Well Priced
- Weather proof
Cons:
- Be safe and get an electrician to install
- Need a professional to help you design your setup for your needs, need a clear understanding on energy consumption what you need and use.
9. Axpert 5Kva VP 5kVA Solar Hybrid Inverter
New Axpert version, update in design, Its comprehensive LCD display offers user configurable and easy-accessible button operation like battery charging current, AC/solar charger priority, and acceptable input voltage supported different applications.
Home Inverter Features:
- Pure sine wave solar inverter
- Selectable high power charging current
- Wide DC input range
- Selectable input voltage range for home appliances and personal computers
- Configurable AC/Solar input priority via LCD setting
- Compatible to mains voltage or generator power
- Auto restart while AC is recovering
- Overload and short circuit protection
- Smart battery charger design for optimizing battery performance
- Cold start function
Pros:
- Smart Battery Charger for optimized battery performance
- Overload Protection
- Wide DC Input Range
- Anti dust kit
- Pure sine wave solar Inverter
Cons:
- Be safe and get an electrician to install
- This unit can NOT parallel it is a stand alone unit.
- Need a professional to help you design your setup for your needs, need a clear understanding on energy consumption what you need and use.
10. MLT Oasis Charger Inverter 6kVA/48V
The Oasis inverter range offers an economical and reliable solution to the household or farmer faced with unreliable power supply or no grid electricity supply.
The inverter operates at low-voltage DC and is transformer-based, which translates to a reliable and safe product that guarantees trusted power within the harshest environments and conditions.
Home Inverter Features:
- Rated Voltage / Frequency 1ø / 230 V / 50 Hz
- Rated Output Power 6 kVA / 6kW
- Input Voltage Range 185 .. 250 V
- Input Frequency Range 42 .. 65 Hz
- Ambient Temperature -5 .. 45 °C
- Ambient Transport Temperature -25 .. 70 °C
- Maximum Ambient for Rated Power 40 °C
- Relative Humidity (Non-Condensing) 5 .. 85 %
- Maximum Altitude for Rated Power 1000 m above sea level (Power derated for High Altitude)
Pros:
- The Oasis inverter is ideal for off-grid installations where the renewable energy source is fed directly into the batteries.
- The Oasis converts the battery power into clean AC power that the load can use.
- The built-in battery charging function allows the use of a backup generator or the grid without external battery chargers.
- Full-Colour Touch Screen 4.3-inch Liquid Crystal Display Recording of the last 24h source power, load power, and battery state of charge Event logs.
- Designed for harsh environments.
- 1-phase transformer-based.
- Low-voltage DC 48V.
Cons:
- Be safe and get an electrician to install
- This unit can NOT parallel. It is a stand-alone unit.
- Need a professional to help you design your setup for your needs, need a clear understanding of energy consumption, what you need, and what use.
- Weight 57Kg
Conclusion
The 10 best Off-Grid inverters mentioned above is a good option for when you are looking to go green and play your part in helping the environment while reducing your electricity bill is an advantage, there are most things where there is no advantage.
One of the drawbacks of considering installing a solar system is the cost of equipment and panel installation, which could be more than R100 000.00
Solar energy technology is constantly improving and is even better today, so cutting electricity bills is an advantage, In the long run, it’s not the most important thing solar PV systems do have a huge advantage if you building the perfect system for your daily power demand.
Once you have invested in Off-grid solar you will start your return on investment and in some cases, you will save your money back with in the first 4 years and a full return on year 5.
You will have power when load shedding kicks in, you will be busy watching TV and doing the washing during a power outage or even when your neighborhood electricity cables are stolen you will have power, and your lights would be burning bright.
All the above-mentioned Inverters does have similar settings and features and are very close to one another with the specification, it is always important to get a qualified electrician in to do your high voltage connections and to install proper ground termination, Solar PV systems are dangerous if you are not sure what you are doing it can lead to hazardous electrical shock and even death.
It is also very important that you do a proper energy audit on your property before you design a PV Off-Grid system, and also make sure you calculate weather conditions in, based on where your location is on the globe.
You can make use of a PV calculator, you can have a look at the one at the following link. Click Here
You can also calculate your output energy have a look at the following link for more information. Click Here
Once you have invested in Off grid solar you will reap the benefit of enjoying your favorite Xbox title or PS4 title while the rest of the grid tied people sit in the dark during load shedding.
