Quick answer
Choose an on-grid inverter if your grid supply is stable and you mostly want to cut daytime electricity use. Choose a hybrid inverter if you want backup during load-shedding and the option to add batteries. Choose an off-grid inverter if you have no reliable grid connection.
On-grid (grid-tie) inverter
An on-grid inverter turns the DC power from your panels into AC power for your home and works together with the grid. It usually has no battery, so it costs less than other types. For safety it switches off when the grid goes down, which means it does not give you power during an outage.
Off-grid inverter
An off-grid inverter runs on solar panels and batteries without needing the grid. It suits locations with no grid or very unreliable supply. It needs enough battery and panel capacity to cover everything you want to run, and some models can also take a generator input.
Hybrid inverter
A hybrid inverter manages solar panels, a battery and the grid together. It can charge the battery from solar, use the grid when needed and keep your loads running when the grid is off. It costs more than an on-grid inverter, but it is the most flexible option. Some hybrid models can also run on solar and the grid without a battery and let you add one later.
Which one should you choose?
- Frequent load-shedding and you want backup: hybrid (or off-grid with batteries).
- Stable grid and mostly daytime use: on-grid.
- No grid connection: off-grid.
- Want to add batteries later: hybrid.
What to check before you buy
- Capacity (kW): add up the loads you run together, and leave headroom for motors such as water pumps and air conditioners, which draw extra power when starting.
- PV input and MPPT: your panel array voltage and total wattage must fit within the inverter limits.
- Phase: single-phase or three-phase, to match your connection.
- Battery compatibility: voltage (for example 48V low-voltage or high-voltage) and communication with the battery.
- Extras: Wi-Fi monitoring, parallel operation for future expansion and a weather-rated enclosure for outdoor use.
- Warranty and local service: an inverter is only as good as the support behind it.
See inverters and get help
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