Solaredge Vs SMA String Solar Inverters: Which is Best?

Inverters are important in solar energy systems. They convert solar panel electricity into usable electricity for homes and businesses. If the inverter isn’t functioning properly, the system won’t be able to supply power to the building. Inverters are often the first component that needs replacement, making it vital to select the best one for your system.

In this blog, we’ll compare two top types of solar inverter brands: SolarEdge and SMA. We’ll evaluate them based on these criteria:

• Components
• Efficiency
• Price
• Warranty
• Monitoring

Let’s see which brand is the best choice for your solar system.

SOLAREDGE VS SMA Inverter Components: How Each Brand Works

SolarEdge and SMA are leading manufacturers of string inverters, among the most affordable options in the market.

SolarEdge:

SolarEdge’s string inverters operate differently than standard string inverters like those made by SMA. In traditional string inverters like those from SMA, multiple solar panels are grouped into strings. Because each panel is connected to the others, the inverter adjusts to balance the current flow through each panel. 

This means that the output of each panel is averaged, and the panel producing the least electricity in the string limits the production of all the panels in that string. If one panel is shaded or underperforming, it affects the output of the entire string.

SMA:

If your solar system receives consistent, direct sunlight throughout the day, like California’s, then an SMA string inverter is the best choice. SMA string inverters work well in full sunlight.

Efficiency: Which Converts the Most Energy?

SolarEdge’s power optimizers provide panel-level optimization, making SolarEdge inverters more efficient. When a panel is shaded or underperforming, only that panel’s production is affected, not the entire string.

In addition, SolarEdge power optimizers condition DC electricity before it reaches the inverter, which improves the efficiency of the AC conversion process. This setup minimizes energy loss and results in higher overall efficiencies.

However, SMA string inverters are also known for their efficiency. They are a good choice for solar systems that receive consistent, unobstructed sunlight throughout the day.

Price: Which Brand Offers Better Value?

Neither SolarEdge nor SMA is the cheapest option for inverters. Cheaper inverters often have higher failure rates and unreliable warranties, making them less attractive.

Both SolarEdge and SMA offer good value, high-quality craftsmanship, and extensive warranties. However, SolarEdge tends to be more expensive than SMA regarding upfront costs. This is partly due to the addition of power optimizers, which require more installation equipment and labor.

Despite the higher initial cost, SolarEdge’s power optimizers can enhance system efficiency, potentially increasing the electricity your system generates.

Overall, while SolarEdge may be more expensive initially, the added efficiency and reliability can offer better long-term value for your solar system.

Warranty: Which Lasts Longer?

Having reliable, well-made equipment is crucial for a solar system’s payback and return on investment. Manufacturer warranties help ensure that you won’t need to replace equipment prematurely, using the savings from your solar system.

SolarEdge string inverters come with a 12-year warranty. Depending on the model chosen, you can purchase an additional 8- or 13-year extended warranty, extending the total warranty to 20 or 25 years. SolarEdge power optimizers are backed by a 25-year warranty.

For SMA inverters, the warranty terms vary depending on whether the system is residential or commercial. Commercial SMA string inverters have a standard 10-year warranty with options to extend it by 5 or 10 years, totaling 15 or 20 years. Residential SMA inverters come with a 15-year warranty, with options to add up to 5 additional years.

When comparing warranties, it’s also important to consider the manufacturer’s long-term stability. Both SolarEdge and SMA have strong financial outlooks and product roadmaps, which suggests they will be able to honor their warranties for many years to come.

Overall, SolarEdge offers more extended standard warranty periods, especially with the addition of power optimizers, which come with an impressive 25-year warranty.

Monitoring: Which Brand Offers Better Insight?

SolarEdge and SMA inverters offer remote system monitoring capabilities, replacing traditional display panels that are prone to issues in extreme temperatures.

Both brands’ remote monitoring depends on a Wi-Fi or internet link and can be reached through a web portal using a smartphone, tablet, or computer.

How SolarEdge and SMA differ in terms of monitoring:

SolarEdge:

SolarEdge inverters, equipped with power optimizers for panel-level optimization, allow you to monitor the power output of each solar panel in addition to the overall system performance. This detailed monitoring provides greater insight into the functioning of your solar system and makes it easier to identify and troubleshoot issues.

SMA:

SMA offers solar monitoring through its Sunny Portal, which provides data on your system’s total daily solar power production. However, SMA’s monitoring does not provide information on the output of individual panels.

SMA’s Smart Connected program also monitors their string inverters for potential issues. Should a problem be identified, the installer and system operator are alerted, and an automatic shipment of a replacement part can be arranged if required.

SolarEdge offers more granular monitoring capabilities with panel-level insights, whereas SMA provides broader system monitoring with proactive issue detection through its Smart Connected program.

Which Solar Inverter Brand is Better for Your System?

SolarEdge and SMA offer high-quality grid-tied inverters that are suitable for a wide range of solar projects.

SolarEdge’s integration of string inverters and power optimizers offers optimization and monitoring at the panel level. This setup is ideal for areas with partial shading, as it improves the system’s overall efficiency. However, SMA’s string inverter configuration is typically more affordable and straightforward regarding components, making it easier to service if needed.

The best choice depends on the sunlight your property receives and your specific project goals.

Solar Earth Inc., Solar Solutions, assists businesses, farmers, and homeowners in the mid-Atlantic region in saving money through solar energy. We provide solar energy solutions to help reduce costs for our clients.

Our services are available to many customers, including businesses, farmers, and homeowners. Our clients can lower their energy bills and contribute to a more sustainable future by utilizing solar energy. Contact our team of solar experts if you need help determining which solar inverter is suitable for you or if you want to compare your options.