Inverters good energy converters

The power stored in the battery can be used directly as DC (direct current) or through an Inverter as AC (alternating current). An inverter converts DC power to useable AC power and come in various types with various capabilities; they can also be used to charge batteries directly from an AC power source.
1. Square Wave inverter — the cheapest option with low efficiency and suitable for very basic use as a cost effective way to utilise solar power.

2. Modified Sine wave inverter — reasonable cost and efficiency and can deal with most appliances and needs, these are suitable for solar use for small basic home use, including lights, TVs, computers and etc. Not good for timer, speed variable settings and high wattage use like kettles and electric ovens.

3. Pure Sine Wave inverter — higher priced but produces very good and clean stable electricity, normally better than the utility company as there are no surges, spikes or under/over voltage, thus offering great protection for all electrical appliances. The top end versions are computer controlled and manage all power use as they are capable of monitoring power use and can switch on and off automatically as power is needed thus saving batteries and wear and tear, will run just about any appliance with great efficiency.

The main functions of an inverter are
Conversion — Inverters generally convert 12, 24 or 48 DC voltage battery power to 220V AC this will depend on type and size of system and distances from solar panels to inverter/batteries, the higher the voltage the lower the current and wire size.

They can be stacked and connected in series, which doubles the output voltage and connected in parallel doubles the power output in watts.
1. Charging — Most inverters have the capabilities to charge batteries from Zesa (when available) or generators and then utilise the battery power when there is no Zesa or generator. Batteries can be charged at the same time from solar and Zesa.

2. Accessories — Inverters can be fitted with gauges and meters to monitor and show status of the solar power system including battery charge, battery storage, load drawn and etc. They have the ability to switch off the system if overcharged or before batteries are completely drained empty.

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