What Is an Off-Grid Inverter? Meaning, Working, and Benefits

You recently moved and have only realised that your new town experiences power outages every second hour. Or you reside in the same place, and the electricity supplying corporation is acting up for some reason. Either way, opting for an off-grid inverter is one of those decisions that will serve you in the long term. In an increasingly warming world, they are sustainable as well as highly reliable devices for efficient power backup. So it’s extremely useful, but then, what is off grid solar inverter? Let’s dive in and understand the answer to that question.

Off Grid Inverter Meaning: What It Is

All of us are familiar with inverters. We know that certain power solutions are installed in the corners of our home. They provide a continuous power supply during a power cut. In practical terms, these inverters convert DC (Direct Current) power into household electricity called AC (Alternating Current) power. Thanks to these devices, our day-to-day activities can go on without disruptions.

Solar inverters work similarly. The key difference between normal inverters and solar inverters is the source. In solar inverters, solar power from the PV (photovoltaic) system is converted to AC power like that of the utility grid, which can carry electrical load. 

But then, what is off grid inverter? An off-grid solar inverter carries out this conversion and supply process without being connected to the main grid. Generally spotted in regions that experience frequent blackouts and power cuts, off-grid inverters are highly efficient power backup devices. The abundant energy produced by the sun every day is utilised to power electrical appliances in such areas. No connection to the main utility grid is required in an off-grid solar system. It is, therefore, the most unique feature of standalone solar systems.

Understand How Off-Grid Solar Inverters Function

Acting in tandem with the solar panels and batteries is how off grid inverter works. An off-grid inverter works in collaboration with solar panels and battery banks to provide AC electricity to your home successfully. The entire off-grid solar system functions as a whole to power household appliances during long periods of outage. As a part of this system, here’s how the off-grid solar inverter functions:

Step 1: Energy Backup

The solar panels fitted onto the rooftop of the household/building capture solar energy. Raw energy is converted into DC power through the photovoltaic cells designed into the body of the panels. This DC electricity gets directed into the batteries through the off-grid inverter. A charge controller adjusts the voltage and frequency of the DC power to prevent damage to the battery bank and ensure safe storage.

Step 2: Conversion

During a power cut, the surplus DC electricity stored in the battery banks of the solar system is drawn. An internal switching mechanism is prompted into action to convert the DC power into AC electricity. The inverter components are designed to ensure that the AC power output resembles the power flowing through utility grids, even if your household isn’t connected to one. Many modern appliances require a smooth flow of AC electricity to function properly and not wear out easily. A smooth conversion process is, therefore, essential.

Step 3: Powering Appliances

Once the DC power has been converted, the resultant AC electricity can flow to your appliances and carry their electrical load. Off-grid inverters are able to carry heavy electrical loads and power a wide variety of devices. Their battery banks are equipped with extremely high capacities that are manufactured after factoring in long power outages or a complete disconnection from the electricity grid.

Benefits of Off Grid Solar Inverter

There are several off grid inverter advantages for those looking for a power backup solution to tackle extended periods of power cuts. Let’s take a look at them.

• Independence & Reliability

Off-grid solar inverters can function efficiently without connection to the main utility grid. They are designed for efficient conversion of power and are part of a self-reliant power backup system. Lack of dependence on any external device outside of the off-grid solar system makes it a highly reliable power solution. 

• Customisability

One of the standout features of an off-grid inverter is that its features can be customised and scaled as per your energy needs. You can connect a wide range of solar battery banks with them to fulfil your unique power demands. 

• Sustainability

Off-grid inverters are a step above the usual inverters. The more electricity we consume through utility grids, the higher our carbon footprints become. Off-grid solar inverters depend on solar energy to power your home. They reduce our carbon footprint and contribute to protecting the environment from warming further.

• Cost-Effectiveness

A lack of connection or dependability on utility grids means that no electricity bills make their way to your home every month. With an off-grid inverter, your house gets powered from an infinite supply of renewable energy. The only cost you incur is one-time, and with long-term returns.

Maintenance Tips for an Off-Grid Solar Inverter

Keeping your off-grid solar inverter in top-tier condition enables you to use it optimally. These simple maintenance tips can help in that regard:

• Regularly track the electrolyte level of your inverter. Make sure to refill it whenever required.
• Ensure that your inverter is not overheating. Be judicious about the number of electrical appliances connected to it at a specific time.
• Keep a regular check on the health of the visible components of the part. No wire or terminal should have come loose. 
• In case of the ageing of your inverter, get it replaced at the earliest to avoid a disrupted power supply.

Power Your Home With Livfast’s Smartly Designed Inverters Conclusion

Off-grid solar inverters by Livfast help you optimise solar power conversion and usage based on your power needs. Additionally, they are equipped with embedded safety features and digital displays to track alarms and keep you updated at all times. Opt for our smart devices that come with bonus features like fast charging and long warranty periods. Your sustainable power choices, combined with our advanced power solutions, can help build a sustainable future.