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Exploring the Benefits of Fronius String Inverters
In the early days of residential solar, systems typically had one large inverter that converted power from a series of solar panels that were strung together. Hence the name, string inverters.
String inverters in today's residential solar market are not usually the first choice for inverters – except in certain unique system requirements: if you live in a place where your solar array can be perfectly positioned, and it never has shade, or a start-up budget is your only concern for a solar system, String Inverters may be a solution worth exploring. Also, unlike micro inverters, the consumer should be prepared for the sound of the fan going on and off during peak production times. String inverter systems also have diminished monitoring capability when compared to micro inverters. Individual panel monitoring, that comes standard with the IQ 8, is not possible with string inverter systems. However, in design generations past, string inverters were the most commonly installed type of inverter. In this type of system, one primary inverter connects to and converts the entire array's DC electricity production into usable AC electricity. Once converted to AC, the electricity flowed into your main breaker box. The major drawback, however, occurs when the electricity production from a single of the many panels in the string decreases its output (as may happen due to shading) reduces the entire array’s panels.
Much as a traffic jam on a single lane road can only go as fast as the slowest car, so the performance of the entire array is brought down to the level of the lowest producing panel.
Another concern homeowners should keep in mind is the single wire carrying all the panels current to single point inverters is usually a high voltage wire on your roof or in your attic.
Most string inverter systems function best if all the panels are able to all face the same direction without shade.
In 2023 Solar Home Review recommends exploring other options before choosing a string inverter system without a specific reason that would warrant their selection.
If after doing your research, you feel a string inverter system may be a good fit for your solar needs, there are two brands of string inverters that Texas solar shoppers are likely to encounter.
Those are Fronius and SMA/ Sunny Boy Inverters
On June 20, 1945, Günter Fronius started his one-man shop in Pettenbach Austrian. Three generations later, Fronius is still a family owned, family run business with over 100 employees. After seventy-seven years, the company is still headquartered in Pettenbach.
Every Fronius' inverter is manufactured in Austria under strict production procedures and comes with CE certification.
Fronius enjoys a solid reputation in the solar industry and is largely considered a leading manufacturer of string solar inverters.
The Fronius Primo inverters are what Texas solar shoppers may come in contact with when exploring inverter options.
Dual powerpoint trackers, high system voltage, and a wide input voltage range, make the Fronius Primo a standout among string inverter options. This top pick also integrates Wi-Fi and SunSpec Modbus interface, to Fronius’ online mobile monitoring platform.
The Fronius Primo comes with power categories ranging from 3.8 kW up to 15.0 kW. The transformerless design features a compact, single-phase inverter for Texas residential applications.
Installers like the lightweight and convenient installation of the Primos inverter. It is equipped with the “SnapINverter” hinge mounting system, which allows for secure installation.
The Fronius Primo inverter pairs perfectly with the Fronius Rapid Shutdown Box, ensuring reliable NEC 2014 690.12 and NEC 2017 690.12(B)(1) solutions.
Fronius inverters in the U.S. come with a 10-year warranty
| Engineered and manufactured in Austria | |
|---|---|
| WARRANTY | 10 years labor and parts |
| MAX EFFICIENCY | 98.1 % |
| DIMENSIONS | 645 × 431 × 204 mm |
| MAX INPUT (DC) | 1000V |
| MAX (AC) | 5000 VA |
| WEIGHT | 21.5 kg |
| OPERATING TEMP | -40 °C to +55 °C |
| SOUND PRESSURE | 55 dB(A) |
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Where the Fronious Primo struggles
It comes equipped with Wireless standard 802.1 1 b/g/n / Fronius Solar. Web, SunSpec Modbus TCP, JSON with Data logging and inverter update possible via USB
All power categories for the Fronius Primo series run from 2.8 to 15.0KW.
This Primo is an inverter for the masses.
Specifications:
96.7% Max efficiency
Variable Speed fan for cooling
Transformerless inverter design
Wall mounted
Cost
The Fronius Inverter is a quality product that comes with a premium price tag, If bottom line affordability is your primary concern, then perhaps another inverter may be a better fit.
Warranty
In 2023 most new solar panels come with warranties lasting for 25 + years. Many systems are financed over 25 years as well. Despite the higher price point, however, Fronius only offers a ten-year warranty for US customers.
Noise
The Primo is cooled by a multi speed fan. This fan can reach up to 55 Decibels and may be annoying if the units are mounted near a bedroom or living area of your home.
Despite this, Fronius has a reputation built on service and dependability. With 77 years of dedication to quality and performance, Fronius may be a serious consideration for Texas solar consumers seeking string inverter systems.
Which one is best for you
Do you have internet service where the inverter will be installed? If Yes – perhaps an SMA inverter is the best fit for you.
SMA inverters are not equipped with a screen on the unit – in order to monitor the system, you will need to use an app on a smart device.
If you do not have a reliable internet connection with an SMA inverter, you won’t be able to see how your system is performing.
If you do NOT have internet, consider the Fronius inverter.
Fronius inverters are equipped with a screen on the front enabling you to see what the system is producing and other data, simply by looking at the inverter.
The screen can show the following data: output data, grid voltage, output current, grid frequency, solar module voltage, the solar module current etc.
No internet connection is needed.
Is potential shading an issue?
If Yes –consider the SMA Sunny Boy.
The SMA Sunny Boy has built-in ShadeFix Technology to optimize power production in semi shaded conditions.
If trees, buildings or nearby structures cast a shadow on the roof, SMA’s ShadeFix Technology may be your solution.
If shading isn't an issue, Both The SMA Sunny Boy and Fronius Primo inverters may be suitable.
Some other things to consider
- Cost. The SMA Sunny Boy has a slightly lower price point, usually within $150 of the Fronius Primo for 5kW model.
- Size. The Fronius Primo comes in a wider range of sizes (3.0 and 8.2kW) compared to the SMA Sunny Boy, which comes in 3.0 and 6.0 kW.
In the end, it really is a matter of personal preference. Each is a high-quality inverter, capable of a long service life.