The inverter turns the DC power from your panels into the AC power your home or business uses. It is also the part most likely to need replacing during a system’s life, so its type, efficiency and warranty matter as much as its price.
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| Rated powerWhat it can handle all day | 3 kW | 3 kW | 3 kW | 3 kW |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TypeOn-grid, hybrid or off-grid | On-grid | On-grid | On-grid | On-grid |
| PhaseSingle or three phase | Single phase | Single phase | Three phase | Single phase |
| Max efficiencyShare of solar power it passes on | 98.2% | 97.8% | 98.2% | Not listed |
| MPPT trackersMore helps on roofs facing two ways | 2 | 1 | 2 | Not listed |
| WarrantyYears covered | 5 years (standard; confirm Indian terms) | 10 years (per manufacturer listing) | 10 years (per manufacturer listing) | Not listed |
| Max DC input power | 4.2 kW | 4.5 kW | 4.5 kW | Not listed |
| Max DC voltage | 500 V | 600 V | 1100 V | Not listed |
| European efficiency | 97.1% | 97.3% | 96.5% | Not listed |
| Protection | IP65 | IP65 | IP65 | Not listed |
| Weight | 10.8 kg | 6 kg | 18 kg | Not listed |
| Arc-fault protection (AFCI) | Not listed | Yes | Not listed | Not listed |
Every product we have checked
- Growatt MIN 3000TL-X on-grid inverter: A 3 kW single-phase on-grid inverter with two MPPT trackers, a common pick for PM Surya Ghar home systems.
- Sungrow SG3.0RS-S on-grid inverter: A compact 3 kW single-phase on-grid inverter with built-in arc-fault protection, for simple single-roof home systems.
- Sungrow SG3.0RT three-phase on-grid inverter: A 3 kW three-phase on-grid inverter with two MPPT trackers, for homes and small offices on a three-phase connection.
- Waaree 3 kW Single-Phase On-Grid Inverter: This is an on-grid inverter. Check the exact model variant, panel input limits and local service before choosing it. An on-grid model is not a substitute for a battery backup system.
Related: work out your home load before choosing the rating, and see how long a battery backup lasts if you are thinking hybrid.
What to compare
On-grid, hybrid or off-grid
An on-grid inverter works with the grid and your net meter but switches off during a power cut for safety, so it gives no backup. A hybrid inverter can also run a battery and keep essential loads on during cuts. Off-grid inverters work without the grid at all and suit sites with no reliable supply. Costs and subsidy rules for each are in on-grid vs off-grid vs hybrid solar.
Rated power and phase
The inverter’s rating should match your panel capacity. Homes usually need single phase; larger homes and businesses on three-phase supply need a three-phase inverter. Prices, MPPT vs PWM and sizing are covered in our solar inverter guide.
Efficiency
Maximum efficiency is the share of solar power the inverter passes on. Small differences add up over many years, so compare it alongside price.
MPPT trackers
Maximum power point trackers let the inverter get the most from each group of panels. Two or more trackers help when panels face different directions or one part of the roof gets shade.
Warranty and service
Inverters usually carry shorter warranties than panels. Check the length, whether it can be extended, and whether the brand has service support in your city.
Which inverter fits
- Home with reliable grid: on-grid, matched to your system size.
- Home with frequent cuts: hybrid with a battery for essential loads.
- Business rooftop: three-phase on-grid, with enough MPPT trackers for your roof layout and strong local service.
Checklist before you buy
- Type (on-grid, hybrid or off-grid) matching your need for backup
- Phase matching your electricity connection
- Number of MPPT trackers for your roof
- Warranty length and service centre near you
- Monitoring app or portal included
Frequently asked questions
Does an on-grid inverter work during a power cut?
No. It switches off for the safety of line workers, so an on-grid system gives no backup without a battery and hybrid inverter.
How long does a solar inverter last?
Usually less than the panels, which is why most systems need one inverter replacement during their life. Check the warranty length before you buy.
What is MPPT?
Maximum power point tracking. It lets the inverter get the most power from each group of panels, which matters when parts of the roof face different ways or get shade.