A solar inverter converts the panels’ DC electricity into AC power your home can use, and sends surplus energy to the grid or a battery. Homeowners should compare the inverter’s capacity, efficiency, warranty, monitoring features and compatibility with batteries or future panels. Your roof layout may also affect whether a standard string inverter, microinverters or power optimisers are suitable. Ask a Clean Energy Council-accredited installer to assess your system design, and check the manufacturer’s warranty terms before choosing.