Guangzhou Anern Energy Technology Co., Ltd.

What Factors Affect the Lifespan of Inverters?

Apr 24, 2023
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    As the core component of a power generation system, the lifespan of an inverter directly affects the normal operation of the entire power station, and the lifespan of the inverter has become a concern for many people. What are the factors that directly affect the lifespan of the inverter? In the following article, we will analyze the key factors that affect the lifespan of the smart hybrid inverter from the aspects of component lifespan, design, and installation.


    Impact of component lifespan on the smart hybrid inverter lifespan


    In theory, inverters belong to switching power supplies, so their constituent components can generally be divided into resistors, capacitors, diodes, power devices (IGBT or MOS tube), inductors, transformers, current sensors, ICs, optocouplers, and relays.


    Resistors, surface-mounted capacitors, and ceramic capacitors typically have a lifespan of20 years or more. Inductors and transformers are theoretically effective as long as they do not exceed their raw material temperature. Small power diodes and transistors can operate for100,000 hours or more. The mechanical lifespan of relays is usually more than1 million times, and the electrical lifespan exceeds10,000 times. Power devices such as IGBT or MOS tube are usually not considered from the perspective of lifespan if they meet the design specifications. Fans and fuses are consumables that do not significantly affect the lifespan of inverters and can be replaced on schedule. The lifespan of film capacitors is typically more than100,000 hours, and the lifespan of electrolytic capacitors is typically between2,000-3,000 hours under105℃, and the longer lifespan is only5,000-6,000 hours. However, as the temperature decreases by10℃, the lifespan doubles. Therefore, the shortcoming of components in the inverter lies mainly in the lifespan of electrolytic capacitors.


    Design factors affect the lifespan of smart hybrid inverter


    The lifespan of components is the fundamental element that ensures the lifespan of an inverter, while high-quality design is the core element that ensures the lifespan of a hybrid inverter. What design elements can severely impact the lifespan of an inverter but are difficult to detect in the short term?


    Temperature is a major factor that directly affects the lifespan of an inverter, especially for components such as electrolytic capacitors and optocouplers. For every 10℃ increase in temperature, the lifespan of electrolytic capacitors is reduced by half, and excessive temperature can also accelerate optocoupler light degradation. However, optocouplers are usually used for driving IGBTs, and their failure can damage the IGBTs.


    Relays have a lifespan of up to one million times when switching at zero current, but their lifespan almost follows a coefficient loss pattern with an increase in switching current. Accurate software control is the main factor that ensures the lifespan of a relay when switching at zero current.


    Inverter environments are usually harsh, with many factors affecting them, such as poor grid quality and high inductive loads. If the inverter protection function and EMC design are not good enough, it is susceptible to external influences. Once the IGBT driver is affected, it can easily cause misdirection and lead to a catastrophic failure.


    Comprehensive factors affect the lifespan of smart hybrid inverter


    Although string inverters have an IP65 protection level and can be installed indoors and outdoors, the installation environment can still have a significant impact on their lifespan. Installing an inverter in an environment with high sunlight exposure, humidity, and acidity/alkalinity can reduce its lifespan. Exposure to direct sunlight can also lead to overheating and power reduction, thus affecting power generation. Selecting a suitable installation environment is crucial for ensuring the lifespan of a hybrid inverter.


    Although there are many factors that directly affect the lifespan of a pure sine wave inverter, if the components are selected properly and the design is of high quality, the inverter can run stably for at least 10 years. Therefore, we recommend using an inverter to provide security for your power station.


    Andy Cao
    Andy Cao

    I’m Andy Cao, an energy engineer with over 16 years of hands-on experience in solar inverters, lithium battery energy storage, photovoltaic systems, and solar street lighting. I focus on real-world system performance and write to share practical, experience-based insights for professionals working in the solar energy industry.

    FAQ

    Are Anern products certified for international markets?

    Anern solar energy products comply with international certification standards such as ISO 9001, CE, TUV, FCC, and ROHS, supporting deployment in different regional markets.

    Is Anern a solar inverter manufacturer?

    Yes, Anern is a solar inverters manufacturer, as confirmed by their proprietary product lines and industrial capabilities.


    As one of China's leading solar power inverter manufacturers, Anern designs and produces multiple inverter series, including:

    AN-SCI-PRO Series: Featured on dedicated product pages with factory production images

    AN-PVI Series: High-capacity inverters (6000W-10000W) offered commercially

    AN-SCI-EVO Series: Hybrid inverters catering to grid-tie/backup needs

    Off-grid parallel inverters: Designed for areas with unstable/no grid access


    Their inverters incorporate:

    Independent R&D - Core technologies developed in-house

    Industrial scale production - Manufactured in 30,000+ sqm factories

    Global compliance - Certified to meet international standards (CE, ROHS, TUV)

    What solar applications use Anern energy storage systems?

    Anern's energy storage systems are used in the following solar applications:


    Residential Backup Power: 

    For home use during power outages, providing up to 6 hours of continuous power for average household consumption. These systems reduce grid reliance and electricity bills while storing excess solar energy.


    Commercial and Industrial Energy Management: 

    Installed in factories and businesses to store excess solar energy, reduce peak-hour grid consumption, and lower electricity costs. Systems are deployed in secure, ventilated locations for stability.


    Off-Grid Infrastructure: 

    Supports meteorological/hydrological observation equipment and other critical infrastructure in remote areas without grid coverage. Battery banks store solar energy converted via inverters for reliable operation.


    Agricultural Operations: 

    Powers farms by converting stored solar energy into AC electricity, maintaining agricultural activities during outages or grid instability.


    Large-Scale Solar Projects: 

    Used in independent photovoltaic power stations ranging from 10KW to 50MW capacity, enabled by parallel-connected hybrid inverters for solar energy conversion and storage.

    What payment methods do you accept?

    For samples, full by T/T in advance;  for bulk order, 30% deposit by TT in advance, balance by TT before shipment. The L/C is acceptable for big order. It can be negotiable.

    Can I print my logo on the product?

    As one of the leading solar equipment suppliers in China, Anern provides OEM and ODM services to meet your various needs.

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