If you’re investing in a solar energy system, understanding solar inverter price is key to budgeting. The inverter is a critical component—it converts DC electricity from solar panels to usable AC power for your home. Below’s a detailed breakdown of costs and factors that shape your investment.

Average Solar Inverter Cost

On average, homeowners can expect to pay between $1,000 and $3,000 for a solar inverter, not including installation. This range varies based on factors like inverter size, type, brand, and whether you opt for additional features (such as monitoring tools). Keep in mind that this is a baseline—total costs may rise when pairing the inverter with installation labor or complementary equipment.

Solar Inverter Cost by Size

Inverter size, measured in kilowatts (kW), directly ties to your solar panel system’s capacity, and price scales with size:

Small (1–3 kW): Ideal for tiny homes, RVs, or partial solar setups. These inverters typically cost $800 to $1,500. They work well if you only power a few appliances or have limited roof space for panels.
Medium (4–6 kW): The most common size for average-sized homes (1,500–2,000 square feet). Prices range from $1,200 to $2,200. This size matches systems that cover most household energy needs, like heating, cooling, and daily appliance use.
Large (7+ kW): Suited for large homes, properties with high energy demands (e.g., pools, electric vehicles), or commercial and industrial spaces. Costs start at $2,000 and can go up to $4,000 or more, depending on brand and advanced features.

Cost by Type of Solar Inverter

The type of inverter you choose impacts both price and performance. Each option caters to different system designs and homeowner needs:

String Inverter: The most affordable and widely used type. String inverters connect multiple solar panels in a “string” and convert their combined DC power. Prices range from $800 to $1,800 for a 5–6 kW model. They’re ideal for homes with unobstructed roof space (no shade) since shade on one panel can reduce the entire string’s output.
Micro inverter: Micro inverters attach to each individual solar panel, so each panel operates independently. Costs average $1,500 to $3,000 for a 5 kW system.
Central Inverter: Designed for large-scale systems, such as commercial and industrial buildings or solar farms. Central inverters handle high power capacities (20+ kW) and are built for durability. Prices start at $5,000 and can exceed $20,000 for C&I-sized models. Most residential homeowners won’t need a central inverter unless they have an extremely large solar setup (10+ kW).

Solar Panel Contractor Costs

Installing a solar inverter isn’t a standalone task—it’s part of your overall solar system installation, and contractor fees are a key part of the budget. Most solar contractors include inverter installation in their total project cost, which typically ranges from $15,000 to $30,000 for a 5–6 kW residential system.

Breaking down labor costs specifically for inverters: Contractors usually charge $200 to $500 for inverter installation alone, but this often overlaps with panel installation labor (which runs $2,000 to $5,000 total). When hiring a pro, look for licensed, experienced contractors—they’ll ensure the inverter is wired correctly, compliant with local electrical codes, and paired properly with your panels.

Additional Solar Inverter Costs

Beyond the inverter itself and installation, there are extra expenses to consider to keep your system running smoothly:

Permits: Local governments require electrical permits for solar inverter installation. Permit fees range from $100 to $500, depending on your location.
Mounting Hardware: Inverters need secure mounting (either on the wall or near the electrical panel). Mounting kits cost $50 to $150, and some contractors include this in their labor fees.
Monitoring Systems: Many homeowners add smart monitoring tools to track their inverter’s performance (e.g., energy output, error alerts). These systems cost $100 to $300 upfront, with optional monthly subscription fees ($10–$20) for advanced features.
Warranty Extensions: Most inverters come with a 5–10 year manufacturer’s warranty, but you can extend this to 15–20 years for $200 to $500. This is a wise investment to cover repairs or replacements down the line.

DIY vs. Hiring a Pro to Install a Solar Inverter

Deciding between DIY and professional installation affects both cost and safety:

DIY Installation: If you’re experienced with electrical work, you might consider installing a small inverter yourself. DIY cuts labor costs (saving $200–$500), but it’s risky. Mistakes can lead to electrical fires, code violations, or voided inverter warranties. You’ll also need to handle permits and inspections on your own, which can be time-consuming. DIY is only recommended for simple, small-scale systems (1–2 kW) and never for larger setups.
Hiring a Pro: While more expensive upfront, professional installation is safer and more reliable. Pros handle permits, ensure code compliance, and test the system to make sure it works correctly. They also often offer labor warranties (1–5 years) that cover issues like faulty wiring. For most homeowners, the peace of mind and long-term reliability of pro installation outweigh the extra cost.

Does a Solar Energy System Increase Home Value?

Yes—adding a solar energy system (including a high-quality inverter) typically boosts your home’s value. Studies show that homes with solar panels sell for 4–6% more than comparable non-solar homes. For example, a $300,000 home with solar could sell for an extra $12,000–$18,000.

The inverter plays a role here too: A newer, efficient inverter (like a microinverter) can make your system more attractive to buyers, as it signals lower maintenance costs and better performance. Keep in mind that value increases vary by location—areas with high electricity rates or strong solar incentives tend to see bigger gains.