About this job
What does an inverter do, and when should you replace it?
An inverter is the heart of your solar installation. It converts the direct current (DC) from your solar panels into the alternating current (AC) at 230 volts used in your home and on the grid. At the same time it continuously tracks the best operating point of the panels (MPP tracking) and monitors the grid: if the grid goes down or the voltage rises too high, the installation switches itself off safely. The inverter is both the control and safety centre of your system.
Your panels will last at least 25 years, but an inverter will not. A string inverter averages 10 to 15 years; micro-inverters last somewhat longer. Expect to replace the inverter at least once during the lifetime of your panels. You will usually notice it from an error message, a red or absent status light, or output that simply disappears. We replace your solar inverter safely and expertly, with a fixed price upfront.
Warning signs
When should you replace your solar inverter?
Not sure whether your inverter is genuinely faulty? These signs point to a fault or the end of its life. If you recognise any of them, have it checked.
Your output disappears
On a sunny day you see little or no production in the app or on the smart meter. That is the clearest sign that something is wrong with the inverter.
A red or absent status light
A red indicator, or no green light at all. With a micro-inverter system, a light on the gateway can also point to a fault.
An error message or fault code
A message on the display or in the portal, for example about overvoltage, a grid fault or an insulation fault. Do not just reset a message like that yourself: have it read out first.
More than 10 to 15 years old
Is your inverter out of warranty and already over ten years old? The likelihood of faults increases and replacement is usually wiser than repair.
How we work
How we approach it
From diagnosis to the first kWh: clear, safe and hassle-free.
- 1
Diagnosis
We read out the fault codes and status lights, compare your output with what you should be generating, and measure the DC and AC sides. That way we know for certain whether the inverter is at fault.
- 2
Advice and fixed price
You receive honest advice on a suitable replacement: a like-for-like swap or moving to a hybrid inverter. You then receive a fixed price upfront.
- 3
Safe replacement
We de-energise the installation to NEN 3140, remove the old inverter and fit the new one with good ventilation. DC and AC neatly and correctly connected.
- 4
Testing and registration
We energise the system, test the protection and check the output in the app. Where needed, we update the registration on energieleveren.nl. With a 2-year work guarantee.
Good to know
Repair, replace or upgrade?
A few choices that often come up when your inverter lets you down. We explain them calmly.
What does a fault code or a red light mean?
Fault codes and lights vary by brand, so a red light on one inverter means something different from a red light on another. Common messages relate to overvoltage on the grid, a grid fault, overheating or an insulation fault on the DC side.
An insulation fault means the inverter is measuring leakage current between the cabling and earth, and has switched itself off as a safety measure. Do not ignore this and do not reset it blindly: this is a genuine safety risk that a qualified engineer should look at. We read the message via the display or app and measure to find the cause.
Repair or replace?
For an inverter that is more than around ten years old and out of warranty, replacement is usually wiser than repair. A repair outside warranty often costs almost as much as a new unit, while the remaining life is limited.
A new inverter also delivers better efficiency, improved monitoring and often compatibility with a home battery. Brands such as Omnik are bankrupt and no longer supported, so replacement is simply the only route there. For a SolarEdge, Growatt, SMA or Goodwe too, we find a suitable, reliable replacement.
Like-for-like swap or move to a hybrid inverter?
You can replace your inverter like-for-like with a comparable string inverter. That is the quickest and most cost-effective route if your system is otherwise working well and you do not want a home battery.
If you do want a home battery, or to prepare your installation for the end of net metering on 1 January 2027, a hybrid inverter is worth considering. It prioritises your own consumption, then charges the battery, and only exports to the grid after that. Since a new inverter will last another 10 to 15 years, this is the moment to make that choice consciously.
Life expectancy by inverter type
How long an inverter lasts depends on the type. For reference, the averages compared with your panels.
| Inverter type | Average life expectancy | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| String inverter | 10 to 15 years | Most common type, typically replaced once |
| Micro-inverter | 15 to 25 years | A small inverter per panel |
| Optimisers with string inverter | Optimisers approx. 25 years | The central inverter lasts 10 to 15 years |
| Hybrid inverter | 10 to 15 years | Compatible with a home battery |
Your solar panels will last at least 25 years. Guide values based on manufacturers; your actual situation may differ.
Price
What does inverter replacement cost?
The price depends on the inverter type, the power rating, the brand and the location. A hybrid inverter costs more than a string inverter. We look first and then give you a fixed price upfront. Solar inverters for domestic use are subject to 0% VAT. Below is an indication including fitting.
Common extras:
- A high-end hybrid inverter, towards € 3,000 to € 4,000
- Replacing the DC isolator or fuse at the same time
- Adjusting the meter cabinet or cabling for the new power rating
- Connecting a home battery to the hybrid inverter
Price guide
Fixed price upfront| String inverter replacement, including fitting (3 to 6 kWp) | € 500 to € 1,200 |
| Fitting and connection only (2 to 4 hours) | € 200 to € 500 |
| Optimiser system, replacing the central inverter | € 700 to € 1,500 |
| Micro-inverter per panel (retrofit) | from € 120 per unit |
| Hybrid inverter, all-in (5 to 10 kW) | € 1,200 to € 2,000 |
Indicative prices incl. VAT. You will always receive a tailored quote.
Related services
Often done together
Replacing an inverter is linked to your solar panels and your plans for storage. These services often go with it.
Connect solar panels
Expanding your panels or reconnecting them? We take care of the connection and match it to your new inverter.
More infoHome battery
Want to store your own generated power? With a hybrid inverter we connect your home battery safely and neatly.
More infoUpgrade to three-phase
Grid voltage too high or exporting causing problems? Sometimes the answer lies with your connection. We upgrade to three-phase.
More infoReplace the fuse box
Is your inverter connected to an outdated consumer unit? We bring your fuse box up to current standards at the same time.
More infoWhy Brabant Elektra
Certified, insured and guaranteed
All our engineers are qualified and work to the NEN 1010 standard. We give a 2-year guarantee on all our work. Reliable work you can count on.
Frequently asked questions
Good to know
Service area
Inverter replacement in Noord-Brabant
Brabant is full of rooftops covered in solar panels, from the residential streets around Eindhoven and Den Bosch to the farms in the countryside. Many of those installations from earlier years are now due for their first inverter replacement. We know the region and will come to you for a neat, safe swap.
If your output is dropping because the grid voltage is too high, that may also point to your connection or meter cabinet. We check that at the same time and work alongside grid operator Enexis. When the power rating or type changes, or a home battery is added, we update the registration on energieleveren.nl.
Service area
Across Noord-Brabant
From major cities to smaller towns, active in:
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