How does the Enphase Microinverter series compare to standard inverters? Here we review the brand and explore their advantages.
Microinverters (or “micros”) are a specific type of solar panel inverter offering significant advantages over traditional string inverters.
Primarily, they convert direct current (DC) to usable alternating current (AC), but more importantly, microinverters increase power production, enhance safety and longevity, and simplify installation.
Enphase: The Market Leader
Enphase is the world’s leading microinverter manufacturer, innovating since 2009. As of 2024–2025, the lineup has undergone a significant generational shift:
Important Update (2025): The Enphase IQ7 series was officially discontinued in 2024, including IQ7A, IQ7+, and IQ7X. These have all been replaced by the IQ8 series, which is now available in the UK.
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Enphase Microinverter Review
The Enphase IQ7 series was officially discontinued in 2024, including IQ7A, IQ7+, and IQ7X. These have all been replaced by the IQ8 series, which is now available in the UK.
Enphase Microinverter Range Comparison
Specifications | Enphase IQ 7A | Enphase IQ 7+ | Enphase IQ 7X | Enphase IQ 8 |
Peak Output Power | 366VA | 295VA | 320VA | 245VA |
Maximum Constant Output Current | 349VA | 290VA | 315VA | 240VA |
Maximum DC Voltage | 58V | 60V | 79.5V | 60V |
EU Inverter Efficiency | 96.5% | 96.5% | 96.5% | 96.5% |
Dimensions including the Safety Switch/Connection Unit | 212 × 175 × 30.2 mm | 212 × 175 × 30.2 mm | 212 × 175 × 30.2 mm | 212 × 175 × 30.2 mm |
Weight | 1.08kg | 1.08kg | 1.08kg | 1.08kg |
Warranty period | 10 years | 10 years | 10 years | 25 years |
Operational Temperature Range | -40°C to 60°C | -40°C to 65°C | -40°C to 60°C | -40°C to 60°C |
Made in | North America/Asia | North America/Asia | North America/Asia | North America/Asia |
What’s New with IQ8 Microinverters?
IQ8 is Enphase’s eighth-generation platform and the first to offer grid-forming capability, meaning it can keep powering your home even when the grid goes down - provided it's paired with a compatible battery.
It supports high-wattage panels (540 W+), comes with a 25-year warranty, and features enhanced durability and smart monitoring. UK availability began in early 2025.
Main Features of the Enphase Microinverter
Here is a summary of the main features of the Enhphase microinverter range:
Power Range: 240–380 VA (AC), supports 230–540 W (DC) panels
Battery Compatible: Yes - with AC-coupled batteries like Encharge
Off‑grid Capable: Yes, with IQ8 + Encharge
Monitoring: Panel-level tracking via Enphase Envoy
Support: Excellent customer service (rated 5/5)
Pricing Tier: Premium
Learn all about the benefits of the Enphase microinverter in our YouTube video review below:
Enphase IQ7 Series (Discontinued)
Launched in 2018, the IQ7 series marked a significant leap in microinverter performance and design. The final iteration, the IQ7A, featured a robust continuous power output of 349VA and was optimised for high-powered 60, 72-cell and half-cut modules up to 460W.
The series included multiple models - IQ7, IQ7+, IQ7X, and IQ7A - each tailored to different panel voltages and configurations. It offered strong efficiency and ease of installation, becoming a go-to choice for many UK installers.
However, with the pace of panel innovation accelerating, the IQ7 series reached the end of its lifecycle in 2024 and has now been officially replaced by the IQ8 platform.
Enphase IQ8 Series (Current)
The IQ8 series represents the cutting-edge of microinverter design. As the first Enphase range to include grid-forming capabilities, IQ8 models can operate in both grid-tied and off-grid modes when paired with Enphase storage solutions.
Available in power ratings from 240VA to 380VA, IQ8 units support a wide variety of panel configurations - from traditional 60-cell arrays to ultra-high-wattage 540W+ commercial modules.
They feature:
Advanced power tracking and fault isolation
25-year warranty (standard through Heatable)
Full compatibility with Enphase’s Envoy and Encharge systems
As of early 2025, IQ8 is now available in the UK, replacing the IQ7 series in all new installs.
Main Features of the Enphase Microinverter
Panel Level Monitoring
Microinverters enable system owners to actively monitor both overall system performance and the performance of individual panels, providing them with comprehensive insights.
Moreover, installers can conveniently access a separate login to monitor all their systems at the panel level.
This feature includes the added benefit of receiving alerts in the event of underperforming panels, effectively preventing system downtime and facilitating smoother warranty claims.
Enphase Energy takes pride in offering the Envoy monitoring hub, a tool designed to streamline system setup, commissioning, and remote monitoring.
Furthermore, the company actively maintains a global system registry at their US headquarters, allowing them to monitor registered systems worldwide.
This proactive approach not only aids in promptly identifying and addressing fault conditions but also serves as a valuable resource for continuously enhancing their products.
We have also reviewed the best solar panels and covered how long solar panels last in the UK.
Extremely Low Failure Rates
The majority of solar panel inverters last around 10 years, reflecting their overall quality, meaning that on average typical string inverters will need to be replaced twice during the lifespan of the average 25-year system.
So, while string inverters may be cheaper to buy upfront, they may end up costing you more in the long run.
For context, the Enphase microinverter reports a 1 in 2000 failure rate and they’re backed by a full replacement 25-year warranty.
Superior Heat Resistance
Enphase microinverters have been meticulously engineered and subjected to rigorous testing, specifically designed to withstand high temperatures.
This resilience addresses a common challenge faced in hotter climates, particularly during the summer months when solar arrays often encounter decreased efficiency and performance in extreme heat.
In a noteworthy 2014 test conducted in Adelaide, Australia, where temperatures exceeded 40°C (104°F) for extended periods, reaching a scorching 45.9°C (115°F), Enphase microinverters consistently remained operational.
The company proudly proclaimed that "No Enphase Microinverter operating in Australia shut down due to high temperature" during this historic period of extreme heat.
While the UK's summer temperatures are not as extreme as those in Australia, they can still exert a limited impact.
However, those who choose Enphase microinverters can rest assured that such temperature-related concerns are unlikely to affect their systems.
Enphase Microinverter Warranty Period
Enphase offers a very generous 25-year product warranty on its microinverters, which is a significant advantage over string inverters that often offer a much shorter warranty period.
Why?
For the 25-year life of a system, you’d need to budget at least two replacement string inverters (these carry a warranty of between 5-10 years) and would cost in the region of £1000-£2000 each time, plus any loss of generation as the whole system will be down.
Enphase Microinverter Costs UK
What is the price of an Enphase microinverter in the UK?
Enphase microinverters tend to be pricier compared to string inverters, but their longevity and the included 25-year warranty justify the investment.
The inverter plays a crucial role in your solar system, contributing to around 10% of the total cost, impacting system efficiency and overall performance significantly.
In the UK, you can anticipate spending between £100 and £150 for each Enphase microinverter required for your solar system.
At Heatable, all of our systems come with the Enphase microinverter as standard and this will be reflected in your fixed price quote.
What should you know before buying solar? Have a flat roof? Read all about flat roof solar and if you have a conservatory, it is possible to have solar on a conservatory roof too.
Next Steps For Your Solar Journey:
When planning to install solar panels for your home, there are several important factors to consider. Make sure to refer to the following guides to help you make informed decisions:
To dive deeper into these topics, head over to our advice section, check out our YouTube channel for informative videos, or read a customer case study to see how others have benefited from their solar installation.
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