Do I Need an Inverter and a Charge Controller, or Just One?

As interest in solar energy grows across Canada, more people are considering systems for cabins, RVs, off-grid homes, and even commercial buildings. While installing solar panels might seem simple, there’s often confusion about which components are required and how they all fit together.

One of the most common questions is: “Do I need both an inverter and a charge controller, or can one device do it all?”

In this blog, we’ll walk you through the functions of each component, explore the pros and cons of combination units, explain key concepts like MPPT vs PWM, and offer guidance on how to size your system properly.

Let’s start by understanding the purpose of each part.

What Does a Solar Inverter Do?

A solar inverter is the device responsible for converting the DC (direct current) electricity generated by your solar panels into AC (alternating current) electricity, the type your appliances and home electronics use.

Without a solar inverter, your solar panels won’t be able to power your fridge, lights, or laptop.

Key Functions of a Solar Inverter:

• Converts DC to AC electricity
  

• Enables off-grid or grid-tied operation
  

• Often includes overload and surge protection
  

• May integrate with smart monitoring systems
  

In more advanced models, the inverter can also manage battery charging and energy prioritization (e.g. using solar first, then battery, then grid backup). This is especially useful in off-grid inverter setups or hybrid systems.

What Is a Solar Charge Controller?

If you plan on adding battery storage to your solar system, you also need a solar charge controller. This device regulates the flow of electricity between your solar panels and your battery bank, preventing overcharging, deep discharging, or battery damage.

Why You Need a Solar Panel Charge Controller:

• Protects batteries from overvoltage and overheating
  

• Maximizes the life and efficiency of your battery bank
  

• Manages voltage from solar panels to batteries
  

There are two main types of charge controllers:

• PWM (Pulse Width Modulation): Simpler, cheaper, and suitable for small setups.
  

• MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking): More efficient and ideal for medium to large systems.
  

MPPT Charge Controller Explained

An MPPT charge controller automatically tracks the optimal voltage/current point at which your solar panels produce the most power. It then adjusts the flow to your batteries to maximize charging efficiency, even when sunlight is inconsistent.

MPPT vs PWM controller, what’s the difference?

PWM controllers essentially "clip" the voltage to match the battery, wasting potential energy. MPPT controllers, on the other hand, optimize and convert that excess voltage into more current, yielding up to 30% more efficiency in some systems.

This is why MPPT controllers are considered the best charge controllers for solar systems in Canada, especially for homes and off-grid cabins with higher daily power needs or during winter months when sunlight is weaker.

Charge Controller vs Inverter: Do You Need Both?

Here’s where things can get confusing.

Many first-time solar users ask, “If I buy an inverter, do I still need a charge controller?”

The answer depends on your system:

For example, if you're powering a 12V DC system in a van or boat, you might just need a 12V solar charge controller to keep your batteries in check. But if you're trying to run kitchen appliances, tools, or AC-powered electronics, you’ll absolutely need an inverter.

All-in-One Solar Inverters: What Are They?

An all-in-one solar inverter combines both the inverter and the charge controller in one unit, sometimes even adding battery monitoring and load control. These are also called inverter and charge controller combos or MPPT inverter chargers.

They’re especially popular for:

• Cabins and tiny homes
  

• RVs and mobile solar setups
  

• Compact off-grid systems
  

• Users who want plug-and-play convenience
  

Volts Energies offers top-of-the-line combo units in our Victron MultiPlus MPPT Collection. These are smart, scalable, and perfect for both beginners and professionals who want a clean, efficient system.

How to Size a Charge Controller (And Why It Matters)

Whether you're using a standalone unit or an all-in-one combo, it's important to know how to size a charge controller correctly. Too small, and it could overheat or fail. Too large, and you may overspend.

Solar Inverter Installation Guide: Quick Tips

Thinking of installing a solar inverter? Here's what you need to know:

1. Choose the right size (match system voltage and load)
   

2. Install in a dry, cool, ventilated location
   

3. Use proper gauge wires and safety disconnects
   

4. Follow your local electrical code (especially in Quebec and Ontario)
   

5. Enable smart monitoring (many Victron units have Bluetooth apps)
   

Need help choosing the right inverter for your system? Check out our inverter collection.

Basic Sizing Formula:
Total solar panel wattage ÷ battery voltage = charging amps
Then multiply by 1.25 for safety.

Example:
If you’re using 1,200 watts of solar panels and a 24V battery bank:
1,200 ÷ 24 = 50A → 50 × 1.25 = 62.5A
So you'd want at least a 60–80A MPPT charge controller.

If you need help with sizing, installation or a tailored free solar quote, our solar experts at Volts Energies are always available to assist you.

Why Volts Energies Is the Smartest Choice in Canada

At Volts Energies, we don’t just sell parts, we help you design, build, and optimize your entire solar power system from the ground up.

Our Featured Products:

✅Victron MultiPlus MPPT
Industry-leading inverter/charger with built-in MPPT charge controller. Ideal for cabins, homes, and mobile solar.

✅Solar Charge Controllers
From Victron to EPEVER, we carry the most reliable PWM and MPPT models, including 12V, 24V, and 48V options.

✅Solar Inverters
Pure sine wave, off-grid, and hybrid inverters for every type of solar project.

Whether you're building a new system or upgrading your current setup, we offer expert support, fast shipping across Canada, and trusted off-grid solutions for homes, RVs, and commercial projects.