Complete Guide to Installing a Hybrid Inverter in Pakistan (2025)

Step-by-step, Pakistan-focused guide to select, size, install, commission, and maintain an Inverex hybrid inverter. Safety tips, wiring checklist, permits, FAQs, and maintenance plan—from IMH Technologies.

Switching to a hybrid inverter (grid + battery + solar-ready) is one of the best moves for reliable power in Pakistan. This guide walks homeowners, installers, and business owners through everything needed to plan and install an Inverex hybrid inverter system—from pre-install assessment to commissioning and maintenance—with practical, Pakistan-specific advice.

Why choose a hybrid inverter (short)

Works with grid + solar + battery for maximum uptime.
Automatically switches between power sources (grid, solar, battery).
Reduces generator runtime and fuel costs.
Scalable: more panels or batteries later without swapping the inverter.
Inverex is a reliable, widely serviced brand in Pakistan (compatible with many battery types).

Quick overview—components you’ll need

Inverex Hybrid Inverter (model depends on load & battery voltage)
Solar PV array (optional now or future-ready)
Battery bank (lead-acid / AGM / Gel / Li-ion—check inverter compatibility)
PV combiner box (if many strings)
DC isolator/MPPTs (if solar connected)
AC distribution panel / MCBs / RCCB / Isolation switch
Battery breaker/fuse and BMS if using Li-ion
Cables (DC-rated PV cables, battery cables, AC cables)
Earthing/lightning protection
Monitoring hardware or communication dongle (for Inverex monitoring)

Pre-installation checklist (site survey)

Load audit—list all loads to run on inverter (lights, fridge, router, TV, pumps, etc.). Calculate total starting and running watts.
Backup requirement—how many hours of backup at the chosen load? (This defines battery capacity.)
Roof/ground space—for panels if you plan solar.
Battery location—ventilated, cool, accessible, and near the inverter to minimize cable runs.
Grid availability & restrictions—check local DISCO rules and whether net metering/solar interconnection is planned.
Permits & approvals—some DISCOs require paperwork for hybrid or export; check local procedures.
Safety & earthing—site-specific earthing test recommended.

Tip: IMH Technologies offers free site surveys—get an accurate sizing and quote.

Sizing the system (rules of thumb)

Inverter sizing: Choose inverter continuous rating ≥ calculated continuous load. Consider surge/starting current (motors, pumps). Example: A fridge, lights, and fans might need 2–3 kW continuously, but fridge startup may require a 6–8 kW surge—select the inverter accordingly.
Battery capacity: Required backup hours × daily energy consumption = Wh needed. Convert to Ah using battery voltage (e.g., 48V). Add a depth-of-discharge (DoD) safety margin (for lead-acid use shallower DoD; Li-ion allows deeper DoD).
Solar array (if used): Solar size = daily energy demand / average effective sun-hours (Pakistan: varies 4–6 h depending on location/season)—sized to recharge batteries and run daytime loads.

Note: these are planning rules. For a precise design IMH will calculate using measured loads and location.

Compatibility: Inverex + Batteries + Solar

Inverex hybrid inverters support specific battery chemistries and voltages—always match inverter specs (e.g., 48V battery bank for a 48V inverter).
For Li-ion, ensure the inverter can communicate with the Battery Management System (BMS) or that the BMS can handle charge/discharge independently.
If adding solar, choose MPPTs sized for array voltage/current within Inverex limits.

Step-by-step installation (high-level)

Important: Only certified electricians and certified installers should perform wiring and commissioning. Follow manufacturer manual and local electrical code.

Mount the inverter on a wall or place it on a stable surface—protected from direct sunlight and rain. Maintain recommended clearances for ventilation.
Install the battery bank in a ventilated, stable location. Secure batteries and observe polarity.
Run battery cables: Use recommended cross-section cable to handle continuous current. Keep cable runs as short as possible to reduce voltage drop. Use proper battery cable lugs and torque-rated terminals.
DC isolator/fuses: Fit appropriate battery fuses/breakers as close to the battery positive terminal as possible.
AC wiring: Connect the inverter AC output to the dedicated AC distribution panel with MCBs and an isolation switch. Provide separate circuits for critical loads if needed.
Solar PV wiring (if applicable): Install PV panels, combiner, and DC isolator, and connect to the inverter’s PV input or MPPTs. Observe correct stringing (voltage/current) and polarity.
Earthing & lightning protection: Connect the inverter, panel frames, and battery negative to a proper earth electrode system. Install surge protection devices (SPDs) on AC and DC sides where recommended.
Communication & monitoring: Fit communication modules if the Inverex model supports Wi-Fi/GSM/RS485 for remote monitoring.
Initial checks: Verify all connections, fuses, polarity, earthing resistance, and isolation. No live work without appropriate PPE.
Power-up & config: Power up the inverter following the manual sequence. Configure battery type, charge/discharge parameters, grid priorities (grid-first, solar-first, or battery priority), and time-based charging if available.
Load testing: Simulate loads and test transfer times between sources (grid → battery, inverter → bypass) and check alarms.
Commissioning report: Record settings, battery SOC, earthing test, and hand over a short user manual to the homeowner (shutdown procedure, maintenance schedule, and warranty details).

Wiring & cable best practices

Use correctly sized cables (battery cables are often large; use standards or manufacturer recommendations).
Use DC-rated cable for PV runs. Keep positive and negative well insulated.
Tight torque on terminals; loose connections cause heat and failures.
Keep the battery and inverter close to reduce DC cable length.
Use color-coded/labeled wiring and provide a wiring diagram at the switchboard.

Safety and regulatory notes

Never mix battery types or ages in the same bank.
Install battery gas ventilation for flooded or vented lead-acid batteries.
Put up clear danger/high voltage signage.
Do not bypass protective devices (fuses, MCBs, earthing).
Follow Inverex manuals and warranty conditions—many vendors void warranties if not installed by authorized technicians.
For grid-tied with export, confirm net metering and interconnection paperwork with your local DISCO.

Commissioning checklist (what IMH will verify)

Correct inverter model/settings for your battery.
Proper earthing resistance is acceptable per local code.
Correct fuse/breaker ratings and wiring.
Transfer time tests and relay responses.
Communication/monitoring set up and linked (if requested).
Customer training: how to view alarms, safe shutdown, and emergency procedures.

Maintenance plan (simple & practical)

Monthly: Visual check for loose cables, corrosion, battery water level for flooded cells, and clean vents.
Quarterly: Check battery voltage per block; check inverter fault logs.
Annually: Load and capacity test for battery bank; earthing re-test; inverter firmware updates if available.
When needed: Replace batteries at end of life (cycle-based for Li-ion, capacity for lead-acid). Keep records of cycles/ages.

Common problems & troubleshooting

Inverter not starting: Check battery voltage, battery breaker, DC fuses, and polarity.
Frequent low-battery alarms: Battery capacity reduced or incorrect settings (DoD). Perform a capacity test.
Overheating: Check ventilation, ambient temperature, and continuous load vs. inverter rating.
Solar not charging: Check PV open-circuit voltage, string polarity, combiner fuses, and MPPT input.
No grid transfer: Verify AC input wiring, isolation switch, and DISCO supply presence.

If unsure, contact IMH Technologies support rather than attempting deep troubleshooting.

Costs & financing (what affects price)

Costs vary depending on inverter size & model, battery chemistry & capacity, number of solar panels, installation complexity, earthing/lightning systems, and site access. Because prices change, request an on-site quote from IMH for an accurate estimate and financing options.

Why use IMH Technologies for Inverex hybrid installations?

Authorized installer experience with Inverex equipment.
Site survey, professional sizing, and documented commissioning.
After-sale support and maintenance contracts.
Genuine parts and warranty support guidance.

Ready-made checklist for homeowners (printable)

Book an IMH free site survey.
Finalize loads for backup (list devices).
Choose battery chemistry (IMH will advise).
Decide if you want solar now or future-ready wiring.
Agree on installation location and access.
Confirm warranty & maintenance plan

FAQ

Q: Can I install a hybrid inverter myself?
A: No. Electrical and battery work is high risk. Use a certified installer—IMH can install and commission safely.

Q: Which battery is better: lead-acid or Li-ion?
A: Li-ion has a longer life, better DoD, and a smaller footprint but a higher upfront cost. Lead-acid is cheaper initially. The right choice depends on your budget, cycle demands, and space.

Q: Will my generator still work with a hybrid inverter?
A: Yes—many hybrid setups integrate a generator as a backup source. Discuss auto-start features with IMH.

Q: Do I need net metering?
A: If you plan to export solar power to the grid, net-metering rules apply. IMH can advise and help with DISCO paperwork where applicable.

Q: How long do batteries last?
A: Li-ion typically 5–15 years depending on cycles and use; lead-acid 2–6 years depending on maintenance and cycling. Usage pattern and temperature greatly affect life.