Why Choose Enphase over AP Systems 

Summary

This post explains why Enphase microinverters are a better fit for Calgary homes despite their higher upfront cost. Enphase offers: superior performance for Calgary’s shading and roof conditions; advanced features such as consumption monitoring and integrated EV charger; unmatched reliability; cutting-edge technology; and industry-leading warranty.

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A quick glossary (because words matter) 

Solar module = solar panel. We use ‘module’ to not be confused with your main electrical panel. 
Microinverters = micros - their pet name. Micros sit behind each module and instantly convert DC to AC on the roof.

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Why micros are a Calgary staple 

Calgary roofs are rarely pitch-perfect (excuse the pun). Trees, roof vents, and multiple roof faces are common, and our winter sun angles make partial shading a fact of life. Micros shine (I'll stop with the puns now) here because: 

They are great against shading (trees, roof vents) and when adding modules to multiple roof faces

They are very easy to expand; we like to use a fancy word for this: modular.

They give diagnostics to the modules they are connected to, which makes it very easy to troubleshoot.

They comply with modern rapid shutdown safety requirements.

They are the safest solar system, because the electricity coming down from your roof with a micro-setup is 240V AC.

The elephant in the room: “Why is Enphase more Expensive?” 

Two big reasons homeowners' notice: 

‍One-to-one vs. One-to-two. Enphase IQ series uses one micro per module. APSystems (and Hoymiles) typically use one micro per two modules. Fewer units can look cheaper on paper, especially on larger arrays. But keep reading! There are real design and lifetime differences that matter. 
‍Extras homeowners value. Enphase brings two advantages many Calgary families care about: whole-home consumption monitoring integrated into the Enphase app, and they are 'hybrid-ready' (which means it can have back-up functionalities, even without a battery).

Head-to-head at a glance 

Enphase vs. APSystems Comparison

Feature	APSystems DS3-L	Enphase IQ8HC
System Design	Connects two modules per inverter	Connects one module per inverter
Max AC Output Power	768 VA (384 VA per panel)	384 VA
Max DC Input Voltage	60 V	60 V
Max DC Input Current	18A (x2)	20A Isc / 14A max input
Peak Efficiency	97.3%	97.4%
Communication	ZigBee	PLC (powerline comms)
Rapid Shutdown Compliance	Yes	Yes
Microgrid Capability	No	Yes
Warranty	25 years Components	25 years Labour + Components
Monitoring	Production	Production & Consumption
Price Range (CAD)	~ $300–350	~ $350–400

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They both have the same ratings, same efficiency... Then what added value does Enphase bring that offsets the fact that you need double the number of micros per system (and therefore double the cost)? 

When homeowners ask, “Why pay more for Enphase?”—this is the part of the story that matters most. 

1.Why Enphase Wins on Reliability 

Enphase didn’t just join the microinverter game - they invented it. Founded in 2006, Enphase introduced the world’s first commercially successful microinverter in 2008 and has shipped over 48 million units globally. That’s nearly two decades of refinement and field data behind every IQ8 you see today. [1] 

 Enphase is unapologetically the 'Dyson' of solar electronics: higher upfront cost because they pour money into R&D, not shortcuts. They hold the majority market share in the microinverter segment, spending over 200 million dollars in R&D each year from 2023. Their roadmap includes grid-forming technology, advanced firmware, and integrated energy ecosystems - features that competitors such as Hoymiles and APSystems often chase years later. [2][3] 

 As of October 2025, Enphase has never had a product recall in Canada. APSystems' has had two recalls in 2022, and 2023 [4], for the DS3-L and DS3-S respectively, where multiple micros had to be swapped out during wintertime. APS is also being investigated for malfunctioning components that are causing system shutdowns. [5] 

 Enphase micros have the lowest failure rate in the industry, of 0.05%, compared to 0.5% for string inverters and higher rates for some dual-input micros. Even accounting for more components per system, Enphase’s device-level reliability is unmatched. [6] 

 Enphase's IQ8 microinverters are also engineered to operate in extreme conditions from -40°C to +65°C and undergo rigorous accelerated life testing to simulate decades of heat, humidity, and freeze-thaw cycles. This commitment to reliability is why Enphase confidently backs its micros with a 25-year warranty and maintains one of the lowest failure rates in the industry. [7][8] 

2.Speaking of... Warranty! 

  Enphase stands out for its warranty and durability. Unlike any other inverter, Enphase covers both component and installation costs through its 25-year warranty, offering labour reimbursement for installers, so we don't have to pass on any costs to homeowners during the warranted lifetime of each micro. [9] 

3.Cutting-Edge Technology 

The Enphase Enlighten App is the highest rated solar app and is well known for its intuitive design. Enphase systems also come with consumption monitoring, where the App doesn’t just show your system’s solar production, but it also tracks your entire home’s consumption. The only downside to all of this is when you get to see how much electricity your dryer is actually pulling... 

 Instead of relying on Wi-Fi or roof radios, Enphase uses power-line communication (PLC) over your existing AC wiring. That means fewer interference headaches and a cleaner, more reliable link between micros and the gateway. And because it doesn’t depend on Wi-Fi, it’s inherently more secure against hacking attempts. 

 Enphase also offers an easy-to-set up ecosystem including EV chargers and back-up functionalities. Enphase IQ8 micros are grid-forming, which means they are 'hybrid-compatible'. This keeps options open for any future upgrades, such as: 

By adding an IQ EV Charger, you get a Level 2 charger with integrated energy management and custom scheduling in the Enphase Enlighten App.

By adding an IQ System Controller, you can keep some circuits powered during an outage without a battery (Sunlight-only Backup).

By adding an IQ System Controller and an IQ Battery, you can have your critical loads backed up for a full Hybrid System.

Bottom line  

Enphase costs more because it delivers unmatched reliability, both in its products and as a company, along with a superior warranty and cutting-edge technology. This isn’t just about hardware; it’s about peace of mind. 

If you want a solar system you’ll love for years to come, without hidden costs, without compromises, and with future-ready features like whole-home monitoring and backup readiness, choose Enphase. It’s the premium option for homeowners who value quality and longevity. 

Learn more 

Curious what this looks like on your roof? Book a 30-minute consultation with Potential Engineering and we’ll show you an Enphase system on your home, with shade modeling, production and financial forecasts. We will also provide you with an itemized quote. 

Learn more about our Calgary solar approach on our website.