Are you considering a quote with a Fox ESS inverter?
Read our article to understand if it’s the right choice for you.
Fox ESS is one of the leading inverter manufacturers in the UK market. Founded in 2019 in China, they have quickly established themselves as a popular choice among UK installers and homeowners. Similar alternatives you might want to consider include Sungrow, Growatt or Goodwe.
Is Fox ESS right for you?
✓ You want a cost-effective inverter
✓ You want a hybrid inverter with flexible battery solutions
✓ You want high-efficiency solar conversion
✗ You want an established manufacturer with long history
✗ You want a solar system without Chinese products
✗ You want to mix batteries and inverters from different brands
What sets Fox ESS apart?
During winter, we had the opportunity to speak with Fox ESS representatives. They emphasise their value proposition, aiming to keep prices as low as possible without compromising on crucial quality components. For example, they use capacitors from the renowned Japanese brand Nippon Chemi-con. Capacitors are among the most stressed components in an inverter and risk early wear. In a typical inverter, capacitor costs can represent up to 20% of the price.
Fox ESS also highlights their vertical integration as a key competitive advantage. This means the company controls multiple stages of production and supply – from raw materials to final product. The Fox ESS ownership group owns lithium mines for battery production and manufactures many components internally rather than buying from suppliers. This gives them better control over quality and costs, ultimately enabling more competitive prices for end customers without compromising product quality.
Fox ESS Residential Inverter Range
Fox ESS offers a wide selection of inverters suitable for all types of homes, from small terraced houses to large detached properties. Their range includes both string inverters for solar-only systems and hybrid inverters for solar + battery installations.
| Model | Type | Phases | Brief Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| S Series | String | Single | Basic string inverter. Ultra-low start-up voltage, compact design. Ideal for small residential installations. 0.7 to 3.3 kW. |
| F Series | String | Single | Suitable for medium residential installations. 3 to 6 kW. |
| G Series | String | Single | For larger residential installations. 7 to 10.5 kW. |
| H1 | Hybrid | Single | Hybrid inverter with built-in battery compatibility. Features remote monitoring and advanced features. 3 to 6 kW. |
| T Series | String | Three | Three-phase string inverter. Optimized for large installations with multiple array orientations. 3 to 25 kW |
| H3 | Hybrid | Three | Basic hybrid inverter. 5 to 15 kW. |
| H3 Smart | Hybrid | Three | Advanced hybrid inverter. 5 to 15 kW. |
Advantages
- Cost-effectiveness – Well-engineered inverters often sold at lower prices than competitors
- Efficiency – High performance comparable to established brands
- Expandable battery storage (Hybrid models only) – Additional modules can be added later
- Display – Many models feature built-in screens for easy monitoring
- Durability – IP65 rated for outdoor installation, operates down to -25°C
Disadvantages
- Non-European manufacture – Alternative options exist for those avoiding Chinese products
- Relatively new brand – Founded in 2019, younger than many competitors
- Limited battery options – Only compatible with Fox ESS batteries
- Support primarily via email – Phone support mainly available for installers
Installation
All Fox ESS inverters can be installed outdoors with IP65 rating and operation down to -25°C. However, most Fox ESS batteries must be installed in frost-free conditions.
Warranty & Registration
Fox ESS provides a standard 5-year warranty (60 months from installation or 65 months from manufacture date). This can be extended to 10 years at no cost by registering the product within 36 months of manufacture and connecting it to the Fox Cloud platform for monitoring.
While registration can be done within 36 months, Fox ESS recommends completing it within 6 weeks of installation. Fox ESS reserves the right to either repair the product on-site, at a designated service centre, or provide a replacement product. Labour costs for removing the faulty unit and installing a replacement are not covered under the warranty.
Market Position & Comparison
Fox ESS sits in the mid-range market segment, offering features and reliability comparable to established Chinese manufacturers like Sungrow, Growatt, and GoodWe, but at a more competitive price point. While European brands like Fronius and SMA have longer track records and are considered premium options, they typically come at a significantly higher cost.
