Troubleshooting Solar Panel Inverter Problems And Solutions

Home Troubleshooting Solar Panel Inverter Problems And Solutions
29/03/2022
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Having solar panels installed in your home may seem like an ideal solution for lowering your energy costs but it does not come without its own set of problems. One of the main issues with a solar panel system is when the inverter breaks down. When this happens, the electricity produced by the array can’t be transmitted to the grid or to your appliances and the whole system will basically become useless until it is fixed.

Solar inverter problems can be frustrating. You’ve spent a lot of money to install solar panels on your roof and you’re hoping they’ll generate most of the electricity to power your home. So, when your solar panels stop working, your heart sinks and you’re left wondering what happened?

In this blog, Let’s talk about Troubleshooting Solar Panel Inverter Problems And Solutions.

Why would be a solar inverter stop working?

Solar Inventer Repair Bannner
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A grid-tied inverter is the most common type of solar inverter, and they help to convert DC power from your solar panels into AC power, which can then be used by your home.

There are a number of reasons why you might have issues with your inverter, but the seven most common reasons why solar inverters stop working are:

1. The battery will not charge.

The open voltage circuit of the solar array should be tested to ensure that it is within normal limits. If the voltage is zero or low, check the connections for the solar array. When inspecting the system, remember to separate the photovoltaic array from the controller. Another thing to look at is the solar and battery voltages at the charge controller terminals to see whether the voltage readings are the same while the battery is charging. If the photovoltaic reading is near to the panels’ open circuit reading and the battery reading is low, the controller is likely not charging the batteries, which might indicate battery deterioration.

2. Excessively High Battery Voltage Reading

High battery voltage measurements might indicate an issue with the controller. Disconnect the positive connector of the lead battery and leave the solar array detached to check. The controller’s charging light should not be turned on. Measure the voltage from the charge controller at the solar panel terminal. If the green light illuminates, the controller is likely to be destroyed.

3. Loading Errors

If this is the case, the fuses may be broken or malfunctioning. Make sure the fuses aren’t frayed or broken by inspecting them. Another possibility is that the circuit breakers were tripped.

4. The fault line is active, but the AC load is not.

A shutdown might have happened as a result of a system overload that exceeded the solar inverters’ surge capability.

5. Solar Inverter Reverse Polarity Connection

Because the inverter might be damaged and need to be replaced, the battery connection should be verified. If it’s time to replace anything, always check the connections.

6. Improper Load Disconnection

The battery connection should be examined since the controller is not getting adequate battery voltage. Batteries should be examined as part of normal maintenance to see whether they need to be changed soon.

7. Fuse Short Circuits in Arrays

When a short circuit test was done, the battery might have been connected. In order to run the test, the battery must be unplugged. Because the photovoltaic array’s rating may have surpassed the rating, another controller should be installed in parallel if necessary, or it should be replaced with one that can handle the rating.

Steps To Identify Common Solar Inverter Faults

Steps To Identify Common Solar Inverter Faults
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Solar Inverters are some of the most critical components to the solar system. They come in a variety of forms and provide many functions like monitoring energy production, displaying performance data, and even reporting faults.

Even though Solar inverter companies test their equipment thoroughly to ensure quality control, there may be times when they can fail. In this article, we will explain how to identify common solar power inverter problems and how to resolve them so that your solar system can continue operating at peak performance.

  • If accessible, check the app and website for statistics on solar system performance.

Learn how much energy is produced by the panels and how much was saved on your power bill. In some cases, you can even get details on individual panels and their output.

The hardware used to gather data may not be installed until after the installation is complete, so you may need to wait a few days before you can track the system’s performance.

Many solar companies also provide online access to data. For example, ZJBeny provides daily and monthly updates that are accessible through an online portal.

  • Look for noticeable dirt, leaves, mold, or shading concerns on the solar panels.

When you walk through a site, look for noticeable dirt, leaves, mold, or shading concerns on the solar panels. This can be indicative of larger issues that need to be addressed.

Look at the inverter. Does it appear to be working properly? Is it connected to the grid? The inverter is one of the most common points of failure and its location can provide insight into how the rest of the system was installed.

If there are no visible signs of damage or deterioration around the system and if the inverter appears to be functioning, it’s a good sign that the system is in good condition.

  • Look for any warnings or defects on the solar inverter.

If you are installing solar panels yourself, the first thing you need to do is make sure you have the right piece of hardware. This hardware is called an inverter. Solar inverters come in a few different flavors. You can go with a micro-inverter, or a string inverter, depending on your setup. The most important thing to keep in mind here is that your inverter has to be compatible with your solar array and the electrical grid at your home.

Once you have acquired your inverter, check it for any defects or damage. This might seem like an obvious step, but remember that the inverter is possibly one of the most important pieces of hardware you will install in this project, so you want to make sure it’s in good condition and ready for installation.

  • Check that all of the isolators are turned on and that no circuit breakers have tripped.

Check that all of the isolators are turned on and that no circuit breakers have tripped. If you have a fuse box, check that all of the fuses are in place and not blown.

If the power is still out, you can check with your local energy provider’s website or social media channels to see if they’ve recorded an outage in your area. You may also be able to call them to check if there is a power outage in your area.

Check that all of the isolators are turned on and that no circuit breakers have tripped. If you have a fuse box, check that all of the fuses are in place and not blown.

  • For over-voltage difficulties, check the grid voltage on the inverter display or app.

For over-voltage difficulties, check the grid voltage on the inverter display or app.

This will help identify if the problem is caused by an excessive voltage from the grid or from the inverter being set too high. This can be resolved by adjusting the settings on the inverter to a lower maximum voltage.

  • To examine the solar system, use a solar specialist or an electrician.

Plenty of people know how to use a wrench. Not as many people can build an engine.

Choosing an electrician to perform your solar installation is the better choice. Solar installers undergo specialized training and learn how to safely and efficiently install a solar energy system in addition to passing an exam or two.

A master electrician has even more experience and training under his or her belt than a general electrician, in addition to performing electrical work for years. But even with that kind of experience, a master electrician still needs to pass additional classes and examinations before installing solar panels.

Most Common Solar Inverter Issues and how to fix

Most Common Solar Inverter Issues and how to fix
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Every residential solar system has its own method of distributing power, which presents its own set of issues. As long as the issue is exterior, such as panels, solar systems are typically maintenance-free and easy to solve. If anything goes wrong with the inverter, though, it’s a little more difficult to identify and repair. Here are the five most typical problems with solar inverters once they’ve been installed:

The inverters were installed incorrectly.

Because solar inverters are designed to provide years of trouble-free service, they are built to withstand issues. However, this is only true if you install it correctly, with no bad connections or yields. As a result, the majority of internal issues with solar inverters are caused by improper installation in the first place. Start with the physical errors in the components that make it function. Make sure the installer is a professional with appropriate expertise before you choose someone to install or repair the inverter. Perform certain tests, such as the Yield test, reactive power regulation, and remote control activation and deactivation. Check to see whether everything is operating at the correct power level, as specified by the manufacturer.

Overheating


One of the most typical concerns with solar inverters is overheating, which isn’t a good indicator of service. The inverter’s high temperature might have a negative impact on overall service and energy output. If the heat exceeds the maximum operating temperature, the system may be shut off. Checking for ventilation on a regular basis is the best strategy to handle the temperature issue. If you’re installing the inverter in a confined space, ensure there’s enough ventilation to keep the space cool. You must also provide a decent cooling technique for the inverter, depending on its kind and size. For the greatest results, install cooling fans in the switch cabinet and create an airflow pattern.

Fault of Isolation

It’s only an issue with inverters when the arrangement is in a tight space with little breathing area. The inner sections of the inverter will short circuit between them as a consequence of an isolation issue. After the short circuit occurs, the inverter should give you an isolation alert. The majority of short circuits are caused by a faulty connection between the panel and the DC connections. A short circuit in the inverter might also be caused by moisture or corrosion in the wires or contacts. If you live in a region with a lot of humidity or near the sea, you’re likely to have these issues. To solve the isolation issues, ensure the DC cables are of good quality and that all of the connections are waterproof. Carefully connect the wires so that they do not come into touch with moisture.

After a grid fault, the inverter does not resume.

When a grid failure occurs in the solar system, the inverter should be able to resume on its own after it has been brought back online. The system trigger cut-out may occur during a voltage peak in the grid after an abrupt deactivation. The inverter should be able to restart on its own once it’s back online, or the repair team will have to come out. To avoid such an issue, you must first get the finest inverter with the highest efficiency. After a power outage, having the correct inverter can help you avoid unwelcome output losses. It’s critical to purchase the correct inverter if you live in a location where the grid connection isn’t reliable.

The MPPT module is a piece of software that allows you to calculate

Modern inverters use the Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) technology as their primary mode of operation. It’s the finest solution for maximizing the inverter’s performance in large PV systems with a large-scale current. Multiple PV modules are held in rows by the strings, which are all linked to the inverter system at the same time. However, for a variety of reasons, the performance of the strings in terms of providing power may differ. The outcome of the strings will be affected by panel location, malfunctioning panels, shading, and other circumstances. Regardless of the string variances, the MPPT module guarantees that the strings get the greatest possible supply voltage.

Steps to Reset a Solar Inverter

Steps to Reset a Solar Inverter
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A hard reset is the first step in detecting a problem with your solar energy system. If your inverter is exhibiting a yellow or red signal, a hard reset is similar to restarting your computer.

Step 1: Turn off your solar inverter first.

Find the location of your solar inverter. You may be able to skip this step depending on the kind of inverter you have. Your solar inverter is usually a huge box along an external wall or within the garage near the main electrical service panel. After you’ve identified your solar inverter, locate the AC/DC toggle switch and turn it off.

This phase may be skipped in solar energy systems using microinverters.

Step 2: Disconnect your solar air conditioner.

A gray disconnect box should be located near your solar inverter. The handle is usually black or crimson. Place the lever in the “off” position to turn it off. Be on the lookout for a loud popping sound.

Step 3: In the main electrical panel, turn off the solar breaker.

Locate the primary electrical panel. There should be a breaker devoted to solar on the inside. That set of breakers will be labeled “Photovoltaic,” “Solar PV,” or “Solar System.” Turn them off.

Step 4: Hold on a second, the Solar Energy System is now turned off.

Your solar energy system has now entirely shut off. After waiting at least a minute, switch your solar system back on to determine whether the problem has been resolved. You’ll need to accomplish this by going back through the stages.

Step 5: In the main electrical panel, turn on the solar breaker.

Turn on the set of breakers devoted to your solar power system.

Step 6: Activate the Solar AC Disconnect.

Return to the AC disconnect box and look for the black or red lever. The switch should be turned off. Make sure the lever is in the “On” position. Please be aware that it may produce a loud popping sound.

Step 7: Switch on the Solar Inverter

Lift the bottom panel of your solar inverter to reveal it. Locate the AC/DC toggle switch on your solar inverter system and turn it on.

Solar Inverter Maintenance Guide

Solar Inverter Maintenance Guide
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A solar power system is built to be dependable and low-maintenance, but there are a few things you can do to make sure your equipment is performing at its best. Here are some solar inverter maintenance methods to maintain your inverter in good operating order:

Keep the inverter at a comfortable temperature.

It’s normal for your inverter to grow heated when it converts DC to AC. It’s advised that you leave at least twelve inches of free space around your inverter to ensure optimal ventilation.

Make sure nothing is blocking or being sucked into your inverter’s fan if it has one. The inverter may overheat and lose efficiency if your fan stops operating.

Finally, check sure nothing combustible is next to your inverter, since it might catch fire if the equipment becomes too hot.

Maintain the cleanliness of the air intake filter.

The air intake filter might get dusty over time, depending on where your inverter is located. If the filter becomes clogged with dust and debris, it will be unable to cool as effectively, lowering the inverter’s efficiency.

If the filter becomes filthy, we suggest that you get it cleaned by a professional rather than cleaning it yourself since you may need to disassemble parts of the equipment.

Examine for Error Codes

While you don’t need to check your inverter on a daily basis, you should do it on a regular basis to ensure that everything is operating properly. This includes searching for any trouble messages or a different light than usual on the inverter screen. Call a professional to analyze the issue if anything doesn’t look right.

Take use of solar monitoring technology

You should make use of any technology provided by the manufacturer of your solar power system, such as a smartphone app for monitoring the system. This solar professional can keep you up to speed on the state of your solar panels and inverter, as well as provide you with immediate access to customer support and technicians if necessary.

Keep in mind, though, that any technology may have problems from time to time, so it’s still a good idea to check the inverter in person for any symptoms of difficulty on a frequent basis.

Conclusion

If you’re a solar power enthusiast, you might be aware of the importance inverters play in making your system work properly. If you’re having inverter troubles, and you can’t find the fix in your owner’s manual, take a look through this list of problems and solutions to see if it’s something relatively easy to fix.

Most troubleshooting can be done from home. If a technician has to come out and troubleshoot the source of a problem, they may charge hundreds of dollars in labor costs. The key to finding problems on your own is recognizing your system’s symptoms. A solar inverter is not something that regularly needs repair, but it can have problems if there is a defect or it is exposed to certain conditions.

Using the right solar inverter with your solar panel is an important step for ensuring your solar energy system performs optimally. 

If you need any help with these troubleshooting scenarios, ZJBeny is the one for you.

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