Sudden drops in energy production? Power interruptions that leave you in the dark?
Are these a part of the process or minor glitches in your solar inverter?
I have seen many solar owners spending unnecessary money on repairs and high utility bills. Without the right knowledge, you can end up with the same snowball of problems.
You must stay ahead if you don’t want to spiral into costly headaches.
How?
Keep up with the common solar inverter issues. Have regular solar inverter maintenance checks and perform quick fixes.
I’ll walk you through the common problems and give you practical tips on how to keep your inverters up and running.
Let’s go.
Why Do You Need a Solar Inverter?
A solar inverter is one of the most important components of your solar system. A solar inverter has two main jobs:
- It converts direct current (DC) into alternating current (AC).
- Modern inverters also track how your systems are performing.
Why and How?
The inverter converts DC into AC because solar panels generate direct current. However, your major home appliances and commercial equipment are run on alternating current.
Without a functioning inverter, your solar panels are useless. They won’t provide the power you need to run your appliances or equipment.
The inverter does this in the following way:
- The inverter takes power (DC electricity) from your solar panel. Note that the direct current flows in one direction.
- It then splits the direct current into two small sections and rapidly switches the current back and forth.
- This back-and-forth movement creates AC or alternating current.
This process of converting DC to AC is called ‘inversion.’ The inverter uses transistors to control the timing of the pulses split by the DC. The final electricity, AC, is safe to use or run your appliances and equipment.
Now that you know what important role your inverter plays for your solar panels, let’s get to the point you have been waiting for: the common solar inverter issues that could be holding your system back.
7 Most Common Issues in a Solar Inverter
Is your panel working fine, or is the solar inverter not working? Or is your entire solar system underperforming?
You’re not sure? Not sure if the culprit is your panel or your inverter? I have a list of common issues that will help you identify the same. If you know what to look for, it becomes easy right?
Solar inverter repairs may seem like a problem, but they are simple to spot and easy to fix.
Read below the 7 most common issues you may encounter in your inverter.
1. Overheating
One of the most common and frequently overlooked problems is overheating. It is frequent in areas specific to hot regions, such as Rajasthan. Electrical components are sensitive to heat. Overheated inverters may cause performance problems and even system shutdowns.
Common Cause
- Poor ventilation
- Direct sunlight
- Excessive ambient temperature or heat
- Dirt accumulation
Solutions:
I recommend installing your inverter in a well-shaded area, one which is well-ventilated and has good airflow. You can also use fans or heat sinks to cool your inverters in extreme conditions.
Schedule regular maintenance for filter cleaning. Also, examine for dust buildup that could restrict the airflow.
2. Software and Error Codes
Many latest inverters alert you with software and error codes when they encounter any issues. Errors and glitches can disrupt your panel’s performance. The error codes tell you and indicate different types of issues, including minor system faults and major significant problems.
Common Cause:
- Wrong software updates
- Firmware bugs
- Faulty components
- Faulty wiring
- Software errors
- Isolation issues
- Ground faults
- Internal hardware faults
Solutions:
Keep the ‘Solar Inverter Repairs’ guidebook handy. Use the manual to decode the error based on the error code. Follow the steps to troubleshoot the issues. Regularly update the firmware, and for persistent issues, consult a certified technician. Sometimes, a simple reset also resolves the problem.
3. Performance
Just like any other machine or equipment, your inverts may also degrade over time. Once the performance starts to decline, it leads to reduced efficiency and output.
Common Causes:
- Aging components
- Battery problems
- Accumulation of dust and debris
- Irregular maintenance
- Connection issues
Solutions:
Inspect your inverters for wear and tear. Schedule regular maintenance to keep your inverters clean, up and running. Check components on a regular basis for persistent issues. If the problem persists, upgrade to a new model, as modern inverters often have improved efficiency and better features.
4. Faulty Wiring
Another commonly overlooked issue is faulty wiring. You may experience an irregular power supply due to faulty wiring or even a complete system failure.
Common Causes:
- Loose connections
- Corroded connections
- Damaged wires
- Pests
- Environmental factors
Solutions:
Inspect the wiring and connection regularly. Check for loose connections and tighten them if necessary. Use durable and water-resistant cables. You can also use protective conduit to minimize exposure to external threats or pests.
5. Grid Compatibility or Faults
Many export solar inverters are synchronized with the grids. The inverters are planned to shut down if they find or notice any problems with the solar grid, such as overvoltage or frequency variations.Â
Faults in your grid can result in frequent disconnections, system inefficiencies or inability to export excess power.
Common Causes:
- Voltage spikes in the local power grid
- Inverter sensitivity
- Outdated inverter technology
- Improper grid settings
Solutions:
Invest in smart and modern inverters with better compatibility features. Contact your utility provider to check for grid issues, voltage fluctuations or issues. You can also consult a technician for more in-depth insights about the inverter’s sensitivity settings.
6. Unable to Turn on the Inverter
Another very common issue that people face is the inverter not turning on. Despite good sunlight and battery levels, you may find yourself struggling to turn on the inverter. This can stop your entire solar system from running.
Common Causes:
- Faulty connections
- Faulty wiring
- Battery issues
- Voltage fluctuations
- Faulty capacitors
Solutions:
Thoroughly check all the electrical components, wiring, connections and grids for loose or damaged connections. Ensure that your panels are generating sufficient voltage and powering your inverter well.
7. Poor Output
The sun is shining bright, but still, your panels are not generating the power you expect. If you are also experiencing poor energy output from your solar panels, then there could be many underlying reasons.
Common Causes:
- Shading from tree branches or nearby environment and construction.
- Dirt and debris from solar panels.
- Temperature issues
- Environmental problems
- A mismatch between the inverter size and the solar capacity
- Voltage problems
- Wiring or connection problems
- Electrical faults
- Overheating
Solutions:
Check your solar panels frequently for dust or debris. Keep a note of the inverter’s temperature. They should not overheat. Keep your inverters in appropriate areas with proper ventilation. Perform regular maintenance and consult a professional if necessary.
Easy? Didn’t I tell you before that solar inverter repairs are not as difficult as they may seem? The only thing you need to keep in mind is that you should regularly check them for issues. I have a few more troubleshooting tips for you. Let’s have a quick look.
Troubleshooting Solar Inverters
Now that you know about the common inverter issues, you know when your inverter isn’t functioning at its best. You know that it’s not the panel that’s causing the trouble but the invert.
But the next question is: Are there any quick fixes to these issues? No need to stress, as I have a few. No, don’t worry. You don’t have to be an expert to sort them out. These are simple, straightforward tricks that can get your invert humming again.
- Look for any error codes or warning signs on the display panels.
- Clean the inverters on a regular basis to improve airflow.
- Make sure that the inverter is in a nicely ventilated area.
- Check for tripped circuits, faulty connections or loose wiring.
- Ensure all panel connections are tight and secure.
- Inspect any visible damage on your solar panels.
- Check for dirt buildup on your panels and inverters.
- Check the output voltage using a multimeter. It should match the manufacturer’s specifications.
- Reset the inverter to resolve minor glitches.
- Contact or consult a certified technician, if the problems keep coming back.
Isn’t troubleshooting solar inverters simple and quick? Simply follow these steps, diagnose the problems and resolve them in a snap. (Before they become a BIG problem.)
Quick Solar Inverter Maintenance Tips
Prevention is always better than cure. Isn’t it? The same goes for solar inverter maintenance. The quickest and easiest solar inverter maintenance tip that I can give you is that you prevent the issues from happening rather than fixing them.
Of course, it’s a machine, an equipment that is prone to damage. Wear and tear are bound to happen over time. It’s also completely normal to overlook or miss certain issues. After all, things aren’t always obvious. Therefore, I would give five quick tips.
Number 1: Clean the unit and its surroundings regularly. I recommend every two to three months.
Number 2: Use solar panel monitoring tools. They are user-friendly and let you track your panel’s performance on the go. You can track anything and everything using the monitoring tools.
Number 3: Do not make the mistake of installing your inverters anywhere you find the place. Keep them in well-ventilated areas.
Number 4: Have a certified professional inspect your panels yearly to identify any major issues.
Number 5: Invest in quality. You should not have to change your wiring, components or batteries frequently. It’s always an added expense. Rather, invest in high-quality components that will last you years.
If you are looking for real-time solutions for your panels or inverters, look no further than Intello. I assure you that our experts are skilled, use specialized tools and offer amazing maintenance tips for your entire system to run smoothly for years to come.
Conclusion
No inverter or solar system is immune to problems. However, understanding the common problems, being prepared for the reasons and handling them with care, can keep your system on track and your savings in your pocket.
So, let me ask you again. Is your solar inverter not working? I can confidently say that you know what to do, even if it isn’t.
If you want to know more about your inverter or panels, feel free to contact us right away. Â
Meanwhile, happy savings!
FAQs:
- How long do solar inverters last?
Solar inverters typically last 10 to 15 years. The exact lifespan depends on the inverts’ quality, usage and maintenance. Proper care, such as regular cleaning and monitoring, can extend their lifespan.
- What damages solar inverters?
Solar inverters are frequently exposed to harsh environmental conditions, such as extreme temperatures, moisture, and dust. Over time, these factors can cause corrosion, overheating, and electrical shorts, resulting in performance degradation or complete failure.
- Can I use solar without an inverter?
If you power DC appliances directly, you can use solar panels without an inverter. However, most panels require inverters to convert the solar panel’s DC output into AC power. You may limit the usability of your solar systems without an inverter.
- Can solar inverter run 24 hours?
If connected to a power source, a solar inverter can operate 24 hours a day. During the day, it runs on solar energy. At night, it can work with stored battery power or grid electricity. However, overloading or continuous usage can strain it and reduce its lifespan.
- Can I replace my solar inverter?
Yes. You can replace a solar inverter when it becomes inefficient or stops working. Make sure the replacement inverter matches the capacity and specifications of your existing solar system. You can consult a professional installer for proper installation and compatibility.
