A solar inverter is the heart of any solar power system, which converts the direct current (DC) generated by the solar panels into alternating current (AC), and delivers it to power up the household appliances. Solar energy systems are designed to provide a reliable source of renewable electricity for 25 years or more. Solar Inverter is an important component of a solar system continuously functions efficiently requiring low maintenance.
However, in some instances, solar inverters may get problems during their operation and may cause a solar power system to malfunction. This article will equip you with tools and techniques to troubleshoot common inverter problems that can occur in a solar system. Below we have compiled a list of common inverter faults with troubleshooting steps:
1. Inverter Not Turning On
This is the most common problem any solar power system can face when the solar power inverter is not turning On. Some of the possible causes for this problem with troubleshooting steps are given below:
a. Battery Disconnected
1. If the battery has not been connected to the solar inverter, then first connect the battery through the battery cable supplied.
b. Inverter Tripped
1. The tripped inverter issue can be resolved by resetting the solar inverter. Put the main power switch Off position.
2. Disconnect the battery. Then put On the inverter after reconnecting the battery.
c. Loose Battery Terminals
1. If the battery terminals are loose or rusted then clean them.
2. After properly tightening the terminals apply a thin layer of grease to protect them from rust.
d. Battery Deep Discharged or Dead
1. Check the battery’s health by measuring the voltages at its terminals.
2. Any discharged or dead battery should be replaced by a new battery.
e. Battery Terminals Reversed
1. If you mistakenly connected the battery terminals in the reverse direction then immediately switch Off the inverter and then power On after connecting the terminals in the correct direction.
2. Inverter Not Charging
Sometimes the solar inverter fails to charge the batteries and below are the possible causes with their troubleshooting techniques:
a. No Power Supply
1. When the solar power inverter is not charging the battery, first make sure that the inverter is receiving the input power from the AC wall outlet.
2. If power is available, then check the continuity of the input cable to confirm that the cable which provides the Inverter with electricity is not damaged.
b. Bad Input Voltage/Frequency
1. The solar inverter will not accept the input supply in the case of power fluctuation, where the supplied voltage or frequency is too high or too low from the default values of the Inverter.
2. Installing a Voltage Regulator at the input of the Solar Inverter may fix a voltage level issue, but the frequency must be rectified by the utility supply company or at the generator.
c. Blown Fuse or Tripped Breaker
1. If the input fuse is blown or the circuit breaker trips due to a fault, the Solar Inverter will not be able to charge batteries.
2. Rectify the main cause of fuse blown or breaker trip that can be either due to solar inverter overload or any short circuit.
3. Reset the circuit breaker and replace any blown fuse with the same rating before starting an inverter.
d. Inverter Fault or Board Issue
1. If the power line is regularly facing surges, sags, or spikes then the solar inverter may get faulty or the components of its circuit board will be blown or damaged.
2. Contact the vendor of the solar power system or a qualified technician for repair.
3. Always use Surge Protection Devices (SPDs) for safeguarding solar inverters and their components from power line disturbances.
3. Inverter Overload
Solar Inverter overload is a common fault that any solar power system user can face during its operation. Below are the conditions of overload with simple troubleshooting techniques:
a. Load Calculations
1) Sometimes miscalculations in the load can cause the solar power inverters to be overloaded and shut down.
2) It is recommended to run a load up to 80% of the capacity of the inverter’s rating. For example, a 5kVA inverter should not exceed the load above 4kVA.
3) Moreover, since kVA is not the same as kW. Always calculate load and inverters rating in kilowatts (kW) to avoid any confusion. For example, a 5kVA inverter can run a load of up to 4kW. Therefore, 80% of 4kVA is 3.2kW is the recommended load to run.
b. Short-Circuit Condition
1) The Inverter may also go into an overload condition when detecting a short circuit on the line.
2) Short circuit conditions may damage the inverter’s circuit and can cause fire. These will be prevented by installing a DC breaker(s) at the input and AC breaker(s) at the output of a solar inverter.
c. Internal Faults in Inverter
1) Sometimes internal faults on the circuit boards of solar power inverters can cause an inverter to show an overload condition.
2) Disconnect the battery and input power and reconnect them after one minute to restart the inverter.
3) If the fault remains, then contact your service provider for technical assistance.
4. Inverter Overheating
Multiple factors can cause solar power inverters to become overheated. Some common factors with solutions are given below:
a. Fan Failure
1) The internal circuitry of a solar inverter generates heat during operation. The purpose of a fan is to cool down the electronic components on the circuit board and maintain the internal temperature of an inverter.
2) If the fan fails to operate then you can replace it with the same part number by ordering from the solar vendor or contacting customer service if it’s under warranty.
b. Poor Ventilation
1) A solar inverter can also become overheated in case it is mounted in a poorly ventilated environment.
2) Check the surrounding temperatures where the solar inverter has been installed. The area should maintain a room temperature.
3) Make sure that the solar power inverter has been mounted in a cool and dry place for optimal operation.
c. Dust & Unclean Environment
1) Over time dust and debris can accumulate over the solar inverter’s internal circuitry and on the fan which causes overheating.
2) Check regularly for any dust accumulation and clean the inverter and fan with an air blower on a low setting.
3) Clean the outside of the solar inverter’s body with a clean cloth.
Conclusion
Solar power inverters are a critical component of any solar power system. They are built to last over years. However, with time solar inverters may get some issues and problems which can be easily fixed by taking proper care and maintenance. This article has covered some most common problems a solar power inverter can face with their easy troubleshooting steps.
We hope that you will find the information provided here valuable as well as easy to apply in practical situations. Nevertheless, always thoroughly read the user manual that comes with a solar inverter before doing any troubleshooting, and always follow all safety precautions. Contact your customer service if the problem remains.
