Solar inverter failure symptoms are not hidden; they usually occur due to internal problems. Overheating is one of them, and it can lead to wire issues and electrical surges.
When you observe flashing lights and error messages, they can be related to solar inverter failure symptoms.
The effect of these issues on a solar inverter is that they can reduce electricity production.
It also causes major damage to significant parts of the inverter and increases the risk of solar system failure.
But this article will teach you how to fix a solar inverter failure fault.
Let us go now.
Read Also: How To Repair Solar Inverter.
What Causes A Solar Panel Inverter To Fail?
The cause of solar inverter failure can come from different faults of the solar system parts.
However, solar inverters have challenges, and their periodic breakdowns may doubt our ideal energy generation.
Understanding the signs of solar inverter failure is crucial to reinforce the correct operation of solar inverters.
When this occurs, the first step is to find out what caused the solar inverter failure and also take measures to prevent the system from future failure. Here are some of the causes:
Wear out capacitors
The first thing that can make an inverter fail is a condenser’s electromechanical parts wear out.
Inverters depend on condensers to provide a steady flow of power even when the current level changes.
However, electrolyte condensers wear out and break down faster than dry parts. That could be a reason why the transformer fails on its own.
The capacitors are very sensitive to changes in temperature.
Temperatures above the recommended working temperature, often caused by high currents, can shorten the component’s life.
However, because the electrolytes dissolve faster at higher temperatures, the condenser lasts less when used at lower temperatures.
As long as you keep up with your maintenance and replace capacitors as needed, most problems that failed capacitors can cause can be avoided.
Too much humidity
Humidity is one reason why solar inverters can break down quickly. If your solar generator is exposed to air, the moving parts will break down more quickly.
Water can also cause a solar inverter separation fault, which is relatively regular damage.
It is only a problem when a broken circuit is called an isolated fault.
Water getting into the transformer is what usually causes this to happen. Another reason is wiring that is broken or loose. But there’s a simple way to avoid it.
Also, don’t put it near something that will get wet, like a pool. Look for signs of water damage in the area around your transformer.
Too much heat
It is a regular sign that a solar inverter is failing. Too much heat will greatly reduce the output and can even stop the inverter from producing electricity.
They are made of electronics and are very sensitive to changes in temperature.
Because of this, the suggested cooling system needs to be checked right away during the planning phase to ensure it is good enough and has enough space.
It is strongly suggested that the cooling system be checked while it is in use to ensure the cooling or air system is working right.
Fault in the grid
A grid problem could cause the power to be too high or too low, stopping the inverter from working.
You can use circuit breakers or fuses to keep the generator from breaking down because of too much power.
This is one of the reasons solar inverters fail that you should know about, even though it only happens in systems tied to the grid.
Your solar generator will turn off to protect itself from damage if the power goes out or there is a problem with the grid. Sometimes it doesn’t, though.
Read Also: How Does A Solar Hybrid Inverter Work?
How To Fix A Solar Inverter Failure Fault
As you may know, a solar inverter converts direct current from your into alternating current power, which can then be used in your household appliances.
Your solar inverter is very crucial. If your inverter fails, your home will no longer receive the power your solar panels generate.
Unfortunately, you should hire a professional inverter service to repair inverter defects whenever they fail.
This is because you will always make one or more errors while attempting to maintain your inverter by yourself, which may still have difficulties that cause a drop in performance.
I’ve shown you some procedures to take as preventative measures or to address typical faults before your inverter fails.
However, if you’ve identified the issue, here are several solutions to the inverter problems:
1. Incorrect parameter.
A parameter error fault is detected whenever an erroneous parameter is set during parameter change (this fault may occur during synchronous vector control). Please adjust the settings again and hit the reset button to rectify this.
2. The inverter will restart itself after being turned off.
The start and stop capabilities are only available in remote control mode via the remote terminal.
If the inverter’s start mode is set to level start (with closed start and detached stop), it will stop quickly if the emergency stop signal is disconnected during operation or is halted by another means.
The inverter automatically starts functioning when the emergency stop signal is closed, and the remote start level signal is present.
3. During starting, the output frequency oscillates at a low frequency.
Some low-speed motors display significant changes in current because of the slot effect, causing the inverter to undergo repeated acceleration, current limit deceleration, and other issues instead of normal acceleration.
To fix this problem, increase the current limit setting, reduce the startup time, and replace the unit if the output voltage is low.
4. Overcurrent inverter
This happens when the motor draws too much current compared to the value in Group 99, motor data.
Check the relevant devices and eliminate the likely reasons for the problem of removing the overcurrent protection:
- Examine the unit detection board for any shorts or damage.
- If the output voltage is low, replace the device.
- If required, replace the controller signal board or main control board.
- Due to the tooth groove effect, the motor’s low-speed current fluctuation can sometimes produce repetitive acceleration, deceleration, and over-current protection.
Shortening the acceleration time and raising the current limiting factor might assist the motor in passing through the fluctuation area quickly while avoiding over-current protection.
If the motor’s low-speed current fluctuation causes the problem, reduce the acceleration time and raise the current limiting factor.
5. Voltage Overvoltage
A high intermediate circuit DC voltage is to blame. When high inertia loads decelerate too fast, the motor converts to a generator, increasing the inverter’s DC voltage.
However, there are various sources of DC overvoltage.
Try turning on the overvoltage controller. Examine the working of the brake chopper and resistor.
Install the frequency converter, as well as the braking chopper and resistor.
Increase the time it takes to decelerate. When feasible, use the “coast to stop” feature. A regenerative drive should be used instead.
6. Undervoltage
Low intermediate circuit DC voltage is to blame. A blown fuse, a broken isolator or contactor, an internal rectifier bridge malfunction, or a low mains voltage can cause this.
- Examine the operation of the isolator and contactor.
- Examine the power supply and fuses.
- Check the input voltage; it might be too low.
7. Overcurrent errors
Examine the solar panels for obvious damage or debris that might produce a short circuit.
If the panels are clear, an inverter repair professional must inspect the DC input connections for loose or broken wires and diagnose the solar inverter failure fault codes.
8. For undervoltage problems
An inverter repairer will need to inspect the battery and, if required, replace it. If the battery is in good condition, they inspect the connections on the panel to verify they are secure and not damaged.
However, we should understand the signs that occur when the inverter fails to function correctly.
In that case, just as you have read, it means always trying to contact a professional for inverter repairs.
Read Also: What Maintenance Is Required For A Solar Inverter.
Final Thought
Now that you have learned about solar inverter failure symptoms, you should also know when an inverter has overheated.
With strange noises, inconsistent power output, and frequent tripping-off issues, there is already a fault within the solar panel.
When there is no other power source, a solar inverter allows you to power the most important equipment in your home.
But what if your inverter has a problem and can’t work properly? This might result in various issues, including needing more power for your appliances.
To fix it, contact professional inverter services and use the steps mentioned in the article for common issues.
