Solar Inverter

• Keep the Inverter cool by ensuring the fan, ventilation system, or other cooling technology is up to speed and working correctly.

• Keep the air intake filter clean to ensure there is no clogging, preventing the free flow of air and preventing moisture from building up internally.

• Check for Error Codes or changes in the inverter lights; these could be signs that something is amiss and needs attention.

• Use Solar Monitoring Technology whenever available from your solar equipment supply company. Whether they are apps or alert systems of any kind, they can help monitor performance and spot issues before they escalate.

Overheating, Surges & Spikes

One common reason for solar inverter failure is overheating due to lack of proper maintenance. Solar inverters are often installed in outdoor environments where they are exposed to sunlight and high temperatures. Over time, this exposure can cause the internal components of the inverter to overheat, leading to performance degradation and eventual failure. Inadequate ventilation or improper installation can exacerbate this issue, underscoring the importance of proper system design and maintenance.

Another factor contributing to solar inverter failure is electrical surges or spikes. These can occur due to lightning strikes, grid voltage fluctuations, or switching events within the electrical system. While inverters are equipped with surge protection mechanisms, they are not immune to damage from high-voltage transients. Investing in additional surge protection devices and implementing proper grounding practices can help mitigate the risk of damage from electrical surges.

Components & Firmware

Component degradation and manufacturing defects are also potential causes of solar inverter failure. Over time, the internal components of inverters, such as capacitors and semiconductors, can degrade due to exposure to heat, moisture, and electrical stress. Regular monitoring and proactive maintenance can help identify early signs of component degradation, allowing for timely repairs or replacements.

Furthermore, software and firmware issues can affect the performance and reliability of solar inverters. Firmware bugs, compatibility issues with other system components, and software glitches can all lead to malfunctions or operational errors. Keeping inverters up-to-date with the latest firmware releases and working with reputable manufacturers can help minimize the risk of software-related failures.

Precautions for inverter installation and maintenance:

1. Before installation, you should first check whether the inverter is damaged during transportation.
2. When selecting the installation site, it should be ensured that there is no interference from any other power electronic equipment in the surrounding area.
3. Before making electrical connections, be sure to cover or disconnect the AC and DC side isolator switch with opaque materials. When exposed to sunlight, the PV array will generate dangerous voltages.
4. All installation operations must be performed by professional technicians only.
5. The cables used in the photovoltaic system power generation system must be firmly connected, with good insulation and appropriate specifications.
6. All electrical installations must meet local and national electrical standards.
7. The inverter can be connected to the grid only after obtaining the permission of the local power department and all electrical connections are completed by professional technicians.
8. Before performing any maintenance work, first disconnect the electrical connection between the inverter and the grid, and then disconnect the DC side electrical connection.
9. Wait at least 5 minutes until the internal components are discharged before performing maintenance work.
10. Any fault that affects the safety performance of the inverter must be eliminated immediately before the inverter can be turned on again.
11. Avoid unnecessary board contact.
12. Observe the static protection code and wear an anti-static wrist strap.
13. Pay attention to and follow the warning signs on the product.
14. Visually inspect the equipment for damage or other dangerous conditions before operation.
15. Pay attention to the hot surface of the inverter. For example, a heat sink of a power semiconductor or the like maintains a relatively high temperature for a period of time after the inverter is powered off.
16. Use proper safety equipments while working on installation and maintenance. Operations should be done by an experienced technician only.

Inverter installation location requirements

1. Do not install the inverter in direct sunlight. Failure to do so may result in additional internal temperature of the inverter, which will derate the inverter to protect internal components. Even the temperature is too high, causing the inverter temperature to malfunction.
2. The installation site should be strong enough to support the weight of the inverter for a long time.
3. The ambient temperature of the selected installation site is -25 °C ~ 50 °C, and the installation environment is clean.
4. The ambient humidity of the selected installation site is not more than 95%, and there is no condensation.
5. There should be enough clearance in front of the inverter to make it easy to observe the data and repair.
6. Try to install it away from the living of the residents, and some noise will be generated during the operation.
7, the installation place to ensure that it will not shake.

Size of solar inverter dependent on the equipments that are intended to be used while utility supply is down. Total load on inverter is equal to the sum of all nameplate rating of such equipments. While sizing, some equipment like air conditioner and refrigerators should be sized at 2/3 times normal rating to account for the high inrush current drawn by these equipments while starting. An additional 25 -30 % can be considered as buffer for future expansion.