Problems with Solar Panel Inverters
Power inverters are crucial for the safe and efficient operation of your solar panels. But, what if you experience an issue with your panels? Have you noticed a drop in electrical performance across your property? This could be caused by an issue with your solar panels, and specifically their solar inverters. Read on to learn all about solar inverters including their common problems, and how we can help.
To contact a SOLAR REPAIR ENGINEER today, CALL 0330 124 2941.
What is the Solar Inverter?
The solar or photovoltaic (PV) inverter is arguably the most critical part of your solar panels. It’s the mechanism that converts the direct current (DC) electricity captured by the solar panels into alternating current (AC) – the standard flow of electricity required for your property and your electrical appliances.
What are the common problems with Solar Inverters?
Based on our knowledge and experience, we have found the common problems with Solar Inverters to be:
Overheating
As with pretty much all electrical devices, solar inverters are sensitive to temperature. High temperatures can lead to a reduction in production, and potentially a stoppage altogether if overheating occurs as the maximum operating temperature is reached.
We advise keeping the switch cabinet and the area where the inverter is located well ventilated, along with the inclusion of cleaning dust filters that can prevent any issues impeding airflow.
Isolation Short-Circuit Fault
If there is too much moisture or damage to the cabling sleeves, then an isolation short-circuit fault can occur, whereby the inverter will report an “isolation alarm”. In this scenario, the solar inverter will either work at the minimum “required” isolation level or stop working altogether.
To prevent this from happening, we advise having the correct level of protection for the inverter cabinet and the inverter enclosure.
The Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) Module
The MPPT module is designed to maximise the performance of solar inverters. If there are any issues with the module, then there is a chance that your solar panels are not running at their best. We advise carrying out performance tests to confirm that the algorithm in the MPPT module is running optimally.
Poor Inverter Installation
A very obvious and common problem is down to poor initial installation. This includes physical misconnections and incorrect inverter programming.
If you have a problem with your solar inverter, don’t hesitate to contact our team today. If the issue cannot be resolved, we can source a new inverter so that you can get your system up and running again as soon as possible. Call us today on 0330 124 2941.
Trust us for your Solar Thermal and Solar PV Panel Maintenance
Good quality solar panels have a service life of around 25 years, and well-functioning and installed solar inverters last around 10-12 years, so are likely to need replacing at least once over the panels’ lifetime.
Our Solar PV Panel Repairs team can assist with your solar inverter issues to get them running back to their best.
Alternatively, we provide Solar PV Maintenance packages to regularly service your solar panels, as we believe that in the future, our customers will rarely if ever need to draw on the “repair” element of our brand name.
If you have any queries regarding your solar panels, please use our contact form or call 0330 124 2941 where a member of our friendly team will be more than happy to assist.