Your solar inverter is a crucial component of your solar system. It converts solar panels’ direct current (DC) energy into alternating current (AC) electricity. Without it, powering your appliances, lighting, and electronic devices through solar would be impossible. This is why your solar inverter should be maintained properly. Any issues with it can compromise the connection of solar panels in your home, which could also lead to higher energy bills.
To ensure your solar inverters work properly and last longer, here are a few maintenance tips you should know of.
Issues that may lead to inverter damage
· Overheating: During operation, your inverters may become excessively hot. When it overheats, it can reduce energy production.
· Faulty installation: Professionals can make errors, such as in physical connections or programming components.
· Isolation issue: Isolation happens when there’s a short circuit in the circuitry. This will trigger an isolation alarm and reduce inverter performance. Other issues that may contribute to this are cable damage, moisture, incorrect installation, and poor DC cable.
· Maximum Power-Point Tracking (MPPT) issues: Inverters that use MPPT may face issues when connected to different PV module strings, which can affect their performance.
· Inverter restarting: Your inverter should restart automatically if it gets disrupted by grid-related issues. However, a service team or installer should restart it manually if it doesn’t automatically restart.
Inverter maintenance
Visual inspection
You can do regular visual inspections that can help you identify potential issues before they get worse. Here are some things you should look for:
· Check indicator lights: Most inverters come with indicator lights that show their operational status. Green light indicates normal operation, while red or flashing light often means there’s an issue. Check your inverter’s manual for specific light codes because meanings can vary between models.
· Look for error codes: Some inverters come with a digital display, which could show error codes. If you see an error code, consult the manual and contact your installer or a professional technician to address the issue.
· Listen for unusual sounds: Some humming is considered normal, especially during peak operation times. However, unusual noises like excessive buzzing or humming is a different story. Watch out for clicking and ticking sounds as well as this could be an issue with internal relays or connections. Silence isn’t also a good sign when the inverter is active, especially during sunny periods.
· Inspect for overheating: Feel the surface; it should be just warm and not too hot. Make sure the inverter isn’t obstructed by any objects as well.
· Monitor power output: You can use monitoring tools, such as apps or web portals to monitor in real time your inverters. This will also show you historical data that you can use to check any significant production drops. Be mindful of your energy bills as well. Any unexpected increase in your bill can mean reduced solar output.
· Look at the physical condition: Check for cracks, corrosion, or water ingress on the inverter casing. Make sure all cables are securely connected and damage-free. You should also look for signs of pest activity.
Regular cleaning
You can also do regular cleaning by checking if the inverter cooling fan is working properly. Look for an accumulation of dust, debris, and dirt at the cooling fan and air vent.
To clean your inverter, turn off the power through the circuit box. Use a vacuum cleaner to eliminate dust, dirt, and debris. You can also use cotton buds to gently clean the build-up of dust and debris in the small crevices between the air vents and cooling fans. Once done cleaning, turn on the power again and be mindful of overheating warning codes.
Check for software updates
Inverter manufacturers usually release firmware updates that improve performance and address potential issues. You must check for updates and install them as recommended by the manufacturer. Keeping your inverter’s software up-to-date can boost its longevity and efficiency.
Professional checkups
Consider getting your inverters checked every year by a certified technician. Professional inspections can identify potential problems before they become bad. It also helps prevent breakdowns and costly repairs. A professional technician can also ensure your solar inverters operate at their peak efficiency. And finally, a lot of inverter manufacturers require regular maintenance for warranty coverage.
Your inverter plays a vital role in the operations of your solar system. Maintaining it properly is key to ensure it lasts long and delivers your expected power output.
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