Sungrow Inverter Problems, Fault Codes, and Solutions

Sungrow inverters are in demand due to their efficiency and user-friendly interface. However, like many solar devices, they can encounter issues from time to time. In this blog, we will discuss Sungrow inverter problems, and understand the significance of their error codes. We will also look at the possible fault code solutions to combat these issues.

Sungrow Inverter Problems

Although Sungrow inverters are generally reliable devices, it is possible for them to encounter problems. There are numerous factors that can impact the ability of a solar PV system to produce electricity. The error code is displayed as soon as the inverter identifies an issue. If these errors are not addressed, they can cause permanent damage to your inverter. An error in the inverter doesn’t necessarily mean the entire system is faulty.

The error may be caused either by the inverter itself or by other PV components or external factors. Inverters are programmed to detect faults and display error codes. Understanding the significance of error codes and their corresponding meanings is absolutely vital when it comes to troubleshooting the issue. They are simple to identify and straightforward to interpret with the right guidance. An inverter error code is typically an alphanumeric or numerical number that indicates a PV system issue. So, to understand the Sungrow inverter problems, you need to know how to read solar inverter displays.

Here are some types of faults that your system can encounter. Some of which can be fixed on their own while others necessitate expert assistance.

1. Codes of Fault: Fault codes may be displayed on the screen by inverters to indicate system issues. To ensure proper operation, these codes need to be identified and resolved.

2. Errors in Communication: Inverters and monitoring systems may occasionally communicate incorrectly, preventing remote monitoring and data reporting.

3. Issues with Grid Connection: It is possible that the inverter won’t be able to export excess electricity if it has issues synchronizing with the grid or connecting to the grid.

4. Overheating: High ambient temperatures or inadequate ventilation can cause inverters to overheat, resulting in decreased performance or shutdown.

5. Faults in the Ground: Ground faults can happen, which can cause safety concerns and the inverter to shut down.

6. DC-AC Conversion Issues: Issues with changing over direct current (DC) from sunlight-powered chargers to substituting current (AC) for the framework can cause failures or framework breakdowns.

7. Component Failures: Over time, capacitors or fans, for example, may fail, causing an inverter to malfunction.

8. Software Glitches: System instability or erratic behavior can be brought on by software flaws or firmware bugs in the inverter.

Causes behind Sungrow Inverter Error Codes

The error code shows the relevant issue that affects the performance of the inverter. Sungrow inverters are simple to identify and interpret because they are only denoted using numeric digits.

Some common causes of the Sungrow inverter problems and errors can be broken down into the following categories:

1. Electrical Connection Issues

The technical faults within this category are indicative of errors in the inverter, indicating a loose or missing connection. If a DC or AC feeder trips, it can also lead to connection problems, and technical assistance is required for these errors.

2. Faulty Installation

The poor installation often leads to the malfunction of many inverters. It is absolutely crucial to hire professional experts for inverter installations. Faulty installations can lead to numerous errors in the future, which can end up costing more than hiring an inexperienced handyman. Misplacement can also cause a voltage reduction, leading to a voltage error.

3. Grid Voltage & Frequency Disturbances

Generally, these temporary Sungrow inverter problems are caused by voltage fluctuations and are solved by the power company. They need to handle the situation and not the inverter. But you should watch the voltage because if it is normal then it is possible that your inverter is facing other issues. It is recommended to call Sungrow and request on-site technical assistance.

Also See: Solar Panel Inverter Humming Noise Causes and Solutions

4. Overcurrent Faults

These faults happen when there is too much current flowing from solar PV systems. This is like to cause temporary damage to specific components, especially the inverter bridge. These errors are temporary and will resolve themselves in due course, but errors #12, #21, and #22 require technical assistance.

The most frequent and easily manageable Sungrow inverter problems in the list are overcurrent faults. Inserting a circuit breaker in the inverter can effectively minimize its chances.

5. Overload

The operation of heavy machinery like water pumps and washing machines can lead to overloading of the inverter, resulting in error. To resolve overload faults, avoid using multiple high-energy-consuming devices at the same time.

There are additional factors that can lead to overload. It is advisable to reach out to Sungrow’s technical support if you come across any of these situations.

6. Software Issues

Selecting the incorrect software version for your region could also lead to inverter errors. If that situation occurs, we strongly advise you to obtain the most recent version from Sungrow technical support.

The software tailored for each region is adapted to specific geographical factors, taking into account the environmental conditions. There are several factors that can greatly impact the performance of your inverter.

For example, you are from Australia, and the climate there is distinct from other places. Using a software version designed for Europe or the US increases the likelihood of inverter errors. It is essential to choose the appropriate region for your software to maximize its performance.

Also See: How to Calculate Inverter Battery Backup Time

7. Temperature Range

Sungrow inverters can also be affected by extreme temperatures, both high and low, leading to potential errors. If the inverter is exposed to high temperatures or placed in an area with poor ventilation, errors may occur.

The Sungrow inverter problem could also be caused by an issue linked to its fan. Additionally, the accumulation of dirt within the fan of the inverter can lead to malfunctions. To prevent such issues, it is important to keep your inverter in a well-ventilated area and make regular cleaning a priority.

Now, let’s check out the Sungrow inverter fault codes and their solutions in detail in the next segment.

Also Read: Sungrow Inverter Vs Fronius – Which is Better?

List of Sungrow Inverter Error Codes and their Solutions

So, what are Sungrow inverter fault codes? As we have seen above, errors can occur due to multiple reasons. Here is a detailed list of Sungrow inverter error codes under different categories and what they mean. We have also provided the Sungrow inverter fault code solutions.

1. Electrical Connection Problems

Electrical connection problems can be the result of loose or missing connections.

• 028 – Reverse connection in PV circuit
• 1029 – Reverse connection in PV circuit
• 2084 – Reverse cable connection warning
• 106 – Inverter not grounded
• 010 – Islanding

Note: Sungrow inverter error 010, specifically, can be seen when the main AC breaker is tripped. A faulty or tripped circuit breaker or a loose AC connection can also cause it.

Solution: To combat these Sungrow inverter faults, check the wiring and connection settings. Confirm whether there is a reliable inverter grounding line. You can contact the manufacturer if the fault persists and gets worse.

2. Grid Voltage and Frequency Disturbances

Here are some error codes and what they mean.

• 002 – Overvoltage
• 003 – Transient overvoltage
• 004 – Undervoltage
• 005 – Undervoltage (below code #4)
• 008 – Overfrequency
• 009 – Underfrequency
• 015 – Overvoltage (higher than in code #2)
• 101 – Overfrequency (higher than in code #8)
• 102 – Underfrequency (lower than in code #9)
• 014 – 10-minute overvoltage

Note: Particularly, an incorrect country setting may be the cause of the 10-minute overvoltage error (#14). This error will occur if the inverter is inverter is configured at low voltage.

Solution: As soon as the inverter encounters these above-mentioned errors, it will return to normal operation once it detects an appropriate voltage and frequency. If you keep getting error messages from the inverter, even when the grid voltage and frequency are normal, contact your installer for technical assistance to further fix the Sungrow inverter faults.

Also See: How to Read Solar Inverter Specifications

3. Overcurrent Faults

These are the overcurrent fault codes that get displayed on the inverter’s screen.

• 100 – AC output current exceeds the upper limit
• 202 – PV hardware overcurrent fault
• 006 – AC overcurrent (inverter output)
• 007 – Transient AC overcurrent
• 011 – DC injection over-current situation (input from solar panel array)
• 012 – Leakage overcurrent
• 021 – PV1 input overcurrent
• 022 – PV2 input overcurrent

Note: #6 and #7 are typically transient issues, and the inverter will continue activity in a few seconds. Moreover, #12 might demonstrate a ground fault affecting the solar array, and #21 and #22 may indicate panel layout and wiring issues.

Solution: So, to start the Sungrow inverter troubleshooting, first, you need to check the layout and the connections and confirm if those are securely done or not. Additionally, to control the overcurrent issues, allow the inverter to recover in some time after the flow of DC current is reduced. Nonetheless, you ought to contact technical help if the shortcomings persist.

4. Software Compatibility

085 – Mismatched software version.

Solution: You can contact technical support to get the correct version.

Cross-Reference: Intelligent Shutoff Solution of Sungrow to Provide “Double Insurance” for Power Plant Safety

5. Temperature Issues

Problems with high temperatures can arise if the inverter is located in an area with inadequate ventilation, is exposed to direct sunlight, or has dirty air inlets.

• 036 – Radiator temperature is too high
• 037 – Internal temperature of the inverter is too high
• 043 – Internal temperature is too low (below -25 °C)
• 070 – Defective fans

Note: While error code #70 specifically indicates a defective fan, it’s important to note that various other codes can also be triggered by fan-related problems.

Solution: So, what to do if the radiator temperature is too high? The primary Sungrow inverter troubleshooting step you can follow to resolve it is to check and find out whether the placement of the inverter is correctly done. You also need to monitor the operating ambient temperature. Confirm if it is higher than the range outlined in the specification details. Moreover, to overcome the internal temperature, check if the AC output power is more than the range of nominal power. If your device is still showing these errors, feel free to contact the manufacturer for the best Sungrow inverter fault codes solution.

For a better understanding of inverter problems, you can check out the 32 Troubleshooting Solar Inverter Problems and Solutions.

What do Sungrow Inverter Errors 039 and 032 Mean?

A low insulation resistance error shows that there could be an earth fault in the PV cluster. For grid-connected inverters, the Sungrow inverter error code is 039, and 302 is for hybrid inverters. There can be a couple of things causing this issue, thus, they should all be checked. If your solar inverter is experiencing these issues, you need to consider these options.

1. It is important to safely measure the insulation resistance for each solar panel string in accordance with AS/NZS:5033:2014 inc and 1&2 Appendix D4 for the steps. Disconnect the array(s) from the inverter and then check the connections between the Positive and Earth terminals, as well as the Negative and Earth terminals.

2. Check the insulation resistance of each string using an Insulation Resistance Tester (‘megger’ or similar device). If the insulation resistance is less than the minimum insulation resistance (less than 1 MΩ) as stated in the table below, then investigate the rooftop isolator to ensure it has not been affected by moisture. Additionally, check the DC cable for any damage.

System voltage (Voc stc ח 1.25)	Test Voltage	Minimum insulation resistance (MΩ)
Less than 120	250	0.5
120-500	500	1
More than 500	1000	1

3. Please shut down the inverter and wait for 10 minutes before turning it back on, ensuring that the PV array and wiring are clear.

4. It is important to test each set of strings on every MPPT input to identify the specific string or  MPPT responsible for the fault. For instance, connect only string 1 to the inverter while disconnecting string 1 and connecting only string 2 to the inverter.

Note: If the issue is still not resolved you can contact Sungrow Service Department on 1800 786 476. Or you can mail them with photos of testing on the site to service@sungrowpower.com.au.

After going through this article, now you are aware of the Sungrow inverter problems and their common causes. It is crucial to understand the list of error codes and their troubleshooting steps to identify and promptly address these issues. However, it’s better to ask a technician for help to fix the Sungrow inverter fault and avoid any possible damage.

Source: Troubleshooting and Maintenance: official PDF