Solar energy is a sustainable power source, with inverters converting sunlight into electricity. These devices are crucial components of a power system, but they can encounter issues from time to time. In this blog, we will discuss major solar inverter problems along with the solutions to common error codes.
Troubleshooting Solar Inverter Problems and Solutions
Inverter is a device that converts DC power to AC and supplies electricity to our household appliances. If the inverter signals error codes, there are some potential issues that could impact the output. The must solar inverter fault/ error codes, their specific descriptions, and suggested troubleshooting is listed below:
1. Error Code E000
Description: Internal Communication Fault 1
LCD Display: E000
Troubleshooting Options:
- Restart the Inverter: Switch off the inverter, wait for a few seconds, and then try restarting it. This might fix the temporary communication issues.
- Contact Manufacturer: If this solar inverter error code still exists, you must contact the manufacturer like Growatt or Inverex, or your solar installer for further assistance. There might be more serious internal issues that require technical support to resolve.
2. Error Code E001
Description: Model Fault 1
LCD Display: E001
Troubleshooting Options:
- Check Parallel CAN Cables: Inspect the parallel CAN cables between inverters and make sure they are in good condition and securely connected.
- Balance Resistor Placement: Verify the positioning of the balance resistor to ensure effective functioning.
3. Error Code E008
Description: Parallel CAN Fault
LCD Display: E008
Troubleshooting Options:
- Reset Model: You can try resetting the model as instructed in the user guide. This may clear and resolve the temporary faults in the CAN communication.
- Check Safety Standard Switch: Ensure the safety standard switch exits in the correct position as mentioned in the user manual.
Also Read: How to Read Solar Inverter Display
4. Error Code E009
Description: Master Loss
LCD Display: E009
Troubleshooting Options:
- Check Parallel CAN Cables: Inspect the parallel CAN cables between the master and slaves. Verify that the cables are securely connected and in good condition, free from any damage.
- Balance Resistor Placement: Check the correct placement of the balance resistor.
- Verify Parallel System Setup: Inspect and confirm if the parallel system has a designated master inverter. If there isn’t one, reconfigure one of the inverters as the master in accordance with the manufacturer’s guidelines.
5. Error Code E010
Description: Multiple Master
LCD Display: E010
Troubleshooting Options:
- Check Parallel System Setup: Examine and verify if the parallel system has two or more master inverters.
- Reconfigure Masters as Slaves: Only one master is allowed in this setup, you can reconfigure any additional inverters as slaves in the parallel connection.
6. Error Code E011
Description: Parallel AC Inconsistent
LCD Display: E011
Troubleshooting Option:
- Check AC Connection: Check the AC connections between parallel inverters and make sure there does not exist any loose connections. To understand some of the major solar inverter problems and solutions, keep reading.
7. Error Code E012
Description: BMS Fault
LCD Display: E012
Troubleshooting Options:
- Check UPS L, N Connection: Examine the connection between the UPS and the L (Line) and N (Neutral) terminals of the inverter.
- Disconnect UPS Connector: If the error still exists, disconnect the UPS connector and contact the manufacturer such as Growatt, or a technician for further help. You can also consider reviewing the Growatt inverter datasheet to know it better.
8. Error Code E013
Description: UPS Power Reversed
LCD Display: E013
Troubleshooting Options:
- Restart the Inverter: Switch off the inverter and then restart it. This might clear out the UPS power reversal issue. To know about this error of the Growatt inverter, check out the Growatt inverter datasheet for a better understanding.
- Contact Manufacturer: You can consult a professional solar installer or the manufacturer if the error persists, or if you want some further assistance regarding the solar inverter problems and solutions.
Also Read: Solar Inverter Vs Normal Inverter- What are the Differences?
9. Error Code E015
Description: Parallel Phase Abnormal
LCD Display: E015
Troubleshooting:
- Check AC Connection: Inspect and ensure the AC connections between the triphase parallel system are secure.
10. Error Code E016
Description: Relay Fault
LCD Display: E016
Troubleshooting Options:
- Restart the Inverter: Turning off and restarting the inverter might resolve the temporary relay problems.
- Contact Manufacturer: If the issue continues, contact the manufacturer for technical support. If you are wondering about K solar inverter fault codes, you can take help from their service and discuss the solar inverter problems and solutions.
11. Error Code E017
Description: Internal Communication Fault 2
LCD Display: E017
Troubleshooting Options:
- Restart the Inverter: Again switch it off and then turn it back on. This could possibly resolve temporary communication issues.
- Contact Manufacturer: If the error persists, seek advice from the manufacturer or technician for further assistance. If you are using Inverex solar inverter, you must understand their fault codes as there is a possibility of a more serious internal communication problem.
12. Error Code E018
Description: Internal Communication Fault 3
LCD Display: E018
Troubleshooting Options:
- Restart the Inverter: Try restarting the device after switching it off. This might clear the temporary communication issues and if not, contact the manufacturer. If you want to know about the Inverex solar inverter fault codes, get in touch with their manufacturer and resolve the problem.
Also Read: How to Reset Inverter Overload
13. Error Code E019
Description: Bus Voltage High
LCD Display: E019
Troubleshooting Options:
- Wait for Inverter Restart: The inverter might temporarily shut down due to high bus voltage caused by its protection mechanisms. Please wait for it to automatically restart again.
- Contact Manufacturer: If the error continues after the restart, get in contact with the manufacturer or your solar installer.
14. Error Code E020
Description: UPS Connection Fault
LCD Display: E020
Troubleshooting:
- Check UPS and AC Connections: Examine the connections between the UPS and the inverter, as well as the AC connections. Confirm if they are secure and not damaged.
15. Error Code E021
Description: PV Voltage High
LCD Display: E021
Troubleshooting Options:
- Check PV Input Connection: Verify the PV input connections to the inverter and make sure the connections are secure.
- Check PV Voltage Range: Ensure the PV voltage lies within the acceptable range mentioned in the user guide.
16. Error Code E022
Description: Over Current
LCD Display: E022
Troubleshooting Options:
- Restart the Inverter: Turn off the inverter and then restart it which could possibly clear out the over-current issues. Contact the manufacturer if you still face this issue. For K solar inverter fault codes, check out their user guide and then contact the K Solar manufacturer to discuss solar inverter problems and solutions.
Also See: Does Inverter Increase Electricity Bill?
17. Error Code E023
Description: Neutral Fault
LCD Display: E023
Troubleshooting:
- Check Neutral Connection: Inspect the neutral connection and check if the connections are secure.
18. Error Code E024
Description: Both PV Short Circuit
LCD Display: E024
Troubleshooting Options:
- Disconnect Both PV Connections: Immediately disconnect both PV connections to avoid any further damage to the device and its connected components.
- Contact Manufacturer: After disconnecting, contact the manufacturer for help to resolve the short circuit current issue.
19. Error Code E025
Description: Pvin Volt High
LCD Display: E025
Troubleshooting Options:
- Check NTC Connection: Examine the connection of the sensor with the Negative Temperature Coefficient (NTC) to find out if there exist any issues. Contact the manufacturer if the error persists.
20. Error Code E026
Description: Internal Fault
LCD Display: E026
Troubleshooting Options:
- Restart the Inverter: If you turn off the inverter and then restart it, it might fix temporary internal issues.
- Contact Manufacturer: If the problem continues, reach out to the manufacturer for help as there may be a more serious internal issue. It is advisable to inspect regularly to enhance the inverter’s efficiency.
21. Error Code E027
Description: Sampling Inconsistent Between Main and Slave CPU Pvin Temperature High
LCD Display: E027
Troubleshooting:
- Restart the Inverter: Powering off and subsequently restarting the inverter could potentially fix the temporary internal faults. If the error persists, consult the manufacturer or solar installer.
Also See: Enphase Micro Inverter Review – Are They Worth It?
22. Error Code E031
Description: Internal Communication Fault 4 Pvin SPD Warning
LCD Display: E031
Troubleshooting:
- Restart the Inverter: Turn off the inverter and then switch it on might rectify the temporary communication issues.
- Contact Manufacturer: If the error continues and you suspect a more serious internal communication problem, contact the manufacturer for additional support regarding the solar inverter problems and solutions.
23. Error Code W000
Description: Communication Failure with Battery
LCD Display: Bat Com Fault
Troubleshooting Options:
- Inspect Communication Cable: Investigate the communication cable connected between the inverter and the battery. Go through all the plausible nooks and corners to suspect if they are securely connected and if there is no damage.
- Check Battery Brand Selection: Confirm if the correct battery brand is selected in the inverter configurations.
- Contact Manufacturer: If this solar inverter error code persists, reach out to the manufacturer for more help.
24. Error Code W003
Description: BMS Warning
LCD Display: Meter Com Fault
Troubleshooting:
- Fix Communication Cable: Inspect and fix the communication cable between the inverter and the Battery Management System (BMS). Make sure the connection is correctly done and contact the manufacturer if this warning persists.
25. Error Code W004
Description: Battery Failure Meter Communication Fault
LCD Display: Battery Failure
Troubleshooting Options:
- Restart Battery: Try restarting the battery system as outlined in the user guide.
- Contact Battery Manufacturer: If the warning continues, get in touch with the battery manufacturer for additional support.
26. Error Code W005
Description: Auto Test Failure
LCD Display: Auto Test Failure
Troubleshooting:
- Restart the Inverter: Powering off and then restarting the inverter could resolve the temporary internal problems. If you still experience the same error, reach out to the manufacturer.
Also Read: Huawei Inverter Review – Are They Good?
27. Error Code W016
Description: No AC Connection
LCD Display: No AC Connection
Troubleshooting:
- Check AC Connection: Verify the AC connection of the inverter and give it a proper glance at the connections to determine the damages prevailing if any. If the error persists, contact the manufacturer for guidance.
28. Error Code W017
Description: AC Voltage Out of Range
LCD Display: AC V Outrange
Troubleshooting Options:
- Check AC Grid Voltage: Inspect the voltage of the grid and make sure it falls within the appropriate range according to the guidelines.
- Contact Manufacturer: If the error still exists, it is recommended to contact the manufacturer for further guidance.
Also See: Sungrow Inverter Vs Fronius – Which is Better?
29. Error Code W018
Description: AC Frequency Out of Range
LCD Display: AC F Outrage
Troubleshooting:
- Check AC Grid Frequency: Make sure to verify the grid frequency and confirm if it lies within the acceptable range mentioned in the user guide. For additional help and investigation regarding solar inverter problems and solutions, get in touch with the manufacturer.
30. Error Code W020
Description: PV Isolation Low
LCD Display: PV Isolation Low
Troubleshooting:
- Restart the Inverter: Turn off the inverter and then switch it on. This could potentially rectify temporary internal faults. Contact the manufacturer if you come across the same error.
31. Error Code W022
Description: DC Injection High
LCD Display: DC Injection High
Troubleshooting:
- Restart the Inverter: Turn off the inverter and then turn it back on. To resolve the temporary DC injection issues, try restarting the device. If the error still exists, reach out to the manufacturer.
32. Error Code W023
Description: PV Short Circuit
LCD Display: PV Short
Troubleshooting Options:
- Check and Fix PV Input Connection: Examine the PV input connection. If there comes any short circuit, fix it before re-connecting the device.
- Contact Manufacturer: If the issue continues, feel free to get in touch with the manufacturer for additional help in resolving the PV short circuit issue.
These are some of the common solar inverter error codes and quick fixes.
Also See: What are Sunny Boy Inverter Problems?
How to Maintain a Faulty Solar Inverter Display?
To maintain a faulty solar inverter display, you can proceed with the following steps:
- Begin with turning off the input PV switch on the photovoltaic inverter side.
- Next, disconnect the PV input DC switch and finally, switch off the battery switch.
- Hold for at least 5 minutes for the components of the energy storage system to discharge before conducting any maintenance or repair work inside the device.
For better guidance, you can seek help from a professional solar installer Moreover, you may have to change the fan which plays a vital role in cooling and dissipating the machine’s heat. It ensures proper functioning. And if the fan malfunctions, it can lead to system issues. To avoid this, try to regularly inspect and keep the fans clean and address any problematic issues promptly. The process of replacing the fan is also easy. Prioritize safe replacement by turning off the converter system. Carefully loosen the screws on the fan cover found on the left side of the machine’s body.
Remember, when dealing with a faulty solar inverter, it is better to seek assistance from a professional technician for proper handling and maintenance of the equipment.
Cross-Reference: Why it is Important to Maintain your Solar Panel Inverter?
Should My Inverter Turn Off at Night?
Solar inverters automatically turn off during nighttime due to their dependence on solar energy to operate. Due to limited sunlight, the inverter does not get adequate sunlight to sustain its operations, and you may need electricity from alternative sources during this period.
Also See: How to Switch Off Inverter When Not in Use?
How to Determine if There is a Problem with the Solar Inverter?
To know if your solar inverter is working properly, follow these steps:
1. Check for Errors
Check out the display panel on the inverter for any error codes or status messages. These codes can help you discover potential issues. Additionally, look for the LED lights; they should all be lit up green if the inverter is functioning properly.
2. Access System Data or Logs
Modern solar PV systems have digital display screens and come with online accounts linked to your inverter. They provide detailed information about the system’s performance, including the amount of current being supplied, daily energy production, and the total energy generated since the installation date.
3. Listen for Beeping Noise Sounds
Listen for any unusual sounds like buzzing or humming, or constant beeping noises as they could indicate an issue with the inverter.
4. Check the Power Output
Ensure that the inverter is generating the same amount of solar power as when it was installed. You can verify this by checking your utility bill or tracking your solar system online.
5. Verify Connections
Make sure all the cables are securely connected and inspect for any gap, or wire damage. If everything with the inverter appears to be in good condition, but it still doesn’t work, try restarting it. If the problem persists, get in contact with a solar technician for guidance.
6. Check for Overheating
Make sure there is a proper ventilation system to avoid overheating of the inverter. For optimal performance, keep an eye on its cooling systems during its operation.
7. Look Out for Isolation Faults
If the communication channel between the inverter and the solar panel does not function effectively, it might indicate an isolation fault. If you suspect this issue, consult a technician to better understand the solar inverter problems and solutions.
Also See: How Much Power Does An Inverter Draw With No Load?
Troubleshooting Steps:
- Turn off both the AC isolators and DC isolators, waiting and leaving them off for about 5 minutes.
- Turn the DC isolators back on first, followed by the AC isolators, to prevent arcing.
- Allow a few minutes for the inverter to restart, during which the lights may flash on and off, and various status messages may appear on the display screen.
- If necessary, you can run a test for the wattage from your solar panels to make sure they are functioning correctly.
Thus, by conducting these steps and monitoring your solar inverter’s performance, you can tell if the solar inverter is working properly or not. Moreover, you must address the potential issues promptly and take the help of a professional if needed.
In this guide, we have understood solar inverter error codes and their possible solutions. We have explored its challenges, ranging from communication errors to voltage fluctuations. By identifying and addressing these concerns, you can ensure efficient power for the long term. For more solar content, keep reading our blogs.
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