Nowadays, solar energy has become more and more popular. Solar panel inverters are an important part of any system, and these inverters are prone to problems. In this article, we are going to help you how to check solar panel inverters for problems, as well as ways to solve these problems. In the following, we will discuss checkup of solar panels.
How to know whether the solar inverter is working or not?
Since the solar inverter is considered to be an essential part of the solar power system, we must ensure it is working properly. In the meantime, to provide you with AC electricity, the inverter converts the DC electricity, and you will be able to see the current power output on display in a large group of inverters. In case the display value is other than zero you can conclude that your solar panel is producing power. In the following, we are going to discuss how to check solar panels are working.
Tracking Your System’s Energy Production
Another way through which you can make sure your system is working properly is by keeping tabs on your system-produced energy. To do so, you can use the monitoring capabilities provided by your inverter. Depending on your solar installation, this monitoring system can either be special monitoring equipment or a smartphone application.
Growatt inverters monitoring equipment
The monitoring system that has been used for Growatt inverters comes as a powerful tool that has been designed to help its users manage and optimize their solar power systems. This device provides real-time monitoring of the system’s performance, which includes energy production and consumption of the system, in addition to supporting remote management, which enables users to access and manage the whole system from anywhere by using an internet connection.
Checking the solar panel inverter for problems
Solar panel systems are not immune to problems; here in this part, we are going to explain some of the main problems that may happen to solar panel inverters as well as solutions to them.
The first step in checking the solar inverter is to look for visual problems in the unit. In this step, you will look for signs that point to physical damage and rust on the outside of the inverter, along with signs of loose or frayed wires visible. If you see any of the signs above, contact an expert technician who can help you in repairing or replacing the solar inverter.
After that, you need to check solar panel inverter’s connections. Ensure that all the electric connections are secure and no wire is disconnected or loose. If you notice any of the connections are loose, tighten them before proceeding to check the system again.
Another important point to consider is the inverter’s output voltage. The ideal output voltage for the inverter is an amount between 12 and 16 volts. If you have a number too low it shows that the inverter is not producing enough electricity to power the system. In case the produced voltage is larger than 16 volts, the solar inverter might overload the whole system and cause additional damage and problems.
And at last, check the solar panel inverter’s temperature. The solar inverter’s idyllic temperature range is between 65 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit (18 to 30 degrees Celsius). If you see the temperature is too low, it may show that the inverter is not functioning properly. When the temperature is too high, it may show that the solar inverter is working too hard, and as a result, it may need servicing.
Some factors that make us check solar panel inverter:
- Low-performance
- The electricity bill is high
- The frame looks bent
- Damage is visible
- Appearing in an error message
Here is a six-step guide that can help you check solar panel inverter and diagnose possible problems
Step 1: Start by checking the solar system’s monitoring app or portal for real-time data on energy production.
Step 2: Look for any alerts or error messages indicating an issue with the solar panels.
Step 3: Observe the inverter’s LED lights to ensure they function correctly.
Step 4: Check the production meter to see if it’s displaying energy generation from the solar panels.
Step 5: Monitor the performance of the solar panels over a few days to ensure consistent energy production.
Step 6: If you notice any concerns or if the solar panels aren’t working as expected, contact a professional for assistance.
Check solar panel inverter watts
The average solar panel produces 250 to 450 watts per hour, which means 750 to 850 kilowatt-hours per year. if the produced watt is below this range means there is a problem in the system.
You can compute watts using this formula:
Watts = Volts x Current in Amps
With a solar charge controller, you can measure watts, and they can connect to your phone.
The solar charge controller is the bridge between the solar panel and the battery in Off-grid solar panels. It can improve the lifecycle of the batteries. the solar charge controller can detect if the system produces more energy than the battery can tolerate.
Some common problems surrounding solar inverters and their solutions
Now, you know how to check the solar panel inverter for problems, let’s check out the most common solar inverter problems and solutions.
Tripped Circuit Breaker
The first issue we will discuss is also one of the most common ones, which can be defined as a faulty fuse. This problem may be the result of a power surge or an overloading of the electrical system. This may cause the fuse to blow and, as a result, prevent it from working properly.
The solution
The solution to this problem is replacing the blown fuse, which means you need to remove the old, blown fuse and replace it with a new one. And if the problem lies with the circuit breaker, you need first to check and rest it if needed.
Faulty wiring
Another usual problem with the solar inverter is a faulty wiring connection. If there is a loose or faulty wire connection in the system, it may be the reason behind the solar inverters malfunction.
The solution
To fix this problem, you simply need to replace the damaged wires or tighten the loose connections.
Power Loss
This issue may happen in cases where the inverter is not producing enough electricity. There are a couple of reasons behind this issue, which can be due to a problem with the solar panel.
The solution
The solution to this problem is to check the solar panel for any sign that shows physical or rust. The parts you need to check include the solar panel output, wiring connections, and the solar inverter settings. If you see any of these issues present, contact a professional for either repair or replacements necessary.
Overheating
The overheating of the hybrid inverter may result from poor ventilation or even an issue caused by the cooling system malfunction.
The solution
The problem can easily be fixed by making sure there is proper air circulation available around the solar inverter. After that, you need to take a look at the cooling system for any issues.
I growatt inverter, The best collection for buying solar inverter
To sum it up, it’s essential to mention that solar panel inverters are vital parts of any solar energy system. In order to make certain that your system is functioning properly, you must regularly check solar panel inverter. The inverter for any signs of problems. In this article, we have explained how to check a solar panel inverter for problems and some of the most common issues and solutions to them. By choosing to follow these tips, you can make sure that your solar panel system is working correctly and efficiently.
It’s always best and advised to consult the manufacturer’s manual or contact a solar professional like us, since we are the Growatt inverter distributor, for more specific troubleshooting and solutions for your particular inverter model.
For more information, like Growatt off-grid inverter price and Growatt Hybrid inverter Dubai, you can contact our team of professionals and read our other articles for more hands-on tips and info.
