How to Reset an Inverter Fault: Decoding Solar Inverter Fault Codes
- Sarah Lozanova
- Jan 18
- 13 min read
Updated: 6 days ago
Table of Contents
If your solar system suddenly stops producing power and shows an inverter fault message, it’s natural to wonder how to reset an inverter fault and get your panels back online. In many cases, learning how to reset a solar inverter safely can clear the problem, especially if it’s a minor issue like grid fluctuations or overheating. But some inverter problems and solutions aren’t that simple, and specific solar inverter fault codes signal deeper issues that require professional repair.
What Is a Solar Inverter Fault?
A solar inverter fault happens when the inverter detects a condition that could affect safety or damage equipment, so it pauses production, limits output, or shuts down. Homeowners usually notice this when the solar inverter showing fault message appears, production drops to zero in the app, or the inverter display shows solar inverter fault codes.
If you’re searching how to reset inverter fault or how to reset a solar inverter, a reset can help when the issue is temporary—like a brief grid fluctuation, overheating event, or a momentary communication hiccup. But some solar inverter fault codes point to wiring issues or internal inverter problems that won’t clear with a restart. That’s why the best first step is to write down the exact code and message before you reset anything.
Common Signs of a Solar Inverter Fault
Your inverter may be in a fault state if you notice any of the following:
Red light or flashing error indicator
If you’re asking why my solar inverter's red light on, it often means the inverter has stopped producing and needs attention (either a reset or troubleshooting based on the code).
Error message or code on the screen/app
This is where you’ll see solar inverter fault codes or solar inverter fault codes listed as “error” numbers/letters. These are the clues you’ll need to troubleshoot safely.
Little or no energy output
Your monitoring app may show no production, and your daily totals may suddenly drop—often the first sign that something is wrong.
Repeated faults that return after a reset
If you reset the inverter once and the fault code returns right away, assume it’s an ongoing issue and don’t keep power-cycling it.
If you’re seeing any of these signs, start by capturing whatever diagnostic info you can—take a photo of the inverter screen if it has one, or note the LED pattern and any error text in your monitoring app.
Common Causes of Solar Inverter Faults
A solar inverter showing a fault doesn’t automatically mean your system is damaged. Often, the inverter is doing its job, shutting down or limiting output to protect itself and your home. The key is figuring out whether you’re dealing with a temporary condition that may clear after you reset solar inverter equipment, or a recurring issue flagged by solar inverter fault codes that needs service. If you’re trying to learn how to reset an inverter fault, start by understanding the most common triggers.
Weather, Wear, and Wiring
Several everyday factors can lead to a solar inverter fault:
Overheating: High internal temperatures can cause the inverter to reduce output or stop producing until it cools down. This is more likely if the inverter is in direct sun, installed in a tight utility closet, or has blocked airflow. When overheating happens, you may see the inverter stop producing midday and then recover later.
Grid fluctuations and utility voltage issues: Your inverter must match the grid’s voltage and frequency. If the utility voltage spikes high, drops low, or the grid is unstable after storms or line work, the inverter may trip offline and show solar inverter fault codes. Homeowners sometimes notice this as “it worked yesterday, and today it’s off,” especially after a weather event.
Wiring issues, tripped breakers, or loose disconnects: A loose AC disconnect, a tripped breaker, corrosion in outdoor connections, or a wiring issue between the array and inverter can trigger faults. These issues often show up as intermittent production, sudden drop to zero, or recurring codes even after you reset solar inverter power.
Internal wear: Inverters are high-duty electronics. As they age—often in the 8–12 year range depending on model, heat exposure, and duty cycle—internal parts can degrade. If the same fault returns quickly after you try how to reset inverter fault steps once, wear-related issues become more likely.
Each of these issues might cause specific inverter fault codes, which help technicians (and homeowners with the manual) diagnose the problem.
Installation or Maintenance Issues That Trigger Faults
Some solar inverter faults trace back to how the system was installed or maintained:
Improper setup: Incorrect settings, mismatched equipment, or grounding/insulation issues can trigger faults soon after install. These problems may show up as repeated trips, persistent error codes, or an inverter that won’t stay online after a reset.
Ventilation, dust, and pest damage: Fan-cooled inverters can accumulate dust and debris, and outdoor units can attract insects or rodents. Reduced airflow and contamination increase overheating risk and can lead to more frequent shutdowns.
Deferred maintenance: Dust buildup inside fan-cooled inverters like Fronius or pest damage in outdoor units can interfere with solar performance over time.
Lack of monitoring: With systems that rely on apps, like Enphase Enlighten or SolarEdge Monitoring, it’s easy to miss early signs of trouble if you’re not checking regularly.
How to Reset Solar Inverter Fault Safely
In many cases, a single reset is a good first step—especially after a brief grid event, a storm, or an overheating shutdown. The goal is to clear temporary conditions and let the inverter run its self-checks and reconnect.
Before you reset anything, capture the details that matter. Write down (or screenshot) the solar inverter fault codes or error message, the time it happened, and whether there was a power outage or severe weather. Not every inverter has a screen, so use whatever you have: an inverter display, LED pattern, or your monitoring app. If the code returns immediately after one reset, don’t keep cycling it—recurring solar inverter fault codes usually point to an issue that needs troubleshooting or service.
Step-by-Step Guide to Resetting Your Solar Inverter
Use this order to reset most residential string inverters and hybrid inverters. (If your system is Enphase microinverters, you typically don’t reset individual microinverters; the system often self-recovers.)
✅ Step 1: Turn off the AC isolator (grid side)
This is usually near your main electrical panel or next to the inverter. Turning it off disconnects the inverter from your home/grid.
✅ Step 2: Turn off the DC isolator (solar side)
This is often next to the inverter (or integrated into it). Turning it off stops DC power coming from the solar array into the inverter.
✅ Step 3: Wait at least 60 seconds
This allows the inverter to fully power down and clears temporary states that can trigger a solar inverter showing fault message.
✅ Step 4: Turn the DC isolator back on
Restore solar input to the inverter.
✅ Step 5: Turn the AC isolator on second
Reconnect the inverter to the grid so it can synchronize and restart.
✅ Step 6: Check the inverter display or app
Check whether the inverter returns to normal operation and whether the solar inverter fault codes cleared. Many inverters take 2–10 minutes to run checks and reconnect, especially after a grid event.
Brand-Specific Solar Inverter Reset Notes
Solar inverters don’t all reset the same way, and the best next step depends on what you’re seeing: a solar inverter showing fault, a red light, or specific solar inverter fault codes. Before you try how to reset inverter fault steps, capture the fault information (photo of the screen if you have one, or the LED pattern + app message). Then use the notes below to avoid unnecessary resets and reduce the chance of repeat shutdowns.
Enphase systems use panel-level microinverters instead of a single central unit, so they typically recover from faults without any manual reset. Most solar inverter error codes clear automatically once the grid stabilizes or communication is restored.
Through the Enphase Enlighten app, you’ll usually see the system reconnect and resume power production on its own. In rare cases, you may need to restart the Envoy gateway (the communication hub), but the microinverters themselves are not meant to be reset manually.
If solar inverter fault codes keep reappearing or the app shows “not reporting” for a long period, it’s best to contact a qualified technician for diagnostics.
SolarEdge is a string inverter system with module-level optimizers, and it can be more sensitive to grid and voltage events. If your SolarEdge unit is showing a fault or you see solar inverter fault codes, a single manual reset is often appropriate after a grid event.
How to reset SolarEdge (typical sequence):
Turn OFF AC first (grid side)
Turn OFF DC next (solar side / DC disconnect)
Wait at least 60 seconds
Turn ON DC first
Turn ON AC next
After restarting:
Check the SolarEdge monitoring portal/app to confirm the inverter returns to “producing” and the fault cleared.
Common homeowner-facing issues include optimizer communication problems, grid voltage out of range, and DC overvoltage messages.
If the SolarEdge fault code returns immediately after one reset, avoid repeated cycling. Persistent faults usually need deeper troubleshooting or service.
SMA and other traditional string inverters usually require a manual reset since they lack module-level electronics. A fault at the inverter level typically affects the whole array.
To reset, follow the same AC/DC isolator sequence: switch off the AC isolator first, then the DC, wait at least one minute, and turn them back on in reverse order. The inverter should run through self-checks, and the display or LEDs will confirm if the fault cleared. SMA error codes can be cross-referenced with the product manual for troubleshooting guidance.
⚠️ Safety note: DC voltages in solar panel strings can exceed 600V. Always use proper PPE near inverter disconnects, and call a solar professional if you’re uncertain.
When Not to Reset an Inverter Fault
Not every inverter issue should be cleared with a reset. If you see smoke, smell burning, or hear unusual noises, do not try to reset the inverter fault—these are signs of serious damage that require a licensed technician.
Also, avoid repeated resets if the solar inverter fault code keeps returning. Constant resets can hide wiring, grid, or internal inverter problems. If you’re unsure how to interpret the code, or the issue won’t clear, GreenLancer offers U.S. solar inverter repair services—even for orphaned systems without installer support.
Solar Inverter Fault Codes Explained
If you're seeing an error message or your solar system isn’t producing power as expected, chances are you're dealing with one or more inverter fault codes. Understanding what those codes mean is a key part of resolving a solar inverter fault, especially before you try to figure out how to reset the inverter fault safely. Each inverter brand has its own system of codes, and while they may look cryptic, they’re designed to help diagnose the problem quickly and accurately.
What Inverter Fault Codes Mean
Inverter fault codes are like a status report from your solar system. They typically signal issues related to voltage fluctuations, temperature limits, communication problems, or internal hardware failures.
Here are a few common examples:
Enphase microinverters often report issues like "Grid Instability" or "Power Line Communication Lost."
SolarEdge may display numeric inverter error codes like 18x or 33x, which relate to DC voltage range issues or ground faults.
SMA inverters might show inverter error codes tied to overheating or inverter self-test failures.
Seeing one of these codes doesn’t always mean something’s broken—it could just be a sign your system needs a reset or quick inspection. Still, it’s important not to guess, especially if you’re unsure how serious the solar inverter fault might be.
When Resetting The Solar Inverter Fault Doesn’t Work
If you’ve already tried to reset the inverter fault and your system still isn’t working properly, don’t worry—you’re not out of options. Sometimes, a solar inverter fault is more than just a quick fix. When the fault code keeps coming back, or your inverter won’t reboot at all, it’s likely pointing to a deeper issue that needs expert attention.
Persistent inverter fault codes can indicate anything from internal component wear to grid compatibility problems, especially in older systems. At this point, it’s a good idea to document what you’re seeing and prepare to reach out for support.
Contacting Your Installer or Support With Inverter Faults
Before you call for help, gather the details that will speed things up:
The inverter brand and model (e.g., Enphase IQ7, SolarEdge HD-Wave, SMA Sunny Boy)
Exact inverter fault codes showing on the screen or app
What symptoms are you noticing, such as blinking lights, no power output, or recent weather events
Steps you've already taken, including whether or not you tried to reset the fault
With this info ready, your installer—or the inverter manufacturer’s tech support line—can better advise you on the next steps or determine if your issue is covered under a solar inverter warranty.
When to Consider a Solar Repair Service
If your original installer is no longer in business, or if the inverter is 8 to 10 years old, it may be time to contact a qualified solar repair service. Ongoing solar inverter faults could be a sign that key components are starting to fail. In some cases, you might need a replacement inverter or upgraded components to keep your system running efficiently.
When you’re stuck trying to make sense of stubborn inverter fault codes or unsure how to reset inverter faults without risking further issues, GreenLancer can help. Our solar repair network is available nationwide, even for orphaned systems with no active installer support.
Preventing Future Solar Inverter Faults
While it’s impossible to prevent every solar inverter fault, there are a few simple habits that can reduce the chances of running into recurring issues. Keeping your inverter in good shape and catching problems early can help you avoid confusing inverter fault codes or the need to figure out how to reset inverter faults again and again.
Keep Your System Clean and Well-Ventilated
Your inverter needs proper airflow to stay cool, especially during summer months or in warmer climates. If it's installed outdoors or in a garage, make sure there’s enough clearance around it for ventilation. Inverters from brands like Fronius and SolarEdge often rely on internal fans, which can get clogged with dust or debris over time.
Keep weeds, leaves, and dust away from the equipment
Avoid stacking storage or blocking airflow around the solar inverter
Check periodically for pests like wasps or rodents that might nest nearby
Overheating is a common trigger for solar inverter faults, and good airflow goes a long way in preventing unnecessary shutdowns.
Monitor System Performance Regularly
One of the best ways to stay ahead of inverter problems is to monitor your system regularly using the tools provided by your installer or manufacturer. Platforms like Enphase Enlighten, SolarEdge Monitoring, or SMA Sunny Portal allow you to spot drops in performance or view inverter fault codes as soon as they occur.
By checking in every so often—or setting up automatic alerts—you can catch small issues before they grow into costly repairs. Plus, if you ever need to figure out how to reset an inverter fault, having clear performance data and error codes at your fingertips makes the process easier.
Final Thoughts on Dealing With a Solar Inverter Fault
Dealing with a solar inverter fault can be stressful, but not every issue points to major damage. Many faults stem from temporary conditions like grid fluctuations, overheating, or brief communication errors. By checking your solar inverter fault codes and knowing how to reset a solar inverter safely, you can often restore performance quickly.
Staying proactive is the best defense. Monitor your system regularly through the manufacturer’s app, keep the inverter area clean and well-ventilated, and pay attention to recurring inverter problems and solutions before they escalate.
If your inverter fault codes keep returning or you no longer have support from your original installer, GreenLancer offers nationwide solar inverter repair services in the U.S. Our team can help with diagnostics, warranty support, and repairs for orphaned systems.
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FAQs About Solar Inverter Faults
How to reset the inverter fault safely?
In many homes, the safest first step is a basic power-cycle reset using your system’s AC and DC disconnects (if you have them). Turn OFF AC first, then OFF DC, wait at least 60 seconds, then turn ON DC, then ON AC. After the restart, check whether the solar inverter is showing that the fault message cleared. If the fault returns right away, stop resetting and get help—repeated cycling can stress the inverter.
How to reset the solar inverter after a power outage?
After a power outage, many inverters reboot automatically once the grid is stable. If your system stays offline, try a single reset (AC OFF → DC OFF → wait → DC ON → AC ON). If the inverter won’t reconnect or the app still shows no production after reboot, look for a fault code or red light and document it before calling support.
Why is my solar inverter red light on?
A red light usually means the inverter is in a fault state or isn’t producing power. Common causes include grid voltage out of range, overheating, DC isolation/ground faults, or internal errors. If the red light appears after a storm or outage, try a reset. If it comes back, the next step is to reference the displayed solar inverter fault codes for your model.
How to fix the red light on the inverter
Start with simple checks that don’t involve opening equipment: confirm any external disconnects are ON, look for obvious tripped breakers (if labeled for solar), make sure airflow around the inverter is clear, and check for error messages on the inverter screen/app. If a reset clears it and production returns, monitor it for 24 to 48 hours. If the red light returns, treat it as a recurring fault and contact a solar technician.
Solar inverter fault codes: what should I write down before calling for help?
Capture the exact code text/number, the inverter brand and model, the time it happened, and whether it followed a power outage, heat wave, or storm. This speeds up troubleshooting and helps determine if it’s a grid event, wiring issue, or an internal failure.
How to fix error 09 on the inverter?
Error code 09 varies by manufacturer. In some models, it’s listed as inverter error code 09 bus soft start failed, which can point to an internal startup problem on the DC bus. A single reset may clear a temporary event. If error 09 returns, it often needs professional diagnosis (and sometimes an inverter repair/replacement), because it can be related to internal electronics rather than a simple setting.
Do solar panels have a reset button? - Solar panel reset button location
Solar panels don’t have reset buttons. When people search for a “solar panel reset button,” they usually mean the inverter reset, the AC/DC disconnect, a combiner switch, or a monitoring gateway reset. The safest “reset point” is typically the inverter/disconnect sequence—not anything on the panels.
Where can I find the Growatt inverter fault codes PDF?
For Growatt and similar brands, the most accurate Growatt inverter fault codes PDF is usually the model-specific user manual or service document. Use the exact model number from the inverter label to find the correct code list—code meanings can differ across product lines.
SolarEdge troubleshooting guide for homeowners: when is a reset not enough?
If the same fault code returns right after a reset, if production keeps dropping repeatedly, or if you see signs of electrical damage (burn marks, smell, heat), stop resetting and call a qualified technician. SolarEdge systems can also involve optimizer communication faults that need deeper troubleshooting beyond a standard reboot.