How to Reset an Inverter Fault: Decoding Solar Inverter Fault Codes
- Sarah Lozanova
- Sep 30
- 10 min read
Updated: 4 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?
If your solar system suddenly stops producing energy or shows a warning, you may be dealing with a solar inverter fault. This happens when the inverter detects a problem and either shuts down or limits output to protect your home and the system. Understanding how to reset an inverter fault can help restore performance and avoid unnecessary downtime.
Some issues are temporary and easy to clear, but others may require professional repair. Many solar inverters display fault codes or solar inverter error codes to help identify the cause. These codes are useful when diagnosing the problem or resetting the inverter.
Common Signs of a Solar Inverter Fault
Here are some common signs that your system is experiencing an inverter issue:
Flashing red or orange lights: These indicate a system warning or error.
Error messages: Your inverter screen may display text or codes when something goes wrong.
No energy output: Your monitoring app or utility bill may show little or no energy generation.
Inverter fault codes: These codes, made up of numbers or letters, can indicate what’s wrong.
All of these signs may indicate the need to check your system and figure out how to reset the inverter fault or call for service.
Common Causes of Solar Inverter Faults
A solar inverter fault doesn’t always mean your system is damaged. In many cases, the inverter is doing exactly what it was designed to do—pausing or shutting down to protect itself. Still, it’s important to understand the possible causes, especially if you’re trying to figure out how to reset the inverter fault or interpret solar inverter fault codes.
Weather, Wear, and Wiring
Several everyday factors can lead to a solar inverter fault:
Overheating: Inverters from brands like SMA and SolarEdge often reduce output or shut down temporarily in high heat to avoid internal damage. Poor ventilation or direct sun exposure can make this worse.
Grid fluctuations: Enphase microinverters and string inverters like Fronius may detect utility grid instability, like voltage spikes or drops, and trigger a fault to protect your home and the grid.
Wiring issues: Loose or corroded connections between your panels, combiner boxes, and inverter can cause communication errors or faults, regardless of brand.
Internal wear: Like any electronic device, inverters age. After about 10 years, parts like capacitors may degrade, especially in older models from ABB or early-generation SMA units.
Each of these issues might cause specific inverter fault codes, which help technicians (and homeowners with the manual) diagnose the problem.
Poor Installation or Maintenance
Some solar inverter faults trace back to how the system was installed or maintained:
Improper setup: If your system was installed with mismatched components or insufficient grounding, brands like SolarEdge may flag this through specific inverter fault codes shortly after commissioning.
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
If your solar system has stopped producing power and you see an error message or warning light, you’re likely wondering how to reset the inverter fault. In many cases, a reset is a reasonable first step, especially if the fault is minor or caused by a brief grid issue or weather event. Knowing how to reset a solar inverter can help restore power and avoid unnecessary downtime.
Before you reset anything, take a moment to check the solar inverter fault codes or error messages. These codes are designed to identify specific problems, and some may require professional repair.
Step-by-Step Guide to Resetting Your Solar Inverter
If you see a warning message or error code, you may need to reset your inverter to clear the fault. Here’s how to reset a solar inverter safely:
✅ Step 1: Turn off the AC isolator
This switch is usually near your home’s main electrical panel. Turning it off disconnects the inverter from your house wiring.
✅ Step 2: Turn off the DC isolator
Located next to the inverter or solar array, the DC isolator cuts the flow of solar power into the inverter.
✅ Step 3: Wait at least 60 seconds
Give the system time to fully shut down. This step helps clear temporary inverter faults and prevents lingering electrical charge.
✅ Step 4: Turn the DC isolator back on
Restore the solar panel connection first by switching the DC isolator back on.
✅ Step 5: Turn the AC isolator back on
Next, reconnect the inverter to your home by switching the AC isolator back on.
✅ Step 6: Check the inverter display or app
Watch for status updates or cleared solar inverter fault codes. Many inverters will also show real-time production.
Brand-Specific Solar Inverter Reset Notes
Different manufacturers design their inverters to handle fault codes and resets in slightly different ways. Understanding how your specific system works can save time and prevent unnecessary service calls. Here’s what you need to know:
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 string inverters are more sensitive to grid and voltage conditions, so they often need a manual reset when a fault occurs. To reset, turn off the AC isolator first, then the DC disconnect, wait at least one minute, and switch them back on in reverse order.
Once restarted, check the SolarEdge monitoring app or portal to confirm the inverter is producing power and that the fault code has cleared. Common SolarEdge error codes include optimizer communication faults, grid voltage out of range, and DC overvoltage.
If a SolarEdge fault code reappears after a reset, don’t keep cycling the inverter. This can cause more stress on the system. At that point, it’s best to contact a qualified technician for diagnosis or repair.
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.
FAQs About Solar Inverter Faults
Get answers to many of your questions regarding inverter resets and issues.
What does a solar inverter fault mean?
A solar inverter fault means the inverter detected a condition that could damage the system or reduce safety. It may shut down or limit output until the issue is resolved. Faults can be triggered by high temperatures, grid fluctuations, wiring problems, or internal component wear. Many inverters display solar inverter fault codes to help identify the cause.
How do I reset a solar inverter fault code?
To reset most solar inverter faults, turn off the AC isolator near your main panel, then turn off the DC isolator next to the inverter or array. Wait at least 60 seconds, then turn the DC isolator back on, followed by the AC isolator.
Check the inverter display or app to confirm the fault cleared. Always consult your inverter’s manual before performing a reset, since some brands like Enphase reset automatically while others, such as SolarEdge, require a manual reset.
What are the most common solar inverter error codes for Enphase and SolarEdge?
Enphase microinverters often show errors like Grid Instability or Power Line Communication Lost. These usually resolve automatically once the grid stabilizes or communication is restored.
SolarEdge inverters may display numeric error codes such as 18x (DC voltage out of range) or 33x (ground fault). These typically require a manual reset and, if repeated, a professional inspection.
When should I call a professional for inverter repairs?
Call a solar repair professional if:
The same solar inverter fault code returns after multiple resets.
You see signs of damage (burn marks, smoke, loud noises).
Your inverter is over 8–10 years old and showing repeated errors.
Your system isn’t producing power despite a successful reset.
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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