Solar Inverter Problems & Solutions: Repairing Inverters
- Sarah Lozanova
- Jul 2
- 9 min read
Updated: 1 day ago
Your solar inverter is a vital part of your PV system. It converts the direct current (DC) electricity produced by your solar panels into alternating current (AC) power for use in your home or business. When your inverter stops working correctly, your entire solar system can underperform or stop generating electricity. Understanding common inverter problems and solutions is essential for getting your system back on track.
Some signs of inverter problems include low or no power production, flashing warning lights, buzzing noises, or error messages on the display. In many cases, learning how to reset inverter fault codes using the manufacturer's steps can resolve the issue. Knowing how to reset a solar inverter safely can help avoid unnecessary service calls and restore system performance.
When DIY fixes don’t cut it, GreenLancer is here to help. With years of experience supporting solar contractors and system owners, GreenLancer connects you with experts who can diagnose inverter faults and get your system running smoothly again.
Table of Contents
Common Inverter Problems and Solutions for Solar Systems
Solar inverter problems can significantly impact the performance of your PV system. By identifying the most common issues and understanding how to reset inverter faults, you can keep your solar installation running efficiently.
Inverter Problem: Solar System Not Producing Power
If your solar system suddenly stops producing power, your inverter may have shut down due to a fault or tripped breaker. This is one of the most frequent solar inverter problems homeowners face.
How to reset inverter fault and restore system production:
Check your main service panel and confirm the solar breaker is in the “on” position.
Make sure the solar disconnect switch near the inverter is also turned on.
To reset the inverter, power it off completely, wait a few minutes, and turn it back on. Knowing how to reset a solar inverter properly can often fix basic faults and restore energy production.
If the system still isn’t producing power, additional steps or professional help may be required.
Inverter Problem: Error Codes Displayed on Screen
Many inverters display error messages like “Grid Fault,” “Over Voltage,” or “Isolation Fault.” These indicate common inverter problems caused by grid fluctuations, wiring issues, or internal component faults.
Inverter problems and solutions for error codes:
Look up the error message in your inverter’s manual or on the manufacturer’s website.
Perform a system reset using the power cycle method outlined above.
Verify your home’s grid voltage to rule out utility-side issues.
Every brand has its own set of solar inverter fault codes. For example, SMA, Enphase, and Sunny Boy all require slightly different procedures.
For more complex issues, GreenLancer can connect you with experienced professionals to help repair your solar inverter and restore optimal system performance.
Inverter Problem: Low Solar Power Output
When your solar system is underperforming and producing less power than usual, it could signal an issue with your inverter or other components.
Steps to troubleshoot inverter problems and improve power output:
Inspect for shading or debris: Look for tree branches, leaves, snow, or dirt blocking sunlight from reaching your panels.
Clean your solar panels: A buildup of grime can reduce efficiency. Regular cleaning may help boost output.
Use your monitoring system: If your system includes a solar monitoring tool, use it to check for underperforming panels or inverter faults.
How to reset solar inverter: Power the inverter off, wait at least five minutes, then restart it. This basic reset often fixes temporary inverter problems.
If these troubleshooting steps don't solve the problem, it may require a more thorough evaluation. GreenLancer’s experts are here to help with diagnosing and repairing solar inverter issues to get your system back to optimal performance.
Inverter Fault: Inverter Tripping Repeatedly
If your solar inverter keeps shutting down, it may be tripping due to electrical issues, overloads, or unstable voltage. Repeated inverter faults can impact system performance and may require prompt attention.
How to Reset Inverter Faults and Address Tripping Issues
Here are some steps to troubleshoot inverter problems and solutions when frequent shutdowns occur:
Inspect for loose electrical connections: Faulty or loose wiring near the inverter can cause it to trip. Check breaker panels, disconnects, and connection points.
Check for system overloads: Ensure that the inverter’s rated capacity is not being exceeded by demand or electrical backfeed.
How to reset solar inverter: Turn off the inverter, wait five minutes, and then power it back on. Monitor the system to see if the issue continues.
If the inverter continues tripping, it could signal a more serious issue that requires professional attention.
Inverter Problems: Wi-Fi or Monitoring System Not Working
If you can’t access your solar monitoring platform, you may be dealing with communication issues between your inverter and your Wi-Fi network. This prevents system owners from tracking performance or spotting inverter faults early.
How to fix this problem:
Reboot your router: Restarting your router can often resolve any temporary glitches or weak signals affecting the connection.
Check your internet connection and password: Make sure your internet is working properly and that the correct password is entered. A weak connection or incorrect credentials can interfere with syncing the system.
Reconnect the inverter: After confirming your internet is working, try reconnecting the inverter to the Wi-Fi network by going through the connection settings.
Update app/software: If the monitoring app or software hasn’t been updated, it could be causing issues. Check for updates, as they can often fix bugs that prevent a stable connection.
Once you’ve followed these steps, your inverter should reconnect, and you'll be able to monitor your system’s performance again without issue.
How to Reset Inverter Faults: Step-by-Step Guide
Knowing how to reset inverter faults is an essential skill for any solar system owner. Whether you're dealing with a temporary glitch or a persistent error, a proper reset can often resolve the issue and get your solar system producing power again.
How to Reset a Solar Inverter Safely
Follow these steps to reset your inverter and restore normal operation:
Turn off the AC and DC disconnects: Begin by powering down the system completely. Switch off the AC disconnect (often located near your main electrical panel) and the DC disconnect (typically near the inverter or combiner box). This cuts off all power going to and from the inverter.
Wait 5 to 10 minutes: Allow time for the inverter’s internal components to fully discharge. This brief wait can help clear minor inverter faults or error codes.
Turn on the DC disconnect: Switch the DC power back on to start delivering power from your solar panels to the inverter.
Turn on the AC disconnect: Restore AC power to allow the inverter to send electricity to your home or the grid.
Check inverter indicators or display: Watch for normal status lights or messages. If the inverter returns to operational status without any fault codes, the reset was likely successful.
When to Call for Help
If these steps don’t clear the fault or your inverter continues to display errors, you may be dealing with a deeper issue. Many inverters also store historical fault data or use diagnostic codes that can point to the source of the problem.
GreenLancer can connect you with qualified solar technicians to identify and resolve inverter problems, even if your original installer is no longer available. Whether you're troubleshooting a communication fault or a shutdown, we’ll help get your solar system back online.
Solar Inverter Problems and Solutions by Brand
Solar inverter problems can vary by manufacturer. Knowing how to reset inverter faults and address common issues specific to your inverter brand, whether it's Enphase, SMA Sunny Boy, SolarEdge, Fronius, or Huawei, can help keep your system running efficiently and extend its lifespan.
Enphase Solar Inverter Problems (Microinverters)
Enphase microinverters are known for their reliability, but occasionally, owners might experience issues. Common problems include frequent communication issues with the Envoy device or failures in individual panel microinverters.
Enphase Inverter Problems and Solutions (Microinverters)
Rebooting the Envoy: Sometimes, communication issues can be resolved by rebooting the Envoy monitoring system.
Checking Wi-Fi connection: Ensure that your internet connection is stable and that the Envoy is properly connected to your Wi-Fi network.
Updating software: Regular software updates for both the Envoy and the inverters can help resolve many minor glitches and improve overall system performance.
For persistent issues, contacting Enphase support or a qualified solar technician may be necessary to diagnose and repair individual microinverter failures.
SMA Sunny Boy Solar Inverter Problems (String Inverters)
SMA string inverters are a popular choice for residential solar systems, but they may encounter some issues. Common problems include grid voltage errors, overvoltage shutdowns, and isolation faults, especially during damp weather.
How to repair SMA inverter problems:
Resetting the inverter: A simple reset can often resolve minor grid voltage errors or overvoltage shutdowns.
Checking grid settings: Ensure the grid connection settings are correct and match the specifications for your area.
Ensuring proper grounding: Double-check the grounding of the system to prevent isolation faults, especially in wetter conditions.
SolarEdge Inverter Issues
SolarEdge inverters paired with optimizers are commonly used in residential solar installations. However, common issues such as optimizer detection faults or inverters not starting after a power outage can arise.
How to reset SolarEdge inverter faults and fix common issues:
Power cycling the system: If the inverter is not starting after a power outage, try turning it off, waiting a few minutes, and turning it back on.
Inspecting the optimizers: Check if the optimizers are functioning correctly and properly communicating with the inverter. A faulty optimizer can disrupt the entire system.
Updating firmware: Ensure the firmware is up-to-date, as software updates can often resolve communication issues and improve overall performance.
Fronius Inverter Problems
Fronius inverters are known for their reliability, but they can face challenges like State 104 errors (Grid relay issues) and overheating shutdowns, particularly in hot climates.
Fronius inverter fault fixes include:
Checking ventilation: Ensure the inverter is in a well-ventilated area to prevent overheating. Clear away any obstructions that might block airflow.
Ensuring proper grid settings: Verify the grid connection settings to avoid grid relay issues and ensure they align with local requirements.
Resetting the inverter: In case of a State 104 error, try performing a reset to restore normal operation.
Huawei Solar Inverter Concerns
Huawei inverters are a rising choice in the solar market, but like any system, they can experience issues. Common concerns include arc fault detection errors and repeated system restarts.
Steps to fix Huawei inverter problems:
Checking wiring: Ensure all wiring is intact and properly connected. Loose or damaged wires can trigger arc fault detection errors.
Contacting support for firmware updates: If the system is restarting repeatedly, it may require a firmware update. Contact Huawei’s support team for assistance in updating your inverter to the latest version.
When to Call a Professional for Solar Inverter Problems
While learning how to reset inverter faults can help solve many minor issues, not all inverter problems and solutions are suitable for DIY repair. In some cases, it’s safer—and more effective—to call a qualified professional.
Here are common situations where expert help is recommended:
1. Inverter fault codes persist after resets
If you’ve tried resetting your solar inverter multiple times and the same error codes keep reappearing, it may signal a deeper system fault or internal hardware issue.
2. Suspected internal damage
Unusual sounds, burning smells, or visible scorch marks could mean internal damage to your inverter—something only a trained technician should address.
3. Safety hazards are present
If your inverter is sparking, smoking, or shows signs of overheating, stop all troubleshooting immediately. These symptoms require urgent professional attention to avoid electrical fires or injury.
4. Risk of voiding the warranty
DIY repairs on your inverter could void manufacturer warranties. Most solar inverters come with 5 to 12-year warranties that require service by certified professionals.
5. Advanced electrical work is needed
If your inverter fault involves rewiring, replacing breakers, or inspecting your main service panel, call an electrician or solar service technician. Incorrect wiring can be dangerous and lead to system failures.
6. Strange inverter noises
Buzzing, humming, or clicking noises from your inverter can indicate component failure, grid instability, or transformer issues. These typically need diagnostic tools and training to resolve.
7. Inverter keeps shutting down
Frequent inverter shutdowns could be caused by overvoltage, grid instability, or overheating. If a reset doesn’t help, a pro can use inverter diagnostics and system monitoring to pinpoint the cause.
8. Solar system is underperforming
If your system’s production has dropped significantly and you’ve already ruled out shading or dirty panels, a technician can check for wiring faults, grounding issues, or panel-to-inverter communication problems.
9. You’re unfamiliar with electrical systems
If you’re not confident working around live circuits or high-voltage equipment, it’s best to call a certified solar technician to avoid injury or damaging your system.
10. The inverter won’t power on
When the inverter remains off despite following all how to reset solar inverter instructions, the issue may lie with internal components or power delivery—both require professional inspection.
Resolving Solar Inverter Problems With Effective Solutions
Most solar inverter problems can be addressed with a few simple steps—whether that means checking wiring, cleaning panels, or learning how to reset an inverter fault properly. Understanding common inverter problems and solutions helps you respond quickly when your system underperforms or shuts down unexpectedly.
However, if the issue persists after multiple resets, or if you’re seeing unusual noises, solar inverter fault codes, or signs of internal damage, it’s time to call a professional. Attempting advanced repairs without proper training can lead to more costly problems or void your warranty.
GreenLancer can assist with troubleshooting and repairing solar inverter problems, ensuring your system continues to operate reliably for years to come. Whether it's diagnosing issues, making repairs, or providing maintenance, GreenLancer is here to help keep your solar system in top shape.
Comments