The role of inverters in any solar system is way huge. Therefore, a case of the solar inverter tripping frequently is enough to jeopardize the solar system’s performance as a whole.
After all, it compromises the conversion of direct current (DC) to alternating current (AC). That begs quite an important question since the ordeal is quite common.
Why does my solar inverter keep tripping? Understanding the cause of a problem is crucial when solving it hence the need to identify what could lead to this annoying occurrence.
So, what about discussing solar inverter tripping and its possible causes? Read on!
What is Solar Inverter Tripping?
Interestingly, solar inverter tripping is a protective measure despite how annoying and frustrating it can be. It involves its automatic shutdown in case of potential damage, thus protecting your solar power system, including itself.
If tripping indicates potential damage, there must be a reason why the solar inverter is behaving that way. There are many possibilities which we will look at shortly.
So, Why Does My Solar Inverter Keep Shutting Off?
The following reasons could lead to solar inverter tripping;
Overcurrent
In this case, the current that flows through your solar inverter becomes higher than its capacity. Various issues could lead to overcurrent, including the following;
Overloading the Inverter
If the capacity of your inverter is less than the power that the connected appliances draw, tripping may occur. That’s why ensuring the capacity is enough to handle all the energy needs is important.
Faulty Components
If the inverter is damaged or faulty, overcurrent cases may arise. The same applies to defective wiring, solar panels, and the system’s components.
Short Circuit
The danger this issue poses is huge and indisputable. Besides making your solar inverters, it is enough to destroy the entire solar system.
Overheating
If your solar inverter is tripping, there are high chances it is overheating. The ambient temperatures may be high, or the ventilation may be inadequate.
Regardless of the cause, you should strive to stop it as soon as possible. After all, it compromises your solar system’s efficiency, and the eventuality is usually permanent damage.
Overvoltage
The issue is similar to overcurrent but revolves around voltage. The following issues may lead to overvoltage and consequent solar inverter tripping.
Configuring the Voltage Settings Incorrectly
That’s why you should look at the solar inverter’s manual before configuring the voltage settings. Alternatively, look for professional assistance since experts understand the correct settings.
You can’t afford to set the wrong reasons. Otherwise, your solar inverter will keep tripping, thus inconveniencing you.
Solar Irradiance Sudden Surge
Your solar system should handle energy fluctuations since they occur frequently. That’s because solar conditions keep changing depending on the weather.
For instance, sunlight may increase rapidly upon a cloud moving away. Consequently, an overvoltage will occur temporarily, thus leading to your solar inverter tripping.
Ground Faults
These faults may also be responsible for this frustrating occurrence. Besides tripping your inverter, ground faults risk your safety and reduce the system’s efficiency.
Protecting Islanding
If there is a grid outage, but the power supply by the solar system continues regardless, that’s islanding. By default, that’s enough to make your solar inverter trip.
After all, if utility workers were to fix the power outage under such circumstances, electrical hazards may occur. On the other hand, tripping and disconnecting from the power grid avoids these life-threatening instances.
Software or Firmware Problems
Your solar inverter may start tripping if the software or firmware is outdated. You may also notice that it is malfunctioning in other ways.
Under such circumstances, the efficiency of your solar system will reduce. In worst-case scenarios, the entire solar system will fail.
How Do You Prevent and Identify Solar Inverter Tripping?
Prevention is better than cure hence the need to do everything possible to prevent your solar inverter from tripping. Fortunately, there are various strategies to help you achieve this goal.
Nevertheless, sometimes the problem is unavoidable, or you realize it when it is too late. Similarly, there are also various ways of solving the problem.
Here is a discussion of the strategies to help you prevent and troubleshoot the issue;
Solve Moisture-related Problems
The solar inverter should be far from moisture. The areas around it should always be dry.
If a gap or opening could let water enter, seal it as soon as possible. A waterproof enclosure is also suitable for avoiding problems that emanate from moisture.
Control the Temperature
If you are installing the solar inverter in an extremely hot area, it is advisable to have a cooling mechanism. Excellent examples include air conditioning units and fans.
Upon installing such, expect the temperature to be stable most of the time. Consequently, it will be impossible for your inverter to overheat and trip.
Ventilation
Even when installing inverters in areas with fair temperatures, ventilation is crucial. It is also ideal for preventing overheating by enhancing airflow.
Therefore, ensure that you install the solar inverter in a well-ventilated area. Equally important, ensure no obstructions are nearby since they will render the ventilation useless.
Consider Protective Devices
From circuit breakers to surge protectors, one can install various protective devices to prevent solar inverter tripping. As the name suggests, the devices protect your inverter from issues that cause the trips.
For instance, the devices prevent overcurrent and overvoltage problems. It protects the entire solar system, and the inverters aren’t exceptional hence low chances of tripping.
Monitor the Performance of Your Solar System
A decrease in your solar system efficiency indicates a problem with its components, including inverters. After all, where there is smoke, there is fire.
However, it is hard to register a drop if you don’t monitor the system closely. That’s why it is advisable to track how it performs constantly.
Routine Maintenance and Inspections.
Maintenance has proven to improve the longevity is almost everything, including solar inverters. That’s why you should prioritize maintaining yours routinely.
Maintenance tasks include inspecting various connections, checking the wiring and cleaning solar panels. Since they are preventing measures, the chances of inverter tripping reduce.
Correct Installation and Grounding
It ensures your solar power system is safe since an unsafe one can do more harm than good. It also compromises the efficiency of the entire system.
Besides correct installation, proper grounding is also crucial. It also affects your safety and the system’s components, such as solar inverters.
Professional Consultation
Some issues are complex and hence need a professional eye. Otherwise, handling them on your own will risk your safety and the solar system’s.
