How to Restart Your Solar Panel Inverter

Severe weather events like storms can disrupt your solar panel system, particularly the inverter, which plays a crucial role in converting the direct current (DC) from your panels into usable alternating current (AC). After a storm, you may find your solar system offline, requiring a restart to restore functionality. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to safely restart your solar panel inverter after a storm.

Step 1: Ensure Safety First
Before attempting to restart your inverter, prioritise safety. If there are fallen branches, debris, or any visible damage to your solar panels or roofing, it’s advisable to wait for a professional inspection.
Never approach electrical equipment in wet conditions. Be sure to wear protective gear and ensure your feet are dry.

Step 2: Inspect Your Solar Panels
Conduct a visual inspection of your solar panels and mounting system for any apparent damage such as cracks, broken glass, or loose wiring. If you notice significant damage, do not attempt to turn on the inverter, as this may cause further issues.

Step 3: Check the Inverter Display
Most inverters have a display panel that indicates their operational status. If the inverter has gone into shutdown mode due to storm conditions, you’ll see a warning or fault message. Familiarise yourself with your inverter model to understand the indicators and potential fault codes.

Step 4: Turn Off the Solar Inverter
To restart your inverter safely, you may first need to turn your solar panels inverter off if you haven’t already done so by turning the AC power off first to the inverter.

Step 5: Disconnect the AC and DC Power
AC Disconnect: First find the AC disconnect switch and turn it off, this is normally in your switch board marked Solar main switch or Inverter main switch.
DC Disconnect: Locate the DC disconnect switch, usually found near the inverter but can be on the inverter in newer models. Turn this switch to the “Off” position to disconnect power from the solar panels to the inverter, This ensures the system is entirely powered down and safe to restart.

Step 6: Wait for a Few Minutes
Once both the AC and DC are disconnected, allow a few minutes for the inverter to completely power down. This brief pause can help reset any internal systems.

Step 7: To restart Reconnect the AC and DC Power
Reconnect DC Power: Start by turning on the DC disconnect switch to reconnect the solar panels to the inverter.
Reconnect AC Power: Afterward, switch the AC disconnect back to the “On” position to restore power to the inverter.

Step 8: Inverter start up procedure
The inverter should begin its startup procedure, which may take a few moments. Observe the display for any fault codes or warnings.

Step 9: Monitor Performance
After the inverter is back online, monitor its performance through the display or any connected monitoring system. Ensure it is generating power and functioning correctly. If you notice any persistent errors or a failure to operate, it may require professional servicing.

Conclusion

Restarting your solar panel inverter after a storm is a simple process if no significant damage has occurred. By following these steps, you can safely bring your system back online and continue harnessing renewable energy. Always prioritise safety, and when in doubt, consult with a qualified solar technician such as Circuit Alert Electrical & Solar to ensure your system operates optimally and efficiently. Your solar investment deserves the best care, especially after challenging weather conditions!

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