Is Your Inverter Holding Back Your Urmston Solar System?

Urmston, a thriving community in Manchester, has seen a surge in solar panel installations as residents seek sustainable and cost-effective energy solutions. Installations were at an all-time high in 2011, with Urmston residents taking advantage of the lucrative Feed in Tariffs available at the time, before it was halved at the start of the following year. As the years draw on, inverter faults in Urmston may start to rise. But what exactly is an inverter and what does it do?

What is a Solar Inverter?

A solar inverter is a key component in a solar power system, essentially acting as a translator. Solar panels produce direct current (DC) electricity, which isn't the type of electricity that powers our homes and appliances. The inverter steps in and converts that DC electricity into alternating current (AC), the kind we can use. This AC output is what gets fed into the electrical grid or used directly in your home.

What Problems can Solar Inverters Face?

Unfortunately, solar inverters are not immune to malfunctions. Common issues include overheating, communication problems, and component failures. Overheating can be caused by various factors, such as shading, poor ventilation, or simply the inverter reaching the end of its operational lifespan. Communication errors often disrupt the seamless flow of energy from the solar panels to the inverter and the grid. Component failures can range from minor issues to catastrophic breakdowns, rendering the inverter inoperable.

Adding to the complexity of inverter problems is the unfortunate reality of companies going out of business. This leaves Urmston homeowners with obsolete equipment and limited repair or replacement options. If your solar inverter was produced by a company that no longer exists, finding a compatible replacement can be a daunting task.

Some examples of these manufacturers include;

• ABB (acquired by FIMER in 2019)

• Aurora Power-One PVI (acquired by ABB – see above!)

• Samil Power Ltd (dissolved in 2018)

• SMA Sunny Boy (German Manufacturer)

• Schucho (Made by SMA as above)

• Growatt

• Sun Power

• Mastervolt

• Fox

• SungSunsynk

• SolaX Power

• Lux Power

• Trannergy

Recognising the signs of a failing inverter is crucial. Reduced energy output, unusual noises, error codes, or a complete system shutdown are all potential indicators of an issue. Ignoring these warning signs can lead to further damage and increased repair costs.

One of the most common inverters in the UK to fail in recent years has been the ABB/Aurora Power-One/ Fimer Inverter. When this inverter has failed you will typically see an error code message E031. This is caused by a faulty relay inside the inverter and you can often hear it clicking, which is the relay trying to make contact but is unable to do so. If you have an ABB or Aurora Power One inverter that shows this error code, it is unfortunately likely that you will need to swap the inverter. This will get your Solar System back up and generating again.

Investing in a high-quality replacement inverter is often the best course of action. Modern inverters are more efficient, reliable, and come with longer warranties. According to a report from the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), between 2010 and 2019, the cost of solar PV dropped globally by 82%. When selecting a new inverter, consider factors such as compatibility with your existing solar panels, inverter size, and the reputation of the manufacturer.

Get Your Solar System Back Up and Running

By promptly addressing solar inverter issues, Urmston homeowners can protect their investment, maximise energy production, and continue to enjoy the environmental and financial benefits of solar power. Contact Atlantic Renewables to discuss your inverter issues today, and get your solar system back up and generating as soon as possible.