Inverters from Sungrow are among the best in the world. Their devices range from 2 kW to 8.8 MW, making them suitable for residential and commercial use. Their ease of installation also makes them popular among its residential clients. However, Sungrow inverter error codes are something to be mindful of as a user.
These inverters are rain and snow-resistant and can function in high altitudes. They are also highly corrosion-resistant and have a long lifespan. But these conditions can result in the inverter occasionally showing errors.
Some of the faults inverters encounter are temporary, while others require technical assistance. When a fault occurs, the inverter displays these errors in its interface. They are straightforward to identify, and, with proper guidance, easy to interpret.
The current generation of inverters goes beyond the traditional role of converting DC into AC. Now, solar inverters provide real-time reports on the performance of their solar systems, too.
In this article, we will discuss all Sungrow inverter error codes along with their solutions. By the end of this article, you’ll know the meaning of your inverter’s error codes and how to address them.
Let’s dive into it!
What are Solar Inverter Error Codes?
An error code on your solar inverter indicates that something is preventing your system from operating normally. Generally, an inverter error code is an alphanumeric or numeric digit that identifies a problem with the PV system. Inverter error codes point toward the issue, and therefore it’s essential to understand them.
Multiple factors can affect the solar PV system’s ability to generate electricity. The error code will show as soon as the inverter detects the problem.
When left unattended, these errors can permanently harm your inverter. However, an error in the inverter doesn’t mean the whole system is defective. The inverter itself may be the issue or other PV components or external factors may also be responsible for an error.
The inverters are programmed to identify the fault and show an error code. The error codes and their meanings are therefore crucial for resolving the problem. You should keep a guide of errors saved with you so you quickly identify the issue if one pops up.
The good news is that solar inverter error codes are easy to identify for the most part.
For now, let’s first understand the most common errors in Sungrow and their causes.
Common Causes of Sungrow Inverter Error Codes
Errors in Sungrow inverters can be categorised by:
- Grid voltage,
- Frequency disturbances,
- Overcurrent faults,
- Electrical connection issues,
- Temperature range, and
- Software issues.
The error message displays any revelant concern that affects the inverter’s performance. Sungrow inverters only denote errors using numeric digits, making them simple to identify and interpret.
Read on to discover more about the precise causes of various errors.
- Grid Voltage and Frequency Disturbances
These are temporary issues caused by voltage fluctuations. The power company is responsible for this problem, and not the inverter. Still, you should keep an eye on the voltage. If it reads normal, then your inverter is encountering a problem. Please call Sungrow’s office for on-site technical assistance.
- Overcurrent Faults
Overcurrent faults usually occur because of an oversupply of current from solar PV systems, resulting in temporary damage to specific components, particularly the inverter bridge. These errors are transient and will solve themselves in due time.
Overcurrent faults are the most common and most easily treated of the problems listed. You can reduce this likelihood by inserting a circuit breaker in the inverter.
But some of the faults, like errors #12, #21, and #22, may require technical assistance. These errors occur due to issues with wiring and panels.
- Electrical Connection Problems
The errors in this category represent technical faults in the inverter. The error may point toward a loose or missing connection. Connection issues can also occur if a DC or AC feeder trips. These errors require technical assistance.
- Temperature Issues
High or low temperatures may also cause an error in Sungrow inverters. Errors can occur if the inverter is exposed to high temperatures or in a poorly ventilated area.
They may also represent a fault in the inverter’s fan. Dirt trapped in the inverter’s fan can also cause faults. Keeping your inverter in a ventilated area and regularly cleaning it will prevent such issues.
- Software Compatability
You may also experience inverter errors if you select the wrong software version for your region. If that happens, we recommend you avail of the current version from Sungrow technical support.
The software for each region is acclimatised to specific geographical factors, including the environment. These factors affect the performance of your inverter.
For example, the Australian climate is distinct from other regions. Inverter errors are more likely to occur if you use a software version designed for Europe or the US. You should ensure that you select the correct region for your software.
- Faulty Installation
Many inverters become faulty due to shoddy installation. You should hire only professionals to install inverters since faulty installations can result in countless errors down the line, costing you more money than you would have saved by hiring an amateur handyman. The slightest mistake in installation can have devastating effects.
An error in placement can also cause a reduction in voltage, resulting in a voltage error. Instyle Solar offers professional services to ensure that your inverter is installed optimally.
- Overload
Errors are often caused by overload. People operating heavy machineries such as water pumps and washing machines cause the inverter to overload. This results in an error. The solution to this is to avoid using multiple high-energy-consuming devices simultaneously.
Other causes of overloads also exist, and you should seek technical support from Sungrow if you encounter them.
All Error Codes for Sungrow Inverters and Solutions to Fix Them
The following is a list of all the error codes that can appear on a Sungrow inverter in the event of a failure.
| Type of Issue | Common Error Codes | Overview |
|---|---|---|
| Grid voltage and frequency disturbances | 002 – Overvoltage; 003 – Transient overvoltage; 004 – Undervoltage; 005 – Undervoltage (below code #4); 008 – Overfrequency; 009 – Underfrequency; 014 – 10-minute overvoltage; 015 – Overvoltage (higher than in code #2); 101 – Overfrequency (higher than in code #8); 102 – Underfrequency (lower than in code #9). | Generally, these are temporary issues that are solved by the power company, and the inverter resumes normal operation when it detects a suitable voltage and frequency. However, if the inverter keeps generating the error when the grid voltage and frequency are normal, you should contact your installer for technical support. In particular, the 10-minute overvoltage error (#14) may be caused by an incorrect country setting. If the inverter is configured for a country with a lower voltage than Australia, this error will appear. |
| Overcurrent faults | 006 – AC overcurrent (inverter output); 007 – Transient AC overcurrent; 011 – DC injection over current (input from solar array); 012 – Leakage overcurrent; 021 – PV1 input overcurrent; 022 – PV2 input overcurrent; 100 – AC output current exceeds the upper limit; 202 – PV hardware overcurrent fault. | #6 and #7 are normally short-term problems, and the inverter will resume operation in a few seconds. However, you should contact technical support if the fault persists. #12 may indicate a ground fault affecting the solar array. #21 and #22 may indicate panel layout and wiring issues. |
| Electrical connection problems | 010 – Islanding; 028 – Reverse connection in PV circuit; 1029 – Reverse connection in PV circuit; 2084 – Reverse cable connection warning; 106 – Inverter not grounded. | These faults can be caused by loose or missing connections, and #10, in particular, can appear when the main AC breaker is tripped. |
| Temperature issues | 036 – Radiator temperature is too high; 037 – Internal temperature of inverter is too high; 043 – Internal temperature is too low (below -25 °C); 070 – Defective fans. | High temperature issues can occur when the inverter is in a poorly ventilated spot, exposed to direct sunlight, or when the air inlets are dirty. There is a specific error code for defective fans (#70), but other codes can also be triggered by fan issues. |
| Software compatability | 085 – Mismatched software version. | You can contact technical support to get the correct version. |
Will I Need to Replace My Sungrow Inverter?
If your inverter has a manufacturing fault, Sungrow will offer a replacement. This replacement is covered by the warranty. All Sungrow inverters come with a standard warranty of five years.
If you find a fault in the inverter, contact Sungrow via their app, the iSolarCloud. The company will troubleshoot on this portal remotely and determine whether the inverter needs replacement. Its technical support staff will also conduct a site visit if necessary.
Sungrow reimburses its customers for payments made to any third-party installer for the replacement. Faulty installations, however, are not covered in the product warranty. Therefore, you should hire the services of professional installers like Instyle Solar.
It’s also advised that you replace your inverter every 5-10 years for optimal efficiency. Unfortunately, Sungrow’s replacement policy does not apply in this scenario.
You can check out the details of this whole process in Sungrow’s service procedure.
How Can I Get a Warranty Replacement for My Sungrow Inverter?
A ‘Device Replacement’ must be performed via the iSolarCloud app to replace a Sungrow inverter. During this procedure, you will be asked to provide some information and answer some basic questions. The company will use this information to identify the current state of your inverter.
Read on to know the step-by-step procedure for replacing your Sungrow inverter.
Step 1: Sign in to your iSolarCloud account and select the inverter or solar plant you plan to replace.
Step 2: Click the Settings Gear on the right-hand corner of the plant after it opens.
Step 3: You can find the “Device Replacement” function in this menu. Click on “Next” to move forward. You will see some information here. Select “Continue” to proceed.
Step 4: Click the Plus (+) icon. It will show your current devices. Select the device you want to replace if there is more than one of it.
Step 5: Upon confirming the ‘Old Device’, the ‘New Device’ will be available for editing. Click on the Plus icon (+), and you will see two options. A QR code can be scanned on the WiFi device, or the serial number can be manually entered.
Step 6: From the nameplate on the device, you can find the Serial number and Password. After filling out the details and confirming, the old and new devices will be displayed. To finish the device replacement transfer, click “START REPLACEMENT.”
Once you have completed these procedures, you can perform replacements and check them on your account. You can check out a detailed description of these steps on Sungrow’s device replacement procedures.
However, there are various factors that can void your warranty. Therefore, you need to ensure that your inverter has not undergone a problem caused by a factor that’s excluded from the warranty.
Warranty Exclusions
Sungrow is very specific about what conditions will void your warranty. Below is a summary of infractions that you must try to avoid.
4.1.This Warranty does not provide coverage for any defects caused by the following:
a. Transportation problems that can damage the equipment
b. Storage problems
c. Not complying with the laws
d. Failing to follow the product guidelines.
e. Improper/unadvised usage of the inverters
f. Improper/lack of maintenance of the inverter
g. Unauthorised repairs or modifications
h. Externally induced damage to the products
i. Wars, crimes, natural disasters, etc.
j. Conditions that are beyond the voltage/environmental limits of the inverter
l. Damage caused by people, pets, microbes, or exposure to chemicals.
n. Damage sustained by the enclosure of the inverter
p. Expected wear and tear of the inverter over time
4.3. This Warranty shall be void if
a. The serial number has been tampered with, changed, or manipulated and cannot be accurately identified
b. The user fails to allow Sungrow to inspect the product on-site
c. The products are moved without Sungrow’s approval
Conclusion
Sungrow inverters can experience errors for a variety of reasons. By inspecting the error codes displayed by the inverter, you should be able to easily identify the cause. Typically, errors are temporary and resolve themselves, but if they persist, you should seek technical assistance.
You can always ask for a replacement if the issue is constant, as you’ll be covered by the 5-year warranty provided to all Sungrow customers.
Sungrow inverters can also generate error codes that indicate issues like sensor faults, relay faults, communication errors, low insulation resistance, data sampling faults, etc. Regardless of the specific code, we recommend getting technical support if your inverter constantly generates errors.
If you have a defective unit, remember there is a manufacturer warranty – Instyle Solar can help you get a free replacement. Contact us today via 1300 133 556 or email support@instylesolar.com.au.
