Solaredge systems are designed to maximize the power output of each solar panel by using power optimizers that optimize the DC power output of each panel.
However, sometimes one of the panels may stop working, which can be due to an isolation fault.
An isolation fault occurs when there is a leakage of DC current to the ground, which can be caused by defective modules, wires, power optimizers, or inverters.
An isolation fault can reduce the performance of your system and pose a safety risk.
How to Fix Solaredge Faulty Panel?
To troubleshoot an isolation fault, you need to follow these steps:
Step 1: Check for Isolation Error Code in Inverter Display or SetApp
The first step to troubleshooting an isolation fault is to check the inverter display or SetApp for an isolation error code.
The error code will indicate the location of the fault (string or inverter) and the severity of the fault (low or high).
You can also check the last isolation value in the SolarEdge monitoring platform to see if it is below or close to the limit (600kΩ for single-phase inverters / 1MΩ for three-phase inverters).
Step 2: Disconnect DC Cables and Turn off AC and DC Disconnect Switches
If you find an isolation fault, the next step is to turn off the AC and DC disconnect switches and wait for five minutes for the input capacitors of the inverter to discharge.
Then disconnect all the DC cables connecting the strings to the inverter or the safety switch.
Step 3: Test the Resistance of the Extension DC Cables
The third step is to test the resistance of the extension DC cables between the strings (or the combiner box) and the inverter (home-run cables) using an insulation tester. The resistance should be higher than 10MΩ. If it is lower, replace the faulty cable.
Step 4: Test the Resistance of Each String
The fourth step is to test the resistance of each string using an insulation tester. The resistance should be higher than 10MΩ. If it is lower, identify the faulty module or optimizer by testing each one individually. Replace the faulty component.
Step 5: Test the Resistance of the Inverter
The fifth step is to test the resistance of the inverter using an insulation tester. The resistance should be higher than 10MΩ. If it is lower, contact SolarEdge technical support for assistance.
Step 6: Reconnect All the DC Cables and Turn on the AC and DC Disconnect Switches
Once you have identified and replaced the faulty component, reconnect all the DC cables and turn on the AC and DC disconnect switches. Check the inverter display or SetApp for any isolation errors.
If there are no errors, your system is working normally. If there are still errors, contact SolarEdge technical support for assistance.
Conclusion
An isolation fault can reduce the performance of your Solaredge system and pose a safety risk.
To troubleshoot an isolation fault, follow the steps outlined above, starting with checking the inverter display or SetApp for an isolation error code.
Testing the resistance of the extension DC cables, each string, and the inverter can help identify and replace the faulty component. If you are unable to troubleshoot the issue, contact SolarEdge technical support for assistance.
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