Preparing for inverter failure

As inverters get smarter, installers are advised to plan for inverter failure in older, lower-voltage projects. Most systems use 1,000-V or 1,500-V strings, a jump from 600-V strings. Inverters typically are the first part to need maintenance or replacement.
 

Manufacturers work to resolve inverter failures 

Manufacturers take different approaches to ensure installers aren’t left in the dark when an inverter failure happens. Some use field serviceability to service inverters lifespan. Solar installers  are trained on how to exchange inverter components if there’s a malfunction or break. Installers buy an extra parts kit to keep to their specific inverter fleet. Some inverters have a 10-year warranty, but   can be extended. Providing customers choices of a factory warranty for up to 20 years gives contractors a way to set themselves apart.  Longetivy can be made by combining the long lifespan of microinverters with extra upgrade-ability. These devices have a design life of 25+ years in the United States. When new codes like Rule 21 take place, update to microinverter software can  be made remotely. When a 25-year-old system has reached the end of its life and some parts start failing, it’s possible you can find replacements,online. Websites like EnergyBin, where contractors can list solar equipment they’re looking to sell is one place for parts. Most current inverters are still compatible with older solar projects, with the exception of   with old cabling.
 

Power optimizers bridge the gap

In cases where devices aren’t   backward-compatible and the string voltage doesn’t align with the inverter, installers use  power optimizers to bridge the gap. Installers  have to have a game plan if an inverter failure occurs. Sometimes contractors need service on an inverter whose manufacturer is out of business. They may even need  an optimizer to connect an older array string to a new smart inverter. If installers carefully consider their inverter investments at the beginning of projects, keep a close eye on monitoring during a project’s lifetime and have a plan in place for when inverters inevitably need to be fixed or replaced, they can give their customers the most value for their solar investments, whether it’s a residential home or multi-megawatt farm.

If you want to move into the future and join the solar revolution, or if you want to find out what solar panels are right for you, go to HahaSmart.com and try our price checker tool. You can see how much a system will cost, and how much you can save over the next 20 years. For more information relating to going solar, don't forget to visit our solar blog section for more handy guides and articles.