General inverter messages error codes explained
What 5 General inverter messages inverter fault and error codes mean, in plain English, with safe checks you can do and when to call a licensed electrician.
Safety first: never open the switchboard, remove covers, or pull apart or disconnect the inverter, batteries, isolators or wiring. Only use the switches and buttons described here. Anything else must be done by a licensed electrician. Call 1300 209 503 or book a service request.
| Code | Message & meaning |
|---|---|
| Low productionInfo |
Lower generation than usualYour system is producing noticeably less than it usually does in similar weather. What you can do
Solar panels & strings (no manufacturer codes) · Guide only. All work must be done by a licensed electrician. |
| ShadingInfo |
Shading on part of the arrayPartial shade on even a few panels can pull down output from a whole string. What you can do
Solar panels & strings (no manufacturer codes) · Guide only. All work must be done by a licensed electrician. |
| Hot spotsCritical |
Hot spots, burn marks or discolouration on a panelPart of a panel is running much hotter than the rest, which can be caused by damaged cells, a failed bypass diode or long-term shading, and can become a fire risk. What you can do
Solar panels & strings (no manufacturer codes) · Guide only. All work must be done by a licensed electrician. |
| Isolation / earth faultCritical |
Isolation, insulation or earth fault alarm on the inverterThe inverter has detected leakage from the panels or DC cabling to earth. It is the most common way a damaged panel, cable or connector shows up. What you can do
Solar panels & strings (no manufacturer codes) · Guide only. All work must be done by a licensed electrician. |
| Physical damageCritical |
Cracked glass, storm or hail damagePanels or cabling have visible damage. What you can do
Solar panels & strings (no manufacturer codes) · Guide only. All work must be done by a licensed electrician. |
No codes match. Try fewer characters, or ask us.
Common General inverter messages questions
What does General inverter messages Low production "Lower generation than usual" mean?
Your system is producing noticeably less than it usually does in similar weather. Compare with the same month last year in your monitoring app This is a guide only; any electrical work must be done by a licensed electrician.
What does General inverter messages Shading "Shading on part of the array" mean?
Partial shade on even a few panels can pull down output from a whole string. Trim trees from the ground where it is safe and allowed, or engage an arborist This is a guide only; any electrical work must be done by a licensed electrician.
What does General inverter messages Hot spots "Hot spots, burn marks or discolouration on a panel" mean?
Part of a panel is running much hotter than the rest, which can be caused by damaged cells, a failed bypass diode or long-term shading, and can become a fire risk. Do not touch or walk on panels This is a guide only; any electrical work must be done by a licensed electrician.
What does General inverter messages Isolation / earth fault "Isolation, insulation or earth fault alarm on the inverter" mean?
The inverter has detected leakage from the panels or DC cabling to earth. It is the most common way a damaged panel, cable or connector shows up. Do not touch panels, rooftop isolators or DC cables This is a guide only; any electrical work must be done by a licensed electrician.
What does General inverter messages Physical damage "Cracked glass, storm or hail damage" mean?
Panels or cabling have visible damage. Keep clear. Damaged panels can still produce dangerous DC voltage in daylight This is a guide only; any electrical work must be done by a licensed electrician.
Need help with this fault?
Get a licensed electrician to call you back.
Total Solar can help: our licensed electricians install and service systems. Based in Ellenbrook, WA, with Victoria and Queensland also available.
Or call 1300 209 503
Sources
Meanings are summarised from these manufacturer documents. Check your own model's manual, as codes vary between models and firmware versions.
- General guidance written by Total Solar. Solar panels do not display fault codes, so these problems show up as inverter alarms or low generation.
General inverter messages is a trademark of its owner. Total Solar is not affiliated with the manufacturer unless stated. All fault code guides