After the installation you can leave the inverter to do its job. However, it would appreciate some care from time to time. Here are the main tips for maintaining your solar panel inverter:
- Every once in a while you should wipe the inverter clean: like any other complex electronic device, it fears the heat and the dust. Once a year might be enough but it depends on where you live and how dusty it is out there.
- Inverters have air intake filters and after a while they get dirty. It is necessary to clean them, but for this task it's better to call a technician. An inverter should also have an internal fan, which helps it to cool down. Make sure it works properly.
- Check the connections, make sure that they are fixed tightly.
- Most inverters have a display which makes it easy to monitor their condition. If it shows an error code, consult your manufacturer and they might be able to interpret it.
When it comes to microinverters, hardly any maintenance is required. Manufacturers recommend to simply check the modules visually after storms and huge hails and also to perform yearly inspection with the help of a professional.
The average lifespan of string, central and hybrid inverters for solar panels is around 10-15 years and manufacturers issue warranties for them accordingly. Microinverters, on the other hand, are built to last for 25 years and more, which is basically the normal lifespan of a solar panel. With the proper installation and maintenance you can delay the purchase of a new inverter and avoid any emergency situations. For more information on inverter types and functions,
check out our article.