The inverter is the most important electrical component in your entire solar system — and the part most likely to fail over time. While solar panels can last 25–30 years, inverters typically last 8–12 years before needing repair or replacement.
When your inverter starts failing, your solar production drops, monitoring stops updating, or your system shuts off entirely. Spotting inverter problems early protects your system, your home, and your long-term energy savings.
Here are the top signs your solar inverter is failing, what causes issues, and when to call a professional.
What Does a Solar Inverter Actually Do?
Your inverter converts the DC power from your solar panels into usable AC power for your home. It also handles:
- Safety shutoffs
- Monitoring communication
- Voltage regulation
- Error detection
- Grid interaction
If it fails, your entire system fails — even if all panels are working perfectly.
Top Signs Your Solar Inverter Is Failing
Below are the most common symptoms homeowners notice when their inverter needs service.
1. Zero Solar Production
If your inverter stops converting power, your system will show:
- 0 kWh on your monitoring app
- Flatlined production graphs
- A sudden drop in daily output
This is the most obvious sign of inverter failure.
2. Red Lights or Flashing Indicator Lights
Most inverters have a simple light system:
- Green: normal operation
- Flashing green: initializing
- Yellow/orange: warning
- Red: fault or shutdown
If your inverter is showing red or blinking repeatedly, it’s telling you there’s a problem.
3. Error Codes on the Display
Common inverter error messages include:
- Ground fault
- Arc fault
- Isolation fault
- Over-voltage
- Under-voltage
- Over-temperature
- Communication error
- DC overload
These codes usually point to internal failure or wiring issues.
4. Loud or Unusual Noises
Inverters normally produce a faint hum. But if you hear:
- Clicking
- Buzzing
- Popping
- High-pitched whining
…it could indicate electrical failure or overheating.
5. Overheating or Hot to the Touch
Overheating is one of the leading causes of inverter damage in Texas due to high summer temperatures. If your inverter feels excessively hot or shuts down midday, it is likely overheating.
Common causes:
- Poor ventilation
- Clogged air intake
- Internal fan failure
- Aging components
6. Burning Smell or Visible Damage
If your inverter emits a burning smell or has visual signs of damage such as:
- Burn marks
- Melted connectors
- Discoloration
- Cracked casing
…it should be shut down and serviced immediately.
7. Monitoring System Isn’t Updating
Sometimes the system is producing power, but the inverter is failing to communicate with:
- Wi-Fi
- Gateways
- Optimizers
- Monitoring platforms
Loss of monitoring is one of the first signs of inverter malfunction.
8. Your System Turns On and Off Throughout the Day
If your solar system repeatedly starts and stops, the inverter might be experiencing:
- Voltage fluctuations
- Ground faults
- Internal component failures
- Overheating protection cycles
Intermittent shutdowns always require professional inspection.
Why Solar Inverters Fail
Inverters have a shorter lifespan than panels because they contain more sensitive electronic components. Common causes of failure include:
1. Heat Exposure (Very Common in Texas)
High heat causes internal components to degrade faster.
2. Storm Damage
Lightning, surges, and water intrusion can damage the circuitry.
3. Aging Components
After 8–12 years, inverters naturally begin to fail.
4. Poor Installation
Incorrect wiring or lack of ventilation shortens inverter lifespan.
5. Power Surges
Grid surges can damage inverter boards and communication chips.
6. Failed Internal Fans
Fans help regulate temperature. If they fail, the inverter overheats quickly.
How Inverter Diagnostics Work
A licensed technician will:
- Check wiring and connectors
- Review voltage on both AC and DC sides
- Inspect breaker panels
- Read inverter error history
- Test optimizers/microinverters
- Verify grounding
- Check monitoring hardware
- Confirm whether repair or replacement is needed
Most inverter issues can be diagnosed in one visit.
Repair vs. Replacement: Which Do You Need?
Not all inverter problems require a full replacement.
You may only need a repair if:
- A connector is loose
- A fuse is blown
- A communication card failed
- Overheating is caused by wiring or ventilation
You likely need a replacement if:
- The inverter is 8–12+ years old
- The main circuit board is damaged
- The power stage is burnt
- Multiple internal components failed
- It repeatedly shuts down even after repairs
A technician will give a clear recommendation during the diagnostic.
How to Extend the Life of Your Inverter
You can protect your inverter by:
- Keeping the area ventilated
- Avoiding direct sun exposure if possible
- Checking for insects or debris around the unit
- Scheduling annual solar inspections
- Fixing wiring issues early
- Ensuring proper shading and airflow
Regular maintenance dramatically increases inverter lifespan.
