Inverters are the most likely thing to fail on a solar system. They're also the easiest to diagnose if you know what to look for. Here's how SolarFIX approaches a bad inverter in the Arizona heat.
See how it works, step by step ↓Our diagnostic approach
We get to the root cause first, then walk you through the repair or replace decision with actual cost numbers before doing more work.
01 · Step 1
Every inverter has an error code table. The specific code narrows the diagnosis quickly.
We read the code right off the screen.
Fault history shows when it started and how often.
Usually an inverter fault, a breaker trip or a downed string on that inverter's input.
Often internal capacitor or firmware issues.
02 · Step 2
Voltage tests on each string confirm whether the input side is healthy.
If the strings test fine, the problem is inside the inverter.
A downed or weak string can look like an inverter problem.
Still producing at 60 to 70% of expected? Could be MPPT drift, aging capacitors or thermal throttling.
Breakers and connections between panels and inverter get checked.
03 · Step 3
Thermal imaging quickly identifies overheating components.
Fans running constantly and a hot case usually mean cooling problems or an over-current fault.
Dust build-up restricts airflow and speeds up heat failures.
Roof-mounted or south-facing inverters heat-soak faster than shaded installs.
Summer heat pushes inverter internals past their thermal derating point.
04 · Step 4
A clear decision, with real pricing, before any further work.
Most failures are worth repairing.
If it's failing, replacement usually beats repair economically.
We walk you through actual costs before doing more work.
We test the system and confirm it's producing again.
The short version
Click through what to know when your inverter starts acting up.
It's the part of a solar system most likely to fail, and the easiest to diagnose if you know what to look for.
Arizona
Before you call
“The price was in budget and they were able to accommodate our roofer's schedule.”
Suzette L. · Google Review
“I highly recommend Solar Fix for their caring approach and top-notch service!”
Melissa D. · Google Review
“Very refined process in place here with lots of communication.”
Brian G. · Google Review
What we can help with
These are the most common signs of a bad inverter on our service calls.
Every inverter has an error code table. The specific code narrows the diagnosis quickly.
Output dropped to zero. Usually an inverter fault, a breaker trip, or a downed string on that inverter's input.
Still producing, but at 60 to 70% of expected. Could be MPPT drift, aging capacitors or thermal throttling.
The inverter cycles on and off. Often internal capacitor or firmware issues.
Fans running constantly and a case that's hot to the touch. Usually cooling problems or an over-current fault.
How SolarFIX repairs and replaces inverters of any brand.
Solar inverter repairCall SolarFIX. We'll get to the root cause and lay out repair or replace options with real pricing.
Solar Inverter Repair service →Call SolarFIX or send a request. We'll find the root cause and lay out repair or replace options with real pricing.
