storagefaults.comstoragefaults.com

Analysis by Marcus & Team

EG4 18KPV: Ozone Smell at 100% Battery Charge

Troubleshooting ozone smell from EG4 18KPV hybrid inverter at full battery. Diagnose potential causes and ensure safe operation of your residential solar system.

Frequently Asked Questions

•What are the key safety precautions when inspecting a solar inverter?

Always disconnect AC and DC power sources. Engage the PV Rapid Shutdown System. Wear appropriate PPE, including insulated gloves and safety glasses. Only qualified personnel should perform inspections.

•How can I check the ventilation around my EG4 18KPV inverter?

Ensure there is adequate space (as specified in the installation manual) around the inverter. Clear any obstructions that block airflow. Check that the inverter's cooling fans are operating correctly.

•What does the NEC code say about rapid shutdown for PV systems?

NEC 690.12 requires a rapid shutdown function that can de-energize the PV system's conductors within a specified timeframe and distance from the array. This is crucial for firefighter safety.

Related questions

Loading related questions...

Marcus leads the technical research department at Storage Faults. Together with a team of systems analysts, he specializes in translating complex solar storage error codes into actionable diagnostic steps for the US market.

← Back to list

What to Look For:

Persistent ozone-like odor emanating from the EG4 18KPV hybrid inverter when the battery is at or near 100% state of charge (SOC).

Possible Causes:

High Voltage DC Arcing: Internal arcing within the inverter's DC section (e.g., PV input, DC bus) due to loose connections, insulation breakdown, or component failure.
Transformer/Inductor Corona Discharge: Corona discharge from the inverter's transformer or inductors, especially under high voltage and frequency operation at full battery charge.
Capacitor Failure: Breakdown of internal capacitors, causing localized arcing or overheating and ozone generation.
Contamination: Dust or debris accumulation on high-voltage components leading to surface tracking and discharge.
Overcharging: BMS malfunction leading to battery overcharge, potentially causing outgassing and a sulfurous or ozone-like smell in some battery chemistries.
Ventilation Issue: Insufficient ventilation causing heat buildup and accelerated degradation of components, leading to ozone production.

Pro Tip:

Use the inverter's service menu (refer to the EG4 service manual for access instructions) to view real-time voltage, current, and temperature data. This can help pinpoint the source of the ozone smell by correlating it with specific operating conditions.

Technical Overview:

The EG4 18KPV is a hybrid inverter managing power flow between solar panels, batteries, and the grid. It incorporates DC/DC converters for MPPT, a DC/AC inverter for grid tie, and a battery management system (BMS). Ozone (O3) is produced by high-voltage electrical discharge ionizing oxygen molecules. Sources can include arcing, corona discharge, or component breakdown within the inverter's high-voltage DC or AC circuits.

Solution:

1

*Safety First**: Disconnect AC power to the inverter using the AC breaker. Engage the PV Rapid Shutdown System as per NEC 690.
2

Disconnect the DC disconnect switch.
3

*Visual inspection**: Carefully inspect the inverter for signs of physical damage, burnt components, or discoloration. Check for loose wiring or connections.
4

*Ventilation Check**: Ensure adequate ventilation around the inverter. Clear any obstructions that might impede airflow.
5

*Component Testing**: A qualified electrician should use a multimeter to check the voltage and current levels on the DC bus, PV inputs, and battery terminals. Compare readings to manufacturer specifications.
6

*Insulation Resistance Test**: Perform an insulation resistance (Megger) test on the DC wiring and inverter components to identify insulation breakdown. NEC 690.9 requires proper insulation ratings for PV systems.
7

*Thermal Imaging**: Use an IR thermometer or thermal camera to identify hotspots within the inverter that might indicate component overheating or failure.
8

*licensed technician Repair**: If any of the above steps reveal a fault, contact a qualified electrician or EG4 for repair or replacement of the inverter.

Maintenance Tips:

Regularly inspect the inverter for dust and debris
Ensure proper ventilation
Monitor battery SOC and SOH through the inverter's monitoring app
Schedule annual licensed technician inspection of the system, including insulation resistance testing and torque checks on electrical connections
Periodically update the inverter firmware to the latest version