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FranklinWH•aGate

Analysis by Marcus & Team

FranklinWH aGate: Troubleshooting High-Pitched Buzzing Noise in Backup Mode

Troubleshooting high-pitched buzzing noise from a FranklinWH aGate hybrid inverter during backup operation. Potential causes, solutions, safety advice for homeowners.

Frequently Asked Questions

•What is the typical lifespan of the aGate's internal components?

Component lifespan depends on operating conditions. Typically, expect 10-15 years, but high temperatures or frequent deep battery discharge can shorten it.

•How do I check the state of health (SOH) of my aGate battery?

SOH is typically accessible through the FranklinWH monitoring app. Consult the app's documentation for details or contact customer support.

•What are the acceptable voltage ranges for the DC bus during backup operation?

Refer to the aGate's technical specifications document. DC bus voltage is critical for efficient operation, and deviations can indicate problems.

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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.

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Safety Warning:

Working with electrical systems involves risk of electric shock and arc flash. The FranklinWH aGate operates at high DC voltages (up to 600V+). Only qualified electricians with proper personal protective equipment (PPE) should perform diagnostic or repair work. Always verify the system is de-energized using appropriate test equipment before touching any components. Adhere to NEC 690 for PV system safety requirements. Never attempt to repair a live inverter.

Expert Tip:

Temporarily disabling the rapid shutdown function (following manufacturer's guidelines and only if safe to do so) can help isolate whether the noise is originating from the PV input stage or the battery/inverter stage. Consult the FranklinWH service manual for specific diagnostic procedures and error code interpretations before undertaking any repairs. Remember to re-enable the rapid shutdown immediately following diagnosis.

How It Works:

The FranklinWH aGate is a hybrid inverter managing DC power from solar panels and a battery system. During backup mode, it disconnects from the grid and inverts DC power from the battery to AC power to supply critical loads. This process involves high-frequency switching within the inverter's DC-DC converter and DC-AC inverter stages. The buzzing noise could originate from components resonating at these switching frequencies, particularly inductors or capacitors. The MPPT function is disabled in backup mode, simplifying operation. The AC coupling synchronization with grid is not applicable during backup mode operation.

Recommended Action:

1

Disconnect the AC power to the aGate at the main service panel and engage the rapid shutdown switch to de-energize the PV array (NEC 690.12). Verify disconnection with a calibrated multimeter.
2

Isolate the battery by using the battery disconnect switch located on the battery. Verify zero voltage from the batteries using the multimeter.
3

Inspect the inverter's internal components (inductors, capacitors, transformers) for physical damage, loose connections, or signs of overheating. Use an IR thermometer to check for hot spots.
4

Using an oscilloscope, analyze the DC bus voltage for excessive ripple during backup operation. Compare the ripple voltage to the manufacturer's specifications.
5

Measure the THD (Total Harmonic Distortion) of the AC output voltage during backup operation with a power quality analyzer. High THD can indicate inverter malfunction.
6

Check the inverter's grounding connection to ensure it is properly connected to the grounding electrode system. Refer to NEC 250 for grounding requirements.
7

Contact FranklinWH technical support for firmware updates or component replacement recommendations.

Possible Causes:

Loose inductor windings or capacitor plates within the DC-DC boost converter circuit causing audible resonance.
Inadequate filtering on the DC bus voltage, leading to ripple current and audible noise in the inverter stage.
PWM frequency harmonics present in the AC output waveform due to inverter switching.
Transformer core saturation if the transformer is undersized or overloaded, producing acoustic noise.
Component degradation (capacitors drying out) in the power conversion stages increasing impedance and noise.
Improper grounding of the inverter chassis, causing electromagnetic interference (EMI) and audible noise.

Prevention:

Schedule preventative maintenance checks every 12 months to inspect for loose connections, corrosion, and component degradation.
Ensure the inverter is installed in a well-ventilated area to prevent overheating and prolong component life.
Regularly check for firmware updates from FranklinWH to address potential software glitches that may contribute to noise.
Periodically test the battery capacity and state of health to ensure it is operating within acceptable parameters. Follow manufacturer's guidelines for testing.