Analysis by Marcus & Team
Troubleshoot the SolarEdge 'Manual Bypass Active' error in your residential hybrid inverter. Learn causes, solutions, prevention, and safety measures.
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.
Relay failures often stem from high inrush currents, frequent switching cycles, or overheating due to poor ventilation or component aging.
Use the SolarEdge SetApp and navigate to the 'Firmware Update' section. The app will indicate the currently installed version and whether a newer version is available.
Always wear appropriate PPE, including insulated gloves and safety glasses. Use a calibrated multimeter to verify that the DC voltage is zero after disconnecting the DC disconnect switch. Follow all NEC 690 guidelines.
A SolarEdge hybrid inverter integrates solar PV input, battery storage, and grid interconnection. The 'Manual Bypass' function allows bypassing the inverter's DC-DC conversion and battery charging/discharging stages, directly connecting AC input to AC output. This is typically used for servicing or in cases of inverter failure. The system relies on relays and control logic to switch between normal operation and bypass mode. Manual Bypass Active indicates this relay state.
The SolarEdge monitoring portal or app displays a "Manual Bypass Active" warning. The inverter may not be providing backup power from the battery even though sufficient capacity is available. AC loads are powered directly from the grid.
Hybrid inverters contain high DC voltages (up to 600V or more). Improper handling can result in severe electric shock or arc flash. Always disconnect both AC and DC power sources before performing any maintenance or troubleshooting. Qualified electricians trained in NEC 705 and PV systems are required to perform any work on the inverter or its wiring. Ensure proper PPE (Personal Protective Equipment), including insulated gloves and safety glasses.
Regularly update the inverter firmware through the SolarEdge monitoring platform. Perform periodic system checks, including battery state-of-charge (SOC) and state-of-health (SOH) monitoring. Implement a preventative maintenance schedule, including thermal monitoring with an IR thermometer to identify potential hot spots or component failures. Check battery capacity and performance annually, as degradation can influence bypass behavior.
In the SolarEdge SetApp, navigate to the 'Advanced Settings' menu and use the service password. Look for a 'Force Bypass Off' command, which can override any accidental bypass activation. This command might be under the 'Commissioning' or 'Maintenance' sections.