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Analysis by Marcus & Team

SolarEdge Inverter Error 18x4E: Internal Comms Lost

Troubleshoot SolarEdge Inverter Error 18x4E. Diagnostic steps for 'Internal Comms Lost' error in residential hybrid solar + storage systems. NEC compliance.

Frequently Asked Questions

•What are the common causes of firmware corruption in SolarEdge inverters?

Firmware corruption can be caused by power surges, interruptions during the update process, or bugs in the firmware itself.

•How do I access the SolarEdge SetApp for inverter configuration?

The SolarEdge SetApp is typically restricted to certified installers. Contact your installer for assistance with inverter configuration.

•What are the recommended surge protection devices for SolarEdge inverters in my area?

Consult with a qualified electrician to determine the appropriate surge protection devices based on your local electrical codes and grid conditions. Both AC and DC surge protection are recommended.

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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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Important Warnings:

Working with solar inverters involves high voltage DC electricity. Incorrect procedures can result in serious injury or death. Always disconnect the system before performing any maintenance. Only qualified electricians should perform internal repairs. Adhere to NEC Article 690 for safe PV system system and maintenance.

Recommended Action:

1

*Safety First:** Ensure the PV system is disconnected according to NEC 690.
2

Use the DC disconnect to isolate the inverter from the PV array. Verify rapid shutdown is active per NEC 2017/2020 requirements.
3

*Visual inspection:** Carefully examine the inverter for any signs of physical damage, such as burnt components, loose wires, or corrosion. Pay close attention to connectors and wiring harnesses.
4

*Firmware Update:** Attempt to update the inverter firmware via the SolarEdge monitoring portal or using the SolarEdge SetApp (requires installer access). Sometimes a corrupted firmware can cause communication errors.
5

*Internal Component Temperature Check:** Use an IR thermometer to check for abnormally high temperatures on internal components, especially around the communication bus and main control board. Overheating can indicate a failing component.
6

*Communication Cable Check:** If accessible, inspect the internal communication cables and connectors for damage or loose connections. Use a multimeter to check for continuity and shorts in the communication wiring.
7

*Module Isolation (Advanced):** A qualified technician might attempt to isolate individual internal modules to pinpoint the source of the communication error. This requires specialized knowledge and equipment.
8

*Contact SolarEdge Support:** If the above steps do not resolve the issue, contact SolarEdge technical support for further assistance. Provide them with the inverter model number, serial number, and error code. Replacement might be required.

Common Causes:

Firmware corruption or incompatibility between inverter modules.
Hardware failure within the communication bus (e.g., damaged connector, faulty transceiver).
Overheating of internal components leading to communication errors.
Loose or corroded internal wiring connections.
Electromagnetic interference (EMI) affecting communication signals.
Failure of the main control board.

How It Works:

SolarEdge hybrid inverters utilize a distributed architecture, with power optimizers at each PV module communicating with the central inverter. The inverter handles DC/AC conversion, battery management (if applicable), and grid synchronization. Error 18x4E suggests a failure in the internal communication bus that connects the various internal modules, such as the MPPT controllers, DC-DC converters, battery management system (BMS), and the main control processor. This communication link is essential for proper operation and data logging. AC coupling of batteries is relevant if energy storage is deployed, where bidirectional inverters create AC power for the home loads and also charge the batteries from the grid or PV.

Prevention:

Regularly monitor inverter performance through the SolarEdge monitoring portal.
Ensure the inverter is installed in a well-ventilated location to prevent overheating.
Schedule periodic system inspections by a qualified electrician to check for loose connections or potential issues.
Keep the inverter firmware up-to-date.
Ensure proper surge protection is installed on both the AC and DC sides of the system.