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Analysis by Marcus & Team

SolarEdge Inverter Error 18x73 Ambient Temperature Sensor Fault

Troubleshoot SolarEdge Error 18x73: Ambient Temp Sensor Fault. Diagnose residential hybrid inverter issues, safety tips, and expert solutions. NEC compliance.

Frequently Asked Questions

•What tools are needed to diagnose this issue?

A multimeter to measure voltage and resistance, a clamp meter to measure current, an IR thermometer to measure temperature, and basic hand tools like screwdrivers and wire strippers are needed. A laptop for firmware updates is also necessary.

•Can I fix this myself?

Troubleshooting a SolarEdge inverter requires expertise and carries significant electrical safety risks. It's best to consult with a qualified electrician or SolarEdge-certified technician to diagnose and resolve the problem. This ensures safety and adherence to warranty terms.

•How often should I have my SolarEdge inverter serviced?

Schedule a professional inspection every 3-5 years, or more frequently if you notice any performance issues or error messages. Regularly check for debris around the inverter and keep the vents clear.

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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 photovoltaic systems involves high voltage DC electricity, which can be lethal. Always disconnect both AC and DC power before performing any maintenance or repairs. Adhere to NEC Article 690 requirements for safe work practices. Only qualified electricians with proper training and personal protective equipment (PPE) should perform electrical work on PV systems. Verify rapid shutdown system functionality before commencing work.

Technical Background:

SolarEdge hybrid inverters utilize ambient temperature sensors to monitor the operating environment and adjust cooling fan speed and power output to prevent overheating. The sensor provides feedback to the inverter's control system, enabling it to maintain optimal operating temperatures. This sensor is typically a thermistor or solid-state temperature sensor connected to the inverter's internal control board. A fault in the sensor, its wiring, or the inverter's internal circuitry can trigger the error.

Expert Tip:

Access the inverter's service menu (consult the manufacturer's manual for the specific key combination) to view real-time sensor data and diagnostic information. This can provide valuable insights into the nature of the fault and help pinpoint the source of the problem. Note that accessing the service menu may require special authorization or training.

Solution:

1

Power down the system: Disconnect AC power to the inverter by turning off the circuit breaker. Disconnect DC power by engaging the rapid shutdown switch and verifying voltage using a calibrated multimeter as per NEC 690.12.
2

Inspect wiring: Carefully examine the wiring connections between the ambient temperature sensor and the inverter control board for any signs of damage, corrosion, or looseness. Tighten or replace any damaged connections.
3

Test sensor resistance: Using a multimeter, measure the resistance of the ambient temperature sensor. Compare the reading to the manufacturer's specifications or a known good sensor. A significant deviation indicates a faulty sensor.
4

Replace sensor: If the sensor is faulty, replace it with a new, compatible sensor. Ensure proper polarity and secure connections.
5

Check inverter firmware: Ensure the inverter has the latest firmware installed. Check the SolarEdge website for updates and follow the manufacturer's instructions for system.
6

Monitor system performance: After replacing the sensor, monitor the inverter's performance through the monitoring portal for several days to ensure the error does not reappear. Record ambient temperature readings to verify accuracy.
7

Verify NEC compliance: Ensure all work adheres to the National Electrical Code (NEC) standards for PV system system and maintenance, particularly regarding grounding, wiring methods, and overcurrent protection.

What to Look For:

SolarEdge hybrid inverter displays Error 18x73, indicating a fault with the ambient temperature sensor. System may curtail power output or shut down to protect components from overheating. Monitoring portal may show abnormal ambient temperature readings or sensor communication errors.

Why This Happens:

Faulty ambient temperature sensor: The sensor itself may be damaged or have drifted out of calibration.
Loose or corroded wiring connections: Connections between the sensor and the inverter control board may be loose, corroded, or damaged.
Inverter control board failure: The inverter's internal circuitry responsible for reading the temperature sensor may be malfunctioning.
Environmental factors: Extreme temperatures or humidity can affect sensor performance.
Firmware bug: A software glitch in the inverter's firmware may cause a false error reading.
External interference: Electromagnetic interference (EMI) from nearby devices could disrupt sensor readings.

Prevention:

Regularly inspect the inverter's cooling vents for obstructions and clean them as needed to ensure proper airflow
Schedule periodic system inspections by a qualified electrician to identify and address potential issues before they escalate
Keep the inverter firmware updated to the latest version to benefit from bug fixes and performance improvements
Monitor system performance remotely to detect anomalies early