Read this article if you want to learn how to identify a faulty inverter and the best maintenance routines that work perfectly well in Nigeria.
We know the excitement that comes with buying an inverter. At last, you can breathe from incessant power cuts that disrupt your work and keep you anxious.Â
However, there may be times in the course of using the inverter when you begin to notice some abnormalities. Maybe power from the inverter starts getting unstable, or it starts emitting a disturbing beeping sound.
Whatever the matter, any change in functionality can be frustrating and discouraging. Here, we show you how to know if your inverter is faulty and the maintenance routines you can apply if you are in Nigeria.
What Kind of Inverter Are You Using?
Before getting into the signs of a faulty inverter and the maintenance routines, let’s first identify the type of inverter you are using. This is important because the type of inverter you’re using may affect its performance and the kind of faults it might develop.
In Nigeria, the most common types are the standalone inverters and the solar inverters. Standalone inverters, also known as offline or non-line interactive inverters, are the basic models.
They are ideal for powering basic appliances during short power outages. These inverters are cost-effective but might not be suitable for more prolonged blackouts.
Solar inverters, on the other hand, are designed to work with solar panels. They convert the DC (direct current) generated by solar panels into AC (alternating current) for use in homes and businesses. These inverters are environmentally friendly and can significantly reduce electricity bills in the long run.
The standalone and solar inverters can also be classified into these groups:
Pure Sine Wave Inverters
These inverters provide a smooth and consistent power output similar to the electricity you receive from the grid. They are suitable for running sensitive electronic devices like laptops, medical equipment, medical equipment and refrigerators without causing any damage.
Modified Sine Wave Inverters
These inverters are more budget-friendly but may produce a less stable power output. They are suitable for basic appliances like fans, lights, and some non-sensitive electronics. However, they may cause issues with certain devices, especially those with motors or microprocessors.
Square Wave Inverter
This is the least expensive type of inverter but produces the least smooth waveform. Regarding its functionalities, studies suggest that these inverters are inefficient, have poor regulation, and dissipate a lot of heat.
Generally, they are more suitable for running basic appliances like fans and lights but may damage sensitive electronics.
Also Read: 5 Important Factors to Consider When Choosing Your Inverter Battery
How to Know If Your Inverter is Faulty
What signs can you see that will alert you to the possibility of a potential fault? Here are the common ones you should observe to know that your inverter might be experiencing issues:
Here are some common signs:
Power Fluctuations
If you notice frequent power fluctuations or inconsistencies in the electricity supplied by your inverter, it could be a sign of a fault. This might manifest as flickering lights or erratic behavior of connected devices.
Unusual Noises
Inverters are not like generators, they operate noiselessly. So, if you start hearing strange noises, such as buzzing, humming, or beeping sounds, it indicates a potential issue. Pay attention to any sounds that deviate from the norm.
Overheating
Is the area around your inverter unnecessarily hot? Touch your inverter occasionally to be sure. If it feels excessively hot or even has burning smells around it, it could be overheating. And this is certainly a red flag. Overheating can lead to various problems and even pose a fire risk, so address this issue urgently.
Battery Issues
The inverter’s performance is heavily reliant on its battery. If you experience sudden power cuts or your inverter fails to hold a charge, the battery may be the issue. Check for corrosion or leaks and replace the battery if necessary.
Fault Indicators
Many inverters come equipped with LED indicators. If these indicators display abnormal patterns or error codes, refer to the user manual to interpret them. The manual will guide you on the appropriate steps to take.
What to do when Your Inverter Develops a Fault
Identifying a faulty inverter is only the first step. If you’ve found out the issue, here’s what you can do:
Refer to the User Manual
Your inverter’s user manual is a valuable resource. It provides troubleshooting guides and instructions on interpreting error codes. Always consult the manual first when your inverter gets faulty.
Check the Connections
Loose or damaged connections can lead to malfunctions. So, inspect the wiring, terminals, and connections between the inverter, battery, and appliances. If need be, tighten any loose connections and replace damaged cables.
Monitor Battery Health
As we mentioned earlier, the battery is a critical component of an inverter. So from time to time, observe the battery so you can spot signs of wear, leaks, or corrosion. If the battery is old or damaged, consider replacing it with a new one to ensure optimal performance.
Reset the Inverter
Some inverters have a reset button that allows you to reset the device to its factory settings. Try resetting the inverter to see if it resolves the issue. But ask your technician first to see if this is something you should do.
Adjust Ventilation
Overheating is a common cause of inverter faults. Ensure that the inverter has proper ventilation and is not placed in direct sunlight. If necessary, use additional cooling methods, such as fans or heat sinks.
Seek Professional Assistance
If the issue persists or seems beyond your expertise, please seek professional help. Contact the manufacturer’s customer support or a certified technician to assess and repair the inverter. Attempting complex repairs without the necessary knowledge may worsen the problem.
Top Maintenance Routines for Inverters
To elongate the lifespan of your inverter, you’ll need to apply preventive maintenance measures. Here are some essential maintenance routines for inverter users in Nigeria:
Check the Inverter’s Battery Regularly
Make it a point of duty to check your battery regularly. Always check the battery for signs of corrosion or damage. Clean the battery terminals and ensure they are tightly connected. Consider replacing old batteries to maintain optimal performance.
Keep the Inverter Clean
Dust and debris can easily accumulate on the inverter, affecting its cooling efficiency. To combat this, clean the exterior regularly using a soft cloth or brush. Also, ensure proper ventilation around the inverter to prevent overheating.
Monitor the Temperature
Inverters operate best within a specific temperature range. Avoid installing the inverter in direct sunlight or enclosed spaces with limited ventilation. Adequate airflow helps dissipate heat and prevents overheating.
Update the Inverter’s Firmware
If your inverter comes with firmware or software updates, make sure to install them as recommended by the manufacturer. These updates often include bug fixes and improvements that enhance the inverter’s performance.
Check Wiring and Connections
One in a month, inspect the wiring and connections for any signs of wear, fraying, or damage. Tighten loose connections and replace the wires that have gotten damaged as soon as you can. Proper wiring helps you to have a stable and safe electrical connection.
Schedule Professional Inspections
Periodically, engage the services of a qualified technician for a thorough inspection of your inverter system. Professionals can identify potential issues before they get bigger. This way they can fix what needs to be fixed on time.
Invest in Surge Protectors
Power surges are common in Nigeria, and they can damage your inverter. So to guard against this, it’s advisable to use surge protectors. You need to use these protectors to safeguard your inverter and connected devices from voltage spikes.
Also Read: What Are the Components Required to Set Up a Solar Panel System?
Protect Your Inverter for Better Efficiency
In a nutshell, owning an inverter in Nigeria provides a reliable alternative during frequent power cuts.
However, if you understand how to identify a faulty inverter in Nigeria and implement regular maintenance routines you can simply make your inverter last longer.
This way you are sure that your inverter remains reliable and efficient, even in the challenging power conditions often experienced in Nigeria.
If you live in Nigeria and you have an inverter, please, kindly let us know the maintenance routines you’ve been using to take care of it.
