SMA Sunny Boy Inverters

70 fault codes documented

!PV-Overvoltage!

!PV-Overvoltage! !DISCONNECT DC! — Overvoltage at DC input

The inverter detects that the DC voltage from the solar panels is too high. This condition can severely damage the inverter if not addressed immediately.

10251

Event 10251 — Communication status to network switch or DHCP server changed

The inverter's communication status with your network switch or router (DHCP server) has changed. An additional error message might be displayed.

10252

Event 10252 — Communication disrupted

There is no valid network signal on the connection line to the inverter.

10253

Event 10253 — Connection speed changed to 10 Mbit

The network data transfer rate has dropped to 10 Mbit/s, which is slower than optimal. This can indicate a problem with the network cable or connection.

10254

Event 10254 — Duplex mode changed to Half

The network data transfer mode (duplex mode) has changed to 'Half', meaning data cannot be sent and received simultaneously. This is typically less efficient.

3501, 3601, or 3701

Event 3501, 3601, or 3701 with red LED glowing — Ground fault detected in PV system

The red LED is glowing and one of these event numbers is displayed, indicating a ground fault in your PV system. This means the electrical insulation from the PV system to ground is defective or insufficient.

7356

Event 7356 — Update of the WebUI not successful

The update of the inverter's user interface (WebUI) software has failed.

7500 to 7501

Event 7500 to 7501 — Fan fault

There is a fault with the inverter's internal fan or its electronic control.

7619

Event 7619 — Communication fault with meter unit

The inverter is not receiving data from the energy meter it is connected to.

7702

Event 7702 — Interference device

This error indicates an interference device is affecting the inverter's operation. The exact cause must be determined by a service technician.

8003

Event 8003 — Active power limited derating

The inverter has reduced its power output for more than ten minutes due to excessive internal temperature.

8101 to 8104

Event 8101 to 8104 — Communication disturbed

There is a general communication disturbance detected by the inverter. The specific cause needs to be investigated by a service technician.

9002

Event 9002 — SMA Grid Guard code invalid

The SMA Grid Guard code entered to unlock protected operating parameters is incorrect.

9003

Event 9003 — Grid parameter locked

Changes to grid-related operating parameters are blocked. To make changes, you must log in using the SMA Grid Guard code.

9005

Event 9005 — Changing of grid parameters not possible / Ensure DC supply

Grid parameters cannot be changed. This can be due to protected parameters or insufficient DC voltage for the inverter's main processing unit.

9007

Event 9007 — Abort self-test

The self-test function (specific to Italy) was terminated before completion.

All LEDs off

All LEDs are off — Overnight shutdown or insufficient PV voltage

The inverter is in standby mode, typically due to insufficient input voltage for operation, such as during the night. If this occurs during a sunny day with good solar irradiation, it indicates a problem with the PV voltage.

All LEDs on

All LEDs are on — Initialization in progress

The inverter is currently initializing. The power from the solar array is sufficient to start control functions, but not yet enough for normal operation. Data transmission is not possible during this phase. This can also happen briefly during inclement weather or low irradiation when the inverter attempts to initialize.

Balanced

Balanced — Inverter disconnected or limiting output in three-phase system

The Sunny Boy inverter has either disconnected from the grid or is limiting its output to 6 kW (adjustable) over a 10-minute average. This occurs in a three-phase system with other Sunny Boys and an SMA Power Balancer, specifically to prevent unbalanced loads when another inverter detects a fault or grid issue.

Blue LED flashes quickly (approx. two minutes)

Blue LED flashes quickly (approx. two minutes) — WPS active

The Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS) function on the inverter is active, allowing for easy connection to a compatible Wi-Fi device.

Blue LED flashes slowly (approx. one minute)

Blue LED flashes slowly (approx. one minute) — Communication connection being established

The inverter is in the process of establishing a network connection to a local network or a direct connection to a device like a computer, tablet, or smartphone via Ethernet.

Blue LED glowing

Blue LED glowing — Communication active

The inverter has an active and stable connection to a local network or a direct connection to an end device (computer, tablet, smartphone) via Ethernet.

CAN

CAN — Internal communication fault

An internal communication issue has been detected within the inverter system. This indicates a problem with the inverter's internal components communicating correctly, which can affect its operation.

Check L-N-PE

Check L-N-PE — L and N swapped or PE not connected

This message indicates that the Live (L) and Neutral (N) wires on the AC connection are incorrectly swapped, or the Protective Earth (PE) connection is missing. This is a critical safety and operational fault.

DC link

DC link — Fault in power electronics

The inverter's internal hardware monitoring system has detected a fault within its power electronics. This indicates a hardware malfunction inside the device that prevents normal operation.

Derating

Derating — Reduced output power due to high internal temperature

The inverter is reducing its power output because its internal temperature is too high. This is a protective measure designed to prevent overheating and potential damage to the device.

Derating (Overtemperature)

Derating — Inverter reduces output due to overheating

The inverter is reducing its power output to prevent internal components from overheating. This is a safety measure to maintain safe operating temperatures.

Disturbance

Disturbance — Safety error prevents grid connection

A 'Disturbance' error has occurred for safety reasons, preventing the Sunny Boy inverter from connecting to the grid. This is a general safety-related fault.

EEPROM

EEPROM — Transition disturbance during EEPROM data read/write

A disturbance occurred while reading or writing data to the EEPROM. This data is not critical for safe operation, and the disturbance does not affect inverter performance. This is generally an informational message.

EEPROM p

EEPROM p — Data EEPROM defective, device permanently disabled

The data EEPROM is defective, and because the data loss affects important functions, the inverter is permanently disabled. This is a critical hardware fault requiring professional intervention.

EeRestore

EeRestore — Defective duplicate EEPROM data reconstructed

One of the duplicate data sets in the EEPROM was found defective but has been successfully reconstructed without any data loss. This message is for information purposes only and does not affect the inverter's performance.

Error

Error — An error has been detected

A general 'Error' message indicates that the inverter has detected an unspecified internal fault. This prevents normal operation.

Fac-Bfr / Fac-Srr

Fac-Bfr / Fac-Srr — Grid frequency outside permissible range

The grid frequency is no longer within the allowed range. The Sunny Boy inverter assumes the public grid is down and disconnects to prevent 'islanding' (where the inverter continues to power a local grid section independently).

Green LED Off

Green LED Off — Inverter not feeding into the utility grid

The inverter is not actively feeding any power into the utility grid. This could be due to various reasons, from lack of sun to an error.

Green LED blinking rapidly

Green LED blinking rapidly — Starting sequence or STOP mode

The inverter has sufficient PV power to calibrate its internal systems but not enough to begin normal operation yet. Calibration typically lasts less than 10 seconds. This status also appears if the inverter has been manually set to STOP mode.

Green LED blinking slowly

Green LED blinking slowly — Waiting, Grid Monitoring

The inverter has sufficient voltage from the PV array but is currently checking the condition of the utility grid before connecting. This is a normal startup phase.

Green LED flashing (2s on, 2s off)

Green LED flashing (2s on, 2s off) — Waiting for connection conditions

The inverter is waiting for the conditions to be met to start feeding power into the grid. It is not currently active.

Green LED flashing quickly

Green LED flashing quickly — Central processing unit update

The inverter's main internal software (central processing unit) is currently being updated. This is a normal process.

Green LED glowing

Green LED glowing — Feed-in operation

The inverter is actively feeding power into the utility grid, operating at 90% or more of its capacity. This indicates normal operation.

Green LED goes out briefly

Green LED goes out briefly — Derating (Temperature)

The inverter is momentarily reducing its power output, indicated by the green LED going out briefly, to manage its internal temperature and prevent overheating. This is a protective measure.

Green LED pulsing

Green LED pulsing — Dynamic feed-in operation

The inverter is actively feeding power into the utility grid, and the pulsing pattern of the green LED indicates its dynamic power output. A faster pulse usually means higher power.

Ground Fault Message

Ground Fault Message Displayed — Ground Fault in PV System

The SMA SUNNY BOY SB30-50-1AV-40 Inverter displays a message indicating a ground fault within the photovoltaic system. This means there is an unintended electrical connection between a live part of the PV system and the ground, which needs to be identified and resolved for safe and optimal operation.

HW-Signal

HW-Signal — Internal measurement fault or hardware defect

An internal measurement fault or a hardware defect has been detected within the inverter. This indicates a problem with the inverter's internal components, which can affect its functionality.

IGBTs

IGBTs — Fault in power electronics

The inverter's internal hardware monitoring system has detected a fault in its power electronics, specifically within the IGBT components. This indicates a hardware malfunction that prevents proper inverter operation.

Iac-DC_Offs-Srr

Iac-DC_Offs-Srr — DC component of grid feed-in current exceeded

The DC component of the electricity being fed into the grid has exceeded the permissible range. For safety reasons, the inverter will disconnect itself from the grid to prevent issues with the public grid.

MSD-FAC / MSD-Idif / MSD-VAC / MSD-Timeout

MSD-FAC / MSD-Idif / MSD-VAC / MSD-Timeout — Internal measurement or hardware defect

An internal measurement comparison fault or a hardware defect has been detected within the inverter. These messages indicate a problem with the inverter's ability to accurately measure and process data internally, which impacts performance.

Offset

Offset — Fault in measurement data acquisition

A fault has been detected in the inverter's system for acquiring measurement data. This means the inverter may not be correctly reading or processing information from the PV system or grid, leading to errors.

PowerBalancer

PowerBalancer — Unbalanced load condition in a three-phase system

This message indicates that the Sunny Boy inverter, part of a three-phase system with other inverters and an SMA Power Balancer, is experiencing an unbalanced load condition. This usually happens when the 'PhaseGuard' or 'FaultGuard' operating parameter is active to prevent grid imbalances.

REL_INV_CLOSE / REL_GRID_CLOSE

REL_INV_CLOSE / REL_GRID_CLOSE — Grid relay failed to close

The inverter checks the internal relays that connect it to the grid before starting to feed power. If these relays fail to close properly, the inverter will not connect to the grid for safety reasons and will display this message.

REL_INV_OPEN / REL_GRID_OPEN

REL_INV_OPEN / REL_GRID_OPEN — Grid relay failed to open

The inverter checks the internal relays that connect it to the grid. If these relays fail to open properly, the inverter will not connect to the grid for safety reasons and will display this message.

ROM

ROM — Inverter firmware is faulty

The firmware (internal software) of the inverter is faulty. This is a critical internal error that prevents proper operation of the device.

Red LED continously on

Red LED continously on — Ground fault detected

The Red LED on the Sunny Boy inverter is continuously on, indicating that a ground fault has been detected. This signal takes precedence over other LED states (green or yellow). The inverter will not operate until the fault is corrected.

Red LED glowing

Red LED glowing — Event occurred

A red LED glowing steadily indicates that an event or error has occurred with the inverter. A specific event message and number will be available on the inverter user interface or communication product.

Red and Yellow LEDs are on

Red and Yellow LEDs are on — Ground fault in PV system

Both the Red and Yellow LEDs are illuminated, indicating that the inverter has detected a ground fault in the PV system and has disconnected from the grid. The inverter will not restart automatically until the ground fault is located and fixed.

Reduced Power Output

Reduced Power Output — Inverter is Overheating

The SMA SUNNY BOY SB30-50-1AV-40 Inverter is operating at a reduced power level because its internal temperature is too high. This is a protective measure to prevent damage to the unit. Power output will increase once the inverter cools down.

Riso

Riso — Faulty PV system insulation to ground

The electrical insulation of the PV system from ground is faulty. This means the resistance between the DC plus and/or DC minus connection and ground is outside the safe operating limits, indicating a potential ground fault.

Riso-Sense

Riso-Sense — Insulation measurement failed

The inverter's internal insulation measurement process has failed to complete successfully. This may indicate an issue with the measurement system itself or an underlying insulation problem in the PV array.

SD-DI-Conv

SD-DI-Conv — Insulation fault on the DC side

The inverter has detected an insulation fault on the DC side of the system. This indicates a problem with the electrical isolation of the solar panel wiring or connections, which is a safety concern.

SD-INV-Bridge

SD-INV-Bridge — Fault in power electronics

The inverter has detected a fault in its internal power electronics. It will disconnect from the grid and then attempt to reconnect. This indicates a hardware issue within the inverter that needs professional attention.

SD-Imax

SD-Imax — Overcurrent on the AC side

The inverter has detected an overcurrent on the AC side of the connection. For safety reasons, it will disconnect from the grid and then attempt to reconnect. Repeated occurrences suggest a persistent issue.

Shutdown

Shutdown — Temporary inverter fault

A temporary fault has caused the inverter to shut down. This is a general error message indicating an issue that may be transient or require further investigation by a technician.

Waiting

Waiting — PV voltage not high enough to start

The inverter displays 'Waiting' when the voltage from the PV (photovoltaic) array is not sufficient to begin operation. This is common during low light conditions.

Warning

Warning — System warning advising further investigation

A 'Warning' message indicates that the system has detected a condition that requires further investigation. While not a critical error, it suggests potential issues or inefficiencies.

Yellow LED blinks 4 times

Yellow LED blinks 4 times — DC input voltage too high

The inverter has detected that the DC input voltage from the PV array is too high for safe operation. This condition can lead to damage to the inverter.

Yellow LED blinks 5 times

Yellow LED blinks 5 times — Internal device fault

The inverter has encountered an internal fault that prevents it from operating normally. This type of fault typically requires professional servicing.

Yellow LED blinks 6 times

Yellow LED blinks 6 times — Discharge current too high

The yellow fault LED lights up for 5 seconds, then blinks 6 times consecutively, after a 3-second off period. This pattern repeats 3 times. This indicates the discharge current from the inverter and PV generator is too high, causing the Sunny Boy to interrupt grid feeding. It will attempt to reconnect after testing. This fault specifically applies to transformerless inverters.

Yellow LED blinks 7 times

Yellow LED blinks 7 times — Drastic change in differential current

The inverter has detected a sudden change in differential current (IDN > 30 mA) and has disconnected from the grid for safety. This specific fault can only occur in transformerless inverters.

Yellow LED blinks twice

Yellow LED blinks twice — Grid failure

The inverter has detected a problem with the utility grid, such as voltage or frequency being outside acceptable limits, or rapid changes in these parameters. The inverter will not connect to the grid under these conditions for safety.

dI-Bfr / dI-Srr

dI-Bfr / dI-Srr — Drastic change in differential current (grounding fault)

The inverter has detected a significant change in the differential current. This fault typically occurs in transformerless inverters and is crucial for personal safety, often indicating a sudden grounding fault, residual current, or an internal device fault. The inverter will disconnect from the grid.

dI-Meas-Srr / dI-Meas

dI-Meas-Srr / dI-Meas — Deviation in differential current measurement

The inverter has detected a deviation in its differential current measurement. If this fault appears repeatedly, it indicates that inverter operation is permanently disabled due to a persistent measurement issue.