[RE-wrenches] SMA 22 series inverters, resetting AFCI fault

[scot.arey at solarcentex.com]

LOL – the knocking to reset arc faults always drove me nuts! How many times did I miss the knocking window only to turn off, then back on and wait for just that right moment to knock. But not too lightly and certainly not too hard. Can’t believe SMA thought this was a good way to do this.

 

 



 

 

 

From: RE-wrenches <re-wrenches-bounces at lists.re-wrenches.org> On Behalf Of William Miller via RE-wrenches
Sent: Tuesday, March 19, 2024 2:09 PM
To: RE-wrenches <re-wrenches at lists.re-wrenches.org>
Cc: William Miller <william at millersolar.com>
Subject: [RE-wrenches] SMA 22 series inverters, resetting AFCI fault

 

Friends:

 

I learned something yesterday about the SMA 22 series string inverters:  I have a client that experienced an arc-fault shutdown.  I tried to reset the error condition by following the procedure in the manual.  This involves shutting down the inverter and then knocking on the front panel during re-start when directed.  I had no luck.

 

Techs support said to knock harder.  I knocked so hard my knuckle started bleeding.  Tech support said: sometimes these inverters get “stuck” and you need to connect with a speedwire device to unstick them.  

 

The speedwire is no longer made but I did find one to purchase for a little over $200.  I have the same inverter at home so I practiced hooking the device up to my inverter.  I had some problems so I called tech support and spoke to a different person. He said I don’t need a speedwire, I just need to knock harder with the back of a screwdriver in the correct spot.

 

I went the location with the failure and using a screwdriver tapping vigorously just to the left of the display I got the unit to reset.

 

I am keeping the speedwire because I am paranoid I might need one in the future and not be able to procure one.  If anyone wants to borrow the thing, let me know.

 

William

 

Miller Solar

17395 Oak Road, Atascadero, CA 93422

805-438-5600

www.millersolar.com <http://www.millersolar.com/> 

CA Lic. 773985

 

 

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