Before resetting your inverter, photograph the full fault message and check the manual for your model. An error code identifies a condition the inverter has detected; it does not always identify the cause.
If your GoodWe inverter displays a fault, the next step depends on the message. A grid interruption may clear when supply returns, while an insulation, earthing or internal fault needs professional diagnosis.
The tables below explain common alarm names, how to find the code and when a restart is appropriate. Code numbers vary between series, so use the tables to understand the message rather than diagnose a component from its number alone.
Already seeing a red light or hearing beeping? Our solar inverter beeping and red light troubleshooting guide helps you record the symptoms. If there is smoke, a burning smell or visible damage, keep away and seek urgent help; call 000 for a fire.
How to check your inverter error code
How you access the error depends on the model. LCD-equipped inverters display messages on the front panel; compatible hybrid models also provide alarms through SolarGo.
LCD models
- Short-press the front-panel button as described in your manual.
- Find the Error or Fault screen.
- Photograph the complete message, including any number.
Hybrid models and app alarms
- Connect locally using the supported communication module.
- The manufacturer's hybrid guide shows Home, then Parameters, then Alarm in SolarGo; menus and permissions can differ.
- Ask your installer to retrieve alarm history if your account cannot display it.
The SEMS Portal monitoring platform also provides alarm records for authorised accounts. Understanding the screen labels helps when reading your GoodWe solar inverter display.
Match the model, not just the number. The manufacturer's hybrid and AC-coupled troubleshooting guide lists app code 07 as Relay Device Failure and 15 as PV overvoltage. Other series use different mappings, so a universal code list can send you towards the wrong diagnosis.
System fault codes
System alarms can involve grid supply, panel wiring, temperature or protective functions. Some recover automatically; an alarm clearing does not prove that a wiring fault has been repaired.
| Fault name | What it means | Homeowner's next step |
|---|---|---|
| Fac Failure | Grid frequency outside the configured operating range | Record when it occurs; arrange assessment if repeated |
| Vac Failure | AC grid voltage outside the configured range | Record the displayed voltage and time without changing settings |
| Isolation / ISO Failure | Insulation resistance between the PV array and earth is too low | Contact your installer, including if it clears after rain |
| Ground I Failure | Excessive leakage current detected | Seek professional diagnosis |
| Utility Loss | No grid connection detected | Check for a local outage and observe labelled switch positions |
| PV Over Voltage | Panel input voltage exceeds the permitted range | Contact your installer before restarting |
| Over Temperature | Temperature above the operating limit | Look for blocked surrounding airflow from a safe distance |
| PE Loss | Protective earth connection problem detected | Arrange prompt electrical assessment |
| DC Injection High | Excess DC component detected in the AC output | Ask your installer to assess the alarm |
The voltage, frequency, isolation and leakage descriptions follow the manufacturer's inverter fault explanations. Thresholds depend on the model and approved settings; a single insulation-resistance figure does not apply across the range.
A recurring Vac Failure needs investigation of both the installation and network conditions. Note whether it happens around midday, but do not change the country profile or protection limits to stop the alarm.
For Isolation Failure, record whether rain or humidity coincides with the fault. Leave connector inspection and insulation testing to a licensed electrician; do not open rooftop isolators or disconnect panels.
Inverter failure codes
Internal alarms can involve hardware, firmware or measurement circuits. The message directs the technician's checks; it does not automatically prove that a particular board needs replacing.
| Fault name | What it indicates | Next step |
|---|---|---|
| Relay Check / Relay Device Failure | Relay protection or self-check problem | Follow model-specific advice; seek service if it persists |
| SPI / Internal Communication Failure | Communication problem inside the inverter | Installer diagnosis |
| EEPROM R/W Failure | Memory read/write problem | Installer diagnosis and warranty assessment |
| External / Internal Fan Failure | Cooling fan operation problem | Observe airflow obstructions without touching the fan |
| DC Bus High | Internal DC bus voltage above its permitted level | Installer assessment of the inverter and input conditions |
The hybrid troubleshooting guide allows a restart for some intermittent internal alarms, followed by service if they remain. Do not repeatedly cycle the power or assume that clearing the display has fixed the cause.
Keep tools and fingers out of vents, and leave fan cleaning, cover removal and replacement to the technician.
Battery and hybrid error codes
For background on the equipment, our GoodWe hybrid inverter review explains how the inverter works with a home solar battery system. Battery alarms need the battery model and its own status information as well as the inverter message.
- BMS Communication Failure: communication with the battery management system has been interrupted. Ask your installer to check compatibility, configuration and communication wiring.
- Battery Voltage Too High or Too Low: voltage is outside the allowed range. Do not alter battery settings or open the enclosure.
- Battery Over-temperature: record the alarm and check that stored items are not obstructing the surrounding space.
- Back-up Overload: switch off unnecessary appliances on the backup supply. Do not alter which circuits are connected.
An unexpected state-of-charge jump should be recorded alongside any communication alarm, rather than dismissed as normal recalibration. The GoodWe battery review provides background on the battery range, while your installer can assess faults in your inverter and battery.
How to reset your inverter after a fault
A restart is appropriate only when the model's instructions or your installer recommend it for that alarm. Battery-backed systems can have several power sources, so one switching sequence does not suit every installation.
- Photograph the fault before clearing it.
- Check the shutdown label and manual for your exact system.
- For isolation, earth, arc or PV-overvoltage alarms, ask your installer before restarting.
- If advised to restart, follow the labelled shutdown order, waiting period and start-up order.
- Watch for the operating status to return, and record any alarm that reappears.
Our guidance on how to reset a GoodWe inverter explains what to establish before a restart. Waiting and self-check times vary; do not assume a fixed countdown or discharge time.
Never open the casing, unplug DC connectors or test terminals yourself. Parts of a solar and battery installation can remain energised after switching off, and a damaged or wet switch should be left untouched.
When an error code needs a professional
Arrange prompt assessment for safety alarms or faults that return. A useful fault report can save a second trip and help the technician decide what needs inspecting.
- Send the model and serial number from the accessible label, without removing covers.
- Include the complete fault message and a photo of the indicators.
- Record the time, weather, generation status and any preceding outage.
- For hybrids, include the battery model and whether backup appliances were running.
- Keep installation records and warranty documents available.
SolaXs provides solar maintenance and repairs across the Mid North Coast. If you need solar support in Port Macquarie, send the fault record above when booking an assessment.
Warranty eligibility depends on your model, installation date, applicable terms and diagnosis. Confirm parts, labour and attendance coverage before authorising work; a fault code alone does not establish a free replacement.
Get in touch with SolaXs with your photos and model details to discuss the next step.
Frequently asked questions
What does Error 03 or Fac Failure mean?
Fac Failure means the detected grid frequency is outside the configured range. Confirm that the message actually says Fac Failure, because the number alone is not universal; ask your installer to investigate recurring alarms rather than assume the network is responsible.
What does Vac Failure mean?
The detected AC voltage is outside the inverter's configured range. Record the time and displayed voltage, and arrange assessment if it repeats; leave electrical measurements and protection settings to your installer.
Why does my inverter keep showing Utility Loss?
The inverter cannot detect the grid connection. Check for an area outage and observe labelled switch positions without opening the switchboard; if mains supply is available but the alarm persists, an electrician needs to investigate.
Can I fix an isolation failure myself?
No. An installer must investigate the array insulation and wiring, even if the message disappears when the weather dries; do not disconnect panels or attempt insulation testing yourself.
Does a flashing yellow light mean the inverter has failed?
A flashing yellow indicator can mean a monitoring connection issue on some models. Match the indicator label and blink pattern to your manual, then establish how to check if your solar inverter is working. If local generation looks normal but monitoring is offline, restoring the GoodWe WiFi connection may address the missing data.
Is a fan failure covered under warranty?
A fan failure may qualify, depending on the applicable warranty and diagnosed cause. Give your installer the model, serial number and installation records, and confirm what costs are covered before booking repair work.
What if there is a red light but no error code?
Record the indicator label and blink pattern, then check the model manual and available app alarms. Ask the installer to retrieve the alarm history if necessary; avoid a blind restart while the cause remains unknown.