FAQ
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Troubleshooting
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How do I reset my solar PV system?
We recommend an annual reset of your system – often called “Power Cycle”. Power Cycling is simply turning your solar components off and back on. Performing these steps can never harm your system. Many system issues or alerts on your online monitoring portal can be resolved by performing a Power Cycle.
Follow the Power Cycling instructions on this page or download specific instructions for your inverter brand below
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Can you remove/reinstall my solar PV system when I need a new roof?StraightUp Solar has a dedicated crew that partners with roofing, construction, and homeowners to remove and reinstall solar PV system components for these home improvement projects. Please contact us for more information and to request a quote.
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Why is there a difference between the utility bill calculator of energy generated and my monitoring portal?The amount of kilowatt-hours (or “solar credits”) listed on your utility bill only reflects the excess solar energy generated during that month that was sent to the utility grid, not the total amount of solar energy produced by your system. You can find information about your system’s total energy production on the monitoring portal. When the sun is shining and your array is producing energy, your home’s appliances and electrical needs get to use it first! Any surplus amount not needed by the home will then go back to the grid. The utility meter can only record this excess solar energy, and cannot measure the amount consumed by the home. For more information check out these videos on how to read your energy energy bill in Illinois and Missouri.
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Do you service off-grid solar or battery generator systems?StraightUp Solar only services off-grid or battery systems originally installed by our team at this time. To find an installer to service your off-grid system that we did not install, consult the Illinois Solar Energy Association directory or the Missouri Solar Energy Industries Association directory.
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Do you service solar thermal or solar hot-water systems?StraightUp Solar will service solar thermal or solar hot-water systems installed by our company. To find a solar installer to service your system, consult the Illinois Solar Energy Association directory or the Missouri Solar Energy Industries Association directory.
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What happens when I sell my home or purchase a home with solar?
We have a formal change of ownership process for new owners of a home with a StraightUp Solar system installed. We’ll connect you to the online system monitoring portal (to view how much energy your system produces), and assist with transferring over your system’s warranty coverage. We will also provide you with an Owner’s Guide for your system and can walk you through the key components. While there is no deadline before or after the purchase date of your home to complete these steps, we’d like to get the process started right away in order to provide you with important solar ownership information, and ensure that you are enjoying all the benefits of your system! Please reach out to us at your earliest convenience.
If you have purchased a home with a system installed by another company, we are happy to share information on the system operations and advise on important steps as a new solar PV system owner. We can also provide information on system repair, support, and maintenance services. Just reach out to us!
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How can I prevent animals from damaging my array?
Animals can cause excessive damage by chewing wires and digging under roof-mounted solar arrays. Removing trees or vegetation near the roof can help prevent their access. If you see animal activity, please contact us to schedule a service visit. Animal damage and other Acts of Nature are not covered by any warranty, but may be covered under your homeowner’s insurance.
To prevent animal damage, we recommend installing Critter Guard, a heavily coated black wire mesh installed around the perimeter of your array. Though Critter Guard is not a 100% guarantee against animal damage, it can be an effective deterrent to nesting birds, squirrels, and other roof rodents. Please contact our service department for a quote on Critter Guard.
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How durable are solar panels?Solar panels are made of very durable materials and can withstand most hail storms. However, fallen trees, golf balls, lawnmowers (ground arrays), human-made projectiles, and major flooding can cause damage to your solar panels. If you have visible damage to your system, please contact your homeowner’s insurance first. We can follow their assessment with our estimate for a service repair. Please contact us for a quote.
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Will snow cover affect my solar energy production?
Yes, full or partial snow cover may affect your system’s production. DO NOT CLIMB ON YOUR ROOF TO REMOVE THE SNOW! If you have a ground mount, using your hand or soft bristle broom to remove the snow can be helpful.
You may see alerts or errors on your monitoring portal related to low DC voltage. When snow and ice melt from the array, the error messages should resolve on their own. A portal alert may still display for a few days after solar production has returned to normal. Please be advised that snow must clear from the array before troubleshooting can take place with our service technicians or the original equipment manufacturer.
Snow days were accounted for in your solar energy generation estimate. Our project developers use localized weather forecasting to produce these estimates. Frequently, the long sunny days of summer will more than make up for winter days and occasional snow cover, and should not affect your overall annual average production. Our 10-year production guarantee ensures that you will receive the full benefit of your solar PV system’s energy generation.
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Do you offer panel cleaning services?
Yes! If you are interested in having your panels professionally cleaned, we can provide an estimate upon request. The cost will be customized to your system, depending on number of panels installed, slope and height of your roof and whether your system requires the use of specialized lifts and equipment.
Please note that in the winter months, we can only perform panel cleaning at temperatures above 42 degrees.
Please submit a Service Request if interested and we will be happy to provide a quote for you.
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Can I clean my own solar panels?
Ground-mounted arrays: Cool water and a soft sponge/mop may be used to gently clean the solar panels – take care not to wash the undersides of the panels. Detergents should not be used unless absolutely necessary. We recommend only very minimal and targeted use of dish soap to remove tree sap on the panels; be sure to rinse the panels thoroughly if detergents are used. It is not advised to wash panels during the hottest times of the day in the summer months.
Roof-mounted arrays: For your safety, StraightUp Solar does not recommend that customers access their roof array for any reason, including panel cleaning.
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Fronius Inverter
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Power Cycling Instructions for Fronius Systems Smaller Than 10 kW
Step 1: Turn off the DC power.
Locate your Fronius inverter.
Find the black switch – it will be located on the bottom-left of your inverter.
Turn knob 1⁄4 turn toward the “O” position. (Look closely at the switch from below to verify which position is the “O” position.)
Step 2: Turn off the AC power.
- Locate the “solar breaker” inside of your main service panel – likely near the bottom.
- Flip the solar breaker into the OFF position – this will be the opposite direction the rest of the breakers are facing in the main service panel.
Note: If the solar circuit breaker is not labeled, look for a dual pull 40 AMP breaker toward the bottom of the main service panel that might look newer than the others. This is likely the solar breaker.
Step 3: Wait 5 minutes.
Leave the DC power completely off for 5 minutes. This will allow time for the capacitors in the inverter to discharge completely before proceeding to the next step.
Step 4: Turn on the AC power.
Flip the AC solar breaker back into the ON position. Make sure it matches the direction of the rest of the breakers in the main service panel.
Step 5: Turn on the DC power.
Turn ON the DC disconnect switch on the bottom-left of your inverter by turning it toward the “I” position. You may hear clicking sounds as the inverters power back up – this is normal.
Step 6: Check inverter screen for activity.
Under normal conditions, the inverter will display a “Start Up” or “AC Grid Timer” message on the screen for 5 minutes. After 5 minutes have elapsed, the inverter should be completely on and display a read-out of its real time production in watts.
If after 5 minutes, the screen displays a persistent State Code, please take note of the code and contact the Service Department for further assistance.
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Power Cycling Instructions for Fronius Systems 10 kW or Larger
Step 1: Turn off the DC power.
Locate your Fronius inverter.
Find the black switch – it will be located on the bottom-left of your inverter.
Turn knob 1⁄4 turn toward the “O” position. (Look closely at the switch from below to verify which position is the “O” position.)
Step 2: Turn off the AC power.
Step 3: Wait 5 minutes.Leave the DC power completely off for 5 minutes. This will allow time for the capacitors in the inverter to discharge completely before proceeding to the next step.
Step 4: Turn on the AC power.
Lift the AC disconnect handle up into the ON position.
Step 5: Turn on the DC power.
Turn ON the DC disconnect switch on the bottom-left of your inverter by turning it toward the “I” position. You may hear clicking sounds as the inverters power back up – this is normal.
Step 6: Check inverter screen for activity.
Under normal conditions, the inverter will display a “Start Up” or “AC Grid Timer” message on the screen for 5 minutes. After 5 minutes have elapsed, the inverter should be completely on and display a read-out of its real time production in watts.
If after 5 minutes, the screen displays a persistent State Code, please take note of the code and contact the Service Department for further assistance.
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Additional Inverter Communications Troubleshooting Guidance
When there is a green light on your inverter but there is a “No Communications” alert on your online Fronius portal, please see the following guidance to help re-establish your internet connection:
Step 1: Confirm that the internet is working properly on your computer. If not, please contact your Internet Service Provider to help re-establish an internet connection.
Step 2: Confirm your inverter is properly connected to your router and that your router is properly connected to the internet. To do this, determine which of the following connections is applicable for your solar system setup and follow the provided guidance.
If you have an Ethernet Connection: If your inverter has a hard-wired internet ethernet connection – meaning that there is an ethernet cable running from your inverter to your router – confirm that the ethernet cable is fully plugged into your inverter, as well as into your router. Confirm that your router is plugged into an electrical outlet.
If you have Ethernet Bridges/Powerline Communication Adapters: If your inverter is connected using ethernet bridges, there will be one small rectangular box plugged into an outlet near your router, and another plugged into an outlet near your inverter.Both ethernet bridges should have an ethernet cable running from them– one will be connected to the router and the other to the inverter. Most ethernet bridges have LED lights – confirm that all lights are lit and are the same color (typically green).If one or more lights are not showing, or if one light on the ethernet bridge is a different color, unplug the ethernet bridge from the outlet and plug it back in.
If you have a Cellular Connection/Cell-Card Connection:If your inverter is connected through a cellular network,Power Cycle your inverter if you have not done so already.See attached Power Cycling Manual. If you have already Power Cycled, contact our Service Department for further guidance.
Step 3: If the problem persists, reset your internet router. If none of the above solutions seem to correct your inverter’s internet connection, reset your router: unplug the router from the wall outlet – wait 30 seconds – plug the router back in.Have you changed Internet Service Providers (ISP) or installed a new router lately?
- If you have recently changed to a different ISP or installed a new router, this change can occasionally result in unintended challenges.
- Sometimes the new ISP will change the physical location of your router. If the inverter-to-router cable we left is still within reach of the router, the ISP technician may have forgotten to reconnect it. In other cases, the router is no longer located along the path of that cable, and the cable itself needs to be moved. Depending on the complexity of the path of the inverter-to-router cable, you may be able to relocate the cable yourself. If not, this will require a paid service call to resolve (not covered under any of the warranties).
- Alternatively, the router provided by your new ISP, or one you purchased yourself, may have new firewall protection or something called “SIP packets”, which are turned off. Either of these may be blocking your inverter’s access to the internet. This type of problem is best resolved by a computer specialist. If the router was provided by your ISP, contact them. If you purchased the router yourself, talk with a technician at the store or seek assistance from a computer specialist. It may also be good to contact your solar inverter manufacturer’s tech support to have their team provide remote assistance.
- Additionally, when you change your ISP, you get a new IP address. The IP address works like a phone number that your inverter must know in order to transmit its data. Typically, when the IP address changes, the inverter will automatically request this new one from the new router; but sometimes this does not work. We suggest contacting the manufacturer of your router for help with resolving these types of issues as they may be better able to assist with the unique router/inverter challenges.
- If your system is still having communication challenges, please reach out to our Service Department for additional assistance.
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Solis Inverter
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Additional Inverter Communications Troubleshooting Guidance
When there is a green light on your inverter but there is a “No Communications” alert on your online SolarEdge/mySolarEdge monitoring portal, please see the following guidance to help re-establish your internet connection:
Step 1: Confirm that the internet is working properly on your computer. If not, please contact your Internet Service Provider to help re-establish an internet connection.
Step 2: Confirm your inverter is properly connected to your router and that your router is properly connected to the internet. To do this, determine which of the following connections is applicable for your solar system setup and follow the provided guidance.
If you have an Ethernet Connection: If your inverter has a hard-wired internet ethernet connection – meaning that there is an ethernet cable running from your inverter to your router – confirm that the ethernet cable is fully plugged into your inverter, as well as into your router. Confirm that your router is plugged into an electrical outlet.
If you have Ethernet Bridges/Powerline Communication Adapters: If your inverter is connected using ethernet bridges, there will be one small rectangular box plugged into an outlet near your router, and another plugged into an outlet near your inverter.Both ethernet bridges should have an ethernet cable running from them– one will be connected to the router and the other to the inverter. Most ethernet bridges have LED lights – confirm that all lights are lit and are the same color (typically green).If one or more lights are not showing, or if one light on the ethernet bridge is a different color, unplug the ethernet bridge from the outlet and plug it back in.
If you have a Cellular Connection/Cell-Card Connection:If your inverter is connected through a cellular network,Power Cycle your inverter if you have not done so already.See attached Power Cycling Manual. If you have already Power Cycled, contact our Service Department for further guidance.
Step 3: If the problem persists, reset your internet router. If none of the above solutions seem to correct your inverter’s internet connection, reset your router: unplug the router from the wall outlet – wait 30 seconds – plug the router back in.Have you changed Internet Service Providers (ISP) or installed a new router lately?
- If you have recently changed to a different ISP or installed a new router, this change can occasionally result in unintended challenges.
- Sometimes the new ISP will change the physical location of your router. If the inverter-to-router cable we left is still within reach of the router, the ISP technician may have forgotten to reconnect it. In other cases, the router is no longer located along the path of that cable, and the cable itself needs to be moved. Depending on the complexity of the path of the inverter-to-router cable, you may be able to relocate the cable yourself. If not, this will require a paid service call to resolve (not covered under any of the warranties).
- Alternatively, the router provided by your new ISP, or one you purchased yourself, may have new firewall protection or something called “SIP packets”, which are turned off. Either of these may be blocking your inverter’s access to the internet. This type of problem is best resolved by a computer specialist. If the router was provided by your ISP, contact them. If you purchased the router yourself, talk with a technician at the store or seek assistance from a computer specialist. It may also be good to contact your solar inverter manufacturer’s tech support to have their team provide remote assistance.
- Additionally, when you change your ISP, you get a new IP address. The IP address works like a phone number that your inverter must know in order to transmit its data. Typically, when the IP address changes, the inverter will automatically request this new one from the new router; but sometimes this does not work. We suggest contacting the manufacturer of your router for help with resolving these types of issues as they may be better able to assist with the unique router/inverter challenges.
- If your system is still having communication challenges, please reach out to our Service Department for additional assistance.
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SolarEdge Inverter
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Power Cycling Instructions for SolarEdge Systems Smaller Than 10 kW
Step 1: Begin powering down the inverter.
- Locate your SolarEdge inverter to begin powering it down.
- Find the red toggle switch on the inverter – toward the left-hand side, in between the top and bottom cabinets.
- Look for the symbols “I” and “O” near the toggle.
- Push the toggle to the “O” position which will start powering the inverter down.
Note: In some SolarEdge models, the toggle has three different options. Push the toggle to the “0” position.
Step 2: Turn off the DC power.
- Find the black or tan dial/knob – it will be located on the front of the inverter, left side of the inverter, or below the inverter.
- Turn the dial 1⁄4 turn to the left into the OFF position.
Step 3: Turn off the AC power.
- Locate the “solar breaker” inside of your main service panel – likely near the bottom.
- Flip the solar breaker into the OFF position – this will be the opposite direction the rest of the breakers are facing in the main service panel.
Note: If the solar circuit breaker is not labeled, look for a dual pull 40 AMP breaker toward the bottom of the main service panel that might look newer than the others – this is likely the solar breaker.
Step 4: Leave everything off for 10 minutes.
Leave the AC and DC power completely off for 10 minutes. This will allow time for the capacitors in the inverter to discharge completely before proceeding to the next step.
Step 5: Power the system back ON.
Repeat all of the previous steps in the opposite order:
- First, turn on the AC power by flipping the solar breaker into ON position. Make sure it matches the direction of the rest of the breakers in the main service panel.
- Turn the DC power back on by turning the DC dial on the inverter clockwise into the ON position (pointing to 12 o’clock).
- Finally, push the red toggle back to the “I” position.
You may hear clicking sounds as the inverters power back up – this is normal. It will take up to 15 minutes for the inverters to cycle all the way back on. For screenless inverters, all three LED lights will turn on and remain solid for a brief time. The three colors are:
- Green light (Production)
- Blue light (Communication
- Red light (Error)
- No lights (Possible loss of AC power)
Step 6: Verify production.After 15 minutes, check the LED indicator located in-between the cabinets of the inverter.
- Green light (Production) will stay solid
- Blue light (Communication) will blink or stay solid
- Red light (Error) will go off*
*If the red light remains on and/or a code appears on the inverter screen, document this and contact our Service Department for additional assistance.
If your inverter has a screen, a short press of the rightmost button will “wake up” the screen. If you see a number below the “Pac”, solar production is taking place.
If the sun is shining, the online SolarEdge portal should begin to show data within 1 hour.
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Power Cycling Instructions for SolarEdge Systems 10 kW or LargerStep 1: Begin powering down the inverter.
- Locate your SolarEdge inverter to begin powering it down.
- Find the red toggle switch on the inverter – toward the left-hand side, in between the top and bottom cabinets.
- Look for the symbols “I” and “O” near the toggle.
- Push the toggle to the “O” position which will start powering the inverter down.
Note: In some SolarEdge models, the toggle has three different options. Push the toggle to the “0” position.
Step 2: Turn off the DC power.- Find the black or tan dial/knob – it will be located on the front of the inverter, left side of the inverter, or below the inverter.
- Turn the dial 1⁄4 turn to the left into the OFF position.
Step 4: Leave everything off for 10 minutes.
Leave the AC and DC power completely off for 10 minutes. This will allow time for the capacitors in the inverter to discharge completely before proceeding to the next step. Step 5: Power the system back ON. Repeat all of the previous steps in the opposite order:- First, turn on the AC power by flipping the solar breaker into ON position. Make sure it matches the direction of the rest of the breakers in the main service panel.
- Turn the DC power back on by turning the DC dial on the inverter clockwise into the ON position (pointing to 12 o’clock).
- Finally, push the red toggle back to the “I” position.
- Green light (Production)
- Blue light (Communication
- Red light (Error)
- No lights (possible loss of AC power)
- Green light (Production) will stay solid
- Blue light (Communication) will blink or stay solid
- Red light (Error) will go off*
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Additional Inverter Communications Troubleshooting Guidance
When there is a green light on your inverter but there is a “No Communications” alert on your online SolarEdge/mySolarEdge monitoring portal, please see the following guidance to help re-establish your internet connection:
Step 1: Confirm that the internet is working properly on your computer. If not, please contact your Internet Service Provider to help re-establish an internet connection.
Step 2: Confirm your inverter is properly connected to your router and that your router is properly connected to the internet. To do this, determine which of the following connections is applicable for your solar system setup and follow the provided guidance.
If you have an Ethernet Connection: If your inverter has a hard-wired internet ethernet connection – meaning that there is an ethernet cable running from your inverter to your router – confirm that the ethernet cable is fully plugged into your inverter, as well as into your router. Confirm that your router is plugged into an electrical outlet.
If you have Ethernet Bridges/Powerline Communication Adapters: If your inverter is connected using ethernet bridges, there will be one small rectangular box plugged into an outlet near your router, and another plugged into an outlet near your inverter.Both ethernet bridges should have an ethernet cable running from them– one will be connected to the router and the other to the inverter. Most ethernet bridges have LED lights – confirm that all lights are lit and are the same color (typically green).If one or more lights are not showing, or if one light on the ethernet bridge is a different color, unplug the ethernet bridge from the outlet and plug it back in.
If you have a Cellular Connection/Cell-Card Connection:If your inverter is connected through a cellular network,Power Cycle your inverter if you have not done so already.See attached Power Cycling Manual. If you have already Power Cycled, contact our Service Department for further guidance.
Step 3: If the problem persists, reset your internet router. If none of the above solutions seem to correct your inverter’s internet connection, reset your router: unplug the router from the wall outlet – wait 30 seconds – plug the router back in.Have you changed Internet Service Providers (ISP) or installed a new router lately?
- If you have recently changed to a different ISP or installed a new router, this change can occasionally result in unintended challenges.
- Sometimes the new ISP will change the physical location of your router. If the inverter-to-router cable we left is still within reach of the router, the ISP technician may have forgotten to reconnect it. In other cases, the router is no longer located along the path of that cable, and the cable itself needs to be moved. Depending on the complexity of the path of the inverter-to-router cable, you may be able to relocate the cable yourself. If not, this will require a paid service call to resolve (not covered under any of the warranties).
- Alternatively, the router provided by your new ISP, or one you purchased yourself, may have new firewall protection or something called “SIP packets”, which are turned off. Either of these may be blocking your inverter’s access to the internet. This type of problem is best resolved by a computer specialist. If the router was provided by your ISP, contact them. If you purchased the router yourself, talk with a technician at the store or seek assistance from a computer specialist. It may also be good to contact your solar inverter manufacturer’s tech support to have their team provide remote assistance.
- Additionally, when you change your ISP, you get a new IP address. The IP address works like a phone number that your inverter must know in order to transmit its data. Typically, when the IP address changes, the inverter will automatically request this new one from the new router; but sometimes this does not work. We suggest contacting the manufacturer of your router for help with resolving these types of issues as they may be better able to assist with the unique router/inverter challenges.
- If your system is still having communication challenges, please reach out to our Service Department for additional assistance.
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SMA Inverter
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Power Cycling Instructions for SMA Systems Smaller Than 10 kW
Step 1: Turn off the DC Power
Locate your SMA Inverter
Find the black or tan dial/knob. It will be located on the front or left side of the inverter
Turn the dial ¼ to the left into the OFF position.
Step 2: Turn off the AC Power
- Locate the “solar breaker” inside of your main service panel – likely near the bottom.
- Flip the solar breaker into the OFF position – this will be the opposite direction that the rest of the breakers are facing in the main service panel.
Note: If the solar circuit breaker is not labeled, look for a dual pull 40 AMP breaker toward the bottom of the main service panel that might look newer than the others. This is likely the solar breaker.
Step 3: Leave everything off for 10 minutes
Leave the AC and DC power completely off for 10 minutes. This will allow time fo the capacitors in the inverter to discharge completely before proceeding to the next step
Step 4: Turn on the AC power
Flip the AC solar breaker back into the ON position. Make sure it matches the direction of the rest of the breakers in the main service panel.
Step 5: Turn on the DC power
Turn the DC power back into the ON position by turning the dial/knob ¼ turn to the right.
For many inverters, all three LED lights will come on and stay solid for a period of time upon start-up. It may take up to 10 minutes for the inverter to finish turning all the way back on.
You may hear clicking sounds as the inverters power back up. This is normal. Eventually you will see the LED lights showing:
- Green light (Production) will pulse or stay solid.
- Blue light (Communication) will blink or stay solid.
- Red light (Error) will go off.
If the sun is shining, the online SMA Sunny Portal should begin to show data within 30 minutes. Check “Current PV Power” for power and “Current PV System Status” for a green check mark.
Note: if red light remains on and/or a 4-digit code remains on the inverter screen, please document this (photos work great) and contact our Service Department for additional assistance.
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Power Cycling Instructions for SMA Systems 10 kW or Larger
Step 1: Turn off the DC power.
Locate your SMA Inverter
Find the black or tan dial/knob. It will be located on the front or left side of the inverter
Turn the dial ¼ to the left into the OFF position.
Step 2: Turn off the AC power.
Step 3: Leave everything off for 10 minutes.Leave the AC and DC power completely off for 10 minutes. This will allow time fo the capacitors in the inverter to discharge completely before proceeding to the next step
Step 4: Turn on the AC power.
Lift the AC disconnect handle up into the ON position.
Step 5: Turn on the DC power.
Turn the DC power back into the ON position by turning the dial/knob ¼ turn to the right.
For many inverters, all three LED lights will come on and stay solid for a period of time upon start-up. It may take up to 10 minutes for the inverter to finish turning all the way back on.
You may hear clicking sounds as the inverters power back up. This is normal. Eventually you will see the LED lights showing:
- Green light (Production) will pulse or stay solid.
- Blue light (Communication) will blink or stay solid.
- Red light (Error) will go off.
If the sun is shining, the online SMA Sunny Portal should begin to show data within 30 minutes. Check “Current PV Power” for power and “Current PV System Status” for a green check mark.
Note: if red light remains on and/or a 4-digit code remains on the inverter screen, please document this (photos work great) and contact our Service Department for additional assistance.
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Additional Inverter Communications Troubleshooting Guidance
When there is a green light on your inverter but there is a “No Communications” alert on your online SolarEdge/mySolarEdge monitoring portal, please see the following guidance to help re-establish your internet connection:
Step 1: Confirm that the internet is working properly on your computer. If not, please contact your Internet Service Provider to help re-establish an internet connection.
Step 2: Confirm your inverter is properly connected to your router and that your router is properly connected to the internet. To do this, determine which of the following connections is applicable for your solar system setup and follow the provided guidance.
If you have an Ethernet Connection: If your inverter has a hard-wired internet ethernet connection – meaning that there is an ethernet cable running from your inverter to your router – confirm that the ethernet cable is fully plugged into your inverter, as well as into your router. Confirm that your router is plugged into an electrical outlet.
If you have Ethernet Bridges/Powerline Communication Adapters: If your inverter is connected using ethernet bridges, there will be one small rectangular box plugged into an outlet near your router, and another plugged into an outlet near your inverter.Both ethernet bridges should have an ethernet cable running from them– one will be connected to the router and the other to the inverter. Most ethernet bridges have LED lights – confirm that all lights are lit and are the same color (typically green).If one or more lights are not showing, or if one light on the ethernet bridge is a different color, unplug the ethernet bridge from the outlet and plug it back in.
If you have a Cellular Connection/Cell-Card Connection:If your inverter is connected through a cellular network,Power Cycle your inverter if you have not done so already.See attached Power Cycling Manual. If you have already Power Cycled, contact our Service Department for further guidance.
Step 3: If the problem persists, reset your internet router. If none of the above solutions seem to correct your inverter’s internet connection, reset your router: unplug the router from the wall outlet – wait 30 seconds – plug the router back in.Have you changed Internet Service Providers (ISP) or installed a new router lately?
- If you have recently changed to a different ISP or installed a new router, this change can occasionally result in unintended challenges.
- Sometimes the new ISP will change the physical location of your router. If the inverter-to-router cable we left is still within reach of the router, the ISP technician may have forgotten to reconnect it. In other cases, the router is no longer located along the path of that cable, and the cable itself needs to be moved. Depending on the complexity of the path of the inverter-to-router cable, you may be able to relocate the cable yourself. If not, this will require a paid service call to resolve (not covered under any of the warranties).
- Alternatively, the router provided by your new ISP, or one you purchased yourself, may have new firewall protection or something called “SIP packets”, which are turned off. Either of these may be blocking your inverter’s access to the internet. This type of problem is best resolved by a computer specialist. If the router was provided by your ISP, contact them. If you purchased the router yourself, talk with a technician at the store or seek assistance from a computer specialist. It may also be good to contact your solar inverter manufacturer’s tech support to have their team provide remote assistance.
- Additionally, when you change your ISP, you get a new IP address. The IP address works like a phone number that your inverter must know in order to transmit its data. Typically, when the IP address changes, the inverter will automatically request this new one from the new router; but sometimes this does not work. We suggest contacting the manufacturer of your router for help with resolving these types of issues as they may be better able to assist with the unique router/inverter challenges.
- If your system is still having communication challenges, please reach out to our Service Department for additional assistance.
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Enphase Communication
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Envoy R/Gateway:
- Locate the solar breaker in your home’s main electrical service panel (see #5 in the Interactive Graphic above). Turn the solar breaker off – wait 10 seconds – then turn the breaker back on.
- Unplug your Envoy-R from your electrical outlet and leave it unplugged for 5 minutes; then plug the Envoy back in.
- If your Envoy-R powers back on and you see “- Web” in the top, right corner of the LCD screen, please follow these instructions from Enphase for additional guidance on how to reconnect your Envoy to the internet. It may take up to 30 minutes for the Enphase Enlighten monitoring portal to be updated.
If after following these instructions, you still see a Gateway Not Reporting error, please contact our Service Department for additional assistance.
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Envoy-S Or IQ Gateway:
Please visit the Enphase Support page to determine how your system is connected to the internet and follow the troubleshooting steps provided.
If after following these instructions, you still see a Gateway Not Reporting error, please contact our Service Department for additional assistance.
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IQ Combiner With Integrated IQ Gateway
Please visit the Enphase Support page to determine how your system is connected to the internet and follow the troubleshooting steps provided. Here is what the IQ Combiner will look like when it is successfully reconnected:
If after following these instructions, you still see a Gateway Not Reporting error, please contact our Service Department for additional assistance.
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What Do The LED Lights On My IQ Gateway Or Envoy S Mean?Follow these directions from Enphase
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How Do I Fix A Microinverter Not Reporting System Status?
If your system has an IQ Combiner box:
- Open the IQ Combiner box and flip all of the breakers to the Off position (pointed away from the middle)
- Wait 10 seconds
- Flip the breakers back On again (pointed toward the middle)
If your system has an Envoy R, IQ Gateway or Envoy S:
- Please flip your solar breaker in your Main Service Panel Off
- Wait 10 seconds
- Flip the breaker On again (see #5 on the interactive graphic at the top of this page)
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Business & Government
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Why should our business go solar now?The longer you wait to think about solar, the more it costs your business. Commercial prices for solar are better than they've ever been. The federal investment tax credit (ITC) for solar is equal to 30% of the amount invested in an eligible installation (e.g., if you invest $100,000 in solar, you could receive a $30,000 tax credit). Meanwhile, electricity prices in New Mexico continue to increase year over year. The sooner you decide to go solar, the more your business can save.
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If solar is so great, why isn't every business installing it?The truth is, more people are going solar now than ever have before. Over the last ten years, solar has grown at an average annual rate of 68%, and the trend shows no signs of reversing. Fortune 500 companies & top corporate brands like Target, Walmart and Apple are adding solar at an impressive rate across the country, including New Mexico. While not every building can accommodate the installation of solar panels, solutions like solar shade structures are creating opportunities for more businesses to benefit from clean energy savings while gaining the additional benefit of shaded parking an EV charging.
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How can a focus on sustainability help my business grow?Choosing to go solar isn’t just a financial decision. It’s an environmental choice. Businesses that cultivate a focus on sustainability are experiencing powerful brand effects. A solar panel system on your business makes a strong statement to your customers. Their relationship with your brand grows. Employees walk just a little bit taller knowing the business they work for is running on clean energy. Study after study shows that sustainability isn’t just good for the planet; it’s good for business.
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How can running my business on solar increase my bottom line?For any business, finding new sources of capital to reinvest in the company can be difficult. Solar saves your business money that would otherwise be spent on utility bills. The bottom-line benefits are undeniable. 87% of business respondents cite saving money as one of the primary reasons for funding solar projects—with some projected to save hundreds of thousands of dollars (or more) in electricity costs over the life of their commercial solar panel system. That’s money that directly impacts your bottom line.
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Solar seems like a big project. Why should I spend time and money on solar?Electricity rates in New Mexico have increased 50% over the last decade. Investing in solar now protects your business from price volatility by locking in low, predictable electricity rates and even eliminate up to 100% of your energy costs. Adding energy storage can help you power through power outages and keep your operations running smoothly.
Positive Energy Solar has helped businesses just like yours find the right renewable energy solutions. We take care of everything so that you can focus on what matters most-- your business.
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Service Maintenance For Homeowners
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Why did my power turn off during a utility outage if I have solar panels?We pride ourselves in transparency and education for our clients. Positive Energy Solar clients should already understand that a grid-tied solar energy system without batteries is designed to turn-off during a utility outage to prevent backfeeding the grid. When power is restored, the solar system will turn itself back on, there is nothing that needs to be done to restore operation. If there is any concern that the solar system is responsible for the power outage (an extremely rare occurrence), a quick way to identify this is to turn off the utility interconnection switch (clearly labeled by the PNM meters) , disabling the solar. If the issue persists, it can be concluded that the solar system is not the cause.
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What is the proper way to clean my solar panels?
Solar energy systems in New Mexico don't typically require cleaning, as snow and rain can help clear dust and soil from your home solar PV system. The low production value gained from panel cleaning does not match the cost of hiring a panel washing service in most circumstances. If you wish to have your system washed, please reach out to a panel cleaning service provider in your area or follow these instructions:
Solar panels can be cleaned with soap and water and any non abrasive scrubber. The Glass on the solar modules is similar to that on your car windshield and should be cleaned in similar ways.
- Do not use solvents or other highly corrosive materials to clean solar modules.
- Do not use cold water in the middle of a hot day on your solar modules. This presents the risk of thermal shock to the electronics and the glass and may damage them. Suggestion is to clean in early morning hours or late evening hours or with lukewarm water. Once the solar modules are wet you can use cold water to rinse soap off.
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What should I do if I suspect my inverter isn't working or I receive an error code?
If you notice a change in energy production or receive an error message, here are a few things you can check for prior to calling for support:
- Unusual weather, including prolonged snow coverage, may cause an error message.
- Look for new sources of shade like a tree that needs trimming, new HVAC unit, or satellite dish.
- Dirty Panels. While panels typically self-clean with rainfall, a particularly dry season without moisture may begin to accumulate enough dirt to warrant a panel cleaning.
- Check breakers. The load center is where all of the circuit breakers are located. It is typically found on the side of the house or building or in the garage. Check if any of the breakers are tripped. If yes, flip them on and observe for 24 hours to see if production is back up.
- Recent Wi-Fi changes. Your monitoring platform typically relies on Wi-Fi communication. If you've recently changed your equipment, network name or password, you'll need to reconnect your system to your Wi-Fi. For Enphase systems, here's a quick and easy how-to video.
If you are still experiencing issues and require assistance, please submit a service request.
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Do you provide solar panel removal/reinstall to allow for roof re-shingling, repairs, or renovations? What does it cost?
Yes! Positive Energy Solar can do solar panel removal & reinstall (R&R) requests on systems that weren't originally installed by us. Rough estimates for residential R&Rs are ~$300 per solar panel plus any needed replacement hardware. For an accurate estimate, please fill out a service request form or contact our service department, and allow 1 week for formal estimate.
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Does Positive Energy service solar PV systems not installed by Positive Energy?Positive Energy Solar accepts requests on systems not originally installed by Positive Energy Solar, on an individual basis. You will be asked to provide system details before we are able to determine if we can provide service. Service on systems not installed by Positive Energy Solar may not be available at all times, and is dictated by resource availability.
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How much does service cost?
Systems installed by Positive Energy Solar come with a 30-year warranty and many situations will be covered under warranty and/or diagnosed remotely—Your original purchase agreement will contain the official legal terms of the warranties associated with your solar PV system. Should the need for service arise outside of your warranty, our basic service costs are:
- Travel: $100/ hr
- On-site work: $150/ hr
- Administrative case follow-up (if needed): $75
Site visits for diagnosis & servicing start at $300 which includes the first 2 hours of travel & labor. Additional labor is charged at hourly rates.
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Does Positive Energy offer Real Estate or other solar inspections?Yes. Positive Energy offers detailed solar inspections for Realtors & home buyers/sellers, regardless of who originally installed the solar panels. Our service area is within an hour of Santa Fe or Albuquerque. Solar inspections start at $500. Contact us for more details and options.
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General
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How much does a Positive Energy Solar Energy system cost?
At Positive Energy Solar, we value honesty when discussing cost and financing. Due to the number of variables that go into creating, building, and installing a custom solar panel installation, an accurate estimate can only be made after analyzing your electric bills and the property your solar panels will be installed at. That’s why we invite everyone interested to call us, fill out the contact form on this site, or visit one of our solar offices conveniently located in Albuquerque and Santa Fe, New Mexico. We’ll give you a quote and answer all of your questions in a no-pressure consultation showing you the numbers, and seeing if solar is a good fit for you!
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Solar seems like a big project. Why should I spend time and money on solar?Electricity rates in New Mexico have increased 50% over the last decade. Investing in solar now protects your business from price volatility by locking in low, predictable electricity rates and even eliminate up to 100% of your energy costs. Adding energy storage can help you power through power outages and keep your operations running smoothly.
Positive Energy Solar has helped businesses just like yours find the right renewable energy solutions. We take care of everything so that you can focus on what matters most-- your business. -
Why are high quality solar panels the right choice?
Going 'cheap' costs you more in the long run. You're paying for an amount of energy your solar system can produce over a period of time - It's important to choose solar panels that can live up to their promise, and continue to generate energy long into the future. Get everything you want with solar panels through Positive Energy Solar - Reliability, Efficiency, Aesthetics, and Flexibility, all backed by the solar industries best 25-year complete confidence warranty (plus 30 year solar insurance included).
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How can running my business on solar increase my bottom line?For any business, finding new sources of capital to reinvest in the company can be difficult. Solar saves your business money that would otherwise be spent on utility bills. The bottom-line benefits are undeniable. 87% of business respondents cite saving money as one of the primary reasons for funding solar projects—with some projected to save hundreds of thousands of dollars (or more) in electricity costs over the life of their commercial solar panel system. That’s money that directly impacts your bottom line.
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Is durability a factor I should consider when deciding which solar panels to install?
Yes. Your panels are constantly exposed to the elements and durability is critical. Our solar panels are selected for their industry-low failure rates and durability when holding up to the weather conditions in New Mexico's desert climates. Speak with a solar consultant today to learn more about the solar panels and equipment we choose to install.
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How can a focus on sustainability help my business grow?Choosing to go solar isn’t just a financial decision. It’s an environmental choice. Businesses that cultivate a focus on sustainability are experiencing powerful brand effects. A solar panel system on your business makes a strong statement to your customers. Their relationship with your brand grows. Employees walk just a little bit taller knowing the business they work for is running on clean energy. Study after study shows that sustainability isn’t just good for the planet; it’s good for business.
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How long will my solar energy system last?
Our solar products have a 25-year product and power warranty, backed by a 25-year workmanship warranty and come with SolarInsure's 30-year extended insurance coverage. Of course a warranty or guarantee is only good if the company is in business. Our long-term track record of being a stable, reputable company installing solar in New Mexico for over two decades assures you we will be here to take your call when warranty service is required. We service all the equipment we install and make our product recommendations based on your goals and on the quality and reliability of the manufacturers, including their warranty program.
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If solar is so great, why isn't everyone doing it?The truth is, more people are going solar now than ever have before. Over the last ten years, solar has grown at an average annual rate of 68%, and the trend shows no signs of reversing. Fortune 500 companies have installed solar at nearly 2,000 individual project sites nationwide. Top corporate brands like Target, Walmart and Apple are adding solar at an impressive rate, and the influence these brands wield on consumer lives means more people are opting for clean energy of all kinds.
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How do I know my system will produce according to estimates?
Solar energy systems are monitored on a regular basis. Monitored systems give real world data and enable Positive Energy Solar to present reliable solar production figures to our clients. Production figures we've accumulated over a number of years, with similar equipment, location, and mounting method, gives us an accurate way to predict the output of your system. Our output projections are also confirmed with property analysis, which includes a Solmetric survey of your home or property's solar access, 3D renderings, and cutting-edge software to predict the most accurate solar production data available.
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Why should our business go solar now?The longer you wait to think about solar, the more it costs your business. Commercial prices for solar have decreased 58% since 2012. However, recent policy decisions suggest we may be nearing the bottom of that downward trajectory. The federal investment tax credit (ITC) for solar is equal to 26% of the amount invested in an eligible installation (e.g., if you invest $100,000 in solar, you could receive a $26,000 tax credit). However, the ITC rate will decrease to 22% in 2023, 10% in 2024, and potentially end altogether. Meantime, electricity prices in New Mexico continue to increase year over year. The sooner you decide to go solar, the more your business can save.
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Why choose Positive Energy Solar to install my solar panels?
Superior Quality & Service
You’ll be working directly with the owners of Positive Energy Solar because we are an employee-owned New Mexico solar company. Our employee-owners have decades of experience, come highly certified, and have a personal stake in your satisfaction and provide superior quality work because of it. You’ll discover a higher level of accountability, greater attention to detail, and better service throughout.
Reliability
While the initial installation is crucial, reliable after-sales service is equally important for maximizing your return on investment and ensuring a smooth solar experience. Positive Energy employs a full-time service department ensuring optimal performance, warranty support, and peace-of-mind.
Satisfaction Guaranteed
Since 1997, Positive Energy Solar has been providing the highest quality installations by the most experienced and highly certified solar company in New Mexico. Our track record of customer satisfaction is unparalleled, with 100% customer satisfaction delivered to over 5,000 solar installations across New Mexico. We're so confident in our work that we offer the solar industries best 25-year combined product, power, and workmanship warranty in New Mexico, plus a 30-year additional limited warranty through SolarInsure.
Responsible Business Practices & Greater Impact
When you choose Positive Energy Solar, you’re amplifying your impact by working with a local, employee-owned, Benefit Corporation. As a New Mexico Benefit Corporation, we run our business to be a force for good, meeting rigorous standards of social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency.
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