I've just set up my new EG4 all-in-one inverter/charger, moving from an Anker Solix, and I've noticed that the fan is constantly running, which is really loud! Currently, there's nothing hooked up—no PV or AC, just connected to the battery. This setup is in my off-grid cabin (12x16), and I can't have this noise while I'm trying to sleep. Is this typical for this unit? My Anker only activates the fan as needed, so I'm curious if I should be concerned about this constant fan operation. If it runs non-stop, I might need to return it to Signature Solar due to the noise and wasted energy. What do you think?
3 Answers
Typically, inverters are equipped with fans to maintain safe operating temperatures, but they shouldn't be running all the time. If your fan is constantly on without a load, then something might be wrong. It could be worth reaching out to Signature Solar's customer support for potential firmware issues or a faulty thermostat. Just a heads up: most inverters do tend to be pretty noisy compared to portable power stations, which aim for quieter operation since they’re often used in living areas.
I've seen some DIYers manage to quiet down their units by swapping out the fan for a quieter model or building a PWM circuit that ramps the fan speed according to temperature rather than having it blast at full speed all the time. If you’re up for a bit of tinkering, that could be an option. Otherwise, returning it might be your best bet—considering separate charge controllers like Victron or EPEVER that run silently.
Yes, it’s normal for the EG4 inverters to have the fan running continuously. In contrast, brands like Victron activate their fans based on the load, so they tend to stay quieter. Just remember, inverters are naturally prone to running hot, which is why they require fans.