I have a SunGildPower inverter connected to 1200 watts of solar and two 24V CHINS batteries. The weird part is that it only boots when the solar panels are active. If I switch on the inverter without any solar input, it doesn't show any lights or signs of life. However, when the PV array is on, it boots up but gives a red fault indicator and throws an error 3 code, which roughly translates to 'batteries are missing.' Interestingly, if I turn off the solar panels while the batteries are still connected, the fault code goes away. Then, I can turn the solar back on, and it seems to work fine. Also, when the battery switch is open, the voltage reads 56V, but when it's connected to the inverter (and not booted), I only get 15V. If I disconnect the batteries from the inverter, the inverter terminals still show 15V. What's going on here?
3 Answers
I've dealt with the same error on my smaller inverter! The error 03 usually indicates a battery imbalance issue. It takes some time to balance the batteries, especially if they're not at the same charge level. I recommend using a 24V charger on each battery individually to get everything back in sync. Also, remember to keep an eye on battery balancing every few months!
Sounds like the BMS on your batteries might be acting up. It could be tripping some kind of overcurrent protection, but I don't have concrete evidence for that. It's just a hunch based on what you've described.
Are your batteries new? If they are, did you wake them up properly? I got mine about a year ago and charged them fully using a specific method. Sometimes, new batteries need a little extra attention to get going.