An inverter is a device that converts direct current into alternating current with a voltage of 220 V.
The source of direct current for it is both solar and rechargeable batteries. Most often they are used as a backup power supply during power outages in existing power grids.
In general, a solar power installation consists of:
- solar panels;
- inverter;
- battery;
- charge controller;
In order to ensure proper operation of the entire system, the included components must be selected taking into account the technical parameters of each device. This fully applies to inverters operating in conjunction with solar panels.
Solar batteries generate direct current with voltages of 12, 24 and 48 V. It is impossible to directly connect electrical appliances operating from a 220 Volt AC network to solar batteries. Therefore, direct current obtained using solar panels must be converted into alternating current with a voltage of 220 Volts. This is what inverters are for.
Electrical installation diagram:
What can be repaired on a solar module?
Be prepared for the fact that if you are not a professional, you will not be able to fix much on your own. A distinction should always be made between on-site solar panel repairs and repairs at a dedicated repair center.
On-site repairs are limited to line-wide replacement of faulty bypass diodes in junction boxes. Broken and damaged cables and plugs can also be replaced. However, if the damage is very large, it is better to contact a special repair service (this may be a maintenance company).
Main types of generators for cottages and homes
An electric generator in operating mode can use several types of fuel:
- Petrol.
- Gas.
- Diesel fuel (solar).
In this regard, there are three main types of generators for summer cottages: gasoline, diesel and gas.
For periodic use in summer cottages or in homes, gasoline generators are suitable. They come in different sizes and can have different power for specific needs (recreation, fishing, hiking, household needs). Depending on the parameters of the generator, the device can provide electricity for up to 12 hours without interruption. This is a single fuel fill cycle. The gas generator has no problems turning on in any weather conditions, it is compact and relatively inexpensive.
Diesel generators differ in their power. Generators of this type can be used for a long period of time. They are usually more reliable than gasoline generators, but are much more expensive. Their purpose is to provide electricity to large country cottages with auxiliary buildings and peripheral facilities of the country house economy.
Gas-powered generators have the same functions as other types of sources of autonomous electricity supply - electricity production. But there is one feature that lies in the production of thermal energy. A gas generator for a summer residence can use various types of gas and mixtures (butane, propane, methane). The use of such generators in winter will ensure maximum fuel efficiency. They are presented in a wide range: from 1 kW to 24 kW units.
An electric generator is an excellent means of portable provision of electricity in all life situations in the country and in any home.
Problems that can cause solar panels to fail
If there is something wrong with the solar panels, their performance will decrease. Therefore, you need to know what problems may be causing this.
- Microcracks and hot spots , broken glass. They can appear on the surface of glass solar cell cells, increasing in size over time and thereby damaging the efficiency of the solar cells. However, despite the cracks, the lamination, panel frame and waterproofing of the solar system can remain in good condition. Hairline cracks, cracks and hot spots can occur for a variety of reasons: during the PV module manufacturing process, deformation/mishandling during shipping or installation, due to changes in ambient temperature or other weather conditions. The decision to repair these hairline cracks and hot spots will depend on how the panels were installed in specific installations. For example, if a crack has formed in a system built into the roof, there is a chance that it will have to be completely dismantled - even if only 2-3 panels have failed. Before repairing broken glass panels, it is wise to clean the panels and assess the level of damage to the entire system.
- Strong winds may damage the mounting frame. If this happens, take a close look at the bolts and cables holding the mounting frame in place. If some bolts and cables are loose, tighten them, you can do this yourself. If more serious damage occurs, contact a professional.
- The reason for the breakdown of the panels may be the accumulation of dirt on them - sometimes to eliminate the breakdown it will be enough to clean the panels. However, it is better to do this regularly so that such situations do not occur.
- Potential degradation of solar panels , the so-called PID effect, which often occurs due to voltage fluctuations occurring between the voltage generated by the panel and the solar panel ground. This results in varying percentages of discharged voltage in the main power circuit and ultimately reduces the performance from the solar panels. In this case, it is worth contacting service companies - solar panel repair specialists can fix the problem in order to stabilize the operation of solar panels and prevent their rapid degradation.
- Weak wiring . Unexpected power generation problems can occur as a result of loose wires in a solar power system. This refers to the wires that connect individual solar cells to inverters and home solar panels. The slightest fault in the wiring can damage the connection. Installers experienced in solar panel repair and maintenance use wire testers and other tools to evaluate such problems and provide helpful solutions in a timely manner.
- Inverter failure. Sometimes a simple inspection by an accredited solar installer will help. The inverter may have been installed incorrectly in the first place, may need to be cleaned, or may have had a broken connection. But it may also be that the inverter has simply lost its efficiency “due to age” - in this case it will need to be replaced.
- Damage to the internal module. Internal damage to solar panels can be caused either by the selection of low-quality cells or by irregularities in the manufacturing process. They lead to the formation of “snail tracks”, delamination, discoloration of solar connectors or cells, yellowing of sheets placed on the back side, darkening of EVA films, coloring of solar cells, unwanted inclusions in photocell laminates, burnout of the back and/or front of solar modules, etc. d. In most of these cases, technicians will remove the glass from the solar panel so that it can be repaired or replaced. After determining the type and extent of damage, you can understand what repairs need to be made. It is better not to analyze the reason for the repair yourself, but to trust special companies for repairing solar panels.
- Damage to the module caused by external factors. Storms, hail, heavy snow, lightning and other weather-related conditions can cause severe damage to solar modules. External damage can also occur due to fire, animals (rodents, birds), broken and fallen branches, ice, excessive heat or cold. The presence of these factors leads to damage to the integrity of the solar panel glass, breakage of the photocell, scratches on the module frame, microcracks, etc. For example, severe hypothermia or excessive heat can overcool the solar panel frames, which will lead to their deformation and breakdown of the entire system. Very often, lightning and overvoltage are the cause of diode malfunctions and burnt-out junction boxes. In most cases, if solar cells and panels are exposed to fire, they cannot be repaired. Sometimes the reason for the decrease in the efficiency of a solar panel can be due to shade. Therefore, if you notice a decrease in the performance of your solar system, check your system for possible obstructions, shadows or materials that could prevent your system from operating. Typically, shading tests are carried out regularly by service companies.
Repair of solar panels by a specialist
The repair service specializes in the repair of photovoltaic modules. Among other things, you can replace burnt electrical boxes. The old box is carefully removed from the module and then the new box is placed on the back of the module.
As a rule, it is also possible to replace the frames on the modules. Old bent or broken module frames are simply replaced with new ones.
Another advantage of service repairs is that after repair the modules are subjected to extensive testing. In addition to the insulation test, a power measurement is always carried out after repairs. Using the so-called flash test, you can determine the current power of the module in peak values. In addition to the flash test, an electroluminescent image is often produced. During testing, this cell failure and microcracks in the modules can be detected.
Main models
Providing reliable home coziness and comfort is one of the primary tasks of modern civilization. An important component in the overall comfort mechanism is the choice of an electric generator.
To choose the right model, you need to use the review of generators for your summer cottage.
There are basic models that have proven themselves to be the best in terms of reliability, performance and operation:
The German manufacturer Huter is in great demand among summer residents. The company's many years of experience allows us to produce generators of various capacities, satisfying the needs of any consumer in a country house or household. One of the manufacturer’s most popular units is the Huter DY2500L gasoline electric generator model. This is the perfect combination of price/quality. Power – 2 kW. This is quite enough to power several light bulbs, a computer, a refrigerator and a water heater (electric boiler).
The Japanese holding company HPE (Honda Power Equipment) occupies a special place in the global electric generator market. The holding's products are highly reliable and cost-effective. Each element of the generator works harmoniously. There are never any problems with them. The most convenient portable station for a summer residence is the Honda EU20i model. This is an inverter generator that runs on gasoline. It can work for about 4 hours on one refill. Has a low noise level. The company also introduced a more powerful gasoline model to the attention of consumers - the Honda Stark 6500 HX. The power of this device will allow you to use it even for welding in your dacha.
The rules for choosing generators for a summer residence allow you to take a closer look at another high-quality brand - the American manufacturer Hammer and its high-quality model GNR 5000 A, with a power of 5 kW. Having such a device can provide electricity to the entire dacha household. One refill is 25 liters. It is enough for 9 hours of continuous operation at full load.
Taiwanese manufacturer Glendale introduced a high-quality model DP4000CLX, which runs on diesel fuel. It is equipped with an automatic voltage regulator, thanks to which it effectively distributes fuel consumption with electrical power consumption. In this mode, the generator will operate for about 9 hours. Tank capacity – 12.5 l.
If we compare existing models of electric generators, we can conclude that each of them has its own characteristics, advantages, and disadvantages. So which generator is better?
The answer to this question should be sought at the dacha itself. You need to decide what the generator is needed for, what functions it should perform, what types of work it will be used for, what power it should have and for what period of time.
It can only be noted that a diesel electric generator is designed to operate longer and provide more energy.
If a person stays at the dacha for a short period of time (vacation, weekend, planting and harvesting season), then the most widely used type is cheaper, gasoline-powered electric generators.
Innovative development - gas generators, which appeared relatively recently, may in the future completely or partially replace the classic options. The final decision on choosing the optimal generator option remains with the summer residents.
