Must a professional replace a solar inverter?

Do I need to hire a professional to replace a solar inverter?

Asked by Elly on 20th Oct 2022
Expert Trade Answers
"Short answer is yes. It is not something you want to be touching unless you have specific knowledge of PV systems. There is also a good chance that your manufacturers warranty and any warranties provided by the installer will be void if an unqualified person has made any alterations to the system."
Answered on 20th Oct 2022 - Member since Feb 2019 - report
"Yes is the simple answer it's an expensive bit of kit, needs liability insurance minimum. Also installing it isn't as easy as you think, you get what you pay for."
Answered on 20th Oct 2022 - Member since Oct 2019 - report
"Yes without a doubt, contact a verified registered electrician to replace the unit."
Answered on 20th Oct 2022 - Member since Sep 2022 - report
"Depends on the make and model of solar panel and also would it affect your guarantee on the panel. ( some are sealed)"
Answered on 20th Oct 2022 - Member since Oct 2022 - report
"Yes. I'm sure the manual with state that for warranty if nothing else."
Answered on 20th Oct 2022 - Member since Jan 2022 - report
"Yes due to supply from different sources it is best carried out by a professional electrician"
Answered on 20th Oct 2022 - Member since Feb 2020 - report
"Yes. The actual process of replacing it might seem simple, but it should be done by a qualified person and tested."
Answered on 20th Oct 2022 - Member since Jan 2022 - report
"No
Electricians they can deal with that
Call local electricians
or local electrical company"
Answered on 22nd Oct 2022 - Member since Jan 2021 - report
"Yes, make sure your installer is registered on a competent installers scheme such as NICEIC & NAPIT, also the installer shall hold qualifications in solar installation & maintenance either city & guilds or BPEC"
Answered on 22nd Oct 2022 - Member since Dec 2020 - report
"Generally you would require a professional to swap out a solar inverter, the panels are always live during daylight hours and have high dc voltages which can be very dangerous"
Answered on 22nd Oct 2022 - Member since Sep 2022 - report
"Hi Ellie,

The answer is yes, in part 2 of the electrical wiring registrations BS7671 it mentions isolation. To ensure safe isolation is carried out would mean isolating from all sources of supply before carrying our work. A neutral is also classified as a live part and there may be two or more electrical sources of supply on a solar inverter. I recommend getting a trained and competent person to do this for you.

Regards
Mark"
Answered on 22nd Oct 2022 - Member since Oct 2022 - report
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