Mr. Ellinidis, head of the NanoDomi repair laboratory, explains the most common problems in a photovoltaic installation, how we can prevent them, and why it is more cost-effective to repair them rather than purchase a new unit.
Some faults that appear prematurely in parts of a photovoltaic system can be prevented. Is it worth repairing a component of a photovoltaic system that has failed, or is it better to replace it with a new one? According to Alexandros Ellinidis, head of NanoDomi’s newly established repair laboratory, repair is the more cost-effective solution.
A fault that can be repaired helps the consumer save 70% of the cost compared to purchasing a new device.
“As an advantage of repair, I would point out that new inverters are no longer readily available. In addition, for fault restoration, a company that comes to us will receive a 6-month warranty and a full inspection of the entire unit, ensuring that no other fault is likely to occur within the next six months.”
What are the common faults in photovoltaic systems?
PV inverters: As Mr. Ellinidis explains, the faults that occur in photovoltaic inverters (which convert direct current into alternating current) are mainly due to aging of the device, meaning normal wear and tear, material failure, exposure to extreme weather conditions, etc. Since inverters are exposed to temperatures of -10°C in winter and 45°C in summer, or possibly due to poor installation from the very beginning, they may develop faults such as current leakage and issues in power electronics.
Battery chargers and… industrial UPS systems: “The battery charger used in off-grid photovoltaic systems and the UPS are the same circuit; therefore, the same points mentioned above apply. On the other hand, it is very difficult to repair a battery fault because it is a closed system. However, if an experienced installer does the job correctly, the battery will likely reach the number of charge-discharge cycles specified by the manufacturer. In contrast, if the technician has not installed the cables properly, has not ensured correct insulation or tightening, or has not placed the battery in the proper location where it should maintain the correct temperature and be well ventilated with proper air inflow and outflow, then the battery’s lifespan will be reduced. Finally, a charger that is not very reliable can also shorten the lifespan of the battery. For example, if the battery is supposed to charge at a specific rate and the charger is not sufficiently reliable, this can negatively affect it.”
Wind turbine circuit boards. “Since a large part of the machine cannot be tested, the technician who has removed the circuit board must have identified the fault, and based on that information we will take action. Usually, faults occur in switching components, meaning in automation relays and their power supplies.”
How do we avoid problems in photovoltaic systems?
Protecting inverters: “Inverters could be installed not under the panels in the field, but inside a single housing unit where they are all placed together. However, the cost is extremely high, which is why this is rarely done. The wiring is almost doubled, so this approach is generally avoided,” says Mr. Ellinidis and continues: “Since we tend to trust manufacturers who claim that inverters can withstand temperatures of -20°C to 45°C, what truly matters is proper installation. As a technician, I would not recommend placing them in a plastic box, because ventilation must be taken into account. A machine operating with a closed cover can reach temperatures above 65–70°C. In any case, regular maintenance is important, during which it is checked whether the fans are working properly.”
We do not neglect maintenance: “If I could suggest a maintenance frequency, it would be every 6 months, once before the summer months and once before the winter months.”
We look for a reliable company with experience: “Some problems that occur in parts of a photovoltaic system may be due to poor installation, meaning a bad technician has taken new equipment, installed it, and failed to ensure proper grounding or proper insulation of the cables. The photovoltaic system will operate for 2–3 years regardless of any poor workmanship. However, a faulty installation will lead to problems appearing earlier. Since all this equipment is exposed to weather conditions, a lightning strike combined with inadequate grounding can also affect it.”
We demand support service: “When someone decides to proceed with such an installation, they should first conduct thorough market research and choose a reliable company that also provides after-sales support. Often, the cheapest option is not the most convenient for us, because it will come back to affect us later. If you go to someone who has no experience and does not offer after-sales support, you may save €3,000, but they may not do a good job.”
We report anything unusual in the PV system to the company: “Since the consumer does not have experience, it is advisable not to assess unusual observations on their own. Anything abnormal they notice, for example, if despite sunshine the system stops and then starts again after a while, should be reported to the installer.”
Source: https://www.4green.gr/news
New Repair, Inspection and Upgrades Laboratory NanoDomi
During the first quarter of 2023, NanoDomi began providing specialized services for the repair, inspection, and upgrading of industrial equipment at its new modern laboratory facilities. The new facilities meet all required operational and safety standards and comply with the relevant ISO standards (9001, 14001, 45001, 50001). The equipment used is certified/calibrated, modern, and suitable for the proper diagnosis and effective repair of any industrial equipment fault. The new division is composed of experienced and highly specialized technicians with a strong academic background who can ensure the successful repair of your equipment.
Learn more HERE
A few words about NanoDomi
NanoDomi currently operates as one of the most efficient companies in the Renewable Energy Sources (RES) sector, specializing in the development, design, and supply of systems for energy saving and electricity generation. It is the only company that trades photovoltaic systems and also has its own repair laboratory. What differentiates NanoDomi from other wholesale suppliers, beyond the immediate product availability and competitive prices, is that it operates as a “one-stop shop,” while also providing consultancy and actively participating in project design, focusing on the customized needs of each partner.