Important information from Energex regarding your solar system.
If your solar PV system becomes wet or submerged while it’s still switched on, you must treat it as a serious electrical hazard. Remember, even if your mains power supply is disconnected, your solar system will continue producing electricity during daylight hours.
Take the following precautions to stay safe around your solar PV system during a flood:
- If any part of your system is underwater or wet, assume it is dangerous and keep your distance
- Don’t attempt to turn it off or touch any components or wiring
- Stay away from solar panels and wiring if you’re forced onto a rooftop.
Step 1 – Turn Off the AC
Switch off the AC isolator. This should be located either in your switchboard or meter box, and you may also have one on your inverter. It should be labeled as ‘AC switch’ or ‘Solar Supply Main Switch.’
Step 2 – Turn Off the DC
Turn off the DC isolator, which is typically found underneath the inverter. The screen should go blank, and the lights will turn off. Leave it in this state for about 5 minutes before turning it back on.
Note; after switching your system off, wait at least 5 minutes before turning it back on.
How to turn your solar system back on.
Step 1 – Turn On the DC
It’s crucial to turn the DC isolator on first when restarting, as switching DC while the AC is on could cause the isolator to arc.
Step 2 – Turn On the AC
Switch the AC isolator (solar supply main switch) back on, and wait. All inverters take at least one minute to restart. During this time, you may see flashing lights as the inverter conducts internal testing, and various messages may appear on the screen. This is completely normal.
Basic instructions can also be found on your inverter or switchboard.
Switching off your battery storage solution
Step 1 – Begin by turning off the main battery supply switch, which is typically located in the switchboard or in close proximity to the battery.
Step 2 – Next, locate the PV array DC isolator, which is situated near the battery (if applicable).
Step 3 – After that, open the battery unit and turn off the DC isolator inside the unit.
When it’s time to start up the system again, simply reverse the steps outlined in this shutdown procedure to power everything back up.