Support for an existing solar and battery system
Our solar installation support resources provide information to assist you with issues that may occur after installation.
Solar and battery systems are reliable, but like any electrical equipment, issues can sometimes happen after installation. If something isn’t working as expected or you notice a problem with your solar panels, inverter or battery:
- Contact a qualified electrician or your original installer
- Avoid trying to fix electrical equipment yourself
Your installer should check that your system meets safety requirements before it is switched.
Why your solar exports can change
It’s normal for solar exports to go up and down.
Your system’s ability to send excess electricity back to the grid can change due to:
- Cloudy weather
- Time of day
- How much electricity nearby homes are using
- Built‑in safety features that protect your home and the network
These features help prevent damage to equipment and keep power safe and stable.
Inverter errors and warning messages
Some inverter messages are temporary and clear on their own.
If the message:
- Keeps coming back
- Doesn’t clear after restarting
- Stops your system from working
Contact your installer or check the manufacturer’s support website for guidance.
If you’re unsure, a licensed electrician can safely investigate.
Many inverters use the word grid in error messages.
This doesn’t always mean there’s a problem with the electricity network. In most cases, it’s related to:
- Installation wiring
- System settings
- Local electrical conditions
Your installer is best placed to diagnose the cause.
Inverters and batteries may make a soft humming sound during operation. Solar panels should be silent.
If you hear loud buzzing, crackling or rattling:
- Arrange an inspection as soon as possible
- Contact your installer or a licensed electrician
Looking after your solar and battery system
Regular maintenance helps your system perform well and last longer.
We recommend a yearly check by a qualified electrician to:
- Clean panels
- Check fixings and cables
- Test system performance
- Identify safety issues early
Warranties and complaints
Many solar products come with long warranties, with panels often up to 25 years and inverters up to 10 years. If you believe your warranty isn’t being honoured:
- Contact your installer first
- Clean Energy Council Approved Retailers have minimum warranty obligations
- Support is also available through consumer protection agencies
Why your system doesn’t always reach its maximum rating
Your system’s advertised capacity is a peak rating. In everyday use, output changes due to:
- Sun angle and seasons
- Cloudy weather
- Shade from trees or buildings
Most systems reach peak output only for short periods on clear summer days.
Your inverter app can help you track performance over time.
Adding to or upgrading an existing system
If you’re thinking about:
- Adding panels
- Installing a battery
- Replacing an older system
We recommend speaking with a Clean Energy Council Accredited Installer. In many cases, replacing an ageing system with a new one can be more efficient than expanding an older setup.
Thinking about second‑hand solar equipment?
While reusing equipment can be appealing, older systems often don’t meet current safety or performance requirements.
Used equipment can affect warranties and rebates meaning installers may not be able to guarantee performance.
New installations must meet today’s standards, even if older equipment is used.
Safety inspections
Ausgrid sometimes inspects solar and battery systems after connection.
Please note:
- Inspections may occur months after installation
- Unsafe systems may be disconnected immediately
If this happens, you’ll receive information about what needs to be fixed before reconnection.
Who to contact for help
Always start with contacting your original installer.
If they’re unavailable, you can contact a Clean Energy Council Accredited Installeror a New Energy Tech Approved Seller.
Consumer support is also available through:
- NSW Fair Trading
- ACCC
- Clean Energy Council complaints process