WaterSecure Faults

This article is to go over the different Water Secure faults, what they mean and what we can do about them.

Fault code 1

Over Temperature due to Fan Fault

Inverter is overheating, ensure unit has proper ventilation and is not in direct sun. Ensure the inverter is in a protected environment, where leave, debris or insects can't jam the fan or damage the wires. Power down unit and allow time to cool. Check fan operation and replace if fans are not functioning. The fans are standard 12VDC.

Fault code 2

General Overload

AC load exceeds the max rated power rating of the unit. Reduce load by removing some of the items that are plugged in and restart. This can happen due to higher than expected amperage or voltage use when an appliance starts up. A water heater that runs on 4kWh may need up to 12kWh to start up and you'll have to consider that when purchasing the unit.

 Appliances like air conditioners needs at least 3 minutes to restart in case of a power shortage in a way that the power turns off and back on again rapidly. Otherwise, the inverter will trigger overload fault and shut off output to protect your appliance.

Fault code 3

Output Short Circuit

We sometimes see this happen when there's damage in the wiring of either the inverter or the appliances it's running. Shut off Water Secure and disconnect all loads. Inspect load equipment for any damage or short circuits. Double check output wiring. Ensure unit is outputting correct voltage using a multimeter.

Fault code 4

Over/Under Temperature

Inverter is either overheating during operation, or under temperature. Ensure the unit has proper ventilation. Power down unit to allow time to cool. or move to an area that can be brought up to temperature. The batteries also should be protected from getting too cold as it will drastically reduce their capacity, reduce their lifespan and can damage them permanently. 

Fault code 5

Low Battery Voltage

Battery voltage is low and batteries are discharged, allow batteries time to charge via solar or AC power. Ensure all battery jumpers are tight and power off any loads to allow batteries to charge before trying to run unit again. Run a battery audit to ensure your system can comfortably power the item you're wanting to run. Refer to Water Secure Battery Audit

Fault code 6

Input/Output Reversed

This can be caused when the wiring on the inverter is incorrect. Power off unit and ensure all input and output wire are properly connected. Double check hot, neutral, and ground wires are connected to the correct terminals. If not, rewire the incorrect wires and restart the system.

Fault code 7

Semi-Wave Short Circuit

Sometimes the appliance you're trying to run will draw more power than is expected, and this can cause a fault. This fault means the connected load power has spiked or is exhibiting unusual load connection. Lower the load amount connected or try to run a different item and restart the inverter.

Fault code 8

Over Charge

Battery charger error or battery damage present. test each battery voltage, if one is significantly lower than the rest and could be damaged. There could also be an issue with the charge controller inside the inverter. Consult RPS tech support.

Fault code 9

Battery Over Voltage

Battery bank voltage higher then unit specifications. Double check the battery bank voltage matches the required input voltage for your unit. 24V for 3K units and 48V for 6K and 12K units.

Unspecified fault.

There are times that your system may get an unspecified fault, which causes the inverter to constantly beep but won't show a fault. This can happen if there is too much solar input, too many batteries or not enough batteries. Make sure your entire system is connected as it should be and check the voltage of the panels with a multimeter.