On this page
01. Quick checks you can do first02. What usually causes it03. When to call a technician04. Parts that fix it05. FAQ
If the battery isn't charging from solar, find where the power stops. Check the inverter shows PV input during the day, the PV and battery breakers are on, the panels are clean and unshaded, and the charge settings match your battery type. Lithium batteries also need the right BMS communication. No PV voltage on the display usually means a wiring, breaker or panel fault.
Key takeaways
- Check the display for PV voltage and watts at midday.
- A tripped DC breaker or loose MC4 connector stops all charging.
- Wrong battery type in settings can stop or limit charging.
- Dust and shade cut output sharply.
- Lithium batteries need correct BMS communication.
01Quick checks you can do first
- 01Look at PV input at middayZero volts means power isn't reaching the inverter. Some volts but no watts means the charger isn't taking it.
- 02Check the breakers and isolatorsBoth the PV isolator and the battery breaker must be on.
- 03Clean and look for shadeDust, bird droppings, a new building or tree shade can halve output.
- 04Check charge settingsBattery type, charge voltage and charge priority (solar first) must suit your battery.
- 05Check the battery itselfA battery at 100% won't take more. A dead cell or BMS fault won't accept charge.
02What usually causes it
| Symptom | Likely cause | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| PV shows 0 V | Breaker off, loose connector, broken cable | Check isolators and MC4 joints |
| PV volts fine, no charge watts | Charge priority or settings wrong | Set solar priority and correct battery type |
| Charges slowly | Dust, shade, too few panels | Clean, trim trees, add panels |
| Lithium shows error | BMS communication or protection | Check comms cable and protocol |
| Charging stopped after storm | Surge-damaged charger or panel | Technician test |
03When to call a technician
- PV voltage is zero and the breakers are on.
- The inverter shows a charger or BMS error.
- Panels are on a roof you can't safely reach.
- Charging is slow even on clear days.
Running this across several sites or branches? A Qyvea maintenance contract catches these faults on scheduled visits, with a written report after each one.
04Parts that fix it
05Frequently asked questions
Why does my solar charge in the morning then stop?
The battery may already be full, or the inverter switches to supplying loads. Check the battery percentage and charge priority.
How often should solar panels be cleaned in Kenya?
Every 1 to 3 months in dusty areas like Nairobi's Eastlands, Machakos or near murram roads; less in clean, rainy areas.
Can a bad battery stop solar charging?
Yes. A battery with a failed cell or BMS protection may refuse charge even when the panels are fine.
