Servicing an inverter and battery: what to check, how often, and what changes near the sea

An inverter and battery sit unnoticed until the lights go out. That is when you find out whether they have been looked after. This is what a service covers, and what you can check yourself.

What you can check monthly

• Battery level and any warnings on the inverter display or app.
• The area around the unit: clear, dry, cool and ventilated.
• Any new noises, smells or heat from the inverter or battery. If you notice any, switch off if it is safe and call us.

What we check in a service

• Connections. Terminals and lugs for tightness, heat marks and corrosion.
• Enclosure and ventilation. Dust, damp, insects, and airflow.
• Protection and board. Breakers, surge protection and labelling.
• Settings and logs. Error history, charge limits and changeover behaviour.
• Battery. Charge state and balance, and a test of the changeover.

Looking after the battery

Published guidance for lithium iron phosphate batteries is to keep them cool, avoid long periods at full charge or fully flat, and inspect terminals and connections every few months. Follow your manufacturer's instructions first.

Near the sea

In Camps Bay, Clifton and Sea Point, salt air corrodes connections faster, so we suggest a check at least once a year. Inland homes in Bishopscourt, Constantia and Newlands still benefit from a yearly look, especially on long cable runs.

Cost of a service

It depends on the system. See our cost guide for the bigger picture, or message us for a service quote.

Common questions

How often should a home inverter and battery be serviced?

Check the battery level and display monthly yourself. We recommend a professional inspection of connections, enclosure and settings at least once a year, and more often within sight of the sea.

What do you check during an inverter service?

Terminals and cable lugs for tightness and corrosion, the enclosure and ventilation, protection devices and the board, error logs and settings, battery state and balance, and that the system switches over correctly.

What shortens battery life?

Heat, being left flat for long periods, and sitting at full charge for long periods. Keep it cool and ventilated, and follow the manufacturer's guidance.

Do I need the City's papers again after a service?

A service does not change the approval. If you add panels, change the battery or inverter, or alter the setup, the City's rules may apply again.