Your GoodWe inverter has stopped feeding energy into the grid or is showing an error code on the LCD screen, in the SEMS Portal, or via the SolarGo app. Every code corresponds to a specific condition the inverter has detected. Some clear themselves within minutes. Others need a qualified electrician.
Last reviewed: April 2026. Error code lists verified against current GoodWe Australia documentation, SolarGo app alarm descriptions, and manufacturer troubleshooting guides. Contact PSW Life Support if your code is not listed or the recommended steps do not resolve the issue.
This guide covers every documented GoodWe error code across the full model range installed in Australia:
- NS/DNS – single-phase grid-tied
- MS – three-phase grid-tied
- SDT/MT – three-phase
- ET/ET Plus – three-phase hybrid
- EH/EHB/EM – single-phase hybrid
- ESA – all-in-one hybrid with integrated battery
- BH/BT – AC-coupled battery
- SBP – single-phase backup.
The ESA series uses the same inverter platform and error code architecture as the EH/EHB hybrid family. Each code includes a description and instructions on what to do about it.
Contents
Fnding your error code
DNS / MS / SDT series (LCD screen models): Short-press the button on the front of the inverter to scroll through the menu. Navigate to “Error” or “Fault” to see the current or most recent error code. The LCD will display “Normal” during standard operation or “Waiting” during start-up.
ET / EH / EHB / EM / BH hybrid series: Open the SolarGo app on your phone, connect locally via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, then tap Home → Parameters → Alarm. You can also check alarms remotely through the SEMS Portal at sems.com.au under the Alarms tab for your plant.
SEMS Portal (all models): Log in at semsportal.com. Navigate to your plant and click the “Alarms” tab. Active and historical alarms are listed with timestamps.
LED-only models (XS, SBP): Count the number of red LED blinks and match the pattern to the fault table in your installation manual.
GoodWe error code organisation
GoodWe splits fault codes into two categories. Understanding which category your code belongs to tells you a lot before you look up the specific number.
- System faults are caused by factors external to the inverter, such as grid voltage or frequency outside the permitted range, ground insulation issues, or environmental conditions such as extreme heat. The inverter is doing its job by shutting down to protect itself and your property. Most system faults are temporary and resolve automatically when the external condition returns to normal.
- Inverter failures are internal hardware or firmware faults: relay failures, communication errors, memory chip problems, or sensor malfunctions. These typically require a restart or professional service.
Both categories comply with AS 4777.2:2020 protection requirements. Your inverter must disconnect when voltage, frequency, or leakage current drifts outside the limits mandated by the standard. This is a safety feature, not a design flaw.
Try a restart
Many GoodWe error codes resolve with a standard system restart. Before contacting your installer, try this:
- Switch OFF the AC isolator (circuit breaker in your switchboard labelled “Solar” or “Inverter”)
- Switch OFF the DC isolator (rocker switch on the underside or side of the inverter, or the DC switch on the DC isolator enclosure)
- Wait at least five minutes. The inverter LCD should go completely blank
- Switch ON the DC isolator first
- Switch ON the AC isolator
- Wait for the inverter to complete its self-check cycle (the LCD will show “Checking” followed by a countdown, then “Normal” if the fault has cleared)
If the code reappears after the restart, note the exact code number and the time it occurred, then look it up below.
Safety notice: Never open the inverter cover or disconnect DC connectors yourself. DC cables from solar panels carry dangerous voltage during daylight hours. All work inside the inverter or on DC wiring is restricted to licensed electricians under Western Australian electrical safety legislation.
System faults
These codes indicate something external to the inverter is outside acceptable parameters. The inverter has shut down to protect itself and your electrical system. In most cases, it will automatically restart when conditions return to normal.
In Perth and regional WA, voltage-related codes (Vac Failure) are the most common system faults. Grid voltage on the SWIS network can rise above nominal during high-solar-export periods, particularly in suburbs with high rooftop PV penetration. If you see a voltage error during the middle of the day that clears by afternoon, this is almost certainly a local network voltage issue rather than an inverter problem.
| Code / alarm name | Description | What to do |
|---|---|---|
Fac Failure (Error 03) | Grid frequency outside the permitted range | Automatic. The inverter restarts within five minutes once frequency normalises. Rare in WA. If persistent, contact your installer |
Vac Failure (Error 15) | Grid voltage outside the permitted range | Most common error code in Perth. Usually caused by high network voltage during peak solar hours (midday to early afternoon). The inverter restarts automatically when voltage drops. If this appears daily, your installer can request a Western Power network voltage assessment or review the inverter’s volt-watt response settings |
Isolation Failure (Error 14) | Ground insulation impedance between the PV array and earth is too low | Contact your installer. Possible causes: degraded cable insulation, moisture in a rooftop DC isolator or MC4 connector, or a panel junction box fault. More common after heavy rain. If it clears in dry weather, monitor it. If persistent in dry conditions, the DC array needs an insulation resistance test |
Ground Failure (Error 22) | High ground leakage current detected | Contact your installer. Do not ignore. This is a safety-related fault indicating current is leaking to earth through the PV array or wiring insulation. May indicate water ingress, damaged insulation, or a panel-level fault |
GFCI Failure | Ground fault circuit interrupter detection circuit has failed | Contact your installer. The safety monitoring circuit itself has a fault, which means it cannot properly detect earth leakage. The inverter cannot safely operate until this is resolved |
Utility Loss | Grid disconnection. No mains supply detected | Check your main switchboard circuit breakers. Confirm whether there is an area-wide outage by checking the Western Power outage map (westernpower.com.au/faults-outages). If the grid is available and this code persists, check that the Solar Supply Main Switch (SSMS) and inverter AC isolator are both turned on |
PV Over Voltage (Error 17) | DC input voltage from the solar panels exceeds the inverter’s maximum limit | Contact your installer immediately. This should not occur in a correctly designed system. Possible causes: a string configuration error, a fault in a panel bypass diode, or extreme cold weather increasing open-circuit voltage. Do not restart without professional inspection |
PV Input Configuration | PV input voltage or current is outside expected parameters | Turn off the DC switch, disconnect the DC connectors, and check the PV module voltage with a multimeter (licensed electrician only). If the voltage is below 250V, the string configuration may need review. Contact your installer |
No AC Connection | The inverter cannot detect an AC grid connection | Check that the Solar Supply Main Switch (SSMS) and inverter AC isolator are both turned on. Verify no circuit breakers have tripped. If wiring appears intact and the grid is live, contact your installer to check the AC terminals |
Temperature Too High (Error 18) | Internal temperature has exceeded the safe operating limit | Check ventilation around the inverter. Clear any debris, spider webs, or vegetation within 300mm of the heatsink fins. In Perth, this is common on 40°C+ days, particularly for inverters mounted on north or west-facing walls in direct afternoon sun. The inverter will derate (reduce output) to protect itself and may shut down entirely in extreme heat. Consider installing a shade hood if this occurs regularly |
PE Loss | Protective Earth connection lost. The inverter has detected a problem with grounding | Contact your installer. This is safety-critical. The inverter has lost its earth connection, which could be caused by a loose terminal, corroded conductor, or damaged earthing system. The system should not operate without a functioning earth |
DC Injection Too High (Error 12) | The DC component of the AC output current exceeds the permitted level | Switch off both the AC and DC isolators. Wait five minutes, then restart (DC on first, then AC). If the error persists, contact your installer. This may indicate a measurement circuit fault or an internal component issue |
Output Over-Current (Error 17) | AC output current exceeds the inverter’s rated limit | Check that all AC connections are secure. Contact your installer if persistent. Possible causes: a grid impedance issue or an internal measurement fault |
Arc Fault Detected | The inverter’s AFCI (arc fault circuit interrupter) has detected a potential arc in the DC wiring | Contact your installer immediately. Do not restart without professional inspection. Arc faults in DC wiring are a fire risk. Possible causes: a loose MC4 connector, damaged cable insulation, or a corroded junction box terminal. More common in older installations |
Inverter failures
These codes indicate an internal hardware or firmware fault within the inverter itself. Always try a full restart (AC off → DC off → wait 5 minutes → DC on → AC on) first. If the code returns, you need professional service.
| Code / alarm name | Description | What to do |
|---|---|---|
Relay Check Failure (Error 01) | The internal relay self-test has failed. The inverter cannot confirm its isolation relay is functioning correctly | Restart. If persistent, the relay may need replacement. Contact PSW Life Support |
SPI Failure (Error 07) | Internal communication failure between the inverter’s processor and control board | Restart. If persistent, the inverter needs service. This is not a user-resolvable fault |
EEPROM R/W Failure (Error 25) | The inverter’s internal memory chip has failed to read or write data | Restart. If persistent, contact your installer. The control board may need replacement |
Fan Failure — External (Error 16) | The external cooling fan is not operating | Restart. Check whether the fan is physically obstructed by debris or spider webs (common in Perth). If the fan is clear and the error persists, the fan motor may need replacement. Contact your installer |
Fan Failure — Internal (Error 20) | The internal cooling fan has failed | Restart. If persistent, the fan needs replacement. Contact your installer |
Bus Voltage High (Error 21) | The DC bus voltage inside the inverter has exceeded the safe limit | Switch the DC isolator off and on (wait 30 seconds between). Repeat once. If the error persists, contact your installer |
DSP Communication Fault | Communication failure between the ARM processor and DSP processor inside the inverter | Restart. If persistent, the inverter likely needs a firmware update or hardware service. Contact PSW Life Support |
Internal Communication Error | General internal communication failure | Restart. If persistent, contact your installer |
Sensor Fault / Temperature Sensor Error | An internal temperature sensor is providing implausible readings | Restart. If persistent, contact your installer. The sensor or associated circuit board may need replacement |
RSVD Fault | Reserved error code. This is a catch-all for uncommon internal faults not assigned a specific code | Restart. If persistent, contact your installer. This fault typically requires diagnostic software to identify the root cause |
No Display | The inverter LCD screen is blank despite DC power being available | Turn off the DC switch. Disconnect the DC connector and measure the PV string voltage (licensed electrician only). Reconnect and turn on the DC switch. If the voltage is present but the screen remains blank, the display board or power supply may have failed. Contact your installer |
Battery and hybrid-specific faults (ET, EH, EHB, ESA, EM, BH, BT, SBP series)
If you have a GoodWe hybrid inverter with a connected battery (including the ESA all-in-one system), you may see additional fault codes related to the battery management system (BMS), backup output, and battery charging or discharging. These codes appear in the SolarGo app and SEMS Portal alongside the standard system fault and inverter failure codes listed above. The ESA series uses the same alarm codes as the EH/EHB hybrid models, with the addition of AFCI 3.0 arc fault detection as standard.
| Code / alarm name | Description | What to do |
|---|---|---|
Battery BMS Communication Failure | The inverter has lost communication with the battery’s management system | Check that the BMS communication cable between the inverter and battery is securely connected. If using CAN communication (default), verify the cable is plugged into the correct port. If the cable is secure, restart the battery (follow the manufacturer’s shutdown and restart procedure for your specific battery brand). If persistent, contact PSW Life Support |
Battery Voltage Too High | The battery voltage exceeds the inverter’s maximum battery input specification | Contact your installer. This should not occur with a correctly configured compatible battery. The battery type selection in the inverter settings may be incorrect |
Battery Voltage Too Low | The battery voltage has dropped below the minimum operating threshold | If the battery has been fully discharged or disconnected for an extended period, it may need to be manually restarted. Some lithium batteries require a minimum voltage (typically 180V for high-voltage systems) before the inverter can communicate with them. Contact your installer or battery manufacturer |
Battery SOC Low | Battery state of charge is critically low | The battery will stop discharging when it reaches the minimum SOC threshold (configurable in SolarGo). This is protective behaviour. The battery will recharge from solar when generation resumes. If the battery is not recharging despite available solar, check for other active faults |
Back-up Overload | The load on the backup output exceeds the inverter’s rated backup capacity | Reduce the load on your backup circuit. Turn off high-draw appliances connected to the backup supply (electric heaters, large air conditioners, kettles). The inverter’s backup output has a lower power rating than its grid-connected output. Check the inverter specifications for your model’s backup capacity |
Battery Over-temperature | The battery temperature exceeds the safe operating range | Check ventilation around the battery installation. Ensure nothing is blocking airflow. If the battery is installed in a non-ventilated enclosure or exposed to direct sunlight, the installation may need modification. Contact your installer |
Battery Under-temperature | The ambient temperature is too low for the battery to operate | Rare in Perth. Most lithium batteries will not charge or discharge below 0°C to 5°C. If your battery is installed in an unheated space that drops below freezing overnight (uncommon in metro Perth, possible in hills or regional WA), the battery will resume operation when it warms up |
BMS Status: Abnormal | The battery management system is reporting a fault condition | Contact your installer or battery manufacturer. The specific fault will be detailed in the battery’s own monitoring system or app. For compatible lithium batteries, the BMS status should display “Normal” in the SolarGo app after the correct battery type is selected in the inverter settings |
SOC Reset to 95% | The battery state of charge has been automatically reset to 95% | This typically occurs when BMS communication drops out while using lithium batteries. The battery enters float charge mode and the SOC reading resets. Re-establish BMS communication (check cables) and the SOC will recalibrate over a few charge-discharge cycles |
GoodWe LED status indicators
If you cannot read an error code on the LCD (screen is blank, or you have a model without a display), the LED indicators on the front of the inverter provide a quick status check.
DNS / MS series (three LEDs: yellow, green, red)
| LED | State | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
Yellow (Power) | Solid on | Inverter is electrified (DC power present) |
Green (Run) | Solid on | Inverter is feeding power to the grid (normal operation) |
Green (Run) | Off | Inverter is not generating power (night, fault, or waiting) |
Red (Fault) | Solid on | A fault has occurred. Check the LCD for the error code |
Red (Fault) | Off | No fault detected |
ET / EH / EHB / EM hybrid series (multiple LED indicators)
| LED | State | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
System | Solid on | System is ready and operating normally |
System | Blinking | System is starting up (self-check in progress) |
System | Off | System is not working (no power or fault) |
Battery | Solid on | Battery is charging |
Battery | Single blink | Battery is discharging |
Battery | Double blink | Battery SOC is low |
Battery | Off | Battery is disconnected or not active |
Grid | Solid on | Grid is active and connected |
Grid | Blinking | Grid is active but inverter is not connected (fault or waiting) |
Grid | Off | Grid is not active (outage) |
Export | Solid on | Importing power from the grid |
Export | Single blink | Zero export mode active (limiting export to grid) |
Export | Double blink | Exporting power to the grid |
Back-up | Solid on | Back-up output is ready and power is available |
Back-up | Off | Back-up output is off or not available |
Fault | Solid on | A fault has occurred. Check SolarGo app for the alarm code |
WiFi | Solid on | WiFi connected and communicating with SEMS Portal |
WiFi | Single blink | WiFi module is resetting |
WiFi | Double blink | WiFi is not connected to your router |
WiFi | Double blink | WiFi is connected to your router but cannot reach the SEMS server |
Immediate professional attention: Codes
Most GoodWe error codes are either temporary or can be resolved by restarting. The following codes require prompt action from a qualified electrician. Do not attempt a restart without professional advice if you see any of these:
- Isolation Failure / Ground Failure / PE Loss: Earth fault or insulation breakdown. Possible electrical safety risk in the DC wiring or panels
- GFCI Failure: The earth-leakage detection circuit has failed. The inverter cannot safely monitor for ground faults
- Arc Fault Detected: Potential fire risk in DC wiring. Do not restart
- PV Over Voltage: DC input voltage exceeds the inverter's maximum. Possible string design error or component fault
- Relay Check Failure (persistent after restart): The inverter cannot confirm its isolation relay is working. It cannot safely connect to the grid
PSW customers: For any code in this list, contact PSW Life Support. All other customers should call their original installer.
GoodWe WiFi and monitoring issues
A common issue that is not technically an error code: your GoodWe inverter stops reporting data to the SEMS Portal. The inverter is still generating power (check the green LED), but your monitoring app shows no updates.
This is almost always a WiFi disconnection. Your inverter lost its connection to your home router, typically because the router assigned a new IP address after a power outage or firmware update. Your solar system continues to operate normally — you just cannot see the data.
PSW has a dedicated step-by-step guide for reconnecting your GoodWe inverter to WiFi. See the GoodWe WiFi reconnection guide for instructions.
WiFi LED indicator quick reference:
- Solid on — Connected and communicating with SEMS Portal. Everything is working
- Slow blink (0.5s on, 0.5s off) — WiFi module is not connected to your router. Follow the reconnection guide
- Medium blink (2.5s on, 2.5s off) — Connected to your router but cannot reach the SEMS server. Check your internet connection
- Off — WiFi module is not active. May need a WiFi reload (long-press the Reset button for 3+ seconds)
ACCC recall notice
Goodwe EHB and GE GEH series (September 2025)
If you have a GoodWe EHB series or GE-branded GEH series hybrid inverter, be aware that an ACCC product safety recall was issued in September 2025. The affected models (GW5K-EHB-AU-G11, GW8.6K-EHB-AU-G11, GW9.99K-EHB-AU-G11, GEH5.0-1U-10, GEH8.6-1U-10, GEH10-1U-10) sold between May 2021 and September 2025 require a firmware update (version 050531) to correct a bypass switch fault that could allow the inverter to export power during an islanding event. Key actions for affected owners:
- Do not use the bypass switch. Leave it in the “Normal” position at all times until the firmware update is confirmed.
- Check your firmware version in the SolarGo app under Settings → Firmware Information. It should read at least version 050531.
- If your inverter is connected to the internet, GoodWe has pushed the update remotely. For offline systems, a technician visit is required.
- Contact GoodWe’s recall support on 0488 851 481 or email support2@goodwerecall.com.au if you are unsure whether your unit has been updated.
Keep your Goodwe firmware current
GoodWe releases firmware updates that improve grid compliance, fix known bugs, and add features. Keeping firmware current can prevent or resolve many error codes.
DNS / MS series (USB update): Download the firmware file from the GoodWe support portal, copy it to a FAT32-formatted USB drive, and insert it into the USB port on the inverter. Navigate to the firmware update menu on the LCD. Your installer should perform this during a service visit.
ET / EH / EHB / EM / BH hybrid series (SolarGo app or remote): Open the SolarGo app and connect locally to the inverter. Navigate to Settings → Firmware Update. Alternatively, if your inverter is online, GoodWe can push firmware updates remotely through the SEMS Portal under Maintenance → OTA Update.
If your inverter is not connected to the internet, it cannot receive update notifications or remote updates. PSW recommends connecting your inverter to your home WiFi to enable remote monitoring, firmware updates, and fault notifications.
Frequent questions
My inverter shows a Vac Failure every day around midday. Is it broken?
No. This is the most common GoodWe alarm in Perth, and it means the grid voltage at your property has exceeded the inverter’s permitted limit. Under AS 4777.2:2020, your inverter must disconnect when the voltage exceeds the threshold. This is common in suburbs with high rooftop solar penetration, where many systems export simultaneously, pushing local grid voltage up. The inverter restarts automatically when the voltage drops.
If this is significantly reducing your daily generation, your installer can review the volt-watt response settings or request a Western Power network voltage assessment.
What does "Waiting" mean on the LCD screen?
Your inverter is powered on but not yet generating. This is normal at dawn and dusk when there is insufficient sunlight to begin feed-in. The inverter will show “Checking” (followed by a countdown) as it performs its mandatory self-check before connecting to the grid, then switch to “Normal” when it starts exporting.
If “Waiting” persists during strong sunlight, check for a tripped DC isolator, heavy shading, or another active fault code.
The SEMS Portal shows my inverter as "Offline" but the green LED is on. What is happening?
Your inverter has lost its internet connection but is still generating power normally. Your solar system is still working and exporting energy; you just cannot see the data in the app or portal.
Follow the GoodWe WiFi reconnection guide to restore monitoring.
My hybrid inverter shows a BMS Communication Failure. Is my battery damaged?
Not necessarily. This usually means the communication cable between the inverter and the battery has come loose, or that the battery has entered standby mode. Check the BMS cable connection first. If the cable is secure, try restarting the battery according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
If the alarm persists, PSW customers should contact PSW Life Support, and we will coordinate with the battery manufacturer.
I have an error code not listed here. What should I do?
Contact PSW Life Support with the error code number or alarm name, your inverter model and serial number, and the approximate time the error appeared. We service GoodWe inverters across Perth and can diagnose many issues remotely through the SEMS Portal.
Is my GoodWe inverter affected by the September 2025 recall?
Only if you have:
- GoodWe EHB series – GW5K-EHB-AU-G11, GW8.6K-EHB-AU-G11
- GW9.99K-EHB-AU-G11 or
- GE-branded, GEH series – GEH5.0-1U-10, GEH8.6-1U-10, GEH10-1U-10
Installed between May 2021 and September 2025. Other GoodWe models (DNS, MS, ET, EH, BH, BT) are not affected. Check your firmware version in the SolarGo app; it should be at least 050531. If in doubt, contact GoodWe.
References
- GoodWe Australia: Support and downloads
GoodWe: SolarGo app user manual
ACCC Product Safety: GoodWe EHB and GEH series recall notice (September 2025)
AS 4777.2:2020: Grid connection of energy systems via inverters (Part 2: Inverter requirements)
Western Power: Technical Rules and Metering Code
This guide is current as of April 2026. GoodWe firmware updates may introduce new error codes or modify existing behaviour. PSW customers should contact PSW Life Support for the latest information.
