Disappointing 1000W inverter

[alan-c]

I have just completed a stand alone (not grid connected) solar PV powered mains supply in my garage as mentioned in the thread "solar earthing question".

The Epever 1000W continuous inverter seems to be cutting out at low loads: I plugged in all my tool chargers (1 x 36v, 2 x 18v, 1 x 10.8v) estimated total load about 200-250W max and the inverter cut out after a couple of minutes. I tried again and added a 60W bulb to the load and it cut even quicker. With just a bulb and two soldering irons total 210W it ran for some time and didn't cut out. Then I tried a bench grinder (max 350W) and the inverter cut then restarted over and over gradually spinning the grinder faster until it reached a point where it would spin up to full speed without cutting out - I didn't bother trying to grind anything.

The above suggests that the grinder has a start up load much higher than 1000W due to the inertia of the wheels, but I can't see why the chargers would cause the inverter to cut; I plugged them in one at a time, no sudden load. Any suggestions before I contact the supplier? Also I don't know if it is possible to easily measure peak/transient loads.

 

[tlangdon12]

I'd guess that one possible cause is that the load is too low. I would suggest you try it with a 800-900W mainly resistive load (like a small fan heater with just one element switched on) to see if it is better behaved at higher loads. If that works, all you can really do is try a variety of loads to find what works and what doesn't.

 

[GeorgeCooke]

Was the sun shining? Is there a battery in the system to take over at night or on dull days? If there is is it fully charged?

 

[alan-c]

GeorgeCook, yes, the supply is a solar charged 24v 110Ah battery and the minimum voltage noted was above that at which the inverter cuts out according to the manual. I have tried higher loads, 1000W heater and 6000W toaster and it cuts immediately. I have written to the supplier and will report back when situation is resolved - or not.