Y&H SUN-4.2K12V/24V-HV

Y&H 4.2KW Hybrid Solar Inverter User Manual

Model: SUN-4.2K12V/24V-HV

Brand: Y&H

About This Manual

Purpose

This manual introduces the assembly, installation, operation, and troubleshooting of the Y&H 4.2KW Hybrid Solar Inverter. Please read this manual carefully before installation and operation to ensure proper functionality and safety.

Target Group

This manual is designed for both professionals and end-users. Operations that do not require specific skills can be handled by end-users. Professionals should possess the following skills:

  • Understand how the inverter works and operates.
  • Knowledge of handling crises and risks in the installation and use of electrical equipment.
  • Ability to install and commission electrical equipment and fixtures.
  • Understanding and adherence to applicable standards, directives, and safety knowledge.

Safety Regulations

Warning: This article contains important safety and operation instructions. Please read and save this manual for future reference.

  1. Choose the corresponding setting for lead-acid or lithium battery. Incorrect settings may cause system malfunction.
  2. Read all instructions and cautions on the unit and understand all battery models and relevant chapters in this manual before use.
  3. Never short-circuit AC output and DC input. Do not connect mains when DC input is short-circuited.
  4. Never charge a non-rechargeable battery.
  5. Do not disassemble the unit. For maintenance or repair, send it to a professional technical service center. Incorrect reassembly may lead to electric shock or fire.
  6. To reduce electric shock risk, disconnect all wiring before maintenance or cleaning. Turning off the device alone does not eliminate this risk.
  7. Exercise extreme caution when using metal tools on or around the battery to prevent short circuits or other electronic component damage.
  8. Select the appropriate cable size for optimal operation of this off-grid solar inverter.
  9. When disconnecting AC or DC terminals, strictly follow the installation procedure.
  10. This off-grid solar inverter must be connected to a permanent grounding wiring system, complying with local requirements.
  11. Provide a fuse meeting specifications for battery power supply overcurrent protection.
  12. Warning: Only professional service personnel can repair this equipment. If errors persist after troubleshooting, return the inverter to the local dealer or service center.

Introduction

The Y&H 4.2KW Hybrid Solar Inverter is a multifunctional off-grid solar inverter that integrates an MPPT solar charging controller, a high-frequency pure sine wave inverter, and a UPS function module. It is ideal for off-grid backup power supply and self-consumption systems. Its high-frequency transformer design ensures reliable power conversion in a compact size.

For complete system operation, additional equipment such as photovoltaic modules, a generator, or a utility grid may be required. Consult your system integrator for other possible system components. An optional WiFi module allows for remote monitoring of the solar system's status via mobile phones or websites.

Features

  • Supports two battery voltage modes: 12V (max 2300W load) and 24V (max 4200W load).
  • Pure sine wave output inverter.
  • Selectable input voltage range for utility grid based on load requirements (household appliances/personal computers).
  • Adjustable charging current via LCD based on battery requirements.
  • Simultaneous power supply to loads from solar energy and utility grid.
  • AC input compatible with mains and generator.
  • Automatic restart function upon mains power restoration.
  • Comprehensive protection: Overload, Over temperature, Short circuit.
  • Intelligent battery charging design for optimized battery utilization.
  • RS485 port for BMS communication.
  • Cold start function.
  • Built-in MPPT with operating voltage range 55V-500V and open circuit voltage 500Voc.
  • Optional WiFi remote monitoring.
  • Optional RGB lamp displaying inverter status with different colors.
  • Built-in anti-dust kit for harsh environments.

Basic System Architecture

The following diagram illustrates the basic application of this inverter/charger, including connections to a generator or mains electricity and optional solar modules. This inverter can power various home and office appliances, including motor-type appliances like refrigerators and air conditioners.

Hybrid Power System Diagram
Figure 1: Hybrid Power System Overview, showing connections to solar panels, generator/mains, battery, and home appliances.

Setup (Installation)

Unpacking and Inspection

Unpack the inverter and inspect for any damage. The package should contain:

  • Machine x 1
  • User manual x 1

Preparation Before Installation

Before connecting any wiring, remove the bottom cover by unscrewing the two screws.

Installation

Consider the following points for installation:

  • Do not install on flammable building materials.
  • Install on a solid surface.
  • Install at eye level for easy LCD display reading.
  • Maintain a 20-50 cm gap for ventilation and heat dissipation.
  • Operating environment temperature should be 0-55°C.
  • Install vertically against the wall, ensuring adequate space from the ground.

Suitable for installation on concrete or other non-combustible surfaces only.

Tighten the screws to fix the installation. M4 or M5 screws are recommended.

Inverter Installation Diagram
Inverter installation diagram, showing mounting points and recommended clearances.

Battery Connection

Warning: Shock Hazard. Installation must be performed with care due to high battery voltage in series.

Caution: Do not place anything between the inverter terminal and the ring terminal to avoid short circuits or overheating.

Caution: Do not apply antioxidant to the terminal before it is tightly connected.

Caution: Before final DC connection, ensure positive (+) is connected to positive (+) and negative (-) to negative (-).

It is required to install an independent DC overcurrent protector or disconnect device between the battery and the inverter. All wiring must be performed by qualified personnel. Use appropriate cable for battery connection to ensure system safety and efficient operation.

Recommended Battery Cable Specifications:

ModelWire SpecificationTorque Value
12V1 * 2/0 AWG (67mm²)2-3 Nm
24V1 * 1/0 AWG (54mm²)2-3 Nm

Note: The recommended charging current for lead-acid batteries is 0.2C (C is battery capacity).

Lead-Acid Battery Connection Steps:

  1. Connect the battery according to the recommended cable specifications.
  2. Connect all battery packs as needed.
  3. Insert the ring terminal of the battery cable into the inverter's battery connector flatly. Tighten bolts with a torque of 2-3 Nm. Ensure correct polarities and tighten the ring terminal to the battery terminal.

Lithium Battery Connection:

If using lithium batteries, only those matched with BMS communication protocol are allowed. Follow the lead-acid battery connection steps (1-2), then:

  1. Connect one side of the RJ45 cable to the inverter's BMS communication port.
  2. Insert the other side of the RJ45 cable into the lithium battery's RS485 communication port.

Note: Ensure the lithium battery BMS port's PIN corresponds with the inverter BMS communication port. If using a lithium battery, connect the BMS communication cable and select 'LIB' mode in program 05, then select the matching battery protocol in program 10.

Wiring and Technical Specifications Diagram
Figure 2: Wiring and Technical Specifications Diagram, illustrating connections for solar panels, generator/mains, main output, and 12V/24V battery.

AC Input/Output Connection

Caution: Install a separate AC breaker between the inverter and AC input power source for secure disconnection and overcurrent protection.

Caution: There are 'IN' and 'OUT' markings on terminal blocks. Do NOT misconnect input and output connectors.

Warning: All wiring must be performed by qualified personnel. Use appropriate cable size for AC input connection.

Suitable Cable Specifications for AC Wires:

ModelWire GaugeTorque Value
12V/24V1 * 12 AWG1.2-1.6 Nm

AC Input/Output Connection Steps:

  1. Before making AC input/output connections, ensure the DC protector or disconnector is open.
  2. Remove 10mm of insulation sleeve for six conductors. Shorten phase L and neutral conductor N by 3mm.
  3. Insert AC input wires into the terminal block according to polarities. Tighten terminal screws. Connect PE protective conductor (yellow-green) first. L (brown or black) to LINE, N (blue) to Neutral.
  4. Warning: Ensure AC power source is disconnected before hardwiring to the unit.
  5. Insert AC output conductors according to polarity identification at the terminal and tighten the screw. L (brown or black) to LINE, N (blue) to Neutral.
  6. Ensure all wires are firmly connected.

PV Connection

Caution: Install a DC circuit breaker between the inverter and PV module.

Warning: All wiring must be performed by qualified personnel. Use appropriate cable for PV module connection.

PV Module Selection Parameters:

  • Open circuit Voltage (Voc) of PV modules must not exceed the max. PV array open circuit voltage of the inverter (500V).
  • Open circuit Voltage (Voc) of PV modules should be higher than the minimum battery voltage.
ParameterValue
Max. PV Array Power4000W
I Max. PV18A
Nominal PV Voltage240V
PV Array MPPT Voltage Range55V-500V
Max. PV Array Open Circuit Voltage500V

PV Module Connection Steps:

  1. Remove 10mm of insulation sleeve for positive and negative conductors.
  2. Check correct polarity of connection cable from PV modules and PV input connectors. Connect positive pole (+) to positive pole (+) of PV input connector, and negative pole (-) to negative pole (-) of PV input connector.
  3. Ensure wires are securely connected.

Final Assembly

After connecting all wires, reattach the bottom cover and screw it into place.

Operating

Power On/Off

After correctly installing the machine and connecting the battery, simply press the On/Off switch to power on the inverter.

Operation and Display

The front panel of the inverter features an LCD screen and four function keys for indicating operation status and input/output power information.

Inverter Front Panel with LCD and Function Keys
Figure 3: Inverter Front Panel, showing the LCD screen, charging indicator, function keys, power on/off button, fault indicator, and status indicator.

Function Keys:

  • ESC: To exit setting mode.
  • UP: To go to previous selection.
  • DOWN: To go to next selection.
  • ENTER: To confirm selection or enter setting mode.

RGB Light (Optional):

  • Green light: Inverter state.
  • Blue light: Utility state.
  • Red light: Failure state.

LED Indicator:

LED IndicatorMessages
AC/INV (Green, Solid On)Output is powered by utility in Line mode.
CHG (Green, Flashing)Output is powered by battery or PV in battery mode.
CHG (Green, Solid On)Battery is fully charged.
CHG (Green, Flashing)Battery is charging.
FAULT (Red, Solid On)Fault occurs in the inverter.
FAULT (Red, Flashing)Warning condition occurs in the inverter.

LCD Setting

Press and hold the 'ENTER' button for 3 seconds to enter setting mode. Use 'UP' or 'DOWN' to select programs, and 'ENTER' to confirm or 'ESC' to exit.

Key Setting Programs:

OptionDescriptionOptional Item (Default)Description
00Exit setting modeESCEscape from setting mode.
01Output source prioritySUB (Solar First)Solar energy prioritizes load supply. Utility provides power if solar energy is insufficient.
SBU (Solar Battery Utility)Solar power is preferentially supplied to the load. If solar energy is insufficient, battery powers the load. Mains supply power only if both solar and battery are insufficient.
MKS (Utility First)Solar energy prioritizes load supply. If solar energy is insufficient, battery powers the load. Utility provides power only when battery voltage drops to low-level warning or solar energy is absent.
02Maximum charging current10A - 100A (Default: 60A)Configures total charging current for solar and utility chargers.
03AC input voltage rangeAPL (Appliances)Acceptable AC input voltage range: 90-280VAC.
UPS (Personal Computers)Acceptable AC input voltage range: 170-280VAC.
04Power saving mode enable/disableSdS (Disable)Inverter output unaffected by load level.
SEn (Enable)Inverter output turns off when connected load is very low or not detected.
05Battery typeAGM (Default)Selects AGM battery type.
FLd (Flooded)Selects Flooded battery type.
USE (User Defined)Allows custom battery charge and low DC cut-off voltages (programs 26, 27, 29).
LIB (Lithium Battery)Selects Lithium battery type.
06Auto restart when overload occursLFd (Disable)Disables auto restart after overload.
LHE (Enable)Enables auto restart after overload.
07Auto restart when over temperature occursEFE (Enable)Enables auto restart after over temperature.
08Output voltage230V (Default)Sets output voltage to 230V. Other options include 220V, 240V.
09Output frequency50Hz (Default)Sets output frequency to 50Hz. Option for 60Hz also available.
10Lithium battery protocolPYL (PylonTech)Selects PylonTech battery protocol. Option for PACE also available.
11Maximum Utility charging current30A (Default)Sets the maximum charging current from utility. Range 10A-100A.
12Setting voltage point back to utility charging (SBU/MKS priority)11.5V (12V models), 23V (24V models)Voltage threshold for switching to utility charging in SBU/MKS modes.
13Set the voltage point back to battery discharge (SBU/MKS priority)FUL (Battery full charged)Voltage threshold for battery discharge in SBU/MKS modes.
16Charger source prioritySnU (Solar and Utility)Solar energy and utility will charge battery at the same time. Other options: CSO (Solar first), OSO (Only Solar).
18Alarm controlbOn (Alarm on)Enables audible alarms. Option: bOF (Alarm off).
19Auto return to default display screenESP (Default)Automatically returns to default display screen after 1 minute of inactivity. Option: HEP (Stay at latest screen).
20Backlight controlLOn (Backlight on)Keeps backlight on. Option: LOF (Backlight off).
22Beeps while primary source is interruptedAOn (Alarm on)Enables beeping when primary source is interrupted. Option: AOF (Alarm off).
23Overload bypassbPd (Bypass disable)Disables bypass to line mode during overload in battery mode. Option: bPE (Bypass enable).
25Record fault codeFEn (Record enable)Enables recording of fault codes. Option: FdS (Record disable).
26Bulk charging voltage (C.V voltage)14.1V (12V models), 28.2V (24V models)Sets the bulk charging voltage. Adjustable if 'USE' or 'LIB' is selected in program 05.
27Floating charging voltage13.5V (12V models), 27.0V (24V models)Sets the floating charging voltage. Adjustable if 'USE' or 'LIB' is selected in program 05.
29Low DC cut-off voltage10.5V (12V models), 21.0V (24V models)Sets the low DC cut-off voltage. Adjustable if 'USE' or 'LIB' is selected in program 05.
33Battery equalizationEEn (Enable)Enables battery equalization function. Option: EdS (Disable).
34Battery equalization voltage14.6V (12V models), 29.2V (24V models)Sets the battery equalization voltage. Adjustable if 'Flooded' or 'User-Defined' is selected in program 05.
35Battery equalized time60min (Default)Sets the duration of battery equalization. Range 5-900min.
36Battery equalized timeout120min (Default)Sets the timeout for battery equalization. Range 5-900min.
37Equalization interval30 days (Default)Sets the interval between battery equalization cycles. Range 0-90 days.
39Equalization activated immediatelyAEn (Enable)Activates battery equalization immediately. Option: AdS (Disable).
48RGB lightingLOn (RGB lights on)Enables RGB lighting. Option: LOF (RGB lights off).

Operating Mode Description

Operation modeDescriptionLCD display
Standby mode / Power saving modeNo output is supplied, but batteries can be charged. In power saving mode, output turns off if load is very low.Charging by utility and PV energy.
Line ModeUnit provides output power from mains. Also charges battery.Mains charging.
Battery ModeUnit provides output power from battery and PV power.Battery and Solar supply power to loads.

Maintenance

Clearance and Maintenance for Anti-Dust Kit (Optional)

The inverter comes with a factory-installed anti-dust kit. This kit helps prevent dust ingress and increases product reliability in harsh environments. The inverter automatically detects this kit and activates an internal thermal sensor to adjust temperature.

Maintenance Steps:

  1. Remove the screws on the bottom cover.
  2. Remove the air filter.
  3. Clean the air filter. After cleaning, reinstall the dust removal net to the inverter.

Notice: The anti-dust kit should be cleaned from dust every one month.

Inverter Bottom View for Anti-Dust Kit Removal
Figure 4: Inverter bottom view, illustrating the location of screws for removing the anti-dust kit.

Battery Equalization

The charge controller includes an equalization function to reverse negative chemical effects like stratification and remove sulfate crystals, which can reduce battery capacity. It is recommended to equalize batteries periodically.

How to Apply Equalization Function:

First, enable the battery equalization function in monitoring LCD setting program 33. Then, you can apply this function by:

  • Setting an equalization interval in program 37.
  • Activating equalization immediately in program 39.

When to Equalize:

In the float stage, when the set equalization interval is reached or equalization is actively initiated, the controller will enter the Equalize stage.

Equalize Charging Time and Timeout:

During the equalize stage, the controller charges the battery until its voltage reaches the equalization voltage. Constant voltage regulation then maintains the battery at this voltage. The battery remains in the Equalize stage until the set battery equalized time is reached.

If the battery equalized time expires and the battery voltage has not reached the equalization voltage point, the charge controller will extend the equalized time until the battery voltage is achieved. If the battery voltage is still lower than the equalization voltage after the extended time, the charge controller will stop equalization and return to the float stage.

Troubleshooting

Battery Alarm Code

Alarm CodeAlarm EventIcon Flashing
21Battery Cell Over Voltage(21)
22Battery Cell Under Voltage(22)
23Battery Pack Over Voltage(23)
24Battery Pack Under Voltage(24)
25Charging Over Current(25)
26Discharging Over Current(26)
27Charging Cell Over Temperature(27)
28Discharging Cell Over Temperature(28)
29Charging Cell Under Temperature(29)
30Discharging Cell Under Temperature(30)
34Battery capacity is too low(34)
44Battery Cell Voltage Imbalance(44)
45Battery Cell Temperature Imbalance(45)
46Internal Communication Alarm(46)

Battery Fault Code

Fault CodeFault EventIcon (Long and Bright)
21Battery Cell Over Voltage(21) ERROR
22Battery Cell Under Voltage(22) ERROR
23Battery Pack Over Voltage(23) ERROR
24Battery Pack Under Voltage(24) ERROR
25Charging Over Current(25) ERROR
26Discharging Over Current(26) ERROR
27Charging Cell Over Temperature(27) ERROR
28Discharging Cell Over Temperature(28) ERROR
29Charging Cell Under Temperature(29) ERROR
30Discharging Cell Under Temperature(30) ERROR
31Ambient Over Temperature(31) ERROR
32Ambient Under Temperature(32) ERROR
33MOS Over Temperature(33) ERROR
35Battery Short Circuit(35) ERROR
36Charge Overvoltage(36) ERROR
37System Failure(37) ERROR
39Charging MOS Fault(39) ERROR
40Discharge MOS Fault(40) ERROR
41Temperature Sensor Fault(41) ERROR
42Battery Cell Fault(42) ERROR
43Sampling Communication Failure(43) ERROR

Warning Code

Warning CodeWarning EventAutomatic AlarmIcon Flashing
01Fan is locked when inverter is on.Beep three times every second(01)
03Battery overchargeBeep once every second(03)
04Battery low voltageBeep once every second(04)
07OverloadBeep once every 0.5 second(07)
10Output power is deratingBeep twice every 3 seconds(10)
15PV energy is weakNo Beep(15)
EQBattery equalizationNo Beep(EQ)

General Troubleshooting

ProblemLCD/BuzzerExplanation / Possible causeWhat to do
Unit shuts down automatically during startup process.LCD and buzzer active for 3 seconds then off.Battery voltage is too low.1. Re-charge battery.
2. Replace battery.
No response after power on.No indication.1. Battery voltage is too low.
2. Battery polarity is connected reversed.
1. Check if batteries and wiring are connected well.
2. Re-charge battery.
3. Replace battery.
Input voltage displayed as 0 on LCD.Input protector is tripped.Check if AC breaker is tripped and AC wiring is connected well.
Mains exist but unit works in battery mode.Power-on icon flashes, status indicator flashes.Insufficient quality of AC power (Shore or Generator).1. Check if AC wires are too thin and/or too long.
2. Check if generator (if applied) is working well or if input voltage range setting is correct (UPS → Appliance).
Fault code 07Overload error. Inverter is overloaded 110% and time is up.Reduce the connected load by switching off some equipment.
Buzzer beeps continuously and status indicator is always on.Fault code 05Output short circuited.Check if wiring is connected well and remove abnormal load.
Fault code 02Internal temperature of inverter component is overheated.Check whether air flow is blocked or ambient temperature is too high.
Fault code 03Battery is over-charged. Battery voltage is too high.Return to repair center. Check if battery specifications meet requirements.
Fault code 01Fan fault.Replace the fan.
Fault code 06/58Output abnormal.1. Reduce the connected load.
2. Return to repair center.
Fault code 08/09/53/57, 51, 52, 55Internal components failed, Over current or surge, Bus voltage too low, Output voltage unbalanced.Return to repair center. Restart the unit; if the error persists, return to repair center.

Specifications

Table 1: Specification of LINE Mode

INVERTER MODELSUN-4.2K12V/24V-HV-EU
Input Voltage WaveformSinusoidal (utility or generator)
Nominal Input Voltage230Vac
Low Loss Voltage170Vac±7V (UPS); 90Vac±7V (Appliances)
Low Loss Return Voltage180Vac±7V (UPS); 100Vac±7V (Appliances)
High Loss Voltage280Vac±7V
High Loss Return Voltage270Vac±7V
Max AC Input Voltage300Vac
Nominal Input Frequency50Hz / 60Hz (Auto detection)
Low Loss Frequency40±1Hz
Low Loss Return Frequency42±1Hz
High Loss Frequency65±1Hz
High Loss Return Frequency63±1Hz
Output Short Circuit ProtectionBattery mode: Electronic Circuits
Efficiency (Line Mode)>95% (Rated R load, battery full charged)
Transfer Time10ms typical (UPS); 20ms typical (Appliances)

Table 2: Specification of Inverter Mode

INVERTER MODELSUN-4.2K12V/24V-HV-EU
Rated Output PowerDC12V-2300VA/2300WDC24V-4200VA/4200W
Output Voltage WaveformPure Sine Wave
Output Voltage Regulation230Vac±5%
Output Frequency60Hz or 50Hz
Peak Efficiency94%
Overload Protection5s@≥150% load; 10s@105%~150% load
Surge Capacity2* rated power for 5 seconds
Nominal DC Input Voltage12 Vdc24Vdc
Cold Start Voltage11.5 Vdc23.0Vdc
Low DC Warning Voltage
@ Load < 20%11.0 Vdc22.0Vdc
@ 20% ≤ Load < 50%10.7 Vdc21.4Vdc
@ Load ≥ 50%10.1 Vdc20.2Vdc
Low DC Warning Return Voltage
@ Load < 20%11.5 Vdc23.0Vdc
@ 20% ≤ Load < 50%11.2 Vdc22.4Vdc
@ Load ≥ 50%10.6 Vdc21.2Vdc
Low DC Cut-off Voltage
@ Load < 20%10.5 Vdc21.0Vdc
@ 20% ≤ Load < 50%10.2 Vdc20.4Vdc
@ Load ≥ 50%9.6 Vdc19.2Vdc
High DC Cut-off Voltage16 Vdc32Vdc
No Load Power Consumption20W30W
Saving Mode Power Consumption<10W<15W

Table 3: Specification of Charging Mode

Utility Charging Mode
Battery Model12V24V
Charging Current (UPS) @Nominal Input Voltage: 100A
Bulk Charging (Flooded Battery)14.629.2
Voltage (AGM / Gel Battery)14.128.2
Floating Charging Voltage13.5Vdc27Vdc
Charging Algorithm3-Step
Solar Charging Mode
Max. PV Array Power4000W
I Max. PV18A
Nominal PV Voltage240V
PV Array MPPT Voltage Range55V-500V
Max. PV Array Open Circuit Voltage500V
Max Charging Current100A

Table 4: General Specifications

ParameterValue
Operating Temperature Range-20°C to 55°C
Storage Temperature-20°C~60°C
Dimension (D*W*H), mm405*305*108
Net Weight, kg6.7
Communication interfaceRS485/RS232 BMS/WIFI Bluetooth
Humidity5% to 95% Relative Humidity (Non-condensing)

User Tips

  • For optimal performance, ensure all wiring connections are secure and follow the recommended cable gauges. Loose connections can lead to efficiency loss or safety hazards.
  • Regularly check the LCD display for any warning or fault codes. Addressing these promptly can prevent larger issues.
  • If using lithium batteries, always ensure the BMS communication cable is properly connected and the correct battery protocol is selected in the inverter settings.
  • Periodically clean the anti-dust kit (monthly is recommended) to maintain proper airflow and prevent overheating, especially in dusty environments.
  • When configuring charging and output priorities, consider your specific energy needs and local grid stability to maximize efficiency and battery lifespan.

Warranty and Support

For detailed warranty information, service, and technical support, please refer to the official user manual PDF provided by the manufacturer. This document contains comprehensive details regarding warranty terms, contact information for support, and procedures for service requests.

You can access the full user manual PDF at: Y&H 4.2KW Hybrid Solar Inverter User Manual (PDF)